Recuperation is a type of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. The basis of the system’s operation is the recuperator. The component recovers heat from the polluted air in the house and heats fresh air with it. In addition to this, additional filters can be installed in the recuperator to remove pollutants, allergens and smog from the air.
As mentioned earlier, the center of the system’s operation is a recuperator equipped with a heat exchanger. It pulls air in two directions simultaneously. The first is a stream of fresh air, which comes from outside, is cool and contains pollutants such as smog, dust, dust or insects. The exhausted stream, on the other hand, is full of carbon dioxide and moisture.
One of the most important stages of recuperation takes place in the heat exchanger. Fresh air and polluted air meet in it. The latter, going outside, gives up its temperature to the cooler stream. As a result, the air inside the recuperation room is fresh and at the right temperature.
Before proceeding with the work of installing a recuperation system, it is worth finding out how much you need to pay for the installation of the system. The exact price will depend on factors such as the equipment selected, the characteristics of the property and the financial requirements of the installation company.
In the case of an area of about 100 m2, the amount will be in the range of 11 thousand zlotys. It is best to decide on mechanical ventilation at the stage of designing the building, this will significantly reduce costs.
When installing the system, you need to keep in mind several issues. One of the most important is the location of the supply and exhaust ducts. Ideally, they should be installed in rooms such as the bedroom, living room, hallway or study. This will ensure that the air in the most important rooms will have the best quality. Openings should not be placed in the kitchen, toilet, bathroom, rooms with fireplaces, dressing room and pantry.
It is also worth finding out how much air is needed in each room. In the kitchen it is about 60 m3/h, in the bathroom 50 m3/h, and in closed rooms 15 m3/h.
When deciding on a recuperation system, you also need to pay attention to its servicing. Be sure to periodically replace the filters. The frequency depends on the intensity of use of the installation. Usually it is from 1 to 2 times a year. Modern systems contain alarms that transmit the controller of the entire system. As a result, there is no need to worry about the user forgetting the replacement date.
Those who decide to install a recuperation system should also regularly wash the exchanger, the component where fresh and old air mix. You need to remove the plastic part from the air handling unit. The next steps are to clean the exchanger under running water, in a bowl or tub, and dry it. This should be done at least twice a year.
It is also necessary to perform an inspection of the system every three years. This will ensure that you do not have to worry about the proper patency of the system and the cleanliness of the air ducts. It is best to outsource this activity to specialized professionals.
main photo: unsplash.com/Michal Matlon
