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» Supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery: principle of operation of the system and types of recuperators. Recuperator for an apartment Operation of an air handling unit with a recuperator

Supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery: principle of operation of the system and types of recuperators. Recuperator for an apartment Operation of an air handling unit with a recuperator

The supply of fresh air during the cold period leads to the need to heat it to ensure the correct indoor microclimate. To minimize energy costs, supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery can be used.

Understanding the principles of its operation will allow you to most effectively reduce heat loss while maintaining a sufficient volume of replaced air. Let's try to understand this issue.

In the autumn-spring period, when ventilating rooms, a serious problem is the large temperature difference between the incoming air and the air inside. The cold stream rushes down and creates favorable microclimate V residential buildings, offices and production, or an unacceptable vertical temperature gradient in a warehouse.

A common solution to the problem is integration into supply ventilation, through which the flow is heated. Such a system requires energy consumption, while a significant volume of output warm air leads to significant heat loss.

The exit of air to the outside with intense steam serves as an indicator of significant heat loss, which can be used to heat the incoming flow

If the air inlet and outlet channels are located nearby, then it is possible to partially transfer the heat of the outgoing flow to the incoming one. This will reduce the energy consumption of the heater or eliminate it altogether. A device for ensuring heat exchange between gas flows of different temperatures is called a recuperator.

In the warm season, when the outside air temperature is significantly higher than room temperature, a recuperator can be used to cool the incoming flow.

Design of a unit with a recuperator

Internal structure of supply systems exhaust ventilation s are quite simple, so it is possible to purchase and install them independently element by element. In the event that the assembly or self-installation causes difficulties can be purchased ready-made solutions in the form of standard monoblock or individual prefabricated structures to order.

An elementary device for collecting and discharging condensate is a tray located under the heat exchanger with a slope towards the drain hole

Moisture is removed into a closed container. It is placed only indoors to avoid freezing of the outflow channels at sub-zero temperatures. There is no algorithm for reliable calculation of the volume of water received when using systems with a recuperator, so it is determined experimentally.

Reusing condensate for air humidification is undesirable, since water absorbs many pollutants such as human sweat, odors, etc.

You can significantly reduce the volume of condensate and avoid problems associated with its occurrence by organizing a separate exhaust system from the bathroom and kitchen. It is in these rooms that the air has the highest humidity. If there are several exhaust systems, the air exchange between the technical and residential areas must be limited by installing check valves.

If the exhaust air flow is cooled to negative temperatures inside the recuperator, condensate turns into ice, which causes a reduction in the open cross-section of the flow and, as a consequence, a decrease in volume or a complete cessation of ventilation.

For periodic or one-time defrosting of the recuperator, a bypass is installed - a bypass channel for the movement of supply air. When a flow bypasses the device, heat transfer stops, the heat exchanger heats up and the ice passes into a liquid state. The water flows into the condensate collection tank or evaporates outside.

The principle of the bypass device is simple, therefore, if there is a risk of ice formation, it is advisable to provide such a solution, since heating the recuperator by other means is complex and time-consuming

When the flow passes through the bypass, there is no heating of the supply air through the recuperator. Therefore, when activating this mode, it is necessary automatic switching on heater.

Features of various types of recuperators

There are several structurally different options for implementing heat exchange between cold and heated air flows. Each of them has its own distinctive features, which determine the main purpose for each type of recuperator.

The design of the plate recuperator is based on thin-walled panels, connected alternately in such a way as to alternate the passage of flows of different temperatures between them at an angle of 90 degrees. One of the modifications of this model is a device with finned channels for air passage. It has a higher heat transfer coefficient.

Alternate passage of warm and cold air flow through the plates is realized by bending the edges of the plates and sealing the joints with polyester resin

Heat exchange panels can be made of various materials:

  • copper, brass and aluminum-based alloys have good thermal conductivity and are not susceptible to rust;
  • plastic made from a hydrophobic polymer material with a high thermal conductivity coefficient and low weight;
  • hygroscopic cellulose allows condensation to penetrate through the plate and back into the room.

The disadvantage is the possibility of condensation forming at low temperatures. Due to the small distance between the plates, moisture or ice significantly increases aerodynamic drag. In case of freezing, it is necessary to block the incoming air flow to warm the plates.

The advantages of plate recuperators are as follows:

  • low cost;
  • long service life;
  • long period between preventive maintenance and ease of its implementation;
  • small dimensions and weight.

This type of recuperator is most common for residential and office premises. It is also used in some technological processes, for example, to optimize fuel combustion during furnace operation.

Drum or rotary type

The operating principle of a rotary recuperator is based on the rotation of a heat exchanger, inside of which there are layers of corrugated metal with high heat capacity. As a result of interaction with the outgoing flow, the drum sector is heated, which subsequently gives off heat to the incoming air.

The fine-mesh heat exchanger of a rotary recuperator is susceptible to clogging, so you need to pay special attention to the quality operation of fine filters

The advantages of rotary recuperators are as follows:

  • enough high efficiency compared to competing types;
  • return of a large amount of moisture, which remains in the form of condensation on the drum and evaporates upon contact with incoming dry air.

This type of recuperator is less often used for residential buildings for apartment or cottage ventilation. It is often used in large boiler houses to return heat to furnaces or for large industrial or commercial premises.

However, this type of device has significant disadvantages:

  • a relatively complex design with moving parts, including an electric motor, drum and belt drive, which requires constant maintenance;
  • increased noise level.

Sometimes for devices of this type you can come across the term “regenerative heat exchanger”, which is more correct than “recuperator”. The fact is that a small part of the exhaust air gets back due to the loose fit of the drum to the body of the structure.

This imposes additional restrictions on the ability to use devices of this type. For example, polluted air from heating stoves cannot be used as a coolant.

Tube and casing system

A tubular type recuperator consists of a system of thin-walled tubes of small diameter located in an insulated casing, through which there is an influx of outside air. The casing removes warm air from the room, which heats the incoming flow.

Warm air must be discharged through the casing, and not through a system of tubes, since it is impossible to remove condensate from them

The main advantages of tubular recuperators are as follows:

  • high efficiency due to the countercurrent principle of movement of the coolant and incoming air;
  • simplicity of design and absence of moving parts ensures low noise levels and rarely requires maintenance;
  • long service life;
  • the smallest cross-section among all types of recovery devices.

Tubes for this type of device use either light-alloy metal or, less commonly, polymer. These materials are not hygroscopic, therefore, with a significant difference in flow temperatures, intense condensation may form in the casing, which requires constructive solution on its removal. Another disadvantage is that the metal filling has significant weight, despite its small dimensions.

Simplicity of design tubular recuperator makes this type of device popular for self-made. Typically used as an outer casing plastic pipes for air ducts, insulated with polyurethane foam shell.

Device with intermediate coolant

Sometimes the supply and exhaust air ducts are located at some distance from each other. This situation may arise due to technological features building or sanitary requirements for reliable separation of air flows.

In this case, an intermediate coolant is used, circulating between the air ducts through an insulated pipeline. Water or a water-glycol solution is used as a medium for transferring thermal energy, the circulation of which is ensured by operation.

A recuperator with an intermediate coolant is a voluminous and expensive device, the use of which is economically justified for premises with large areas

If it is possible to use another type of recuperator, then it is better not to use a system with an intermediate coolant, since it has the following significant disadvantages:

  • low efficiency compared to other types of devices, therefore such devices are not used for small rooms with low air flow;
  • significant volume and weight of the entire system;
  • need for additional electric pump for fluid circulation;
  • increased noise from the pump.

There is a modification of this system when, instead of forced circulation of the heat exchange fluid, a medium with a low boiling point, such as freon, is used. In this case, movement along the contour is possible naturally, but only if the supply air duct is located above the exhaust air duct.

Such a system does not require additional energy costs, but only works for heating when there is a significant temperature difference. In addition, it is necessary to fine-tune the point at which the state of aggregation of the heat exchange fluid changes, which can be achieved by creating the required pressure or a certain chemical composition.

Main technical parameters

Knowing the required performance of the ventilation system and the heat exchange efficiency of the recuperator, it is easy to calculate savings on air heating for a room under specific climatic conditions. By comparing the potential benefits with the costs of purchasing and maintaining the system, you can reasonably make a choice in favor of a recuperator or a standard air heater.

Equipment manufacturers often offer a model line in which ventilation units with similar functionality differ in the volume of air exchange. For residential premises, this parameter must be calculated according to Table 9.1. SP 54.13330.2016

Efficiency

The efficiency of a recuperator is understood as the efficiency of heat transfer, which is calculated using the following formula:

K = (T p – T n) / (T v – T n)

Wherein:

  • T p – temperature of the air entering the room;
  • Tn – outside air temperature;
  • T in – room air temperature.

The maximum efficiency value at standard and certain temperature conditions is indicated in the technical documentation of the device. Its actual figure will be slightly less.

In the case of self-manufacturing of a plate or tubular recuperator, in order to achieve maximum heat transfer efficiency, you must adhere to the following rules:

  • The best heat transfer is provided by counter-flow devices, then cross-flow devices, and the least by unidirectional movement of both flows.
  • The intensity of heat transfer depends on the material and thickness of the walls separating the flows, as well as on the duration of the air inside the device.

E (W) = 0.36 x P x K x (T in - T n)

where P (m 3 / hour) – air flow.

Calculation of the efficiency of the recuperator in monetary terms and comparison with the costs of its acquisition and installation for a two-story cottage with total area 270 m2 shows the feasibility of installing such a system

The cost of recuperators with high efficiency is quite high; they have a complex design and significant dimensions. Sometimes you can get around these problems by installing a few more simple devices so that the incoming air passes through them successively.

Ventilation system performance

The volume of air passed through is determined by static pressure, which depends on the power of the fan and the main components that create aerodynamic resistance. As a rule, its exact calculation is impossible due to the complexity mathematical model, therefore, for typical monoblock structures, experimental studies, and for individual devices, components are selected.

The fan power must be selected taking into account bandwidth installed recuperators of any type, which is indicated in the technical documentation as the recommended flow rate or volume of air passed by the device per unit of time. Usually, permissible speed air inside the device does not exceed 2 m/s.

Otherwise, at high speeds, a sharp increase in aerodynamic resistance occurs in the narrow elements of the recuperator. It leads to unnecessary costs electricity, ineffective heating of outside air and reduced service life of fans.

The graph of pressure loss versus air flow rate for several models of high-performance recuperators shows a nonlinear increase in resistance, so it is necessary to adhere to the requirements for the recommended air exchange volume specified in the technical documentation of the device

Changing the direction of air flow creates additional aerodynamic drag. Therefore, when modeling the geometry of an indoor air duct, it is desirable to minimize the number of pipe turns by 90 degrees. Air diffusers also increase resistance, so it is advisable not to use elements with complex patterns.

Dirty filters and grilles create significant interference with flow, so they must be periodically cleaned or replaced. One of effective ways clogging assessment is the installation of sensors that monitor the pressure drop in areas before and after the filter.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Operating principle of rotary and plate recuperator:

Measuring the efficiency of a plate-type recuperator:

Domestic and industrial ventilation systems with an integrated recuperator have proven their energy efficiency in maintaining heat indoors. Now there are many offers for the sale and installation of such devices, both in the form of ready-made and tested models, and individual order. You can calculate the necessary parameters and perform installation yourself.

If you have any questions while reading the information or find any inaccuracies in our material, please leave your comments in the block below.

During the ventilation process, not only exhaust air is recycled from the room, but also part of the thermal energy. In winter, this leads to higher energy bills.

Heat recovery in centralized and local ventilation systems will allow you to reduce unjustified costs without compromising air exchange. For thermal energy recovery they are used different types heat exchangers – recuperators.

The article describes in detail the models of units, their design features, operating principles, advantages and disadvantages. The information provided will help you choose optimal option for arranging a ventilation system.

Translated from Latin, recuperation means compensation or return. With regard to heat exchange reactions, recovery is characterized as a partial return of energy expended on a technological action for the purpose of application in the same process.

Local recuperators are equipped with a fan and a plate heat exchanger. The inlet “sleeve” is insulated with sound-absorbing material. The control unit of compact ventilation units is located on the internal wall

Features of decentralized ventilation systems with recovery:

  • Efficiency – 60-96%;
  • low productivity– the devices are designed to provide air exchange in rooms up to 20-35 sq.m;
  • affordable price and a wide selection of units, ranging from conventional wall valves to automated models with a multi-stage filtration system and the ability to adjust humidity;
  • ease of installation– for commissioning, no installation of air ducts is required; you can do it yourself.

    Important criteria for choosing a wall inlet: permissible wall thickness, performance, efficiency of the recuperator, diameter of the air channel and temperature of the pumped medium

    Conclusions and useful video on the topic

    Job comparison natural ventilation and forced system with recovery:

    The principle of operation of a centralized recuperator, calculation of efficiency:

    Design and operating procedure of a decentralized heat exchanger using the Prana wall valve as an example:

    About 25-35% of the heat leaves the room through the ventilation system. Recuperators are used to reduce losses and effectively recover heat. Climatic equipment allows you to use the energy of waste masses to heat the incoming air.

    Have something to add, or have questions about the operation of different ventilation recuperators? Please leave comments on the publication and share your experience in operating such installations. The contact form is located in the lower block.

Recuperator (lat. receiving back, returning) is a special supply and exhaust device that removes exhaust air from the room and supplies fresh air from the street. One of the key structural elements is a heat exchanger. Its functional purpose is to select heat, and in some systems, moisture, from the exhaust air and transfer it to the incoming air. fresh air. All recuperators are characterized by low power consumption.

What material are heat exchangers in recuperators made of?

The heat exchanger material is one of important factors, which must be taken into account when choosing a ventilation system. Here, the individual characteristics of the place where the system is used are taken into account so that the unit lasts as long as possible. Currently, the following materials are used in the manufacture of heat exchangers: aluminum, copper, ceramics, plastic, stainless steel and paper.

What are the advantages of a household recuperator?

There are many advantages of ventilation with recovery; among the most significant, it is worth noting the ability to provide both supply and exhaust with one device, as well as saving costs on heating/cooling the room up to 50%, normalizing humidity and reducing the level harmful substances in the indoor air. The device is able to provide a favorable microclimate, regardless of the season and weather outside.

How much heat does recovery save?

Any device provides a recovery level of 70-90%. The indicator depends on external conditions and operating mode. When organizing all ventilation in a room using recuperators, it is possible to achieve savings in heating/cooling costs of up to 60%

For example, for the climate zone of Siberia, the use of a recuperator allows you to save on electricity (when using a heater) up to 50-55%.

Is there a risk of drafts when the recuperator is operating?

The performance of recuperators does not allow for a draft in the literal sense of the word, however, when choosing an installation location, it is better to minimize possible future feelings of discomfort on frosty days and not place the devices directly above working and sleeping places.

Is it possible to install a recuperator in a city apartment?

It's possible, but with a few caveats. Recuperators are not recommended to be installed in rooms with a well-functioning communal exhaust hood. But if the window openings are closed with sealed double-glazed windows, and the common building exhaust system works poorly. It is the supply and exhaust system with recovery that is effective tool fight against stuffiness, high humidity, mold and unpleasant odors.

How noisy are domestic heat exchangers?

Each specific installation has its own indicator - it depends on the power and operating mode. But in general, the noise level at first speeds is so insignificant that most people do not notice it. And at the latest speeds, any device is noisy.

Is it true that recuperators effectively solve the problem of indoor humidity?

If excessive humidity in rooms appears due to low-efficiency ventilation or its complete absence, then installing any recuperator will radically change the situation for the better. The equipment will ensure normal air exchange in the room, which means removing moisture naturally.

What is the level of energy consumption of household recuperators?

Any ventilation system with recovery belongs to economical climate control equipment. Requires from 2 to 45 W/h to operate electrical energy. Which is in monetary terms approximately from 100 to 1500 rubles per year.

What should be the thickness of the wall to install a wall-mounted heat exchanger?

If the thickness of the wall structure is 250 mm or more, then there will be no problems with installing a household ventilation system with recovery - everything is done according to the standard algorithm. If this parameter is lower than the given indicator, then specialists apply individual solutions. For example, Wakio has a model for thin walls, Wakio Lumi, and for Marley MEnV 180 there is a special wall extension hood. There are also systems that are not demanding on wall thickness, for example Mitsubishi Lossnay Vl-100.

What number of ventilation units will be optimal for one apartment?

Normal air exchange is considered when the air in the room is completely renewed in one hour. With an average room area of ​​18 meters and a ceiling height of 2.5 m, it turns out that about 45 cubic meters need to be supplied and removed per hour. Almost anyone can cope with this task household recuperator. However, there is another way to calculate the required volume of air - based on the number of people in the room. In this case, according to the law of Moscow, it is required to supply and remove 60 cubic meters per hour per person. In this case, household recuperators are installed in pairs and this method is considered the most optimal.

Are there types of buildings where it is impossible to use a domestic recuperator?

There are no direct prohibitions on the installation of household recuperators, however, in state-protected architectural monuments, holes cannot be made in the wall; in all other buildings, the creation of holes with a diameter of up to 200 mm is not prohibited by law. A limitation can also be high floors With strong winds and rooms with very strong general house exhaust, here the installation of recuperators is not recommended.

Is it allowed to install ventilation systems in already used buildings where people live?

Where does the condensate go?

High level Heat recovery creates conditions for the appearance of condensation - this is a natural process. In installations with heat recovery, thanks to part of this moisture, the incoming air flow is humidified, that is, comfortable climatic conditions are created in the room. And the excess is discharged outside through a special top cover so that it does not settle on the facade. Whatever the weather outside, the system's shifting cycle prevents the appearance of a dew point. This means the equipment does not freeze. It is also worth noting that the amount of condensate produced is not at all large.

What is special about the operation of a ventilation unit in summer?

There are no differences in the operation of equipment in winter and summer time No. Always complied with main principle– the heat remains in the environment where it was originally located. Thus, temperature regime at any time of the year does not change when heat recovery is turned on. And if it is necessary to cool the air, the function is turned off - the “ventilation” mode is set using the installation controllers.

Are there any special features of bathroom ventilation based on household recuperators?

It is impossible to overestimate the relevance of having an installation in the bathroom - excess moisture is removed from the room, and the temperature remains comfortable. In bathrooms, it is recommended to install heat exchangers with a humidity sensor, so the ventilation will work automatically and only when necessary.

Can microbes multiply in household recuperators?

First of all, we note that the problem of microbes is relevant for places where moisture accumulates for a long time. And since the heat exchanger of the device is completely dried in any conditions, no microorganisms can multiply in it. To be completely sure, we recommend carrying out preventive cleaning of the heat exchanger 2 times a year - simply wash it under running water or in dishwasher. The element can also be cleaned with steam.

What is the frequency of cleaning ventilation devices?

There is no clear answer here. A number of factors are taken into account - the intensity of use of the room, its purpose, climatic zone. We recommend visually monitoring the degree of contamination of filters and heat exchangers and cleaning them as necessary.

Will the hole in the wall for the heat exchanger become a source of cold penetration into the room?

As long as the system operates in recovery mode, the risk of a cold bridge occurring is zero. When the system is turned off, the heat in the heat exchanger clogs the hole and does not evaporate. The truth is important correct location heat exchanger - it must be pushed out far enough, and an air shut-off valve must be located on the room side.

Who should I contact about choosing the location of ventilation units?

Choice optimal location placement of ventilation units with recovery is a free service for clients of our company. We are ready to provide it at a time convenient for you with an on-site visit.

Is it possible to install a household recuperator yourself?

Theoretically, in houses made of SIP panels, wood and frame houses, the recuperator can be installed independently, but this will void the installation warranty, and often the warranty on the device itself. IN stone houses It is not possible to install a recuperator yourself, as this requires expensive professional equipment not used in everyday life, as well as a specialist in diamond drilling.

Issues discussed in the material:

  • What is heat recovery ventilation?
  • Ventilation scheme with recovery
  • What are the advantages of a ventilation system with recovery?
  • Types of recuperators for ventilation
  • How to choose air handling units with heat recovery
  • Tips on how to install supply and exhaust ventilation with recovery

Each person, of course, has his own idea of ​​how comfortable housing should be arranged. For one, the appearance and interior of the premises will be of paramount importance, while the other will consider the various amenities most important. But no matter what we give preference, in any case, the majority will agree that in order for housing to be called comfortable, it is necessary that it has optimal temperature- warm in the cold season, and cool in hot weather.

Of course, no matter how we create such conditions, they are always associated with certain costs. We can use devices like air conditioners, fans, heaters. Someone will prefer to carry out repairs in such a way as to make the premises airtight. And such a move will really help preserve the internal temperature. But we must not forget that in such cases one serious trouble cannot be avoided - the housing will stop being ventilated, so there will be no talk of any comfort. The only solution is to ventilate to ensure air movement. Some may be concerned about whether this will result in additional energy costs. But they will even decrease if your choice is ventilation with heat recovery for a private house, apartment or industrial facility. What is it, how does it work? This article will tell you about this and much more.

What is heat recovery ventilation?

Home ventilation with heat recovery is one of the forced ventilation systems. It usually provides for air heating. This function is partially performed by a recuperator - a device designed to heat air, although the main heating is not provided by it, but by the air heater.

Of course, you may have never heard of supply or exhaust ventilation with heat recovery, but this does not mean that it is a new invention. Most likely, you are misled by the Latin word “recuperation,” which can be translated into Russian as “return of what was spent.” This reveals the whole point: a recuperator is a special heat exchanger, that is, a device that is quite common in ventilation systems, although in Russia it is not used as often as abroad. How does the ventilation of a private house or apartment recover? Let's take a closer look at it.

Heat recovery - This is the return of heat leaving the room. The point is that there is incoming and outgoing air flow. At the same time, the air that leaves the room heats the counter air due to heat exchange. This happens in the cold season, and on hot days, for example in summer, the outgoing air, on the contrary, cools the incoming air. But in such situations it is more correct to talk about cold recovery.

Obviously, such a procedure is necessary for the user to save available funds, because when the ventilation is not equipped with recovery, a lot of heat goes outside instead of being reused indoors. Accordingly, heating bills increase, since, in fact, we heat the street, spending an exorbitant amount of heat for nothing. It is precisely in order to avoid such waste and colossal bills that it is worth thinking about installing ventilation with heat recovery. After all, this way you return the air that you heated, do not allow the heat to leave the room, and save money.

It is not surprising that ventilation with recovery is becoming more and more popular and classic options ventilation systems have nothing to oppose such a design. This is logical, because forced ventilation with recovery it costs not much more than usual, and its maintenance is completely elementary. In this regard, many prefer to forget about climate control equipment, which was once positioned as the most effective in combination with ventilation systems. Recuperation is much more profitable in terms of rational use electricity, and in terms of saving heating costs. Its cheapness is compared with the cost of lighting with energy-saving light bulbs.

What else attracts consumers to a supply and exhaust ventilation system with air recovery?

Firstly, such devices have small dimensions.

Secondly, they do not spoil the interior.

Third, they have a low noise level.

Fourthly, with a minimum of costs we get maximum operating efficiency.

They are also in demand in public institutions, among which the following can be listed:

  • Cinemas and theaters.
  • Canteens, cafes, snack bars.
  • Libraries.
  • Hotels and inns.
  • Stations.
  • Offices and retail premises.

It is possible to design a ventilation system with recovery of a private house, multi-story building etc. The variety of such devices allows you to choose them for any occasion. The different capacities of such structures make it possible to find an option even for buildings that have a residential basement floor.

It is important to understand that forced ventilation with heat recovery for an apartment or house - this is coercive system. It is distinguished from natural by the presence of fans, which ensure the movement of air flows at any convenient time and do not depend on external factors, such as draft that appears due to differences in temperatures.

Ventilation scheme with recovery


What are the advantages of a ventilation system with recovery?

As we have noted more than once, the main advantage of such a system is the ability to control the interaction of air inflow and outlet. Due to this, we significantly reduce ventilation heat loss, although we continue to saturate the room with fresh air.

Now let's talk in more detail about each of the advantages of ventilation systems with recovery.

Efficiency. Natural air removal is not always the case convenient solution, because we become dependent on circumstances, conditions environment, temperature differences. In this regard, it is much easier to use a ventilation system with recovery, which can force air. A simple example of forced ventilation is a kitchen hood. More complex devices are capable, among other things, of getting rid of excess moisture. But this is simple exhaust equipment. In our case, we are talking about supply and exhaust systems that are capable of organizing the movement of air flows in both directions at once, mixing them and forming required temperatures for a comfortable stay of a person in the room, that is, to recuperate air.

Profitability. It should be noted that recuperation systems can recoup their cost through savings on heating and electricity. Costs are significantly reduced, sometimes by 5 times, that is, you are already paying 80% less than usual. Ask your friends how much heating costs them country house, if you don't have one. The numbers will be impressive. Imagine how much money recovery ventilation can save. If inexpensive elements wear out, they can be replaced without negative consequences. IN warm time year, you will be able to save on climate control equipment, while simultaneously reducing emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Yes, even from an environmental point of view, you are causing significantly less damage to the environment, because, among other things, you are reducing the load on the network. And don’t let it seem to you that one person is too little. Firstly, these are quite serious amounts of energy. Secondly, more and more people are switching to ventilation with recovery over the years.

Practicality. Ventilation systems with recovery are usually small in size, which means they are easy to install. Such equipment can be located in the bathroom, in the closet, and built into the ceiling. Today there are a huge variety of models to suit all tastes. So you don't have to worry about the interior.

Types of recuperators for ventilation

Recuperator - This is a heat exchanger, albeit a special one. It is connected to ventilation channels that produce air exhaust and supply. Polluted air from the room gives off heat to incoming flows, that is, a recovery procedure is performed.

Plate recuperators differ from the usual ones in that they prevent air mixing. In them, recovery is performed somewhat differently. A number of plates are located close to each other, due to which the air can transfer heat without touching. The material in such ventilation systems is usually aluminum foil, known for its thermal conductivity. There are products made of plastic. They are more expensive, but more effective.


Ventilation with recovery, performed using plate heat exchangers, often suffers from ice. The fact is that the surfaces of the recuperator are covered with ice due to condensation. This does not have the most favorable effect on the quality of the device. And then the owner of ventilation with recovery has to work hard to make the ice melt. Accordingly, time, effort, and electricity are wasted.

However, some developers have foreseen how to protect ventilation with recovery from ice. For this purpose, a technology has been invented that heats the incoming air flow to the temperature at which the condensate simply cannot freeze.

By the way, this is not the only way out. Other developers have proposed equipping ventilation systems with recuperation with cassettes made of hygroscopic cellulose. We save on heating the air, since such cellulose itself absorbs moisture and then returns it at the outlet. But they can only be used in cases where there is no over-humidification of the air.

Rotary recuperators. In recovery ventilation systems using these devices, the air is mixed. The operating principle is as follows: a metal rotor rotates, allowing air to move outward and inward. The rotation speed is usually adjustable.


As is clear, recovery in in this case has a number of disadvantages, for example, it is much more expensive due to the presence of elements that fail over time. But high efficiency rates, reaching 90%, contribute to the popularity of such products.

In essence, the feasibility of purchasing such a device largely depends on the efficiency of organizing air recovery. A quality product can usually pay for itself.

Recuperators with intermediate coolant. This device has two compartments separated by a container of liquid capable of transferring heat from the outgoing to the incoming air.


Of course, recovery in this case is very safe, because contaminants are not transferred between streams. Speed ​​adjustment is provided. Wear is unlikely. But the disadvantage is the low efficiency, ranging from 45 to 60%.

Chamber recuperators. The flap divides the compartment into two halves. Rotating, it changes places of air flows. The temperature change occurs from the chamber walls.


Although air recovery in this case has a high efficiency rate of 70 to 80%, and wear is unlikely, there is a tendency for the transmission of dirt and unpleasant odors.

Heat pipes. This recovery device is made of hermetically connected tubes. They contain a substance that contributes to changes in air temperature. Most often it is some kind of freon.


Closedness avoids leakage of substances. It just flows into different sides tubes. The efficiency of such equipment is in the region of 50 – 70%.

How to choose air handling units with heat recovery

What should you remember when choosing ventilation with recovery? You need to buy such equipment so as not to regret it, so ask the seller about the following nuances:

First of all, ask the seller the following questions:

  1. Who is the manufacturer of this air recovery ventilation? How long has this company been in business, what reputation does it have, what else does it produce?
  2. How productive is this ventilation with air recovery?
  3. Here you will need a specialist who can make a detailed calculation based on the characteristics of your premises. It is clear that buying supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery for an apartment and a three-story house is not the same thing.

  4. What will be the resistance of the system to air flows after installation? of this equipment?
  5. Here again you will need specialist advice. It is important not to just limit yourself to some general characteristics indicated in the table from the Internet, and make a detailed calculation, for example, taking into account the number of bends in the air duct and many other nuances. The ratio of air flow and system resistance is one of the most important selection factors.

  6. How expensive will it be to maintain ventilation with this recuperator? What is its energy class? What are the savings when using this device?
  7. What are the Efficiency Coefficients of this recuperator for ventilation?
  8. Note that we say “coefficients” and not “coefficient”. Why? Is he really not alone? Not really. There is a declared one - this is some average value. And there is real efficiency, which is an objective indicator. What does it depend on? There are many factors. Here is the humidity and air, and how the system is organized, and the temperatures inside and outside.

  • If there is a paper heat exchanger, the efficiency will be from 60 to 70 percent. What does this mean for us? Is it good or bad? This means that ventilation with air recovery is resistant to freezing, although not one hundred percent.
  • If there is an aluminum heat exchanger, the efficiency will be no more than 63%, while the efficiency of the air recuperator will be from 42 to 45% percent. Thus, you will have to use a significant amount of electricity to get rid of the frost.
  • A rotary air recuperator has excellent efficiency indicators, but provided that it is controlled automatically, based on the readings of special sensors. However, these recuperators can freeze in the same way as aluminum ones, which reduces efficiency.

What else should you consider when choosing a recuperator for ventilation?

Tips on how to install supply and exhaust ventilation with recovery

Now let's talk about how to install supply and exhaust ventilation with recovery. Let's start with how to choose the most appropriate place for installation.

  • If you have a private house, then it is best to choose for installation non-residential premises. This is the basement, attic, utility room. And the boiler room is generally the most perfect option for supply and exhaust ventilation.
  • Please ensure that the installation of ventilation with recovery does not contradict the requirements specified in the technical documentation.
  • It is best that the distribution of the ventilation system with air recovery be in rooms where there is heating.
  • Ventilation with air recovery will most likely take place in those rooms where there is no heating. These sections must be thoroughly insulated.
  • It is necessary to insulate outdoor ventilation ducts with air recovery, as well as those located in external walls.
  • It is advisable to locate ventilation equipment with air recovery in such a way that it is as far away from living spaces as possible, so that operating noise, which is never excluded, does not interfere.

Actually, these tips for installing ventilation with air recovery cannot be applied in all cases without exception. It is quite possible that you have other conditions and places where you can equip a similar system. Much depends on the layout of the building and the dimensions of the equipment.

Air intake For ventilation with recovery, it is better to install it on the side where the wind is less frequent. This will avoid dust and debris, or at least reduce their amount. It is important to make sure that there are no chimneys, pipes or any other places nearby where unwanted air may escape.

Installation. It is highly not recommended to install ventilation with air recovery yourself. This is a risky undertaking that could lead to unpleasant consequences. If you are reading this article, then you are unlikely to be an expert in the field of installing ventilation with recovery, so we recommend seeking help from professionals.

That's all. We hope that the material was useful to you!

P.S. You can always call the company " Climate Formula", and our specialists will advise you on all your questions.

Recovery in ventilation plays an important role, as it allows you to increase the efficiency of the system due to design features. There are different designs of recovery units, each of which has its own pros and cons. The choice of supply and exhaust ventilation system depends on what problems are being solved, as well as on the climatic conditions of the area.

Design features, purpose

Recovery in ventilation is quite new technology. Its action is based on the ability to use the removed heat to heat the room. This happens thanks to separate channels, so the air flows do not mix with each other. The design of recuperative units can be different; some types avoid the formation of condensation during the heat transfer process. The performance level of the system as a whole also depends on this.

Ventilation with heat recovery can produce high efficiency during operation, which depends on the type of heat recovery unit, the speed of air flow through the heat exchanger and how large the difference between the temperature outside and inside the room is. The efficiency value in some cases, when the ventilation system is designed taking into account all factors and has high performance, can reach 96%. But even taking into account the presence of errors in the operation of the system minimum limit The efficiency is 30%.

The goal of the regenerative unit is to maximize efficient use ventilation resources to further ensure sufficient air exchange in the room, as well as energy savings. Taking into account the fact that supply and exhaust ventilation with recovery operates most of the day, and also taking into account that ensuring a sufficient air exchange rate requires considerable equipment power, the use of a ventilation system with a built-in recovery unit will help save up to 30% of energy.

The disadvantage of this technique can be called quite low efficiency when installed on large areas. In this case, electricity consumption will be high, and the performance of the system aimed at heat exchange between air flows may be noticeably lower than the expected limit. This is explained by the fact that air exchange occurs much faster in small areas than in large objects.

Types of recuperative units

There are several varieties used in ventilation system equipment. Each of the options has advantages and disadvantages, which must be taken into account even when forced ventilation with recovery is just being designed. There are:

    1. Recuperator plate mechanism. It can be made on the basis of metal or plastic plates. Along with fairly high performance (efficiency is 75%), such a device is susceptible to icing due to the formation of condensation. The advantage is the absence of moving structural elements, which increases the service life of the device. There is also a plate type of recuperative unit with moisture-permeable elements, which eliminates the possibility of condensation. A feature of the plate design is that there is no possibility of mixing two air flows.

  1. Ventilation systems with heat recovery can operate on the basis of a rotor mechanism. In this case, heat exchange between air flows occurs due to the operation of the rotor. The productivity of this design increases to 85%, but there is a possibility of air mixing, which can bring odors back into the room that are removed outside the room. The advantages include the ability to additionally dry the air, which makes it possible to use equipment of this type indoors special purpose with an increased level of importance, for example in swimming pools.
  2. The chamber mechanism of the recuperator is a chamber that is equipped with a movable damper, which allows odors and contaminants to penetrate back into the room. However this type The design is very productive (efficiency reaches 80%).
  3. Recuperative unit with intermediate coolant. In this case, heat exchange occurs not directly between two air flows, but through a special liquid (water-glycol solution) or plain water. However, a system based on such a node has low performance (efficiency below 50%). A recuperator with an intermediate coolant is almost always used to organize ventilation in production.
  4. Regenerative unit based on heat pipes. This mechanism works using freon, which tends to cool, which leads to the formation of condensation. The performance of such a system is at an average level, but the advantage is that there is no possibility of odors and contaminants penetrating back into the room. Ventilation in an apartment with recuperation will be very effective due to the fact that it is necessary to serve a relatively small area. To be able to operate such equipment without negative consequences for it, it is necessary to select a model based on a recuperative unit that eliminates the possibility of condensation. In places with a fairly mild climate, where the air temperature outside does not reach critical levels, the use of almost any type of recuperator is allowed.