Ventomaxx Heat exchangers: Heat recovery in decentralised ventilation systems

Heat exchangers play a crucial role in modern ventilation systems by increasing energy efficiency and improving air quality. But what is behind this technical component? A heat exchanger is a device used in decentralised ventilation systems to efficiently recover the heat contained in the exhaust air and use it to preheat the fresh supply air. This clever technology makes it possible to reduce energy costs and contribute to environmental protection at the same time. In this article, we take a closer look at how a heat exchanger works in ventilation systems.

Find out what different types of heat exchangers there are, how they are installed and maintained and what specific benefits they can offer in decentralised ventilation systems. Let’s delve into the world of heat exchangers and discover how they can revolutionise the efficiency and sustainability of ventilation systems.

With a look at the wide range of possible applications and the impressive energy-saving potential of heat exchangers, it becomes clear why they are becoming increasingly important. Find out more about this innovative technology and its role in modern ventilation systems.

What is a heat exchanger?

In decentralised ventilation systems, the heat exchanger plays a central role in increasing efficiency and saving energy. The heat exchanger makes it possible to recover the heat from the exhaust air that is discharged from the rooms and use this energy to heat the fresh air. A heat exchanger is an essential element in ventilation systems that is used to exchange thermal energy between two different media. The basic principle of a heat exchanger is to transfer heat from a hot medium to a colder medium in order to lower the temperature of the hot medium and raise that of the cold medium. This is achieved by thermal conduction through a partition wall that isolates the two media from each other. There are different types of heat exchangers used in ventilation systems, including plate heat exchangers, ceramic honeycomb heat exchangers and enthalpy heat exchangers. Each type of heat exchanger has its own advantages and areas of application, but their main purpose always remains heat recovery and utilisation. The use of a heat exchanger in a ventilation system not only contributes to energy efficiency, but also improves the air quality in the rooms. By preheating the fresh air, a pleasant indoor climate is created that promotes both living comfort and the health of the occupants. Ventomaxx decentralised ventilation units with heat recovery (HRV) are available in the WRG RONDO, WRG PLUS and WRG MAKANI® R / Q series. They stand for high-quality, decentralised ventilation comfort with extremely energy-efficient heat recovery and far above-average protection against external noise.

How a heat exchanger works in ventilation systems

The operation of a heat exchanger in ventilation systems is crucial for efficient heat recovery and energy saving. A heat exchanger makes it possible to utilise the thermal energy in the exhaust air to heat the fresh supply air before it enters the rooms. As with the WRG MAKANI® series, a heat recovery efficiency of 85% guarantees sustainable building and high energy efficiency. The heat exchanger itself contains special heat exchangers that efficiently transfer the heat from the exhaust air to the supply air. The warm exhaust air leaving the building is used to preheat the cold outside air coming in from outside. This process takes place continuously while the ventilation system is in operation, resulting in a reduction in energy consumption and a significant improvement in energy efficiency. The simple but effective operation of a heat exchanger in ventilation systems helps to improve indoor air quality by ensuring a constant supply of fresh air without unnecessarily directing the already heated air outside. This not only saves energy, but also creates a pleasant and healthy indoor climate that benefits both the occupants and the building.

Advantages of heat recovery in decentralised ventilation systems

Heat recovery in decentralised ventilation systems offers a number of advantages that significantly increase both energy efficiency and living comfort. By using heat exchangers, up to 90% of the heat energy can be recovered from the exhaust air and used to preheat the fresh air. This results in a significant reduction in heating costs and lower overall energy consumption in the building.

As announced in this press release by the Association for the Efficient Use of Energy / HEA, a key technology on the way to the heat transition is fan-supported living room ventilation with heat recovery (WRG). A study by the ITG (Institute for Technical Building Equipment Dresden) et al. for the VfW shows how highly efficient this technology is. The heating load of a building is reduced by an average of 25%. Another important advantage of heat recovery is the improvement in air quality. The controlled air exchange removes pollutants and humidity from the exhaust air, while fresh, pre-heated air is supplied. This creates a healthy and pleasant indoor climate, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

The use of heat exchangers in decentralised ventilation systems also helps to reduce the risk of mould. Continuous, demand-based ventilation effectively removes humidity and condensation, which prevents the formation of mould in living spaces. This results in a better quality of living and protects the building fabric in the long term. Furthermore, heat recovery in decentralised ventilation systems allows the air exchange to be individually controlled and adjusted as required.

Modern control systems allow users to optimise the air circulation in their rooms and thus achieve maximum comfort. This is particularly important in living and working environments where there are different air quality requirements. In summary, heat exchangers in decentralised ventilation systems offer an efficient way to save energy, improve air quality, prevent mould growth and increase living comfort. They therefore represent a sensible investment that results in a healthier and more sustainable living and working environment in the long term.

Types of heat exchangers for ventilation

Various types of heat exchangers are used in ventilation systems to make heat recovery efficient. One of the most common variants is the so-called cross-flow heat exchanger. Here, the used exhaust air and the fresh supply air flow through the heat exchanger in parallel. Due to the close proximity of the air flows to each other, heat exchange takes place, whereby the fresh supply air is preheated.

Another variant is the counterflow heat exchanger. Here, the air flows move in opposite directions, which results in more effective heat exchange. Heat transfer is optimised here as the air flows meet directly.

In addition to these classic heat exchangers, there are also plate heat exchangers, which are characterised by their compact design. They consist of several thin metal plates between which the air flows. Due to the large surface area of the plates, efficient heat exchange can take place here.

Rotary heat exchangers are another option. Here, the air flows are guided through a rotating element, which results in effective heat transfer. This type of heat exchanger is particularly suitable for use in compact ventilation systems.

The choice of the optimum heat exchanger depends on various factors, including the size of the ventilation system, the desired efficiency of heat recovery and the structural conditions. Each type of heat exchanger has its specific advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account when planning and installing ventilation systems.

Installation and maintenance of heat exchangers

The installation and regular maintenance of heat exchangers in decentralised ventilation systems play a decisive role in their efficient operation. When installing a heat exchanger, it is important to place it in an optimal location to ensure effective heat recovery. The heat exchanger should be positioned to ensure a smooth airflow and maximise heat transfer.

During installation, care must be taken to ensure that all connections are made correctly and tightly to minimise energy losses. It is also important that the pipes and heat exchanger are properly insulated to ensure optimum efficiency. It is recommended that installation is carried out by trained professionals to avoid errors and ensure the best possible performance of the heat exchanger.

A professional maintenance service can ensure that your heat exchanger is working properly and that energy efficiency is guaranteed. Regular inspection and maintenance can identify and rectify potential problems at an early stage, extending the life of the heat exchanger and improving the air quality in your building in the long term.

Increased efficiency and energy savings thanks to heat exchangers

Ventomaxx offers high-quality ventilation systems equipped with heat exchangers. The use of heat exchangers in Ventomaxx ventilation systems guarantees efficient heat recovery and thus contributes to energy savings. Ventomaxx heat exchangers are designed for durability and maximum performance to ensure continuous and reliable heat recovery.

At Ventomaxx, quality and efficiency take centre stage. The products are characterised not only by their high-quality materials, but also by their first-class workmanship and innovative technology. The integration of heat exchangers in Ventomaxx ventilation systems ensures optimum utilisation of thermal energy and thus contributes to efficient and environmentally friendly air circulation.

Ventomaxx ventilation systems with heat exchangers offer a high-performance solution for sustainable and energy-efficient ventilation of buildings. By combining high-quality heat exchangers and innovative ventilation technologies, Ventomaxx sets standards in the industry and enables customers to benefit from the advantages of efficient heat recovery.

Heat exchangers: Heat recovery in decentralised ventilation systems