Lifebreath 2500IFD User Manual 2

OPERATION AND

INSTALLATION MANUAL

For Models:

2500IFD
2500EFD

APPLICATION WARNING!!!

CAUTION

Before installation, careful consideration must be given to how the system will operate if connected to any other piece of
mechanical equipment, i.e. a forced air furnace or air handler, operating at a higher static. After
of the two pieces of equipment must be confirmed, by measuring the airflow’s of the Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV), by
using the balancing procedure in this manual.

It is always important to assess how the operation of any HRV may interact with vented combustion equipment.
NEVER install an HRV in a situation where its normal operation, lack of operation or partial failure may result in the

backdrafting or improper functioning of vented combustion equipment!!!

Do Not Attempt Installing Unit

Without First Reading Entire Manual.

installation, the compatibility

TI-59

0201

INTRODUCTION

Table of Contents

These Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) are designed
for commercial and industrial applications to provide
fresh air to a building while exhausting an equal
amount of stale air. During the winter months the
incoming cold fresh air is warmed by utilizing the heat
recovered from the stale air before it is exhausted to
the outdoors. During summer months when the indoor
space is air conditioned, the Heat Recovery Ventilator
will help in cooling the incoming fresh air with the stale
air that is being exhausted.

2500

Interior
mount

I F D

Fan

Defrost

Introduction .................................................................... 2

Select Correct HRV......................................................... 3

Specifications - Model 2500IFD .................................. 4

Options & Accessories ....................... 5

Specifications - Model 2500EFD ................................. 6

Options & Accessories ....................... 7

Operation Instructions ................................................... 8

Installation Tips ............................................................. 8

Remote Controls ........................................................... 9

User Adjustable Defrost ................................................ 9

Defrost Control .............................................................. 9

Fan Defrost ................................................................. 10

Location ...................................................................... 10

Mounting ..................................................................... 10

2500

Exterior

(roof mount)

E F D

Fan

Defrost

Drains ......................................................................... 13

Ducting ......................................................................... 13

Return and Supply ....................................................... 14

Air Flow Balancing ....................................................... 15

The Integrated HVAC System ...................................... 16

Electrical Connections ................................................. 16

Maintenance ................................................................ 16

Wiring Diagram ........................................................... 18

Warranty .................................................................... 19

2

Selecting the Correct Size HRV

Commercial and Institutional Requirements

For outdoor air requirements, ASHRAE has produced the Ventilation Standard 62-1989
that is used to determine acceptable ventilation rates. This standard is referenced directly or
used as “Good Engineering Practice” in most Code documents or design criteria.

Small restaurants, Donut Shops and Fast food stores

Seats 40
Employees 5
Total 45
ASHRAE requirement 20 cfm (10L/s) per person
Ventilation required 45 x 20 = 900 cfm (450 L/s)

Bar or Tavern

Seats 50
Employees 7
Total 57
ASHRAE requirement 30 cfm (15L/s) per person
Ventilation required 57 x 30 = 855 cfm (403 L/s)

Classroom and School Portables

Seats 29
Teacher 1
Total 30
ASHRAE requirement 15 cfm (7.5L/s) per person
Ventilation required 30 x 15 = 450 cfm (255 L/s)

Beauty Salon

Customers 12
Employees 6
Total 18
ASHRAE requirement 25 cfm (12.5L/s) per person
Ventilation required 18 x 25 = 450 cfm (255 L/s)

Bank

Customers 25
Staff 9
Total 34
ASHRAE requirement 20 cfm (10L/s) per person
Ventilation required 34 x 20 = 680 cfm (320 L/s)

Bingo Hall

Customers 180
Staff 20
Total 200
ASHRAE requirement 30 cfm (15L/s) per person
Ventilation required 200 x 30 = 6000 cfm (3000 L/s)

Print Shop, Duplicating

Square footage of shop 2000 square ft (m

ASHRAE requirement 0.5 cfm/ft2 (2.5L/s - m

per person

Ventilation required 2000 x 0.5 = 1000 cfm (500 L/s)

Swimming Pools

Refer to “Pool” Models Installation Manuals.

2

)

2

)

MAKE UP HEAT REQUIREMENT at 1200 CFM (566L/s)

Nominal Nominal Nominal

Outdoor Temp. kW Req. for kW Req. for kW Req. for

C° F° 20°C (68°F) 25°C (77°F) 30°C (86°F)

Air Delivery Air Delivery Air Delivery

0 32 7 10 14

-10 14 10 14 17

-20 -4 12 15 19

-30 -22 15 19 22

-40 -40 17 21 24

3

SPECIFICATIONS

Model 2500IFD

AIR FLOW

2100 cfm (985 L/s) at 1.0"wg ESP

PERFORMANCE

Exhaust to Outside

70% effective at 2500 cfm (1172 L/s)

CORE

Modular aluminum sensible heat recovery core.
Plate-to-plate type. Slides out of either side of
cabinet for service.

Motors (2)

MOTORS

Two single shaft PSC, 3-speed, 208/230V,5.1 amps, 1 ph, 1 hp

BLOWERS

Two direct-drive centrifugal blowers, one per air stream.

FILTERS

Two 18" X 24" 4-inch pleated filters in each air stream.

DUCT CONNECTIONS

Four 24" X 16" (610mm X 406mm)

CABINET

20 gauge powder coated galvanized steel (G60) for superior
corrosion resistance. 16 gauge galvanized frame, insulated with

1.5" fibreglass insulation to prevent condensation.

DRAIN

Two stainless steel drain pans with 1/2" NPT drain spouts.

MOUNTING

Unit to be set on support brackets hung by threaded
rod type apparatus. Brackets and rod not provided.

CONTROLS

24V terminal strip inside electrical box, to connect optional
remote controls (not included), obtain on/off and high/low functions.

DEFROST

Factory set defrost time (user adjustable).
Supply motor is shut off while exhaust air defrosts core.

WARRANTY

15 year warranty on heat exchanger, and 2 years on parts.

WEIGHT

700 lbs.

SHIPPING WEIGHT

1100 lbs.

Supply from Outside

Exhaust from Building

Supply to Building

Electrical
Service
Panel*

Heat
Exchanger
Service
Panel*

89.9"

Heat Exchange Core

Drain Pans (2)

Filter
Service
Panel*

SIDE VIEW

*NOTE: Removable service access panels on both sides of 2500IFD cabinet.

Supply from

outside

Exhaust to

outside

Supply to

building

38.4"

24"

47"

16"

38.4"

24"

16"

Exhaust from

building

FRONT VIEW BACK VIEW

4" Filters

47"

2"

7"

6"

All units conform to CSA and UL standards.

DATE: __________________________

PROJECT: ________________________________________

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR: ________________________________

4

511 McCormick Blvd.
London, Ontario

Ph: [phone]
Fx: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.lifebreath.com

N5W 4C8

TI-91I

0103

PERFORMANCE

AIRFLOWS (Each Air Stream)

1316 (2800)
1175 (2500)
1034 (2200)

893 (1900)
752 (1600)
611 (1300)
470 (1000)

329 (700)

AIRFLOW L/s (CFM)

188 (400)

47 (100)

HIGH SPEED

MEDIUM SPEED

LOW SPEED

25

50 75 100 125 150 175 200 225 250 275 300 325 350 375

(

0.1

) (0.2)(0.3) (0.4) (0.5) (0.6) (0.7) (0.8) (0.9) (1.0) (1.1) (1.2) (1.3) (1.4) (1.5)

(1.6) (1.7) (1.8) (1.9) (2.0) (2.1) (2.2)

EXTERNAL STATIC PRESSURE IN PASCALS (in. W.C.)

TEMPERATURE EFFECTIVENESS

70%

60%

EFFECTIVENESS

50%

NOTE: Exhaust Relative Humidity (RH) at 40%

400 425 450 475 500 525 550

850

944

1039

(1800)

(2000)

AIRFLOW IN L/s (CFM)

(2200)

1133

(2400)

OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES

99-101: CRANK TIMER

Mechanical timer to activate high speed.

99-116: DEHUMIDISTAT VENTILATION CONTROL (DVC)

Turns unit on/off via slider switch and high/low via built-in dehumidistat.

99-130: DEHUMIDISTAT

Activates high speed when indoor humidity
rises above set point on control.

99-140: 4" TECHGRILLE
99-141: 5" TECHGRILLE
99-142: 6" TECHGRILLE
99-148: 8" TECHGRILLE

Round, white, step-type diffusers.

53-2500: OPTIONAL ROOF CURB

Supports HRV on roof and connects
HRV to ducting below.
WEIGHT: 50lbs

Information about design-built electric make-up heat
coils available upon request.

Duct Collar Supports

1228

(2600)

Return air

opening

1322

(2800)

1416

(3000)

88.25"

Roof Curb (optional)

Part No. 53-2500

Supply air 

opening

36.9"

14"

Factory installed
perimeter wooden
nailer strip

TI-91I

5

0103

Model 2500EFD

SPECIFICATIONS

AIR FLOW

2100 cfm (985 L/s) at 1.0"wg ESP

PERFORMANCE

70% effective at 2500 cfm (1172 L/s)

CORE

Modular aluminum sensible heat recovery core.
Plate-to-plate type. Slides out of either side of
cabinet for service.

MOTORS

Two single shaft PSC, 3-speed, 208/230V,5.1 amps, 1 ph, 1 hp

BLOWERS

Two direct-drive centrifugal blowers, one per air stream.

FILTERS

Two 18" X 24" 4-inch pleated filters in each air stream.

DUCT CONNECTIONS

Four 24" X 16" (610mm X 406mm) to and from the building under cabinet.
Four 28" X 18" (711mm X 457mm) hoods included on side
of cabinet with screens.

CABINET

20 gauge powder coated galvanized steel (G60) for superior
corrosion resistance. 16 gauge galvanized frame, insulated with

1.5" fibreglass insulation to prevent condensation.

DRAIN

Two stainless steel drain pans with 1/2" NPT drain spouts.

MOUNTING

Rooftop mounted on optional roof curb (Part No. 53-2500)

Hoods (2)
c/w Bug Screen

Motors (2)

Roof Curb

Exhaust
Hoods

Supply to Duct

24"x16"

Electrical
Service
Panel*

SIDE VIEW

Heat
Exchanger
Service
Panel*

89.9"

(ROOFTOP)

Supply Hoods

4" Filters

Exhaust Duct

24"x16"

Heat Exchange Core

Drain Pans (2)

Filter
Service
Panel*

18"

18"

47"

27"

CONTROLS

24V terminal strip inside electrical box, to connect optional

*NOTE: Removable service access panels on both sides of 2500EFD cabinet.

remote controls (not included), obtain on/off and high/low functions.

DEFROST

Factory set defrost time (user adjustable).
Supply motor is shut off while exhaust air defrosts core.

WARRANTY

15 year warranty on heat exchanger, and 2 years on parts.

38.4"
28"

WEIGHT

700 lbs.

SHIPPING WEIGHT

1100 lbs.

OPTIONAL CURB

WEIGHT 50 lbs.

DATE: __________________________

PROJECT: ________________________________________

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR: ________________________________

6

62.7"

Bottom duct
connections

16" X 24"

19.2"

15.2" 12"

Supply

TOP VIEW

Return

Exhaust

All units conform to CSA and UL standards.

511 McCormick Blvd.
London, Ontario

Ph: [phone]
Fx: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.lifebreath.com

N5W 4C8

TI-91E

0103

PERFORMANCE

AIRFLOWS (Each Air Stream)

1316 (2800)
1175 (2500)
1034 (2200)

893 (1900)
752 (1600)
611 (1300)
470 (1000)

329 (700)

AIRFLOW L/s (CFM)

188 (400)

47 (100)

HIGH SPEED

MEDIUM SPEED

LOW SPEED

25

50 75 100 125 150 175 200 225 250 275 300 325 350 375

(

0.1

) (0.2)(0.3) (0.4) (0.5) (0.6) (0.7) (0.8) (0.9) (1.0) (1.1) (1.2) (1.3) (1.4) (1.5)

(1.6) (1.7) (1.8) (1.9) (2.0) (2.1) (2.2)

EXTERNAL STATIC PRESSURE IN PASCALS (in. W.C.)

TEMPERATURE EFFECTIVENESS

70%

60%

EFFECTIVENESS

50%

NOTE: Exhaust Relative Humidity (RH) at 40%

400 425 450 475 500 525 550

850

944

1039

(1800)

(2000)

AIRFLOW IN L/s (CFM)

(2200)

1133

(2400)

OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES

99-101: CRANK TIMER

Mechanical timer to activate high speed.

99-116: DEHUMIDISTAT VENTILATION CONTROL (DVC)

Turns unit on/off via slider switch and high/low via built-in dehumidistat.

99-130: DEHUMIDISTAT

Activates high speed when indoor humidity
rises above set point on control.

99-140: 4" TECHGRILLE
99-141: 5" TECHGRILLE
99-142: 6" TECHGRILLE
99-148: 8" TECHGRILLE

Round, white, step-type diffusers.

53-2500: OPTIONAL ROOF CURB

Supports HRV on roof and connects
HRV to ducting below.
WEIGHT: 50lbs

Information about design-built electric make-up heat
coils available upon request.

Duct Collar Supports

1228

(2600)

Return air

opening

1322

(2800)

1416

(3000)

88.25"

Roof Curb (optional)

Part No. 53-2500

Supply air 

opening

36.9"

14"

Factory installed
perimeter wooden
nailer strip

TI-91E

7

0103

Operation Instructions

Installation Tips

The LIFEBREATH 2500 series HRV is designed
tobe operated continuously or intermittently to meet
the requirements of the application.

CONTINUOUS OPERATION

For continuous operation, a simple jumper across
the ON/OFF and COMMON jumper terminals is
needed. HIGH/LOW speed selection requires
another jumper across HIGH/LOW and COMMON;
select as required (see below and wiring diagram).

T3 - On/Off

ON/OFF

T2 - High/Low

HIGH/LOW

T1 - Common

Low Voltage-24VAC

INTERMITTENT OPERATION

Due to variance in the times in which buildings are
occupied and equipment or machinery operated,
intermittent ventilation may be the preferred
method.

1. Whichever method is chosen to operate the
2500, keep in mind that Air-to Air exchangers
in general are not "booster fans" and are
normally sized to ventilate at a steady rate.

To achieve optimum performance from the
2500, the desired ventilation rate (speed of
the system) should be reached before the
contaminant to be removed has reached
its maximum.

EXAMPLE: A bingo hall opening at 7:00PM that is
sized for 5000 cfm should have at least this amount
of air exchange by that time. If the unit is not
turned on or set to its designated speed until after
the contaminant has reached an uncomfortable
level, then it may result in a number of hours
passing before the system could catch up.

2. It is highly recommended that back draft
dampers be installed in the supply and
exhaust duct work to the outside, to prevent
air from entering in through the HRV when the
unit is off. Failure to install back draft
dampers may result in damage to HVAC
equipment and/or other building components.

Dry contacts located inside the electrical panel
enable this unit to turn ON and OFF, and/or jump
between HIGH and LOW speeds when optional low
voltage controls are connected (see above and
pg. 9).

OPTIONAL REMOTE CONTROLS

Basic controls such as dehumidistats, mechanical
crank timers, 24-hour timers or toggle switches can
be used to control the unit (see pg. 9).

8

Optional Remote Controls

60

adjust to higher setting.

adjust to lower setting.

Off

50

Dehumidistat 
Setting Relative to
Outside Conditions




WINTER:

Set dehumidistat
between 30% to 40%.

If home is too dry,

If home is too humid,





SUMMER:

Set dehumidistat 

to OFF.

40

DEHUMIDISTAT VENTILATION CONTROL*
LOCATION: Spa or pool area, anywhere that humidity

ON

is a concern. (connect 1/unit only)

• Ventilation control turns HRV system OFF and ON.

• Dehumidistat increases ventilation when required
Red - common / Black - hi/low / Orange - on/off
PART NO. 99-116 c/w 3 wire cable 60' (18m)

OFF

HIGH

REMOTE DEHUMIDISTAT
LOCATION: Spa or pool area, anywhere that humidity

is a concern.



• Provides high speed ventilation when humidity level

LOW

Supplied
and Installed
by Contractor

exceeds selected setting.

PART NO. 99-130

CRANK TIMER

10

20

30

• Provides high speed ventilation as required.
Crank Timer - 60 minute

PART NO. 99-101

ON/OFF

HIGH/LOW

User Adjustable Defrost

OPERATION

Once the snap disk senses temperatures below

-3˚C (27˚F), it will activate the defrost mode,
which begins with the Defrost OFF cycle, and
then continues into the Defrost ON cycle.

Factory pre-set defrost
cycle and time are:

DEFROST ON

=.15 HR. (10 mins)

DEFROST OFF

=.50 HR. (30 mins)

COMMON

Defrost timer device

(see wiring diagram
for location)

Yellow (outer dial)
adjusts length of time
between defrost cycles
(OFF cycle)

Orange

Orange (center dial)
adjusts time spent in
defrost mode
(ON cycle)

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0.2

I

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0.4 0.6

0

ON OFF

ON  OFF

Yellow

I

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0.8

1.0

hrs

Factory pre-set dial positions

DO NOT ADJUST

EXAMPLES OF DEFROST CYCLES

32ºF (0ºC) No defrost required

13ºF (-11ºC) 10 mins. defrost ON - 30 mins. defrost OFF

-40ºF (-40ºC) 15 mins. defrost ON - 30 mins. defrost OFF

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9

Fan Defrost

The Models 2500IFD and 2500EFD are equipped with
an electronically controlled fan defrost system to remove
frost that collects on the warm air side of the aluminum
heat transfer surfaces of the heat exchanger core.
When the outside temperature drops below 27˚F(-3˚C),
a defrost timer is activated which provides for an auto­matic defrost cycle. During the automatic defrost cycle,
the fresh air supply is shut off while the exhaust fan
continues to operate. Both the times between defrost
cycles and the length of time spent in defrost are
adjustable (see pg. 9 for details). This allows warm
inside air to flow over the heat exchanger core, melting
any frost accumulation. After the defrost period, the
fresh air supply fan automatically returns to the normal
speed and fresh outside air continues to be drawn into
the building. Water from the melted frost collects in the
bottom drip pans and drains out through the bottom
drain connections. The defrost cycle repeats automati­cally until the air temperature rises above 27°F (-3°C).

If the air temperature is too low the defrost time may
need to be increased. The unit must be mounted level
(horizontal) to obtain proper drainage of water from the
heat exchange cores and drip pans.The warranty will be
void if these conditions are not met.

Typically, the HRV is positioned close to an outside wall
or the roof to simplify the connections and keep the length
of insulated ducting to a minimum.

A minimum clearance of 40 in. (1 m) on one side of the
HRV is recommended to service the heat exchanger
cores and the filters.

Mounting

The 2500EFD is designed to be mounted on a roof curb.

When assembling the curb, note position of cross
members which provide duct support. Note access

through the roof will be required.

Location

The 2500EFD is designed to be mounted outdoors, usual­ly fastened to a roof curb assembly. Special care and
attention should be given to positioning the cross mem­bers of the roof curb, so that they line up exactly with the
duct openings on the HRV (see pg. 7). The 2500IFD
must be located in a heated space where the surrounding
air temperature does not fall below freezing point. The
exhaust air temperature must be above 60˚F (16˚C) for
proper defrost operation.

FRESH AIR

FROM OUTSIDE

FILTERS

It is also important to ensure that the perimeter of the
curb is insulated, but the interior of the curb is not. This
allows heat from the building to prevent freezing of the
drain lines and pans.

The 2500IFD should be hung by a threaded rod
type assembly which provides a cradle for the unit
(see pg. 11). Note that 2X4's should sit under the unit to
avoid damage to the lip of the cabinet. The HRV may
also be mounted on an equipment platform provided that
the drain hoses are clear and there is sufficient space for
service access.

BLOWERCORE

ST ALE AIR

TO OUTSIDE

MOTORS

ST ALE AIR

FROM INSIDE

FRESH AIR

TO INSIDE

BLOWER

P-TRAP

10

Saddle mount (not provided)

Threaded rods

2 X 4 under unit and
on top of hanging bracket
to prevent weight of unit from
being put on lip of cabinet

Mounting the 2500

2500IFD

* NOTE: When installing your

 Lifebreath® HRV, flexible 
 duct connectors should be 
 installed between the HRV 
 and the galvanized ductwork

2500IFD

Platform mount (not provided)

U channels

Lip

Hang unit with threaded rods and U channel members.

2500EFD
Roof mount

Roof curb

Vibration isolators
May be anchored to floor,

leaving space for drain connections.

Mount unit on wooden or metal support
assembly. Unit must be raised an adequate height
for installation and slope of drain lines.

NOTE: Roof curb is one inch smaller than outside
dimensions of cabinet

11

Roof Curb Assembly Instructions

FRAME ASSEMBLY

1. Take one end piece (locking tabs) and one side
piece (slots). Stand both pieces vertically on the floor
or roof. See Figure 1.

2. Raise slightly the corner of the end piece (locking
tabs) and mate with side piece (slots), ensuring that
lower locking tab with leading edge is through slot
opening. See Figure 2.

3.Push down on top edge of end piece. Ensure that all
3 of the locking tabs are feeding into each correspond­ing slot. Once both pieces are flush, the process is
complete. See Figure 3.

4. Drive one spike provided into wood nailer strips at
each corner. See Figure 3.

FRAME APPLICATION AND LOCATION

This roof mounting frame provides necessary support
when the unit is installed. The frame can be installed
directly on deck having adequate structural strength or
on roof supports under deck.

Roof Curb Assembly

side piece
slot for tab

wood nailer strip

Figure 1

end piece

locking tab

Figure 2

wood nailer strip

SECURING THE FRAME

To ensure proper mating with unit, it is critical that
mounting frame be squared to the roof, as follows:

1. With frame situated level in desired location on roof
trusses, tack weld one corner of frame.

2. Measure frame diagonally from one corner to the
opposite corner. Repeat with the remaining two cor­ners. These dimensions must be equal for the frame
to be square.

3. It is extremely important to sight frame from all cor­ners to ensure that the frame is not twisted across top
side. Shim frame under any low sides.

4. After frame has been squared, straightened and
shimmed, weld or attach frame securely to roof.

MAX. SLOPE TOLERANCE:

foot in any direction.

1/16" per linear

side piece
slot for tab

wood nailer strips

tabs through slots

end piece

locking tab

Figure 3

spike

Note specification of duct location on bottom of
HRV when positioning cross members (duct cavity).

12

Drains

Connect the stainless steel drain pans in the bottom of
the HRV to a drain line fastened to the holes provided.
See pg.10 for location of the drain pans and the drain
connections. Create a "P" trap to prevent odours from
being drawn through. Make sure the drain line slopes
down to drain properly and if this is not possible a con­densate pump will be required for removal of the water.
Note that stagnant water is a leading cause of indoor
air quality problems; confirm drainage after installation
by pouring water into trays. Drain line must be installed
where it will not freeze.

The Ductwork System

A well designed ducting system will allow the HRV to
operate at its maximum efficiency. Avoid the use of
undersized ducting and sharp radius bends and tees
which can significantly increase the system pressure
drop and reduce the air flows.

NOTE: It is extremely important to design and install
the fresh air intake in an area where the hoods will
gather the freshest air, free from restriction.

Recommended:

The outside perimeter of the weatherhood must be
caulked to prevent leakage into the building.

The design and size of the weatherhoods or louvers
chosen by the installer must allow for adequate free
area. Water and snow penetration of the system is min­imized when the airflow does not exceed 750 FPM
(3.81m/s) free area velocity.

Ducting from the

• no less than 10 ft. (3 m) apart from each other

• at least 18 in. (46 cm) above ground level

• away from sources of contaminants, such as
automobile exhaust fumes, gas meters,
garbage containers, cooling towers, etc.

• not exposed to prevailing winds, whenever
reasonably possible.

NOTE: Fully insulated ducting with an integral vapour

barrier must be used on all runs passing
through unheated areas in order to avoid
condensation problems and energy losses
from the air streams.

* Consult local Codes

To minimize pressure drop and noise, galvanized metal
ducts sized for 1200 fpm (6.09 m/s). (maximum
velocity) are recommended. Keep ducting as short as
possible and use a minimum of elbows and tees.
Connecting sections and shorter runs may be flexible
ducting one size larger than the metal duct. Use
flexible duct connectors at the HRV to avoid noise
transmission.

All duct joints must be secured with screws, rivets or
duct sealant and sealed with aluminum duct tape to
prevent leakage.

Weatherhoods

Galvanized sheet metal ducting with sufficient cross
section with an integral single piece vapour barrier
should be used to connect the HRV to the weather­hoods.

A minimum R value of insulation should be equal to 4
(RSI 0.75), or as stated in local codes.

A good bead of high quality caulking (preferably
acoustical sealant) and taping with a high quality alu­minum foil tape is recommended to seal the duct to
both the HRV and the weatherhood.

Warmside Ducting - General

Ducting from the HRV to different areas within the
building should be galvanized metal whenever
possible.

Outside Weatherhoods

To minimize airflow losses in the ductwork system, all
The 2500EFD is shipped with 2 weatherhoods inside
the cabinet which attach to the outer ends of the cabi­net using bolts provided. The 2500IFD requires hoods
to be built elsewhere and provided by the contractor.

ducts should be as short as possible and with as few

bends or elbows as possible. 45˚ elbows are preferred

to 90˚ elbows, whenever possible. Use Y tees instead

of 90˚ tees whenever possible.

All ducting must meet ULC Class 1 Fire Rating.

The 2500EFD has built-in screens to prevent foreign
objects from entering into the ductwork through the out­side hoods.

All duct joints must be fastened securely and wrapped
with a quality duct tape to prevent leakage. We recom­mend aluminum foil tape.

13

Stale Air Return System

Fresh Air Supply System

The stale air return system is used to draw air from the
points in the building where the worst air quality prob­lems occur. Balancing dampers and/or adjustable
grilles are recommended on all return air lines which
are used during installation to help balance the "draw"
from different areas of the building. Note that the
installation schematics show balancing dampers
and/or adjustable grilles on all return air lines coming
back to the unit.

Alternately, the stale air may be drawn directly from
the return air duct. When this system is used the air
handler's blower will need to operate constantly when
ventilation is required. The exhaust takeoff connection
must be at least a meter from a directly connected
HRV supply duct if both are connected to the same
duct run.

NOTE: See the INSTALLATION WARNING under
"The Integrated HVAC System" on page 16

A damper located just prior to the HRV is required to
balance the stale air exhausted with the fresh air
supply entering the building.

The fresh air supply ductwork from the HRV may be
directly connected to the return air duct of the forced
air system. When directly connected it is recommend­ed that the air handler blower be in constant operation
to move the fresh air about the building (see

Installation Warning under "The Integrated HVAC
System" on page 16). Also, it is advisable to include

a short length of fabric flex duct or other non-metallic
connector in this hard ducted line in order to keep the
HRV acoustically isolated and separately grounded
(electrically) from the air handler. This will avoid a
possible shock hazard to service people if a short to
ground develops in one of the devices. It may be nec­essary to install a separate fresh air supply ductwork
system if the heating is other than forced air.

When installing an HRV, the designer and installer
should be aware of local codes that may require
smoke detectors and/or firestats in the HVAC or HRV
ductwork. Because an HRV is designed to bring fresh
air into the building, structures may require a supply
voltage interrupt when smoke or flame sensors are
triggered or central fire alarm system is activated.

Return air suction points should be located at the
opposite side of the room to the fresh air inlet. The
inlets may be located in the ceiling or high on the walls
and fitted with inlet grilles.

Many commercial activities produce air contaminants
in the form of dusts, fumes, mists, vapours and gases.
Contaminants should be controlled at the source so
that they are not dispersed through the building nor
allowed to increase to toxic concentration levels. The
heat recovery ventilator allows for economical opera­tion of the HVAC system while effectively removing
contaminants from the space. In designing the exhaust
portion of the system the exhaust grilles are placed so
as to remove the contaminants while not allowing
them to enter the breathing zone of the occupants.

For contaminants that are lighter than air, grilles
should be located high on the wall. If contaminants are
heavier than air, a lower placement of the grilles will be
required. Information on a contaminants specific
gravity and toxicity should be available from the
chemical data sheets.

Supply air grilles may be ceiling or high wall mounted.
Avoid locating incoming fresh air grilles that could
cause a direct draft on the occupants as the incoming
air may be below room temperature. A reheat duct
heater can be installed to improve occupant comfort.
Information on electric or hydronic heaters is available
through Nutech.

The use of balancing dampers or adjustable grilles as
supply air diffusers and air exhaust grilles are recom­mended. TECHGRILLES™ are round, efficient,
sound absorbing devices available in 4", 5", 6" and 8"
(100, 125, 150 and 200mm).

AIR FLOW

SUPPLY

TECHGRILLE

(optional)
schematic

14

AIR FLOW

EXHAUST

PITOT TUBE AIR FLOW BALANCING - “Commercial”

It is necessary to have balanced air flows in an HRV. The volume of
air brought in from the outside must equal the volume of air exhausted by
the unit. If the air flows are not properly balanced, then;

• The HRV may not operate at its maximum efficiency

• A negative or positive air pressure may occur in the house

• The unit may not defrost properly

• Failure to balance HRV properly may void warranty

Excessive

positive pressure may drive moist indoor air into the external

walls of the building where it may condense (in cold weather) and
degrade structural components. May also cause key holes to freeze up.

Excessive

negative pressure may have several undesirable effects.

In some geographic locations, soil gases such as methane and radon
gas may be drawn into the home through basement/ground contact
areas. Excessive negative pressure may also cause the backdrafting of
vented combustion equipment.

Read the Application Warning on the front of this manual!

Prior to balancing, ensure that:

1. All sealing of the ductwork system has been completed.
All of the HRV's components are in place and functioning properly.

2.

3. Balancing dampers are fully open.

4. Unit is on HIGH speed.

5. Air flows in branch lines to specific areas of the house should be

typical reading. Repeat this procedure in the other (supply or return)
duct. Determine which duct has the highest airflow (highest reading on
the gauge). Then damper that airflow back to match the lower reading
from the other duct. The flows should now be balanced. Actual airflow
can be determined from the gauge reading. The value read on the
gauge is called the velocity pressure. The Pitot tube comes with a
chart that will give the air flow velocity based on the velocity pressure
indicated by the gauge. This velocity will be in either feet per minute or
metres per second. To determine the actual airflow, the velocity is multi­plied by the cross sectional area of the duct being measured.

This is an example for determining the airflow in a 6" duct.
The Pitot tube reading was 0.025 inches of water.
From the chart, this is 640 feet per minute.

The 6" duct has a cross sectional area of =
The airflow is then:

640 ft./min.
For your convenience, the cross sectional area of some common

round duct is listed below:

DUCT DIAM. (inches) CROSS SECTION AREA (sq. ft.)

adjusted first prior to balancing the unit. A smoke pencil used at the
grilles is a good indicator of each branch line's relative air flow.

HRV

6. After taking readings of both the stale air to the

duct and
fresh air to the house duct, the duct with the lower CFM ([L/s]
velocity) reading should be left alone, while the duct with the higher
reading should be dampered back to match the lower reading.

7. Return unit to appropriate fan speed for normal operation

The accuracy of the air flow reading will be affected by how close to
any elbows or bends the readings are taken. Accuracy can be
increased by taking an average of multiple readings as outlined in the
literature supplied with the Pitot tube.

BALANCING PROCEDURE

The following is a method of field balancing an

HRV

using a Pitot tube,

Pitot tube and gauge

advantageous in situations when flow stations are not installed in the duct­work. Procedure should be performed with the

The first step is to operate all mechanical systems on high speed,
have an influence on the ventilation system, i.e. the

HRV

on high speed.

HRV

which

itself and the
forced air furnace or air handler if applicable. This will provide the maxi­mum pressure that the

HRV

will need to overcome, and allow for a more

accurate balance of the unit.
Drill a small hole in the duct (about 3/16"), three feet downstream of

any elbows or bends, and one foot upstream of any elbows or bends.
These are recommended distances but the actual
installation may limit the amount of straight duct.

[

= 0.2 square feet

X

0.2 square feet = 128 cfm

5 0.14
6 0.20
7 0.27

DUCT

AIR FLOW

Pitot tube

Magnehelic gauge

MAGNEHELIC

Pitot Tube Air Flow
Balancing Kit

c/w magnehelic gauge,
Pitot tube, hose and
carry case.
PART NO. 99-167

3.14 x(6"÷12)

2

]

÷4

The Pitot tube should be connected to a magnehelic
gauge or other manometer capable of reading from 0
to 0.25 in. (0-62 Pa) of water, preferably to 3 digits of
resolution. The tube coming out of the top of the pitot
is connected to the high pressure side of the gauge.
The tube coming out of the side of the pitot is con­nected to the low pressure or reference side of the
gauge.

Insert the Pitot tube into the duct; pointing the tip into
the airflow.

Magnehelic

For general balancing it is sufficient to move the pitot

gauge

tube around in the duct and take an average or

MAGNEHELIC

15

Pitot
tube

Outdoors

Magnehelic

gauge

MAGNEHELIC

Note: Duct connections may vary, 
depending on model.

Pitot
tube

Place pitot tube a minimum of 

18" from blower or elbows

The Integrated HVAC System

Maintenance

The 2500 is a quiet, efficient, low pressure
system. Special care and attention should be

given if connecting this unit to any other air
handler that may draw more air than the 2500 is
designed to accommodate.

The HRV has become an integral component of the
HVAC system. Figure 4 shows an HRV unit provid­ing fresh air directly to the return air plenum of a
Rooftop heat/cool unit.

Many buildings have a ceiling return air plenum
as in Figure 5. Fresh air from the HRV can be intro­duced directly into the ceiling space near the air
handler’s intake.

In installations where it is satisfactory to provide
general exhaust from the space, the air to be
exhausted may be taken directly from the return air
plenum to the HRV as it is drawn back to the air
handler. Fresh air supplied by the HRV is then
introduced directly into the return air plenum but at a
location closer to the air handler. The air handler
would have a constant running blower to effectively
distribute the fresh air and remove the stale air.
Balancing dampers would be located in both the
HRV supply and exhaust ducts between the return
air plenum and the HRV.

As with any mechanical system, a dedicated
maintenance program will prolong the life of the
equipment, and maintain its optimum performance.

We recommend at least two (2) full inspections and
cleanings per year under normal operating
conditions, and more if circumstances warrant it.

Service should include:

• Cleaning of screens protecting outside hoods.

• Cleaning of core.

To access core, remove service panels and
slide core halfway out. Wash core protruding
from cabinet with water and/or a mild cleaning
solution. Push core through to the other side of
the cabinet and repeat procedure to clean the
other side of the core. In many cases, only a
vacuuming of the core surface is required.

• Inspect filters and replace as necessary.

• Wipe down drain pans and inside of cabinet,
using a mild disinfectant.

• Ensure condensate drain has free flow of

moisture.

Electrical Connections

System is 208/230V, 1 phase, 60 Hz. This unit
meets all local codes and requirements.

It is STRONGLY recommended that an electrical
disconnect be installed prior to the HRV, and that it
is turned off and locked out before servicing the unit.

All electrical connections should be made by a
qualified electrician.

Two (2) knock-outs are provided. One is to be used
for line voltage, and the other one for 24V control
wires.

16

• Inspect blowers and electrical panel.

• Confirm operation.

The Integrated HVAC System

ROOFTOP

HEAT/COOL UNIT

SUPPLY DUCT

Check design static pressure
of air handler to ensure it is 
compatible with HRV

FRESH AIR TO BUILDING

DAMPERS OR

ADJUSTABLE GRILLES

EXHAUST

TO HRV

ROOF DECK

CEILING RETURN AIR PLENUM

RETURN
AIR DUCT

BA

FRESH AIR
SUPPLY

STALE AIR
EXHAUST

HRV UNIT

BALANCING

DAMPERS

ROOFTOP

HEAT/COOL UNIT

SUPPLY DUCTWORK

Figure 4

FRESH AIR
INTAKE

B

STALE AIR
EXHAUST DUCT

BALANCING DAMPERS
A - Fresh Air Supply
B - Stale Air Exhaust

HRV UNIT

BALANCING

DAMPERS

17

A

HRV FRESH
AIR SUPPLY

STALE AIR
EXHAUST

Figure 5

2500 WIRING DIAGRAM

BLACK - HIGH

C1

HIGH

YELLOW - COM

SUPPLY

MOTOR

SUPPLY



BROWN
BROWN

RED - LOW

BLUE - MID





C2

LOW

CAP

BROWN





BROWN

CAP





EXHAUST

MOTOR

RED - LOW

BLACK - HIGH

YELLOW - COM

BLUE - MID

EXHAUST



C3

HIGH

C4

LOW

SNAP

DISK

ON/OFF

HIGH/LOW

COMMON

TIMER

T6

T5

T4

T3

T2

T1

24 V AC

ON/OFF

HIGH/LOW

COMMON

NO

COM

R1

NC

NO

COM

R2

NC

24V

F1

XFRM1

5 AMP

24 V AC

240V

NO

COM

R3

NC

NO

COM

R4

F2

MAX

15A

NC

L1 L2

240 VA C

15 AMPS

F3
MAX

15A

18

TI-109

07/97

COMMERCIAL LIFEBREATH

®

HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATORS

• Two Year Limited Warranty • 15 Year Core Warranty

NUTECH ENERGY SYSTEMS INC.®(NUTECH) warrants to the purchaser of the
Commercial LIFEBREATH®model and accessories referred to below, to be free from manufacturing
defects.

This Warranty is personal to NUTECH®and is in effect from the date of the original pur­chase for a period of two years, save and except that a 15 YEAR WARRANTY is given to the
LIFEBREATH®core should it develop a condensation leak or become perforated due to corrosion
caused by normal use.

Damage resulting from all other causes, including but not limited to: lighting, hurricane,
tornado
of the LIFEBREATH®or its operation in a manner contrary to the instructions accompanying the unit
at the time of sale; accidental or intentional damage, neglect, improper care, or other failure by the
owner to provide reasonable and necessary maintenance of the product; any attempt at repair by an
unauthorized service representative or not in accordance with this warranty; or any other causes
beyond the control of NUTECH®, are excluded from this warranty.

, earthquake or any other acts of God; improper installation, modification, alteration or misuse

If you feel that the LIFEBREATH®you purchased is not free from manufacturing defects,
please contact NUTECH ENERGY SYSTEMS INC.®, 511 McCormick Blvd., London, Ontario N5W
4C8, 519-457-1904 or fax [phone] to find the name of your nearest dealer in order to repair
the product. The labour required to install any replacement part(s) shall be dealt with at the option of
the customer in either of the following ways:

(a) the customer may supply labour at their own expense: or
(b) if the product was purchased from a dealer, then the dealer

will supply labour at cost to the customer.

NUTECH®reserves the right to replace the entire unit or to refund the original purchase
price in lieu of repair.

NUTECH®MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES, EXCEPT FOR THOSE THAT ARE SET FORTH
HEREIN AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES WITH RESPECT TO LIFEBREATH®COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY. NUTECH’S
COMPLETE LIABILITY AND THE OWNER’S EXCLUSIVE REMEDY BEING LIMITED TO REPAIR
OR REPLACEMENT ON THE TERMS STATED HEREIN. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
OF FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.

NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED TO CHANGE THE WARRANTY IN ANY WAY OR GRANT ANY
OTHER WARRANTY UNLESS SUCH CHANGES ARE MADE IN WRITING AND SIGNED BY AN
OFFICER OF NUTECH®.

MODEL NO.: _____________________________________________________________
UNIT SERIAL NO.: ______________________________________________________________________
INSTALLED BY: ________________________________________________________________________
DATE:_______________________________________________________

19

_____________

______________

___________

__

TI-38

511 McCormick Blvd.
London, Ontario

Ph: [phone]
Fx: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.lifebreath.com

N5W 4C8