Troubleshooting guide

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5. Service the fans. The fans on many HRVs are designed to
operate continuously without lubrication. Your owner’s
manual will indicate whether lubrication or service is
necessary. If lubrication is required, make sure you use
proper motor lubricating oil (non-detergent oil). Do not
use too much oil, as this may damage the motor. Inspect
the blower fans periodically for dirt on the blades, and
remove it by gently brushing the blades or using a
vacuum cleaner.
6. Clean the grilles and inspect the ductwork. Clean the duct
grilles when they are dusty or greasy. At least once a
year, visually inspect the interior surfaces of the duct-
work leading to and from the HRV. These surfaces will
collect dirt over time; however, professional ductwork
cleaning is usually needed only once every few years.
Kitchen exhaust grilles should have filters to catch
grease. These filters must be cleaned on a regular
basis or as required.
Check for punctures in the insulation jacket (the protec-
tive cover that seals the insulation) on the fresh air and
exhaust air ducts. Repair any punctures using foil duct
tape. Otherwise, they can lead to condensation problems,
including wet insulation, water on the floor and, occa-
sionally, ice build-up. If the insulation itself is damaged,
take the steps indicated in the HRV Troubleshooting
Guide on page 25.
7. Arrange for an annual servicing. Your HRV should
undergo annual general servicing by a contractor who
is accredited by the Heating, Refrigerating and Air
Conditioning Institute (HRAI) of Canada and who is
familiar with your HRV. If possible, have your furnace
and HRV serviced at the same time; this will result in
less inconvenience and cost than two separate visits.
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