Heat Recovery Unit (HRU) Maintenance: Best Practices to Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Regular maintenance of your Heat Recovery Unit (HRU) is essential to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy costs, and potential system failures. This guide outlines best practices to keep your HRU running smoothly.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Heat Recovery Units
2. Importance of Regular Maintenance
3. Key Maintenance Practices
4. Recommended Maintenance Schedule
5. Professional Maintenance Services
6. Conclusion
   
   

Understanding Heat Recovery Units

Heat Recovery Units (HRUs) are integral components of HVAC systems, designed to recover heat from exhaust air and transfer it to incoming fresh air. This process enhances energy efficiency and maintains indoor air quality.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures that your HRU operates efficiently, providing benefits such as:

• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Clean components facilitate optimal heat transfer, reducing energy consumption.
• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Well-maintained filters and ducts prevent the circulation of dust and pollutants.
• Extended Equipment Lifespan: Routine checks and cleaning prevent premature wear and costly repairs.
  
  

Key Maintenance Practices

1. Filter Inspection and Replacement

Filters trap dust and contaminants, preventing them from entering the HRU. Over time, filters become clogged, reducing airflow and efficiency.

• Action: Inspect filters every 3 months and replace them every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions.

2. Heat Exchanger Cleaning

The heat exchanger is central to the HRU's function, transferring heat between air streams. Accumulated dirt can impede this process.

• Action: Annually check the heat exchanger and  clean if necessary. Refer to the Manufacturers instruction manual when cleaning to ensure no damage is caused.

3. Fan and Motor Maintenance

Fans and motors circulate air through the HRU. Dust buildup can cause imbalance and strain on these components.

• Action: Clean fan blades and inspect motors annually. Lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Ductwork Inspection

Leaky or obstructed ducts can reduce system efficiency and degrade air quality.

• Action: Inspect ductwork annually for leaks, blockages, or damage. Seal any leaks and clean ducts as necessary.

5. Condensate Drain Maintenance

Condensate drains remove moisture from the system. Blockages can lead to water damage and microbial growth.

• Action: Check and clean the condensate drain every 6 months to ensure proper drainage.

6. Control System Checks

The control system regulates HRU operations. While the controls are often overlooked as an area for maintenance, faulty/outdated controls can lead to inefficiencies or system failures. At iACS, we specialise in control retrofits and maintenance.

• Action: Test the control system annually to ensure accurate operation. Calibrate sensors and controls as needed.
  
  

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Note: Adjust frequency based on system usage and environmental factors.

Professional Maintenance Services

While some maintenance tasks can be performed by building maintenance personnel, others require professional expertise. Engaging with professionals ensures comprehensive servicing, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and optimal system performance.

At iACS, we offer tailored controls maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently. Our team of experts is equipped to handle all aspects of  the controls retrofit from deinstallation and removal of old components, to supply, installation & commissioning of a new control system and components (actuators, sensors, valves etc.)

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your Heat Recovery Unit is crucial for optimal performance, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. By adhering to these best practices, you can ensure your HRU operates smoothly and effectively.

Don’t forget the controls! Although often overlooked, the importance of controls in running ventilation systems effectively is paramount. Contact us today to discuss controls maintenance.