ᐅ Controlled residential ventilation: enthalpy exchanger or standard heat exchanger

Created on: 15 Apr 2017 22:09
M
Momad
Hello,

we are planning to install a Zehnder Q350 for our new build and now we have to decide whether to go with enthalpy recovery or a standard heat exchanger. The question is whether enthalpy recovery can effectively and quickly remove the construction moisture.

The enthalpy option has an additional cost of about €650, and retrofitting it would cost €800. What would you recommend, and does anyone have experience with this?

Thank you!
A
Alex85
16 Apr 2017 06:55
Wouldn't it make sense, for example, to use the regular heat exchanger during the first two years to allow for drying?
S
Steffen80
16 Apr 2017 07:44
Alex85 schrieb:
Doesn't it make sense, for example, to use the regular heat exchanger for the first two years to allow drying?

That’s exactly what we do. We retrofit as soon as the air becomes too dry.
T
Tego12
16 Apr 2017 08:00
Direct enthalpy. As mentioned, excess moisture is removed through the condensate drain. There is no real benefit in waiting to replace it until after 2 years.
Mycraft16 Apr 2017 08:39
Exactly, once the heat exchanger is saturated, it is saturated; it can only absorb and release a certain amount of moisture. Everything else works just like with a regular heat exchanger and is indicated accordingly. Therefore, using it first without enthalpy and then with it is completely unnecessary.
M
Momad
16 Apr 2017 09:10
Are there any specifications regarding the saturation level of the enthalpy exchanger? Unfortunately, I couldn't find any information from Zehnder.
What happens if, during the first two years with enthalpy recovery, the indoor humidity is above 70%? Is there a risk of mold growth then?
S
sven0924
16 Apr 2017 11:53
We contacted Zehnder. Retrofitting is easily possible if needed, for example after the first 2 years. This is how we will proceed and monitor it during the winter months, when humidity might be too low.