| Problem |
Possible causes and solutions |
| HRV not operating |
- Verify that HRV control is turned on.
- Ensure that HRV is plugged in and electrical cord is not damaged.
- Check for tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. If either has occurred, call a contractor. (Do not reset the breaker or replace a fuse before determining what caused the electrical problem, as this is a fire or shock hazard.)
- If problem persists, call a contractor
|
| HRV operating but little or no airflow at grilles |
- Check exterior hoods for blockage and
clean as required.
- Check ducts to exterior hoods and clean as required.
- Check filters and clean or replace as required.
- Check ducts/registers in rooms for blockage (closed damper, toys, etc.).
- Check core for freezing/frosting (see Core freezes below).
- Check ducts for leakage or disconnection. Seal any loose joints with duct tape.
- If problem persists, call a contractor.
- Ensure the HRV door is securely closed and tight, and all internal gaskets are properly seated.
|
| Core freezes |
- Open door and let ice melt (some cores can be easily removed and thawed in a sink).
- Check filters and clean or replace as required.
- With some HRV models,the defrost mechanism or preheater can be checked by following the manufacturer 's instructions in the owner's manual.
- If problem persists, call a contractor.Your system may need rebalancing to increase exhaust flow or decrease supply flow.
|
| HRV runs on one speed only |
- Check all switches for malfunctions by varying the settings.
- If unit remains on same speed, call a contractor.
|
| Damaged duct insulation jacket |
- If the insulation is wet,has any ice build-up or if there is water on the floor,replace and properly seal the damaged insulation.
- If the insulation is not damaged, use duct tape to repair any punctures in the jacket.
|
| Cold drafts in living quarters |
- Check for blockage of exhaust air stream.
- Check core for freezing.
- If problem persists, ask installer to provide diffusers, relocate fresh air outlets, add additional
outlets, or add a preheater, as appropriate. |
| Poor air quality/ excess moisture throughout the house |
- Adjust dehumidistat.
- Check core for freezing.
- Reduce sources of humidity.
- Run HRV at a higher speed.
- Ensure HRV is operating properly (check airflow using plastic trash bag technique).
- If problem persists,the HRV 's minimum continuous ventilation rate may be inadequate.
- Call a contractor.
|
| Air too dry in winter |
- Adjust dehumidistat.
- Run HRV on lowest setting.
- Run HRV intermittently.
- Consider installing a control to run HRV intermittently.
- Sensation of dryness may be caused by chemicals.Control pollutant at the source.
- Consider installing a humidifier (if you do so, make sure you clean it regularly).
- Consider installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), which can help with humidity problems (see “Energy Recovery Ventilators”).This is a more expensive solution than any of the above. Some HRVs can be converted to ERVs, at less cost than installing a new unit.
|
| Unusual noise and vibrations |
- Oil the fan motors (if not self-lubricating) using non-detergent motor lubricating oil.
- Inspect and clean fan blades and heat-exchange core as required.
- If problem persists, call a contractor.
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