In light of the current public health focus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force have issued updated recommendations on ventilation. They emphasize increasing the proportion of outdoor air in HVAC systems, even up to 100%, where feasible, to enhance airflow in occupied spaces.
Furthermore, maintaining the operation of energy recovery ventilation (ERV) components in line with climate conditions is crucial. The dilution of indoor contaminants, such as infectious aerosols, through outdoor air ventilation forms a fundamental aspect of the ASHRAE Standard 62.1, which outlines ventilation requirements for acceptable indoor air quality.
Role of Energy Recovery Ventilators
Energy recovery ventilators are engineered to boost the influx of outdoor air while managing costs
Energy recovery ventilators are engineered to boost the influx of outdoor air while managing costs effectively. These devices precondition incoming fresh air by utilizing recycled energy, thus reducing the burden on outdoor air ventilation systems by up to 80%.
The pivotal element of these systems is the Energy Recovery Component, which often features an Energy Recovery Wheel or a Fixed Plate Heat Exchanger. These components play a vital role in recycling energy from indoor environments, helping maintain efficient system operation.
Maximizing Energy Recovery Component Performance
For those with existing HVAC systems incorporating the Energy Recovery Component, or considering an upgrade to include ERV technology, enhancing performance is key to achieving optimal indoor air quality.
If the Energy Recovery Component in place is manufactured by Airxchange®:
- Clean the media segments as per the cleaning instructions provided by Airxchange®. This should be done outside of the cabinet.
- If cleaning isn’t feasible, a cost-effective solution is to replace the media segments. This process takes less than an hour with basic hand tools and can restore the wheel to its original performance.
- Adhere to the routine and preventative maintenance checklist to ensure full wheel operation is functioning effectively.
Replacement Options for Non-Airxchange® Systems
For HVAC systems with non-Airxchange® components, upgrading to an Airxchange® Energy Recovery Wheel might be beneficial. These replacement wheels generally enhance the performance of existing designs.
These replacement wheels generally enhance the performance of existing designs
Delivered unassembled to minimize building alterations, they can be easily put together within the existing space by the onsite HVAC team, typically within a day. Furthermore, component replacements are financially favorable with paybacks usually under a year and noticeable improvements in indoor air quality and comfort levels.
Another option is acquiring a replacement Fixed Plate Heat Exchanger for quick upgrades to the current setup.
Implementing ERV Technology in Existing Buildings
In scenarios where buildings yet lack an ERV system, adding one is straightforward and can significantly boost indoor air quality, while optimizing the HVAC system's efficiency and performance.
Exploring ERV solutions might prove to be a vital step for facilities aiming to enhance their mechanical ventilation systems to meet the new guidelines and improve indoor environments.
