Ventry 20EM3550 User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
By Ventry Solutions, Inc.
[phone]
Ventry.com
Photo courtesy: Eugenio Martinez Carrasco, C.E.I.S. Guadalajara

FOR POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION
BY
Ventry Solutions, Inc.
14128 N. Hauser Lake Road
Hauser, ID 83854 USA
[phone] • [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Ventry.com
Thank you for purchasing a VENTRY®POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FAN made by
Ventry Solutions, Inc. Our experience as volunteer fire fighters, coupled with feedback
from fire fighters across the country, has helped make this fan the best on the market. If
you have any comments, ideas, observations or creative uses, please contact us by
phone, email, mail or fax so that we may continue to improve our product.
Fan Serial Number:____________________________________
Fan Size/Model: ______________________________________
Engine Serial Number: _________________________________
Invoice Number: ______________________________________
Invoice Date:_________________________________________
Patent 5,503,526
©2021 Ventry Solutions, Inc., Seventh Edition
Printed April 26, 2021

ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FAN SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................1
OUT OF THE BOX............................................................................................................3
FAN TRANSPORT............................................................................................................3
One Person Carry .........................................................................................................3
Two Person Carry .........................................................................................................3
LEG ADJUSTMENT..........................................................................................................4
How to raise the fan with one person............................................................................4
How to lower the fan, one person.................................................................................. 6
HOW TO USE POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION.....................................................7
PPV, The Basics...........................................................................................................7
Placement.....................................................................................................................8
Smoke Ejection............................................................................................................. 9
FAN SAFETY....................................................................................................................9
Safety Guidelines..........................................................................................................9
Ground Debris Pickup / Maximum Air Volume..............................................................9
Stability.........................................................................................................................10
Filling the Gas Tank .....................................................................................................10
Backdraft Situations .....................................................................................................10
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT POSITIVE PRESSURE ................................................10
Why positive instead of negative pressure ventilation?................................................10
When should positive pressure not be used?...............................................................10
What is the door seal and how important is it?.............................................................11
What are some examples of positive pressure ventilation?..........................................11
FAN COMPARISON METHODS.......................................................................................12
Ribbon Test..................................................................................................................12
Volume Test.................................................................................................................12
Thrust Test...................................................................................................................12
WARRANTY......................................................................................................................12
Propeller / Frame / Guard.............................................................................................12
Engine..........................................................................................................................12

iii
MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................13
Engine Maintenance ....................................................................................................13
Kevlar & Fiberglass-Coated Propeller..........................................................................13
Frame Maintenance .....................................................................................................13
Tachometer..................................................................................................................13
TROUBLE SHOOTING .....................................................................................................13
Fan walks during operation..........................................................................................13
Leg movement obstructed............................................................................................14
Fan too large to fit compartment ..................................................................................14
PARTS ORDERS..............................................................................................................14
PARTS LIST FOR 20-INCH FRAME, WITH AND WITHOUT WHEEL OPTION ...............15
20-Inch Frame Assembly Diagram...............................................................................16
PARTS LIST 24-INCH FRAME, WITH AND WITHOUT WHEEL OPTION........................17
24-Inch Frame Assembly Diagram...............................................................................18
PARTS LIST FOR ENGINE, TACH, AND SPARK ............................................................19
Spark Arrester and Stickers, Honda GX Series Engines..............................................19
Spark Arrester and Stickers, Honda GC Series Engines .............................................19
Tachometer/Hour Meter...............................................................................................20
PARTS LIST FOR GUARD REAR MOUNT.......................................................................21
Guard Mount Pictures ..................................................................................................21
PROPELLER ORIENTATION............................................................................................23
PARTS LIST FOR PROPELLER MOUNT.........................................................................23
Propeller Hubs and Tab Washer Pictures....................................................................24
PARTS LIST FOR GUARD FRONT..................................................................................25
Guard Front Picture......................................................................................................25
PARTS LIST FOR LIGHT OPTION...................................................................................26
Light Options Pictures..................................................................................................26
TORQUE VALUES............................................................................................................27

iv
If your VENTRY® FAN is damaged in any way,
immediately take it out of service and give us a call so
we can help get it fixed and back in service quickly.
[phone] • Ventry.com
Some of the pictures within this VENTRY FAN manual show older
VENTRY FANS, before the vertical handles and Solid Rubber / Medium
Flat-Free Wheels with Stair Skids.
Should you have questions or need parts for you VENTRY FAN, no
matter the age, please contact us.

*HP (HORSEPOWER). specs show correct HP ratings, but many other PPV fan manufacturers continue to publish pre-VENTRY FAN
2007 values. Long ago, litigation changed the way Honda and other small engine manufacturers rated HP (Table 2). When
comparing fans, if the fans’ engines are equal in make and model, then the engines are equal in power, even if the HP ratings shown
do not match.
VOLUME. Air volume, in cubic feet per minute (CFM), is measured on VENTRY FANS with the legs
3
extended. Multiply by 1.69875 to convert this to meters cubed per hour (m /h).
Air volume (output) is a much better indicator of fan performance than engine horsepower
(input). However, because air volume is measured inconsistently in the industry, comparing
published CFM values is largely meaningless and in many cases misleading. We encourage
hands-on and side-by-side testing in order to truly compare CFM ratings.
THRUST. Based on Newton’s third law of motion, thrust is a measure of fan performance that
allows easy comparison of fans, with far fewer variables than direct measure of CFM. Simple instructions available upon request.
CARBON MONOXIDE. All VENTRY FAN models’ CO output at equilibrium are well below OSHA standards of 50 PPM.
HONDA GC- VS. GX-SERIES ENGINES. The GC160 motor is an economy option, rated as residential duty, while the heavier duty
Honda GX series motors (GX120, GX160, GX200) are rated commercial duty. GX motors also have cast iron bores instead of
aluminum, low-oil shut off protection, an on/off switch separate from the throttle, and a fuel shut-off valve. Warranties also differ.
Pg 1 of 2
Ventry Solutions, Inc.
[phone] | 208-773-1194
Fax [phone] | [e-mail]
14128 N Hauser Lake Rd, Hauser, ID 83854
VENTRY.COM
( )
VENTRY SOLUTIONS, INC. • 888 257-8967 • ventry.com rev20210415 Fan Specs
SPECIFICATIONS
ALL-TERRAIN
PPV FANS
®
MOTOR MAKE HP RATINGS
& MODEL Pre-2007 Now
Honda GX120 4 hp à 3.5 hp
Honda GC160 5 hp à 4.6 hp
Honda GX160 5.5 hp à 4.8 hp
Honda GX200 6.5 hp à 5.5 hp
Table 2
Table 1
¸ Measurement not yet available
Patent 5,503,526
®
lSmoke-busting VENTRY SAFETY PROPELLERS. Two-
blade, aircraft propellers with vibration-dampening
wood cores and pressure-bonded fiberglass-and-
®
Kevlar outer structures for safety, high CFM
and longevity.
FEATURES OF ALL VENTRY® FANS
VOLUME THRUST CO FUEL RUN TIME ENGINE/MOTOR WARRANTY
MODEL TYPE PROP MOTOR/ENG. HP* (CFM) (LBS) (PPM) CAPACITY /TANK Commercial/Institutional Use
20EM3550 ® Electric 20 Baldor EM3550 1.5 10,500 8.1 0 N/A N/A Motor 18 mos; Drive 18 mos
®
20GX120 Gas 20 Honda GX120 3.5 16,500 12.7 17 2.1 qts 1.8 hrs Engine: 3 years
20GC160 ¸ Gas 20 Honda GC160 4.6 17,000 13.5 1.9 qts 1.5 hrs Engine: 3 months
20GX160 ¸ Gas 20 Honda GX160 4.8 17,300 14.4 3.3 qts 2.0 hrs Engine: 3 years
24GX120 Gas 24 Honda GX120 3.5 20,000 17.6 16 2.1 qts 1.8 hrs Engine: 3 years
24GC160 Gas 24 Honda GC160 4.6 23,800 19.7 30 1.9 qts 1.5 hrs Engine: 3 months
24GX160 Gas 24 Honda GX160 4.8 24,000 19.8 32 3.3 qts 2.0 hrs Engine: 3 years
24GX200 Gas 24 Honda GX200 5.5 29,500 24.4 19 3.3 qts 1.7 hrs Engine: 3 years
lSolid stance on stairs or uneven ground and
the ability to straddle 12-inch high ground
cover, debris and equipment.
lCapable of rising at least 14 inches
above the ground, allowing aiming of
the air stream over obstacles such as
residential entry steps.
lFree-flowing, un-shrouded, double reinforced wire guards
that allow maximum air supply to propellers.
lRobust, powder-coated steel frames with
three individually adjustable solid aluminum
legs that provide three-point stability, all-
terrain versatility, and unlimited tilt/aiming.
lDual side handles for one- or
two-person transport.
lManufactured in our
Hauser, Idaho, USA
facility using only grade
8 hardware.

rev20210415 Fan Specs
Motor: 1.5 hp / 1.1 kW
Wattage: 1800 watts
Input: Single phase, 100-115V, 50-60 Hz
Output to Motor: Three phase (lowers weight)
Amps: 15 Amp or less, even at start-up (no initial spike)
Controller: Variable speed from 0 to 3000 RPM
Listed: All electrical components are UL and CSA listed
NEMA 15A Plugs: Locking plug L5-15 (recommended) or
straight/non-locking 5-15 (by request). Advise upon order.
GFCI-compatible. Please note that older GFCI breakers may have
sensitivity conflicts with modern GFCI-compatible equipment.
H
W
D
Figure 1
( )
VENTRY SOLUTIONS, INC. • 888 257-8967 • ventry.com
Pg 2 of 2
VENTRY FAN Specifications, Continued
ELECTRIC VENTRY FANS, model 20EM3550, shown with legs retracted,
legs partially extended, and legs fully extended.
All three fans shown have optional
Small Solid Rubber
Wheels and Skids.
~ Not available
l Optional
þ lncluded
20EM3550 l l l þ
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
20GX120 l l l l l þ
~ ~ ~
20GC160 l l l l l þ
~ ~ ~
20GX160 l l l l l l l þ
~
24GX120 l l l l l l þ
~ ~
24GC160 l l l l l l þ
~ ~
24GX160 l l l l l l l l þ
24GX200 þ l l l l l l l þ
Entry Point Halogen Light Tachometer Misting Ring Ultimate Door
Stop
Small Solid Rubber
MODEL
Wheels
Medium Flat-Free Large Pneumatics
ACCESSORIES BY MODEL Table 6
Spark Arrester Entry Point LED Light
No with Solid with Med. Flat with Large
Wheels Rubber Wheels Free Wheels PneumaticMODEL
20EM3550 78 84 87.5 ~
20GX120 60 - 64 66 - 70 69.5 - 73.5 ~
20GC160 57 - 61 63 - 67 66.5 - 70.5 ~
20GX160 66 - 72 72 - 78 75.5 - 81.5 ~
24GX120 78 - 82 84 - 88 87.5 - 91.5 84 - 88
24GC160 64 - 68 70 - 74 73.5 - 77.5 70 - 74
24GX160 73 - 79 79 - 85 82.5 - 88.5 79 - 85
24GX200 ~ 88 - 94 90.5 - 96.5 92 - 98
( )
WEIGHT Lbs
Fan with Fan with wheels, Fan with wheels, Fan with wheels,
no wheels Small Solid Rubber Medium Flat-Free Large PneumaticMODEL
20EM3550 23.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 23.5 x 21 x 23.5 27.5 x 22.5 x 23.5 ~
20GX120 23.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 23.5 x 21 x 23.5 27.5 x 22.5 x 23.5 ~
20GC160 23.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 23.5 x 21 x 23.5 27.5 x 22.5 x 23.5 ~
20GX160 23.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 23.5 x 21 x 23.5 27.5 x 22.5 x 23.5 ~
24GX120 27 x 22 x 28 27 x 23 x 28 27 x 24 x 28 30 x 26 x 28
24GC160 27 x 22 x 28 27 x 23 x 28 27 x 24 x 28 30 x 26 x 28
24GX160 27 x 22 x 28 27 x 23 x 28 27 x 24 x 28 30 x 26 x 28
24GX200 ~ 27 x 23 x 28 27 x 24 x 28 30 x 26 x 28
()
DIMENSIONS W x D x H, Inches Table 3
Table 5
Table 4
ELECTRIC FAN MODEL 20EM3550
WARRANTY. VENTRY FANS come with lifetime factory support.
Also, workmanship and materials are covered on all VENTRY
FANS for five years. Our customers have deemed this our “No
BS” warranty. No matter your fan’s age or origin, if you ever
have questions, please contact us and we will help!
Figure 2. Three Wheel Choices
Large Pneumatic Wheels
Medium Flat-Free Wheels
Small Solid
Rubber Wheels
DIMENSIONS. Listed measurements were taken with the fans’ legs
retracted for storage, as shown in Figure 1. Actual measurements
may vary ±1/2 inch in manufacturing.
WEIGHT. The weight of each fan can vary, depending if it is “dry”
(without fuel or oil) or “wet” (with fuel and oil). Accessories (other
than wheels) do not add any measurable weight.

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
3
OUT OF THE BOX
After unpacking your fan, there are a couple of things you will need to do.
1. Attach wheel option (if added) per included instructions.
2. Add fuel and oil. Oil amounts and specifications are listed in the engine manual
under servicing. All models use 0.63 quart of 10W-30 oil.
FAN TRANSPORT
One Person Carry
Face the propeller, grip side handles with both
hands and lift, pressing guard against body.
(Figure 1)
Two Person Carry
Left and right persons grasp
corresponding side handles.
(Figure 2)
Figure 1. One Person Carry
Figure 2. Two Person Carry

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
4
LEG ADJUSTMENT
Please note that these are suggested ways of raising and lowering the fan. Each
firefighter finds a way to set the fan up that works best for them.
How to raise the fan with one person
Step 1: Loosen all three leg adjustment knobs.
Step 2: Rock the fan on two legs (one front and one rear), allowing the other front leg to
extend.
Step 3: Tighten the leg lock handle on the extended leg.
Step 4: Rock fan onto rear and extended front leg allowing the other front leg to extend.
Figure 3. Step 1
Figure 4. Step 2
Figure 5. Step 3
Figure 6. Step 4

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
5
Step 5: Tighten the leg lock handle on the extended front leg.
Step 6: Rock the fan on the two extended legs while adjusting the remaining leg.
Step 7. Tighten rear leg and aim.
Step 8. Start fan and check stability.
Figure 7. Step 5
Figure 8. Step 6
Figure 9. Step 7
Figure 10. Step 8

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
6
How to lower the fan with one person
Step 1. Rock the fan onto the front two legs & loosen the leg lock handle of the rear leg.
Step 2. Retract the rear leg and tighten the leg lock handle. To assist with tightening the
leg lock handle, it may help to lower the fan onto the retracted rear leg.
Step 3. Rock the fan onto the retracted rear leg and one extended front leg.
Step 4. Loosen the leg lock handle of the leg not touching the ground, retract the leg,
and then retighten the leg lock handle.
Figure 11. Step 1
Figure 12. Step 2
Figure 13. Steps 3 and 4

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
7
Step 5. Rock the fan onto the two retracted legs.
Step 6. Loosen the leg lock handle on the extended leg, retract the leg, and then
retighten the leg lock handle.
Videos showing how to extend and retract the legs on a VENTRY FAN can be seen on
ventry.com.
HOW TO USE POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION
PPV The Basics
Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is a powerful tool for firefighting but, like a double-
edged sword, it can cut both ways. Training and careful planning are essential if PPV is
going to work to its full potential. Remember the basic fire triangle (heat, air, fuel). PPV
reduces the temperature by displacing the hot flammable gasses, but it also provides
the fire with an abundant source of oxygen. Timing is the key: have everything ready for
the initial attack before positive pressure is used. The size-up needs to be done,
incident command needs to develop a plan which uses an aggressive initial attack, lines
need to be setup and charged, and firefighters in SBA’s need to be ready to attack the
fire seat.
Use PPV to blow the heat and smoke out of the structure, then get in and put the fire
out before the increase in oxygen has a chance to let the fire flair up. Figure 16 is a
simple example of the fan's proper use.
Figure 14. Step 5
Figure 15. Step 6

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
8
The size-up should look for exterior signs that indicate the fire seat's probable location.
Use that information to develop an initial attack plan that ventilates by pushing the heat
and combustible gases out of the structure near the seat of the fire.
In actual practice, it is not always possible to locate the seat of the fire during the initial
size-up. In such cases, we've found that using positive pressure at the most convenient
point of entry and venting on the opposite end of the structure works well. If possible,
take into consideration which way the atmospheric wind is blowing, especially a strong
wind, because working with the wind is more effective than trying to overpower it.
After the initial attack, positive pressure can be used to minimize smoke damage.
Pressurize the structure starting at an upwind room. Open a window and let the room
completely clear of smoke. Then close the window and entrance to that room. Proceed
in a downwind direction to clear the rest of the rooms in the structure. The downwind
technique prevents smoke from leaking back into rooms that have already been cleared
and allows you to check for other fire seats; if an upwind room refills with smoke, you've
got another fire seat to deal with.
Placement
Avoid operating the fan too close to a structure's
opening. Position the fan 8 to 15 feet from an
average 3' x 7' door. It is best to err on the side
of placing the fan too far from the door to prevent
the situation shown in Figure 17. Sufficient air
volume is needed to achieve positive pressure
ventilation even without a perfect door seal.
If the fan is properly positioned to optimize
positive pressure ventilation, access to the
structure will not be restricted.
Figure 16.Proper Fan Operation
Figure 17. Fan too close to the door.
WRONG!
RIGHT!

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
9
Smoke Ejection
FAN SAFETY
Many years of research and development have gone into creating VENTRY FANS. Still, if
used incorrectly, the fan can be detrimental to the operation of a fire scene. Our
experience shows the following techniques to be helpful in preventing unnecessary
damage to the structure or injury to fire fighters. Always remember that ACTUAL FIRE
SCENES VARY DRASTICALLY WITH EACH SITUATION, so the ideas and techniques
presented here are not always practical and may need to be modified to fit a specific
situation.
Safety Guidelines
1. Stop and think! What is going on here? What effect will this have? Each individual
fire scene presents special problems that can't be anticipated in advance.
2. Fire fighters should enter the structure from where the fan is set up so they follow
the fresh air into the structure. This procedure allows the initial attack team to find
victims or start extinguishing the fire. Do not set up the fan in a manner that will blow
fire onto the fire fighters. Remember, have the wind at your back.
3. Position the fan so that it blows the fire back on itself and out of the structure rather
than into unaffected areas of the structure. For example, if the fire started burning
near the front door, set the fan up at a back door to blow the fire out the front door
rather than all the way through the structure.
4. Open a minimum of windows and doors for ventilation. Having too many vents open
will reduce the pressure inside the house and make positive pressure ventilation less
effective. The air will take the path of least resistance. If you have a lot of windows
and doors open, the air will most likely take a path that isn’t the one you want to
remove the smoke.
Ground Debris Pickup / Maximum Air Volume
VENTRY FANS are designed to run with the legs extended. By extending the legs a
minimum of six (6) inches, two important things are accomplished.
1. Ground debris pickup and ejection, which causes propeller damage, is
eliminated.
2. Efficiency (air volume) is increased.
Figure 18. Never use as a Smoke Ejector.
VENTRY FANS are designed to push air, as
used for positive pressure ventilation
techniques. It is not designed to handle the
environment in which a smoke ejection fan
operates, where air is pulled out of the
structure (Figure 18). The propeller, gas
tank and many components of the engine
are made out of materials that will not
withstand high temperatures. If the fan is
used as a smoke ejector, damage will not
be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
WRONG!

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
10
Operating the fan close to the ground can reduce the air volume significantly. Raising
the fan allows it to draw air from completely around the guard, rather than trying to "suck
air out of the ground".
Ideally, the legs should be fully extended. This maximizes the fan performance and
makes it easier to start. With the controls up where they are easy to reach, the
firefighter doesn’t have to bend way over or kneel to start the fan, minimizing firefighter
fatigue.
Stability
After placing the fan in the desired position, check the fan's stability. Start the fan while
stabilizing it with one hand. Open the throttle all the way and rock the fan from side to
side. This will let you determine how stable the fan is. If necessary, adjust leg lengths to
achieve a stable position.
At this time, inspect the placement of the VENTRY FAN and confirm that it is not walking.
Some wooden decks and stairways will vibrate and cause the fan to walk. A simple
change of the throttle setting can eliminate this problem. Decreasing the throttle also
works on slick surfaces.
Filling the Gas Tank
Never fill the gas tank with the fan in operation. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool
before refueling. A small spill or miscalculation while filling a running fan can introduce
gas into the air stream, causing a cloud of vaporized fuel to enter a burning structure.
Your imagination can picture the result.
Backdraft Situations
Alternate ventilation techniques are necessary in the case of a backdraft situation, in
which the use of a VENTRY FAN is not recommended. After the backdraft situation has
been rectified, the VENTRY FAN can be used.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT POSITIVE PRESSURE
Why positive instead of negative pressure ventilation?
Stand on the suction side of a fan -- there's not much happening. Now stand downwind
and note the difference. The same thing happens in a structure just as dramatically: with
positive pressure, smoke and heat come blasting out of the structure and visibility
improves in a matter of seconds. Additionally, positive pressure is much faster to set up.
Since a VENTRY FAN sits 8 to 15 feet from the entrance point, unlike a negative pressure
set-up, it doesn't block access points.
When should positive pressure not be used?
Never use positive pressure ventilation when a victim is hanging out of a window. The
use of positive pressure ventilation could push hot gases out of that window, placing the
person in an environment that could do great harm.
Never use positive pressure ventilation in a back draft situation, since that condition
involves super-heated gases that will ignite explosively when oxygen is introduced.
Some of the warning signs are dark puffing smoke, heavy soot on windows, and rapid
air intake when an opening is made. Beware of tight structures for possible back draft!

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
11
What is the door seal and how important is it?
Proper fan placement lets the VENTRY FAN'Scone of air cover the entry opening so that
air doesn't leak out of the opening. This provides a seal and delivers the most pressure
and air volume to the structure. Experience has taught us that a high output fan, such
as a VENTRY FAN, puts out enough air that a perfect seal is not very important. On an
air-tight structure, a tight seal is actually impossible to establish since the air forced into
the structure has to come out somewhere. An effective technique on large structures,
where a lot of air is needed, involves using at least two fans set up side-by-side.
A useful training exercise involves taping toilet paper around a door opening and then
locating the fan in such a fashion that all the toilet paper blows into the structure. Note:
don't overemphasize the importance of creating a perfect air seal on every fire scene;
there are a lot more important things to worry about in real situations.
What are some examples of positive pressure ventilation?
Occasionally, our fire department will respond to a call where an innocent homeowner
has just emptied their stove's ashes into a plastic bucket without realizing they were still
hot. In a situation like this, the fan gets rid of the accumulated smoke fast so we can
determine its source. The fan becomes a good public relations tool because we've
cleared the smoke and located the problem quickly. Since these fires usually occur late
in the evening, we're happy to get back to bed promptly with a minimum of excitement.
Another favorite of ours is a smoldering attic fire caused by a faulty chimney or the old
dime-behind-a-fuse trick. Without creating a vent opening, we use the fan to pressurize
the house. Enough air will leak into the attic to clear the smoke so that we can locate
the individual curls of smoke that mark the hot spots. We then use a bucket to scoop up
the smoldering insulation thereby avoiding any water damage.
Positive pressure is also very useful to pressurize areas of a structure to prevent or slow
down fire spread into uninvolved areas. We stopped a fire in a 6 unit apartment building
using this technique with three fans pressurizing the central foyer. We just opened the
door to the apartments that we wanted pressurized.
The heavy, smoldering smoke that usually accompanies pack rat conditions just begs
for positive pressure; the smoke must be cleared or it will take forever to find the fire
seat.
Recently we ran mutual aid to a cabin roof fire. The roof was constructed using plank
and beam techniques. Fire had followed the cracks between the planks and could be
seen from inside the cabin. We pressurized the cabin enough that the water we sprayed
on the roof didn't come through the seams in the ceiling; we watched the water pour into
the burning seams and get blown right back out by the escaping pressurized air. The
house incurred no water damage even though the roof had started to burn through!
These stories illustrate situations in which positive pressure ventilation has been used
successfully. With a little imagination and training, your department is sure to discover
many more creative uses. Good luck, and remember, luck favors a prepared mind!

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
12
FAN COMPARISON METHODS
Ribbon Test
Several departments have described a simple test that you can use to compare the
output of two fans. These departments took two blowing fans and aimed them at each
other, approximately 12 feet apart. A ribbon was held half-way between to determine
which way the air was blowing.
Volume Test
We found a culvert 4 feet in diameter. A fan was placed far enough away from the
opening of the culvert to obtain a complete air seal. Soap bubbles were released into
the air stream and moved through the culvert. By timing how long the bubbles (air) took
to pass completely through the culvert, we were able to calculate the volume of air flow
the fan produced. This analytical technique has allowed us to optimize the propeller
design so that the maximum amount of air is moved.
Thrust Test
Basic physics states “For every action there is an equal but opposite reaction”. It follows
that measuring thrust is an easy way to compare fan performance.
You will need the following to perform a thrust test.
A flat board strong enough to hold the fan (plywood works great).
Two dowels (any long rounded pole--even broomsticks will do).
A fish scale, preferably digital, with which to measure thrust.
Find a smooth, flat surface (like a shop floor) with lots of room around it. Place the two
dowels on the surface parallel to each other. Upon these, place the flat board. Check to
make sure that the board roles freely. Place the fan on the board. Attach one end of the
fish scale to the front of the fan (or the board near the front of the fan) and the other end
attach to a stationary object on the ground. What this accomplishes is that when the fan
is started up, the fan and the board will try to roll backwards, pulling on the fish scale.
The thrust of the fan will be what the fish scale is measuring.
WARRANTY
Propeller / Frame / Guard
Ventry Solution’s Inc. offers a five year warranty on workmanship and materials, plus
Lifetime Factory Support. Prop erosion caused by operating a fan over loose materials
without elevating the fan high enough to avoid picking up loose materials is not covered
under warranty.
Engine
For the engine manufacturer's warranty, see engine manual. Contact your local Honda
or Baldor dealer for further details.

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
13
Figure 19. Ventry Fan legs are not symmetrical.
MAINTENANCE
Engine Maintenance
Refer to the engine manufacturer's manual.
Kevlar & Fiberglass-Coated Propeller
Propellers coated with Kevlar and Fiberglass are extremely resistant to wear and tear,
and require little to no maintenance other than occasional cleaning to maintain balance.
Some wear of the paint on the leading edge should be expected. If touch-up painting is
required, use a white polyurethane enamel. Be sure to balance the propeller before
placing it back on the fan to ensure that the fan does not walk (see “Out-of-Balance
Propeller” in the Trouble Shooting section for more details). Significant damage, which
penetrates the fiberglass/Kevlar coating, may require evaluation by Ventry Solutions.
Frame Maintenance
Wipe down the frame to remove dirt and grease buildup
The rubber leg ends (feet) will need to be inspected for wear. Damage, such as missing
pieces, may allow the fan to walk. Replacements may be obtained through Ventry
Solutions or at a local medical supply outlet.
Tachometer
Refer to the Tiny-Tach literature that came with the fan for general information. For
installation, refer to the diagram on page 20.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Fan walks during operation
Worn out Rubber Leg Ends: Look to see if the leg ends (feet) are worn out. If they
have a lot of wear, you may be able to rotate them on the end of the legs. This will
place a new section of rubber into service. Otherwise contact Ventry Solutions for a
new pair or you can pick up a new set at your local medical supply outlet.
Out-of-Balance Propeller: An imbalance in the propeller can be caused by impact or
by abrasion. Light abrasion is considered normal wear and can be repaired by light
sanding and re-painting.
Propeller balance can be checked by inserting a 5/16 inch steel rod through the
propeller center hole. Roll the rod across two level parallel edges, making sure that
there is no breeze present while doing this procedure. The light portion of the
propeller will rotate to the top, which can be a tip, side, or anywhere in-between. Add
paint to the light portion or sand the heavy portion to balance the propeller. If you
have problems, contract Ventry Solutions.
Bent Frame: VENTRY FANS are by no means symmetrical. If you
position yourself facing the front of the fan, the front leg on the left
should be angled several degrees ahead of the front leg on the
right. The front left leg also leans out more than the front right leg
does. These are design aspects engineered into the fan to
increase the stability and to prevent walking. Figure 19 gives you

VENTRY SOLUTIONS,INC.
14
an idea of how it should look. If the legs do not resemble the picture, the frame or
legs may be bent and will need to be straightened or replaced.
Operating Surface: Some surfaces such as wooden decks or stairways vibrate
causing the fan to walk. Adjusting the throttle will sometimes eliminate this problem.
Some fans will move backwards if placed on extremely smooth surfaces. Because
the fan produces up to 17 pounds of thrust, surface friction may not be great enough
to keep the fan stationary. In this case, reduce the throttle until the fan quits moving.
Leg movement obstructed
Several things may occur that will impede the adjustable legs from sliding freely. The
following are steps to take if any of the legs stick when trying to extend or retract.
1. Verify the leg adjustment handles are completely loosened.
2. Check along the legs path to see if obstructions are present.
3. Clean and file the leg/frame.
a. Remove the roll pin from the top of the leg, then slide the leg out of the frame.
b. Remove any dirt and grease that might be clogging the openings in the frame
where the leg slides through. If needed, lightly file this area to remove any
roughness.
c. File the inside of the frame where the leg adjustment handle is inserted.
d. Reinsert the leg into the frame, followed by the roll pin into the top of the leg.
4. Check the frame and leg for any abnormal bends.
If the adjustable leg still does not slide freely, replacement may be necessary.
Fan too large to fit compartment
Contact Ventry Solutions, Inc. for possible solutions.
PARTS ORDERS
This is the information we need to make sure that we send correct parts for your fan.
Fan # (3- or 4-digit number stamped into the engine block, next to the oil drain plug):
__________________________________________
Engine Serial #: _____________________________
Options: ___________________________________
We keep a record of every fan we sell. To help us give you the best service and send
the correct parts, should they be needed, please register your VENTRY FAN. A
registration form was included in the packet with your new VENTRY FAN or you can
simply call us and we will enter the information into our system. There are many good
reasons to register your products, including that it helps ensure you receive all
applicable free upgrades and that you can be reached in case of a recall or other safety
concern.

POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION FANS
15
All nuts, bolts and washers are grade 5 or 8, national fine, zinc coated or better.
PARTS LIST FOR 20-INCH FRAME
Reference Part
Number Number Quantity
01 F-1009 Leg cap, ¾-inch................................................................................ 3
02 F-1004S 20-inch Leg, rear............................................................................... 1
03 F-1001A 20-inch Frame without wheel option................................................. 1
07 F-1010 Short foam handle ............................................................................ 2
08 F-1018 7/8 Round cap .................................................................................. 2
09 F-1012 20-inch “seven” handle, left .............................................................. 1
10 942SB Rubber leg ends (feet)...................................................................... 3
13 F-1008 Roll pins, 1¼-inch x 3/16-inch .......................................................... 6
14 F-1007 Leg adjustment handles.................................................................... 3
15 F-1006 Leg adjustment springs..................................................................... 3
16 F-1013 20-inch “seven” handle, right ............................................................ 1
17 F-1002S 20-inch Leg, left (when looking at front of the fan) ........................... 1
18 F-1003S 20-inch Leg, right (when looking at front of the fan)......................... 1
19 F-1019 Motor mount bolts front with washers and nuts................................ 2
20 F-1020 Motor mount bolts rear with washers and nuts................................. 2
21 G-1024 Guard mount bracket aluminum ....................................................... 1
22 F-94225 Flat socket cap screw....................................................................... 1
23 F-1005 Long foam handle............................................................................. 1
24 F-7N04C Tubing nut......................................................................................... 1
PARTS LIST, 20 INCH-FRAME WITH WHEEL AND HANDLE OPTION
Reference Part
Number Number Quantity
01 F-1009 Leg cap, ¾-inch................................................................................ 6
02 F-1004S 20-inch Leg, rear............................................................................... 1
04 F-33827 Hand activated plunger..................................................................... 1
05 F-1021 Towing handle lock nut, washer & spring......................................... 1
06 F-1022 Towing handle .................................................................................. 1
07 F-1010 Short foam handle ............................................................................ 5
08 F-1018 7/8 Round cap .................................................................................. 4
09 F-1012 20-inch “seven” handle, left .............................................................. 1
10 942SB Rubber leg ends (feet)...................................................................... 3
11 F-1023 5/16 Wheel mounting hardware (bolts, washers, nuts) .................... 2
12 W-2001 Solid Rubber Wheels & Skids........................................................... 2
12 MFF Medium Flat-Free Wheels & Skids................................................... 2
13 F-1008 Roll pins, 1¼-inch x 3/16-inch .......................................................... 6
14 F-1007 Leg adjustment handles.................................................................... 3
15 F-1006 Leg adjustment springs..................................................................... 3
16 F-1013 20-inch “seven” handle, right ............................................................ 1
17 F-1002S 20-inch Leg, left (when looking at front of the fan) ........................... 1
18 F-1003S 20-inch Leg, right (when looking at front of the fan)......................... 1
19 F-1019 Motor mount bolts front with washers and nuts................................ 2
20 F-1020 Motor mount bolts rear with washers and nuts................................. 2
21 G-1024 Guard mount bracket aluminum ....................................................... 1
22 F-94225 Flat socket cap screw....................................................................... 1
24 F-7N04C Tubing nut......................................................................................... 1
25 F-1001W 20-inch frame with wheel option....................................................... 1