Lifebreath HRV Series User manual

www.lifebreath.com 1
General
These Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV) 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 HRV will help in cooling the
incoming fresh air with the stale air that is being exhausted.
The HRV is equipped with an aluminum core. The device uses the stale air that is being exhausted to condition
the fresh air as it is being brought in. These instructions are intended as a general guide and do not supersede
local codes in any way. Consult authorities who have jurisdiction before installation.
Pre-Installation Notes
Note
•Due to ongoing research and product development, specifications, ratings, and dimensions are subject
to change without notice. Refer to www.lifebreath.com for the latest product information.
Warning
•Before installation, careful consideration must be given to how this 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 pressure.
•After installation, the compatibility of the two pieces of equipment must be confirmed by measuring
the airflows of the HRV by using the balancing procedure found in this manual.
•Do not apply electrical power to the unit until installation has been fully completed (including low
voltage control wiring).
•Assess how the operation of an HRV may interact with already installed vented combustion equipment
(i.e., Gas Furnaces, Oil Furnaces, Wood Stoves, etc.).
•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 use this appliance to exhaust hazardous or explosive material and vapours.
•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.
•Two (2) knock-outs are provided. One is to be used for line voltage and the other knock-out is for 24V
control wires. System is 240V, 1 phase, 60 Hz.
•All electrical connections should be made by a qualified electrician.
•Disconnect the power from the unit before cleaning or servicing.

www.lifebreath.com 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mounting the 1500/2000/2500 Indoor Models .......................................................................................................2
Mounting the 1500 Rooftop models ......................................................................................................................3
Mounting the 2000 Rooftop models ......................................................................................................................2
Mounting the 2500 Rooftop models ......................................................................................................................2
Roof Curb Assembly Instructions ..........................................................................................................................2
Ducting the System .............................................................................................................................................3
Dimensional Drawings..........................................................................................................................................4
The Integrated HVAC System ...........................................................................................................................7
Stale Air Return And Fresh Air Supply System ....................................................................................................9
Weatherhoods ...............................................................................................................................................10
Drain Connections..........................................................................................................................................11
Function and Controls ....................................................................................................................................12
Main Wall Control.............................................................................................................................................2
Timers and Repeaters ......................................................................................................................................5
Dehumidistat ...................................................................................................................................................9
Aircom Relays & Interlocking to a furnace/air handler ......................................................................................10
Adjusting the air flow (1500 units) ..................................................................................................................11
Adjusting the Airflow (2000 units) ...................................................................................................................12
Adjusting the Airflow (2500 units) ...................................................................................................................13
Fan Defrost (All units) ....................................................................................................................................14
Balancing the Airflows ....................................................................................................................................15
Service and Maintenance (1500 Units).............................................................................................................17
Service and Maintenance (2000 Units).............................................................................................................18
Service and Maintenance (2500 Units).............................................................................................................19
Wiring Diagrams (1500I-ECM/E-ECM)..............................................................................................................20
Wiring Diagrams (2000IFD/EFD-208) ..............................................................................................................21
Wiring Diagrams (2000IFD/EFD, -208SP).........................................................................................................22
Wiring Diagrams (2000IFD/EFD-460) ..............................................................................................................23
Wiring Diagrams (2000IFD/EFD-575) ..............................................................................................................24
Wiring Diagrams (2500IFD/EFD) .....................................................................................................................25
Wiring Diagrams (2500IFD/EFD-208) ..............................................................................................................26
Warranty .......................................................................................................................................................27

www.lifebreath.com 2
MOUNTING THE 1500/2000/2500 INDOOR MODELS
The HRV be in a heated space where the surrounding air temperature does not fall below 60°F
(16°C). The HRV must be mounted level (horizontal) to obtain proper drainage of water from the
heat exchange element 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 required for the fresh air intake to a minimum.
A minimum clearance of 40 in. (1m) on one side of the HRV is recommended to service the heat
exchanger cores and the filters.
Hanging the HRV
The HRV should be hung by a threaded rod type assembly which
provides a cradle for the unit. Note that 4x4s should sit between
the metal “U” channels and the unit to avoid damage to the lip of
the cabinet. Mounting hardware not provided.
Floor Mounting the HRV
Mount the unit on wooden or metal support assembly.
Raise the HRV to an adequate height and slope the drain
lines. The unit may be mounted on an equipment platform
providing the drain hoses are clear and there is enough
space to open the doors for servicing.

www.lifebreath.com 3
MOUNTING THE 1500 ROOFTOP MODELS
Roof Mount
The units are designed to be mounted outdoors, usually
fastened to a roof curb assembly. A minimum clearance of 40
in. (1m) on one side of the HRV is recommended to service
the heat exchanger cores and the filters.
Optional Roof Curb (Part No. 53-1500)
Special care and attention should be given to positioning the cross members of the roof curb, so that the they
line up exactly with the duct openings on the HRV.
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 liens and pans.
Note: Roof curb is one inch smaller
than outside dimension of cabinet

www.lifebreath.com 2
MOUNTING THE 2000 ROOFTOP MODELS
Roof Mount
The units are designed to be mounted outdoors, usually
fastened to a roof curb assembly. A minimum clearance of 40
in. (1m) on one side of the HRV is recommended to service
the heat exchanger cores and the filters.
Optional Roof Curb (Part No. 53-2007)
Special care and attention should be given to positioning the cross members of the roof curb, so that the they
line up exactly with the duct openings on the HRV.
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 liens and pans.
Note: Roof curb is one inch smaller
than outside dimension of cabinet

www.lifebreath.com 2
MOUNTING THE 2500 ROOFTOP MODELS
Roof Mount
The units are designed to be mounted outdoors, usually
fastened to a roof curb assembly. A minimum clearance of 40
in. (1m) on one side of the HRV is recommended to service the
heat exchanger cores and the filters.
Optional Roof Curb (Part No. 53-2500)
Special care and attention should be given to positioning the cross members of the roof curb, so that the they
line up exactly with the duct openings on the HRV.
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 liens and pans.
Note: Roof curb is one inch smaller
than outside dimension of cabinet

www.lifebreath.com 2
ROOF CURB ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Frame Assembly
1. Stand one end piece (locking tabs) and one side
piece (slots) vertically on the floor or roof.
2. Raise the corner of the end piece (locking tabs)
slightly and mate with side piece (slots). Ensure
that lower locking tab with leading edge is through
slot opening.
3. Push down on top edge of end piece. Ensure that
all 3 of the locking tabs are feeding into each
corresponding slot opening. Once both pieces are
flush, the process is complete.
4. Drive one spike provided into wood nailer strips at
each corner.
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.
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 to 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 the
roof.
Attention
•Max. slope tolerance: 1/16 in. per linear foot in any direction
•Note specification of duct location on bottom of HRV when positioning cross members (duct cavity).

www.lifebreath.com 3
DUCTING THE 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.
To minimize pressure, drop and noise, galvanized metal ducts sized for the given velocities are recommended:
Units
Max Velocity (fpm)
Max Velocity (m/s)
1500I/1500E
725
3.68
2000IFD/2000EFD
725
3.68
2500IFD/2500EFD
1200
6.09
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.
General Exhaust Systems
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 close 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 in both the HRV supply and exhaust ducts between the
return air plenum and the HRV.
Warm-Side Ducting – General:
Ducting from the HRV to different areas within the building should be galvanized metal whenever possible.
To minimize airflow losses in the ductwork system, all ducts should be as short as possible and with as few
bends or elbows as possible. Use 45 degree elbows instead of 90 degree elbows, whenever possible. Use Y
tees instead of 90 degree tees whenever possible.
All duct joints must be fastened securely and wrapped with a quality duct tape to prevent leakage. We
recommend aluminum foil tape.
Attention
•Flexible duct connectors should be installed between the HRV and the galvanized ductwork.
•Use fully insulated ducting with an integral vapour barrier on all runs that pass through unheated areas
to avoid condensation problems and energy losses from the air streams. Consult local codes.

www.lifebreath.com 4
DIMENSIONAL DRAWINGS
1500I-ECM Dimensions:
1500E-ECM Dimensions:

www.lifebreath.com 5
DIMENSIONAL DRAWINGS
2000IFD Dimensions:
2000EFD Dimensions:

www.lifebreath.com 6
DIMENSIONAL DRAWINGS
2500IFD Dimensions:
2500EFD Dimensions:

www.lifebreath.com 7
THE INTEGRATED HVAC SYSTEM
The HRV has become an integral component of the HVAC system. Figure A shows an HRV unit providing fresh
air directly to the return air plenum of a rooftop heat/cool unit.
In the balanced airflow system, the HRV exhaust removes stale room air (e.g. from lunch from, storage, or
copy area) and returns to the space an equal amount of fresh outdoor air, making the use of an economizer
obsolete in conjunction with an HRV.
Warning
•
At no time should the air handler Total External Static Pressure (TESP) on the return duct exceed that of
the HRV.
•When interlocking a rooftop unit with an ERV take care to ensure the fans of both units operate in the
correct rotation.
Figure A
Note: Example configuration only.

www.lifebreath.com 8
THE INTEGRATED HVAC SYSTEM
Many buildings have ceiling return air plenum as in Figure B. Fresh air from the HRV can be introduced directly
into the ceiling space, but this should occur near the air handler’s intake.
By operating the HRV on a 24 hour/7 day battery backed timer, the unit can be set to operate only when
occupancy or indoor conditions require the air exchange.
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 in both the HRV supply and exhaust ducts between the
return air plenum and the HRV.
Warning
•
At no time should the air handler Total External Static Pressure (TESP) on the return duct exceed that of
the HRV.
•When interlocking a rooftop unit with an ERV take care to ensure the fans of both units operate in the
correct rotation.
Figure B
Note: Example configuration only.

www.lifebreath.com 9
STALE AIR RETURN AND FRESH AIR SUPPLY SYSTEM
Stale Air Return System
Many commercial activities produce air contaminants in the form of dusts, fumes,
mists, vapors 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 to
remove the contaminants while not allowing them to enter the breathing zone of
the occupants.
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.
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.
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 3 ft (1 m)
from a directly connected HRV supply duct if both are connected to the same duct run. Note and compensate for the
static pressure of the air handlers return system if the static pressure of the return in the air handler exceeds 0.1 to 0.15
in. w.g.
A damper located just prior to the HRV is required to balance the stale air exhausted with the fresh air supply entering
the building.
Return air suction points should be located at the opposite side of the room to the fresh air inlet. The inlets may be in the
ceiling or high on the walls and fitted with inlet grilles.
Fresh Air Supply System
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. 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.
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).
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.

www.lifebreath.com 10
WEATHERHOODS
Outside Weatherhoods:
•The 1500E-ECM, 2000EFD, and 2500EFD units are shipped with 2 weatherhoods inside the cabinet which
attach to the outer edge of the cabinet using the bolts provided. The weatherhoods have built-in screens
to prevent foreign objects from entering in the ductwork through the outside hoods.
•The 1500I-ECM, 2000IFD, and 2500IFD require weatherhoods to be built elsewhere and provided by the
contractor.
Recommended:
ono less than 10 ft. (3 m) apart from each other
oat least 18 in. (46 cm) above snow line or ground level
oaway from sources of contaminants, such as automobile exhaust fumes, gas meters, garbage cans,
containers, etc.
onot exposed to prevailing winds
omesh screen with 1/4 in. (6.35 mm)
othe outside perimeter of the weatherhood must be caulked to prevent leakage into the building.
othe design and size of the weatherhoods or louvers chosen by the installer must allow for adequate
free area. Water and debris penetration of the system is minimized when the airflow does not
exceed 750 FPM (3.81 m/s) free area velocity.
Ducting from the Weatherhoods:
•Galvanized sheet metal ducting with sufficient cross section with an integral single piece vapor 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)
•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.
Techgrilles:
•The use of balancing dampers or adjustable grilles as supply air diffusers and air exhaust covers are
recommended. TECHGRILLES™ are round, efficient, sound absorbing devices available in 4”, 5”, 6” and 8”
(100, 125, 150, and 200 mm) models.
Part# 99-EAG4 4” diameter Techgrille
Part# 99-EAG5 5” diameter Techgrille
Part# 99-EAG6 6” diameter Techgrille
Part# 99-EAG8 8” diameter Techgrille
Attention
•All ducting must meet UL Class 1 requirements.
•Design and install the fresh air intake in an area where the hoods will gather the freshest air.
•Do not use smaller mesh as it will be very susceptible to plugging up. Gravity dampers at the vents
must not be used as they will restrict air flow and often “seize up”.

www.lifebreath.com 11
DRAIN CONNECTIONS
The HRV cabinet has pre-punched holes for the drain. The HRV may produce some condensation
during a defrost cycle. This water should flow into a nearby drain or be taken away by a condensate
pump.
Installation:
(1) Drain Spout
(2) Drain Pan
(3) Drain Spout Nut
(4) Tee Connector
(5) 1/2 in. Rigid Tubing
(6) Drain Line
Steps:
1. Insert the drain spout through the hole in the drain pan.
2. Install the nut onto the drain spout. Tighten the nut.
3. Construct a P-trap using the plastic tee connector.
4. Using appropriate fittings (not included), connect 1/2 in. rigid tubing (not included) to the tee
connector and connect the other end to the drain spouts.
5. Position the tee connector to point upward and connect the drain line.
6. Tape or fasten base to avoid any kinks.
7. Pour a cup of water into the drain pan of the HRV after the drain connection is complete. This creates a
water seal which will prevent odours from being drawn up the hose and into the fresh air supply of the
HRV.
Caution
•The HRV and all condensate lines must be installed in a space where the temperature is maintained
above the freezing point or freeze protection must be provided.
•Drain trap and tubing must be below bottom of door with 1/4 in. per foot downwards slope away
from unit.
•A secondary drain pan may be required to protect from condensate leakage.

www.lifebreath.com 12
FUNCTION AND CONTROLS
Basic Functions
Speed control is obtained by powering 24V to one of the designated speed taps. Select appropriate operational
speed by installing the jumper wire between one of the designated speed taps on the Thermostat terminal
strip on the microprocessor board. A jumper wire is factory installed in the low speed position.
Micro Processor Board
Optional Ventilation Control (99-BC02, 99-
BC03, or 99-BC04)
See Page 21 for installation on circuit board.
Optional 3 Speed Control (99-500)
See Page 22 for installation on circuit board.
Optional Wireless Timer (99-DET02)
See Page 24 for installation.
Optional Wireless Repeater (99-RX02)
See Page 25 for installation.
Optional 20/40/60 Minute Timer (99-DET01)
See Page 26 for installation on circuit board.
Optional Dehumidistat (99-DH01)
See Page 27 for installation on circuit board.
Third Part Dry Contact Controls
Third part dry contact controls can be used with this unit. Connect the control as follows:
Example Controls
•Motion Sensors
•Time Clocks
•Switches
Speed
Jumper Wire Placement
High
R
W
Medium
R
Y
Low (factory default)
R
G
Speed
Terminals on
Thermostat Block
High
R
W
Low
R
G

www.lifebreath.com 2
MAIN WALL CONTROL
Ventilation Wall Control (99-BC02)
Operating Instructions:
(1) ON/OFF Button
(2) Dehumididstat Button
(3) Fan Button
(4) Fan Speed Indicator
(5) Humidity Setting
(6) ON/OFF light
Turning on the Control:
Press the ON/OFF Button . The ON/OFF light will illuminate.
Setting the Ventilation Speed:
Press the Fan Button to select LOW or HIGH fan speed. The
corresponding indicator light will illuminate. If both LO and HI
indicator lights are off, the fan is OFF, but will turn ON if required
by the Dehumidistat or remote timer (if installed).
Humidity Control:
Your unit will reduce indoor humidity when outdoor humidity
levels are lower than indoor humidity levels. This feature is only effective when the outdoor temperature is
below 59°F (15°C).
Setting the Dehumidistat:
Press the Dehumidistat button until the dehumidistat indicator light is at the desired humidity setting.
After a few seconds the dehumidistat indicator light will either flash or be on continuously. A flashing light
indicates the humidity level is higher than the humidity setting, and the unit is operating on high speed
ventilation. A continuous light indicates the humidity level is lower than the humidity setting. The
Dehumidistat will override the current speed setting to HIGH speed. The Dehumidistat function can be
turned off by pressing the button until the dehumidistat indicator light turns off.
Attention
•Only one main control can be installed on your system.
•Recirculation is not available on all models.
•Timers will not function when mode of operation is set to “OFF”, unless specifically installed
for the function. (See Installation Guide for other options.)

www.lifebreath.com Page 2
MAIN WALL CONTROLS
Ventilation Wall Control (99-BC03)
Operating Instructions:
(1) ON/OFF Button
(2) Dehumididstat Button
(3) Mode Button
(4) Recirculation Mode Indicator
(5) 20/40 Mode Indicator
(6) Humidity Setting
(7) LOW Fan Speed Indicator
Turning on the Control:
Press the ON/OFF Button . The LOW fan speed indicator will
illuminate, and fan will turn to LOW speed.
Humidity Control:
Your unit will reduce indoor humidity when outdoor humidity levels
are lower than indoor humidity levels. This feature is only effective
when the outdoor temperature is below 59°F (15°C).
Setting the Dehumidistat:
Press the Dehumidistat Button until the dehumidistat light is at the desired setting. After a few seconds
the dehumidistat light will either flash or be on continuously. A flashing light indicates the humidity level is
higher than the set point and that the unit is operating on HIGH speed ventilation. A continuous light
indicates the humidity level is lower than the set point. The Dehumidistat will override the current speed
setting to HIGH speed. The Dehumidistat function can be turned off by pressing the Dehumidistat Button
until the dehumidistat light turns off.
Setting the 20/40 Mode:
Press the Mode Button until the 20/40 mode indicator light is illuminated. The 20/40 mode is a
repeating cycle. The fan will run at LOW speed for 20 minutes, then turn OFF for 40 minutes. Some units
are equipped to recirculate the air in your home during the 40-minute cycle with no ventilation. The control
will automatically detect this feature and recirculate the air during the 40-minute cycle at LOW fan speed.
Recirculation Mode:
Some units are equipped to recirculate the air in your home without ventilating. Press the Mode Button
until the recirculation mode indicator light illuminates. Recirculation is in LOW speed.
Attention
•Only one main control can be installed on your system.
•Recirculation is not available on all models.
•Timers will not function when mode of operation is set to “OFF”, unless specifically installed for the
function. (See Installation Guide for other options.)