Venmar Solo 1.5 User guide

03309 rev. C
Installer Manual
Ventilation systems for residential use only
Duo 1.2 (part no. 43710)
Duo 1.4 (part no. 43700)
Duo 1.9 (part no. 45700)
Solo 1.5 (part nos 43720 and 43725)
Solo 2.0 (part nos 45720 and 45725)
VB0092
VB0093

2
Table of Contents
1. SERVICE ..............................................................................................................4
1.1 3-D Drawing ..................................................................................................4
1.2 Parts Ordering Chart ....................................................................................5
1.3 Technical Support..........................................................................................5
2. SIZING ..................................................................................................................6
3. UNIT TYPE & DEFROST SETTING VS GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION ....................7
4. TECHNICAL DATA ................................................................................................8
4.1 Air Distribution (Normal Operation) ..............................................................8
4.2 Air Distribution (Defrost and/or Filtration Mode)............................................8
4.3 Defrost Cycles Tables....................................................................................8
4.4 Dimensions....................................................................................................9
4.5 Controls and Link Options ............................................................................9
4.6 Specifications ................................................................................................9
5. TYPICAL INSTALLATIONS ....................................................................................10
5.1 Fully Ducted System ..................................................................................10
5.2 Exhaust Ducted System
(Source Point Ventilation) ....................................10
5.3 Simplified (Volume Ventilation) ....................................................................10
6. INSTALLATION ................................................................................................11-16
6.1 Locating and Mounting the Unit ..................................................................11
6.2 Planning of the Ductwork ............................................................................11
6.3 Calculating the Duct Size ............................................................................12
6.3.1 Example Calculation..........................................................................12
6.3.2 Example of a Design for a Fully Ducted System ..............................12
6.4 Installing the Ductwork and Registers....................................................13-14
6.4.1 Fully Ducted System ........................................................................13
6.4.2 Exhaust Ducted System
(Source Point Ventilation) ..........................13
6.4.3 Simplified Installation
(Volume Ventilation) ........................................14
6.5 Connecting the Duct to the Unit ..................................................................15
6.6 Installing the Exterior Hoods ......................................................................16
6.7 Connecting the Drain (Solo only) ................................................................16
7. CONTROL DEVICES ......................................................................................17-18
7.1 Main Controls ..............................................................................................17
7.2 Optional Controls ........................................................................................17
7.3 Other Features ............................................................................................18

3
Table of Contents (cont’d)
About this Manual
8. INSTALLATION OF THE CONTROLS ..............................................................18-22
8.1 Dimensions and Specifications ................................................................18
8.2 Installation of the Main Control............................................................19-21
8.2.1 Altitude Main Control Installation ........................................................19
8.2.2 Venta Main Control Installation............................................................20
8.2.3 Main Control Electrical Connection......................................................21
8.3 Optional Controls Electrical Connection ..................................................21
8.4 Electrical Connection to the Furnace........................................................22
8.5 Furnace Interlock Types............................................................................22
9. WIRING DIAGRAMS ......................................................................................23-24
10. AIR FLOW BALANCING......................................................................................25
11. OVERALL VERIFICATION ....................................................................................26
11.1 Main Controls............................................................................................26
11.2 Optional Controls ......................................................................................26
12. MAINTENANCE / INSTRUCTIONS FOR USER ....................................................27
13. TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................27-28
14. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................28
This manual uses the following symbols to emphasize particular information:
NOTE: Indicates supplementary information needed to fully complete an instruction.
WARNING
Identifies an instruction which, if not followed, might cause serious personal injuries including
possibility of death.
!
CAUTION
Denotes an instruction which, if not followed, may severely damage the unit and/or its components.

4
1.1 3-D DRAWING
1. Service
25
16
16
1817
17
19
20
21
22
23
24
VL0023
1
2
3
5
4
6
810
3
11
12
13
9
15
14
8
8
7
Unit shown in normal position.

5
1.2 PARTS ORDERING CHART
1. Service (cont’d)
TO ORDER PARTS: Contact your local distributor.
No Description SOLO 1.5 SOLO 2.0 DUO 1.2 DUO 1.4 DUO 1.9
(A) 43720 (A) 45720 43710 43700 45700
(B) 43725 (B) 45725
1 Double Collar Port no. 2 02257 02257 02257 02257 02257
2 Damper no. 1 (kit) 12454 12454 12454 12454 12454
3 Damper Rod (kit) 13037 13037 13037 13037 13037
4 Electronic Board & spacers (kit) 13038 13038 13039 13039 13039
5 Thermistor (kit) 12895 12895 12895 12895 12895
6 Door Latches & screws 00886 (2) 00886 (2) 00886 (2) 00886 (2) 00886 (2)
00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4)
7 Damper Actuator Assembly 13734 13734 13734 13734 13734
8 Basic Filter 03308 03308 03308 03308 03308
9 Blower Assembly 12908 12912 12909 12909 12911
10 Square Damper (kit) 13033 13033 13033 13033 13033
11 Top Wheel 02238 02238 02238 02239 02239
12 Motor 12109 12157 12109 12109 12157
13 Bottom Wheel 02240 02240 02239 02239 02240
14 Door Ass’y (including 15 & 16) 13346 13346 13346 13346 13346
15 Door Latches (keeper) 00887 (2) 00887 (2) 00887 (2) 00887 (2) 00887 (2)
& Screws 00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4) 00601 (4)
16 Hinge Ass’y (kit) 13036 13036 13036 13036 13036
Pleated Optional Filter 03316 03316 03316 03316 03316
17 Charcoal Optional Filter 03315 03315 03315 03315 03315
Electronic Optional Filter 03314 03314 03314 03314 03314
18 12’’ Cassette (incl. motor) N/A N/A - 15184 -
14’’ Cassette (incl. motor) N/A N/A 15185 - 15185
19 Recovery Core (A) 03322 (A) 03322 N/A N/A N/A
(B) 03311 (B) 03311
20 Balancing Double Collar Port 02256 02256 02256 02256 02256
21 Balancing Damper 02253 02253 02253 02253 02253
22 Snap Bushing DP-750 03324 (2) 03324 (2) 03324 (2) 03324 (2) 03324 (2)
& O-Ring 03310 (4) 03310 (4) 03310 (4) 03310 (4) 03310 (4)
23 Drain Connector (kit) 03203 03203 N/A N/A N/A
24 Door Switch (SPST), E69 10A 01825 01825 01825 01825 01825
25 Media (14’’ Wheel) N/A N/A 15186 - 15186
Media (12’’ Wheel) N/A N/A - 15187 -
Please take note that parts not listed are not available; those parts require assembly knowledge that only manufacturer can
guarantee.
For assistance, call on weekdays, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Eastern Standard Time).
NOTE: Do not call this number for ordering parts.
Canada & U.S.A.: 1-800-649-0372 (toll free)
1.3 TECHNICAL SUPPORT (FOR ASSISTANCE)

6
These are the two most common methods used to evaluate the ventilation needs of a house:
CSA F326 and Canadian Building Code:
• High speed: 10 cfm per room
20 cfm for the master bedroom and the basement
• Low speed: 40-60% of high speed
ASHRAE Standard 62-2001:
• 0.35 air change per hour
Refer to ventilation code of your area to determine which method to use.
Example:
2. Sizing
Master
bedroom
Bedroom no.1
Kitchen
Basement
Bedroom
no. 2
Bedroom
no. 3
Living room
Bathroom
no. 3
Dining room
VH0021A
Family room
Bathroom
no. 1
Bathroom
no. 2
Laundry
room
1320 ft²
1320 ft²
CSA F326
Kitchen (10 cfm)
Dining room (10 cfm)
Living room (10 cfm)
Family room (10 cfm)
Master bedroom (20 cfm)
Bedroom no. 1 (10 cfm)
Bedroom no. 2 (10 cfm)
Bedroom no. 3 (10 cfm)
Bathroom no. 1 (10 cfm)
Bathroom no. 2 (10 cfm)
Bathroom no. 3 (10 cfm)
Laundry room (10 cfm)
Basement (20 cfm)
Total 150
cfm
ASHRAE Standard 62-1989
Volume of basement 10560 ft³
Volume of main floor 10560 ft³
Volume of second floor 10560 ft³
Total volume 31680 ft³
x 0.35/h
11090 ft³/h
÷ 60 (min/h)
Total 185 cfm
1320 ft²
Second floor Main floor
Basement

7
3. Unit Type & Defrost Setting vs Geographical Location
HORAGE
WHITEHORSE
JUNEAU
HAY RIVER
YELLOWKNIFE
PRINCE RUPERT GRANDE PRAIRIE
FORT MCMURRAY
ZONE A
FORT SMITH
EDMONTON
PRINCE ALBERT
SASKATOON
JASPER
KAMLOOPS
CALGARY
PENTICTON REGINA
LETHBRIDGE
HELENA
VICTORIA
OLYMPIA
WINNIPEG
SALEM
BOISE
BISMARCK
SALT LAKE CITY
SAULT STE MARIE
ST. PAUL
DESMOINES
MADISON
TIMMINS
HARRISBURG
SACRAMENTO
DENVER
TOPEKA
SUDBURY
TORONTO
DETROIT
INDIANAPOLIS
SANTA FE
SPRINGFIELD
OKLAHOMA CITY
PHOENIX
COLUMBUS
NASHVILLE
ATLANTA
BÂTON ROUGE
AUSTIN
COLUMBIA
RALEIGH
WASHINGTON
OTTAWA
NORTH BAY
VAL-DOR
CHICOUTIMI
HARTFORD
CHIBOUGAMAU
MONTRÉAL
QUÉBEC
BOSTON
GOOSE BAY
LABRADOR CITY
SEPT-ILES
MATANE
GASPÉ
BATHURST
ST-JOHN HALIFAX
CHARLOTTETOWN
ST JO
ZONE C
ZONE B
RENO
VN0001
ZONE A Solo is recommended.
Set :”extended defrost”
according to Section 9.
ZONE B Solo is recommended but if a Duo unit is used, it has to
be oversized (because of its high humidity transfer efficiency). Set “
extended defrost” according to Section 9.
ZONE C Solo or Duo (any models). “Extended defrost” not required
(factory defrost strategy pre-set).
SYMPTOM SOLUTION
(condensation)
Indoor air quality problem
DUO
and / or
Excess moisture problem
DUO
and/or
Important excess moisture problem
SOLO
VQ0013
ZONE B & C SELECTION CHART
NORTH AMERICA

VF0019
VF0018
VF0017
8
4.1 AIR DISTRIBUTION (NORMAL OPERATION)
4.2 AIR DISTRIBUTION (DEFROST AND/OR FILTRATION MODE)
4. Technical Data
VF0016
SOLO DUO
STALE AIR
FROM BUILDING
SOLO FILTERED AIR
TO BUILDING
DUO
FRESH AIR
FROM OUTSIDE
STALE AIR
FROM BUILDING
FRESH AIR
FROM OUTSIDE
FRESH AIR
TO BUILDING
STALE AIR
TO OUTSIDE
FRESH AIR
TO BUILDING
STALE AIR
TO OUTSIDE
STALE AIR
FROM BUILDING
FILTERED AIR
TO BUILDING STALE AIR
FROM BUILDING
SOLO units
DUO units
Celcius (°C)
-5
-15
-27
Fahrenheit (°F)
23
5
-17
Defrosting (min.)
6
6
6
Operation time (min.)
between each defrost cycle
60
32
20
Defrosting (min.)
10
10
10
Operation time (min.)
between each defrost cycle
30
20
15
Outside Temperature Defrost Cycles Extended Defrost Cycles
Celcius (°C)
-5
-15
-27
Fahrenheit (°F)
23
5
-17
Defrosting (min.)
9
9
9
Operation time (min.)
between each defrost cycle
60
32
20
Defrosting (min.)
10
10
10
Operation time (min.)
between each defrost cycle
30
20
15
Outside Temperature Defrost Cycles Extended Defrost Cycles
NOTE: THE SOLO AND DUO PERFORMANCE CHARTS ARE LISTED ON THE SPECIFICATION SHEETS OF THESE UNITS.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VENMAR.CA TO ACCESS THOSE DOCUMENTS.
4.3 DEFROST CYCLES TABLES

9
4. Technical Data (cont’d)
Main controls:
• Altitude
• Venta
Optional controls:
• 20/40/60-minute push-button timer
• 60-minute crank timer
• Dehumidistat
Link option:
• Furnace interlock
(used with forced air systems)
4.5 CONTROLS AND LINK OPTIONS
4.6 SPECIFICATIONS
16½”
(419 mm)
17 /8”(435 mm)
30¼”(768mm)
6”(152 mm)
VK0029A
1
4.4 DIMENSIONS
Model Solo 1.5 Solo 2.0 Duo 1.2 Duo 1.4 Duo 1.9
Weight 65 lb (29.5 kg) 67 lb (30.4 kg) 71 lb (32.2 kg) 71 lb (32.2 kg) 73 lb (33.1 kg)
Port Diameter 6” (152 mm) 6” (152 mm) 6” (152 mm) 6” (152 mm) 6” (152 mm)
Drain Diameter 1/2” (12 mm) 1/2” (12 mm) N/A N/A N/A
Installation Chains and springs (provided with the unit).
Motor Speed High and low speed factory set (optional increased or decreased low speed)
Electrical supply 120 V, 60 Hz 120 V, 60 Hz 120 V, 60 Hz 120 V, 60 Hz 120 V, 60 Hz
Power Consumption 150 watts 240 watts 160 watts 160 watts 250 watts

10
5. Typical Installations
(Primarily for homes with radiant hot water or electric
baseboard heating. See figure 1.)
Moist, stale air is exhausted from the high humidity areas in
the home, such as bathrooms, kitchen and laundry room.
Fresh air is supplied to bedrooms and principal living areas.
If required, bathroom fans and a range hood may be used to
better exhaust stale air.
Homes with more than one level require at least one exhaust
register at the highest level.
5.1 FULLY DUCTED SYSTEM
There are three (3) common installation methods.
VH0002
*Installations may vary according to the model number and the position (normal or reverse) in
which the unit is installed.
figure 1
See 6.4.1
for details
5.2 EXHAUST DUCTED SYSTEM (SOURCE POINT VENTILATION)
(For homes with forced air heating. See figure 2.)
Moist, stale air is exhausted from the high humidity areas
in the home, such as bathrooms, kitchen and laundry
room. Fresh air is supplied to the cold air return or the
supply duct of the furnace. If required, bathroom fans and
a range hood may be used to better exhaust stale air.
Homes with more than one level require at least one
exhaust register at the highest level.
NOTE: For this type of installation, it is not essential
that the furnace blower runs when the unit is
in operation, but we recommend it.
VH0006
See 6.4.2
for details
figure 2
5.3 SIMPLIFIED (VOLUME VENTILATION)
(For homes with forced air heating. See figure 3.)
Fresh air and exhaust air flow through the furnace ducts
which simplifies the installation.
The use of bathroom fans and a range hood is suggested to
exhaust stale air.
NOTE: For this type of installation, the furnace
blower should be running when the unit is
in operation.
VH0007
figure 3
See 6.4.3
for details

6.2 PLANNING OF THE DUCTWORK
11
6. Installation
INSPECT THE CONTENTS OF THE BOX
• Inspect the exterior of the unit for shipping damage. Ensure that there is no damage to the door, door latches,
door hinges, dampers, duct collars, cabinet, etc.
• Inspect the interior of the unit for damage. Ensure that the fan motor assembly, recovery module, insulation,
dampers, damper actuator and condensation tray (Solo) are all intact.
• If the unit was damaged during shipping, contact your local distributor. (Claim must be made within 24 hours after
delivery.)
• Use checklist included with the unit to ensure that no parts are missing.
6.1 LOCATING AND MOUNTING THE UNIT
NOTE:
Please note that the unit can be installed in either the “normal” or “reverse” (upside down) position.
Choose an appropriate location for the unit:
• Within an area of the house where the temperature is above 10°C / 50°F
(basement, attic, furnace room, laundry room, etc.).
• Away from living areas (dining room, living room, bedroom), if possible.
• So as to provide easy access to the interior cabinet and to the control panel on
the side of the unit.
• Close to an exterior wall, so as to limit the length of the insulated flexible duct to
and from the unit.
• Close to a drain. If no drain is close by, use a pail to collect run-off.
(Solo models only.)
• Away from hot chimneys, electrical panel and other fire hazards.
• Allow for a power source (standard outlet).
Hang the unit with the 4 chains and springs provided (see figures 4 and 5).
VD0037
VD0038
VD0039A
1/8”
(3mm)
figure 4
figure 5
figure 6
CAUTION
Make sure the unit is level, with a 1/8’’ (3 mm) tilt backwards (see
figure 6).
a) Follow the instructions in Section 6.3 next page to determine the appropriate duct diameters for your system.
b) Keep it simple. Plan for a minimum number of bends and joints. Keep the length of insulated duct to a minimum.
c) Do not use wall cavities as ducts. Do not use branch lines smaller than 4” Ø (102 mm Ø).
d) Do not ventilate crawl spaces or cold rooms. Do not attempt to recover the exhaust air from a dryer or a range
hood. This would cause clogging of the recovery module. Use sheet metal for the kitchen exhaust duct.
e) Be sure to plan for at least one exhaust register on the highest lived-in level of the house if it has 2 floors or more.
WARNING
When performing installation, servicing or cleaning the unit, it is recommended to wear safety
glasses and gloves.
!
WARNING
!
When applicable local regulation comprises more restrictive installation and/or certification
requirements, the aforementioned requirements prevail on those of this document and the
installer agrees to conform to these at his own expenses.

12
6. Installation (cont’d)
Use the table below to ensure that the ducts you intend to install will be carrying air flows at or under the
recommended values. Avoid installing ducts that will have to carry air flows near the maximum values and
never install a duct if its air flow exceeds the maximum value.
NOTE: Examples 6.3.1 and 6.3.2 use imperial measures.
The same calculation applies to metric measures.
6.3.1 Example of calculation:
Problem: My installation requires two exhaust registers (one for the kitchen, one for the bathroom). I will
connect these registers to a main duct which will connect to the unit (high speed performance value of
140 cfm). What size of duct should I use for the main exhaust duct and for the two end branches leading
to the registers? (See figure 7.)
Solution: Simplified method. (For a more detailed method of calculating duct size refer to the ASHRAE or
HRAI HANDBOOK).
Main duct: Table above indicates a 6” Ø duct: Recommended air flow: 120 cfm; maximum air flow: 180 cfm.
The high speed air flow of 140 cfm is close enough to the recommended value (120) and far enough away
from the maximum value (180). Therefore a 6” Ø duct or larger is an appropriate choice for the main exhaust
duct.
End branches: Each end branch will have to transport an air flow of 70 cfm (140 divided by 2).Table above
indicates a 5” Ø duct: Recommended air flow: 75 cfm; maximum air flow: 110 cfm. The high speed air flow
of 70 cfm is close enough to the recommended value (75) and far enough away from the maximum
value (110). Therefore a 5” Ø duct or larger is an appropriate choice for the 2 end branches.
NOTE:A 4” Ø duct would have been too small because the maximum acceptable value for a 4” Ø
duct is 60 cfm.
6.3 CALCULATING THE DUCT SIZE
6.3.2 Example of a design for a fully ducted system for a unit having a high speed performance
of 222 cfm (see figure 8).
VI0004
4” Ø
42 cfm
6” Ø
129 cfm
5” Ø
65 cfm
5” Ø
64 cfm
6” Ø
93 cfm
5”
6”
7” 7” 6”
6”
6”
4”
4”
4” 4”
4” Ø 42 cfm
6” Ø 84 cfm
6” Ø 96 cfm
6” Ø 138 cfm
figure 8
7” Ø 222 cfm 7” Ø 222 cfm
VI0003
END
BRANCHES
MAIN BRANCH
6ӯ140 CFM
5ӯ
70 CFM
figure 7
Duct
Diameter Recommended Air Flow Maximum Air Flow
4” (102 mm) 40 cfm 19 l/s 68 m³/h 60 cfm 28 l/s 102 m³/h
5” (127 mm) 75 cfm 35 l/s 127 m³/h 110 cfm 52 l/s 187 m³/h
6” (152 mm) 120 cfm 57 l/s 204 m³/h 180 cfm 85 l/s 306 m³/h
7” (178 mm) 185 cfm 87 l/s 314 m³/h 270 cfm 127 l/s 459 m³/h
8” (203 mm) 260 cfm 123 l/s 442 m³/h 380 cfm 179 l/s 645 m³/h

13
6. Installation (cont’d)
6.4 INSTALLING THE DUCTWORK AND REGISTERS
WARNING
Never install a stale air exhaust register in a room where there is a combustion device, such as a
gas furnace, a gas water heater or a fireplace.
!
6.4.1 Fully Ducted System (as illustrated in Section 5.1)
Stale air exhaust ductwork:
• Install registers in areas where contaminants are produced: Kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, etc.
• Install registers 6 to 12 inches (152 to 305 mm) from the ceiling on an interior wall OR install them in
the ceiling.
• Install the kitchen register at least 4 feet (1.2 m) from the range.
• If possible, measure the velocity of the air flowing through the registers. If the velocity is higher
than 400 ft/min. (122 m/min), then the register type is too small. Replace with a larger one.
Fresh air distribution ductwork:
• Install registers in bedrooms, dining room, living room and basement.
• Install registers either in the ceiling or high on the walls with air flow directed towards the ceiling.
(The cooler air will then cross the upper part of the room, and mix with room air before descending to
occupant level.)
• If a register must be floor installed, direct the air flow up the wall.
6.4.2 Exhaust Ducted System (Source Point Ventilation) (as illustrated in Section 5.2)
Stale air exhaust ductwork: (same as for Fully Ducted System, described on point 6.4.1)
Fresh air distribution:
There are two methods for connecting the unit to the furnace:
Method 1: Supply side connection
• Cut an opening into the furnace supply duct at least
18 inches (0.5 m) from the furnace.
• Connect this opening to the fresh air distribution port of the
HRV/ERV (use metal duct, see figure 9).
• Make sure that the HRV/ERV duct forms an elbow inside the
furnace ductwork.
• If desired, interlock (synchronize) the furnace blower opera-
tion with the HRV/ERV operation. (See Section 8.3).
Method 2: Return side connection
• Cut an opening into the furnace return duct not less than
10 feet (3.1m) from the furnace (A+B).
• Connect this opening to the fresh air distribution port of the
HRV/ERV (see figure 10).
NOTE: For Method 2, it is not essential that the furnace
blower runs when the unit is in operation, but we
recommend it. If desired, synchronize the furnace
blower operation with the HRV/ERV operation.
(See Section 8.3).
WARNING
When performing duct connection to the furnace, installation must be done in accordance with all
applicable codes and standards. Please refer to your local building code.
CAUTION
When performing duct connection to the furnace supply duct, this duct must be sized to support
the additional airflow produced by the ERV/HRV. Also, use a metal duct. It is recommended that the
ERV/HRV is running when the furnace is in operation in order to prevent backdrafting inside ERV/HRV.
!
VD0172
Minimum
18” (0.5 m)
Metal duct
figure 9
B
A
VD0108
A+B = not less
than 10’ (3.1 m)
figure 10
CAUTION
The ductwork is intended to be installed in compliance with all local and national codes that are applicable.

14
6. Installation (cont’d)
6.4.3 Simplified installation (Volume Ventilation) (as illustrated in Section 5.3)
There are two methods (figures 11 and 12) for connecting the unit to the furnace:
Method 1: return-supply Method 2: return-return
Stale air intake:
• Cut an opening into the furnace return duct (not less than 10 feet (3.1 m) from the furnace).
• Connect this opening to the stale air intake port on the HRV/ERV as shown.
Fresh air distribution: (same instructions as for Method 1 or Method 2, Section 6.4.2).
For Method 2 (return-return) make sure there is a distance of at least 3 feet (0.9 m) between the
2 connections to the furnace.
NOTE: For Method 1, it is not essential to synchronize the furnace blower operation with the unit operation,
but we recommend it.
6.4 INSTALLING THE DUCTWORK AND REGISTERS (CONT’D)
B
A
VD0171
B
A
VD0111
Minimum 3’
(0.9 m)
Metal duct
Minimum
18”
(0.5 m)
figure 12
figure 11
CAUTION
If using Method 2, make sure the furnace blower operation is synchronized with the unit operation!
See Section 8.3.
WARNING
When performing duct connection to the furnace, installation must be done in accordance with all
applicable codes and standards. Please refer to your local building code.
!
A+B = not less
than 10’ (3.1 m)
A+B = not less
than 10’ (3.1 m)
CAUTION
When performing duct connection to the furnace ducts (Method 1), these ducts must be sized to
support the additional airflow produced by the ERV/HRV. Also, the supply duct must be a metal
duct. It is recommended that the ERV/HRV is running when the furnace is in operation in order to
prevent backdrafting inside ERV/HRV.

15
6. Installation (cont’d)
Insulated flexible duct
Use the following procedure for connecting the insulated flexible duct to the ports on the unit (exhaust to outside and
fresh air from outside).
a) Pull back the insulation to expose the flexible duct.
b) Connect the interior flexible duct to the port using a duct tie.
c) Carefully seal the connection with duct tape.
d) Pull the insulation over the joint and tuck it between the inner and outer rings of the double collar.
e) Pull the vapor barrier over the insulation and over the outer ring of the double collar.
f) Apply duct tape to the joint making an airtight seal. Avoid compressing the insulation when you pull the tape tightly
around the joint. Compressed insulation loses its R value and causes water dripping due to condensation on the
exterior surface of the duct.
a) b) c) d), e) f)
Rigid duct
Use duct tape to connect the rigid ducts to the ports.
Make sure that the 2 balancing dampers are left in a fully open position before connecting the ducts to these ports
(fresh air distribution port and stale air exhaust port as shown on figure 13).
6.5 CONNECTING THE DUCTS TO THE UNIT
CAUTION
Make sure that the vapor barrier on the insulated ducts does not tear during installation to avoid
condensation within the duct.
CAUTION
Do not use screws to connect rigid ducts to the ports.
VJ0007
figure 13
VJ0001
VJ0002
VJ0003
VJ0004
VJ0005

16
6. Installation (cont’d)
6.6 INSTALLING THE EXTERIOR HOODS
Choose an appropriate location for installing the
exterior hoods:
• at a minimum distance of 6 feet (1.8 m) between
the hoods to avoid cross-contamination
• at a minimum distance of 18 inches (457 mm)
from the ground
Make sure the intake hood is at least 6 feet (1.8 m)
away from any of the following:
• dryer exhaust, high efficiency furnace vent, central
vacuum vent
• gas meter exhaust, gas barbecue-grill
• any exhaust from a combustion source
• garbage bin and any other source of contamination
Refer to figure 14 for connecting the insulated duct
to the hoods. Place the “FRESH AIR INTAKE” sticker,
provided in the installation kit, on corresponding
hood. An “Anti-Gust Intake Hood” should be installed
in regions where a lot of snow is expected to fall.
VD0028
EXHAUST
HOOD
OPTIONAL DUCT
LOCATION
TAPE AND DUCT TIE
CAULKING
INTAKE
HOOD
6” Ø
(152 MM)
18”
(457 MM)
18”
(457 MM)
6’
(1.8 M)
6’
(1.8 M)
18”
(457 MM)
figure 14
VO0010
6.7 CONNECTING THE DRAIN (SOLO ONLY)
VO0008
VO0011
VO0005
T O DRAIN
To install the drain fittings, punch
the 2 knock-out sections located at
the bottom of the unit.
In order to keep the drain pan intact,
hand tighten the 2 plastic drain fittings
to the unit using the gaskets, washers
and nuts as shown.
VO0012
From the inside, install 2 snap bushings
on top of the unit. Do not punch
the 2 knock-out sections.
Join the 2 short sections to the “T”
junction and main tube as shown.
Make a water trap loop in the tube to
prevent the unit from drawing unpleasant
odors from the drain source.Make sure
this loop is situated BELOW the “T” as
shown.This will prevent water from being
drawn back up into the unit in case of
negative pressure. Run the tube to the
floor drain or to an alternative drain pipe
or pail. Be sure there is a slight slope
for the run-off.
T IE - WRAP
12
456
Inside view
Inside view
12"
(305 mm)
VO0004A
Cut 2 sections of plastic tubing,
about 12” (305 mm) long and attach
them to each drain fitting.
3

17
ALTITUDE model
7.1 MAIN CONTROLS
7. Control Devices
VC0101
SMART
SET
MODE
PREF
VENTA model
VC0010
VENTA
20/40/60-MINUTE PUSH-BUTTON TIMER:
This remote illuminated switch is typically installed in bathrooms, kitchen and laundry room to provide 20, 40 or 60 minutes
of high speed ventilation at the push of a button.
60-MINUTE CRANK TIMER:
This timer allows up to 60 minutes of high speed operation to be selected from a remote location.
DEHUMIDISTAT:
This optional control helps control maximum humidity level during fall, winter and spring.
You will find a relative humidity % scale meant to reduce the window condensation problems.
7.2 OPTIONAL CONTROLS
MODELS ALTITUDE VENTA
MODES
Off Position X X
Intermittent exchange (TBI) 20, 30, 40 min/h X
Low speed continuous exchange X X
High speed continuous exchange X X
Recirculation (manual mode performing air recirculation inside the house) X
Program (programs the desired ventilation according to the period of the day) X
SMART (entirely automatic mode optimizing ventilation) X
DETECTOR
TYPES
Indoor Temperature X
Outdoor Temperature X
INDICATORS
Mode indicator X
Unit status X
Speed indicator X
Maintenance indicator X
Day and Hour indicators X
SWITCHES
Sliding button X
Push-button X

18
7. Control Devices (cont’d)
7.3 OTHER FEATURES
FURNACE INTERLOCK (FOR FORCED AIR HEATING SYSTEM)
The furnace can be interlocked so that it will run simultaneously with the ERV or HRV to ensure proper distribution of
fresh air throughout the house.
PERMANENT MEMORY
Our Altitude control has a default memory feature in the event of a power outage. Even the date of the last service
reminder is maintained as a convenience to the homeowner.
NOTE: If the power failure duration is more than 4 hours, the day and hour settings must be reprogrammed.
CONTROL UPGRADES
All controls can be used on any unit, so a Venta control can be upgraded to a Altitude in the future.
8.1 DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS (MAIN CONTROLS)
8. Installation of the Controls
5" (127 mm)
VC0016A
5" (127 mm)
1³/8"
(35 mm)
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
VC0105A
1"
(26 mm)
4¼" (107 mm)
4" (102 mm)
ALTITUDE
VOLTAG E: 12 volts DC
DIMENSIONS:4¼” x 4” x 1”
(107 mm x 102 mm x 26 mm)
VENTA
VOLTAG E: 12 volts DC
DIMENSIONS:5” x 5” x 1 3/8”
(127 mm x 127 mm x 35 mm)
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW

19
8. Installation of the Controls (cont’d)
8.2 INSTALLATION OF THE MAIN CONTROL
WARNING
Always disconnect the unit before making any connections. Failure in disconnecting power could
result in electrical shock or damage of the wall control or electronic module inside the unit.
CAUTION
!
4. Splice back the end of the
cable to access the 4 wires.
Strip the end of each wire.
Connect each wire to its
corresponding terminal on
the back of the front module:
YELLOW wire to “Y”, RED
wire to “R”, GREEN wire
to “G” and BLACK wire to “B”.
5. Reinstall the front module over the back plate.
1. Route the cable from the unit to a convenient location
for the wall control.
2. Detach the front module
from the mounting plate
by pulling the bottom part.
3. Run the cable (4 wires)
through the central opening
of the mounting plate and
mount this plate to the
wall using screws (not
included). If needed, use
wall anchors (not included).
VC0102
VC0103
VE0173
BLACK
WIRE
YELLOW
WIRE
GREEN
WIRE
RED
WIRE
CAUTION
Be careful not to pinch wires when reinstalling
the front module on its back plate.
8.2.1 Altitude Main Control Installation
Failure to comply with the following can cause erratic operation of the unit:
• Never install more than one main wall control per unit.
• Keep control low voltage wiring at least 1 foot (305 mm) away from motors, lighting ballast, light
dimming circuit and power distribution panel. Do not route control wiring alongside house
power wiring.
• Ensure the wires are securely connected.

20
8.2.2 Venta Main Control Installation
1. Route the cable from the unit to the location of the control. The Venta wall control must be installed in a central
location on the main floor. Typical locations for this control are kitchen, main hallways and family room.
2. Remove the buttons and the cover plate of the control.
3. Install the wall control 60 inches (1.5 m) from the floor and leave a
free space of at least 2 inches (5 cm) to the right of the control to
allow user to slide out the control instructions.
Use the template provided in the control box to position the wire
hole and the screw holes. Use the screws and the plastic anchors
provided in the installation kit to secure the control.
4. Connect the wires to the main control.
5. Make sure the instruction pull-out is in the occupant’s language. If not, turn it to
the other side.
6. Re-install the cover plate and the buttons.
VC0106
60" (1.5 m)
2"
(5 cm)
YRGB
VE0124
VC0061
8.2 INSTALLATION OF THE MAIN CONTROL (CONT’D)
8. Installation of the Controls (cont’d)