Lifebreath MAXTOP - User Manual

®
CLEAN • FRESH • AIR
* LEAVE FOR HOMEOWNER
NOTE: Due to ongoing research and product development, specifications,
ratings and dimensions are subject to change without notice.
TI-84R-NE
0202
Installing Contractor
Telephone / Contact
Serial Number
Installation Date Model
TO BE COMPLETED BY CONTRACTOR AFTER INSTALLATION
OPERATION AND
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Contains
ControlAir 15
For Models:
95MAX
155MAX
200MAX
MAXTOP
195DCS
300DCS
200ERV
200ERVD
CAUTION
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. After installation, the
compatibility of the two pieces of equipment must be
confirmed by measuring the airflow’s of the Heat Recovery
Ventilator (HRV) or Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) by
using the balancing procedure found in this manual.
It is always important to assess how the operation of any
HRV/ERV may interact with vented combustion equipment
(ie. Gas Furnaces, Oil Furnaces, Wood Stoves, etc.).
NEVER install a ventilator 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!!!
IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ THIS
MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING UNIT

Summary

Contractor Installation Checklist

Introduction to HRV and ERV Systems

HRV - Aluminum Core Explained

Explains Heat Recovery Ventilator with aluminum core for heat transfer.

ERV - Enthalpic Paper Core Explained

Explains Energy Recovery Ventilator with enthalpic core for heat and moisture transfer.

Warranty Information

ERV Questions & Answers

HRV vs ERV and Enthalpy Explained

Differentiates HRV and ERV, explaining enthalpy and core types.

ERV Climate Suitability and Benefits

Discusses ERV use in warm/humid areas and summer cooling benefits.

Core Maintenance and Air Filter Requirements

Covers core cleaning, dust, and the necessity of air filters for optimal performance.

Ventilation Requirements and Control Strategies

Addresses ventilation needs, speed control, and operational overrides.

Select HRV;ERV Based on Climate

Model 95 MAX Technical Overview

95 MAX Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 95MAX model.

95 MAX Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

95 MAX Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 95MAX unit.

95 MAX Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 155 MAX Technical Overview

155 MAX Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 155MAX model.

155 MAX Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

155 MAX Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 155MAX unit.

155 MAX Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 200 MAX Technical Overview

200 MAX Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 200MAX model.

200 MAX Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

200 MAX Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 200MAX unit.

200 MAX Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model MAXTOP Technical Overview

MAXTOP Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the MAXTOP model.

MAXTOP Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

MAXTOP Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the MAXTOP unit.

MAXTOP Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 195 DCS Technical Overview

195 DCS Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 195DCS model.

195 DCS Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

195 DCS Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 195DCS unit.

195 DCS Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 300 DCS Technical Overview

300 DCS Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 300DCS model.

300 DCS Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists HVI certified performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency at various static pressures.

300 DCS Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 300DCS unit.

300 DCS Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 200 ERV Technical Overview

200 ERV Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 200ERV model.

200 ERV Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency for the 200ERV model.

200 ERV Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 200ERV unit.

200 ERV Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Model 200 ERVD Technical Overview

200 ERVD Engineering Data and Features

Details technical data including core type, motors, filters, case, and controls for the 200ERVD model.

200 ERVD Performance and Efficiency Ratings

Lists performance data like airflow, recovery, and efficiency for the 200ERVD model.

200 ERVD Physical Dimensions and Mounting

Shows physical dimensions, port locations, and mounting details for the 200ERVD unit.

200 ERVD Options and Warranty

Lists available optional controls and accessories and outlines warranty terms.

Function and Control

Operating the ControlAir 15 Unit

Explains how to operate the ControlAir 15, including initial setup and mode selection.

ControlAir 15 Self Test and Defrost Operation

Details the automatic self-test function and the automatic defrost operation for the ControlAir 15.

ControlAir 15 Glossary of Terms

Defines key terms related to the ControlAir 15, such as Dehumidistat, Reset, and Thermistor.

ControlAir 15 Mode and Speed Selection

ControlAir 15 Mode Selection and LED Indicators

Explains how to select modes and interpret LED indicators for the ControlAir 15.

ControlAir 15 Fan Speed Selection

Details how to adjust the fan speed on the ControlAir 15 unit.

ControlAir 15 Automatic Defrost Indicator

Describes the indication for the automatic defrost function on the ControlAir 15.

ControlAir 15 Optional Remote Controls

Programmable Ventilation Controller (PVC)

Details the features and connections for the PVC optional controller.

Air Sentry Air Quality Monitor

Describes the Air Sentry monitor for air quality detection and its connections.

Ventilation Dehumidistat Functionality

Explains the operation and mounting of the optional Ventilation Dehumidistat.

Digital Electronic Timer (DET) Features

Outlines the features and installation of the optional Digital Electronic Timer.

Using the Dehumidistat for Humidity Control

95 MAX Installation and Airflow Details

95 MAX Port Specification and Variable Location

Details the two possible port positions (side/top) for the 95 MAX and how to configure them.

95 MAX Airflow Path and Efficiency

Explains how air flows through the 95 MAX core for efficient heat exchange.

Installation Procedures

HRV;ERV Location and Clearance Requirements

Guides on selecting an appropriate location for the unit and the necessary clearance for servicing.

Mounting and Electrical Connections

Details how to mount the unit using straps and proper electrical connection requirements.

Connecting Appliances to the HRV;ERV

Lists appliances that should not be connected to the HRV/ERV to avoid damage or warranty voidance.

Installing the Drain Line and P-Trap

Provides instructions for installing the condensate drain line and P-trap to manage moisture.

Installing Air Ducts

Outside Weatherhood Location and Installation

Guides on locating and installing intake and exhaust weatherhoods, including clearance and sealing.

Ducting from Weatherhoods to HRV;ERV

Instructions for connecting flexible insulated ducting from weatherhoods to the HRV/ERV ports.

Warmside Ducting and Airflow Optimization

Tips for efficient ductwork design, minimizing bends, and recommended duct materials.

Air Distribution and Ducting Systems

Supply Air Ducting Strategies

Covers how to supply fresh air in homes with or without forced air furnaces.

Connecting to Furnace Ductwork

Explains direct and indirect connection methods to furnace ductwork.

Stale Air Exhaust System Design

Details how to set up the stale air exhaust system, including recommended locations.

Dampers, Grilles, and Diffusers

Recommends the use of dampers, grilles (Techgrille), and diffusers for proper air distribution.

Installation Diagrams

Partially Dedicated System Diagram

Illustrates a partially dedicated system configuration for HRV/ERV installation.

Direct Connection to Furnace Cold Air Return

Shows a diagram for connecting the HRV/ERV supply air to the furnace cold air return.

Simplified Installation Diagrams

Simplified Installation - Option 1 (Return;Return)

Illustrates a simplified installation using a return/return duct connection method.

Direct Connection to Furnace Cold Air Return (Both Streams)

Shows diagrams for connecting both supply and exhaust streams to the furnace cold air return.

Simplified Installation Options

Simplified Installation - Option 2 (Supply;Return)

Illustrates a simplified installation using a supply/return duct connection method.

Direct Connection to Furnace Cold Air Return & Supply Air Side

Shows diagrams for connecting streams to furnace cold air return and supply air side.

Fully Dedicated System Diagram

Pitot Tube Air Flow Balancing

Importance of Balanced Air Flows

Explains why balanced air flows are critical for HRV/ERV efficiency and operation.

Air Flow Balancing Procedure using Pitot Tube

Step-by-step guide on how to measure and balance air flow using a pitot tube and gauge.

Calculating Airflow and Duct Area

Details how to calculate airflow based on pitot tube readings and duct cross-sectional area.

Balancing Collar Instructions

Maintenance Routine for HRV

Exterior Hood and Filter Inspection

Covers monthly inspection of exterior hoods and semi-annual cleaning of air filters.

Core Cleaning and Motor Maintenance

Details semi-annual core cleaning, drain line maintenance, and notes that motors are maintenance-free.

Duct Work and General Cabinet Cleaning

Recommends annual cleaning of ductwork and semi-annual cleaning of the cabinet interior.

Fan Cleaning Procedures

Explains how to clean the fans to prevent imbalance and vibration, advising professional help if needed.

Maintenance Routine for ERV

Exterior Hood and Filter Inspection

Covers monthly inspection of exterior hoods and quarterly cleaning of air filters.

Core Cleaning and Motor Maintenance

Details semi-annual core cleaning and notes that motors are maintenance-free.

Duct Work and General Cabinet Cleaning

Recommends annual cleaning of ductwork and semi-annual cleaning of the cabinet interior.

Fan Cleaning Procedures

Explains how to clean ERV fans to prevent imbalance and vibration, advising professional help if needed.

Troubleshooting Your HRV;ERV System

Troubleshooting Poor Air Flows and Cold Supply Air

Addresses issues like blocked hoods/filters, obstructed cores, and cold supply air.

Troubleshooting Humidity Control Issues

Covers problems with dehumidistat operation and high/low humidity levels.

Troubleshooting Frosting and Condensation

Helps diagnose frosting issues, condensation on windows, and ice buildup in ducts.

Troubleshooting Water and Drain Issues

Addresses water in the bottom of the HRV/ERV, drain pan issues, and obstructed drain lines.

Technical Bulletin - ControlAir 15 Wiring

Preventing Condenser Initialization with ControlAir 15

Details a wiring solution to prevent the ControlAir 15 from inadvertently initiating the outdoor cooling condenser.

Residential Wiring Diagram

Micro Processor Board and Control Connections

Shows the wiring diagram for the microprocessor board and explains color-coded control connections.

Fan Motor and Defrost Details

Illustrates fan motor wiring, capacitor connections, and defrost mechanism wiring.

Auto-Transformer Wiring Detail

Provides specific wiring information for the auto-transformer component.

Lifebreath MAXTOP Specifications

General

Brand	Lifebreath
Model	MAXTOP
Category	Fan
Language	English