Prana ventilation systems are an innovative solution for ensuring a constant supply of fresh air and maintaining a healthy microclimate in your home, office, or educational institution. Thanks to heat recovery technology, Prana not only provides fresh air but also helps save energy. However, to fully take advantage of all the benefits of the system, it is crucial to carry out a proper installation.

Neglecting installation requirements can lead to reduced efficiency, the appearance of unpleasant consequences, and even equipment failure. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key aspects of proper installation of Prana ventilation systems.

Key requirements for the proper installation of Prana.

Let’s look at six key requirements, compliance with which is critical for the smooth and efficient operation of your Prana ventilation system:

1. Correct installation zone

Choosing the correct location for installing the Prana recuperator is the first crucial step. This decision affects air exchange quality, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

• Avoid pollution sources: Do not install the external air intake near industrial areas, garbage bins, kitchen exhaust vents, or bathrooms. This will help prevent harmful substances from entering the indoor environment.
• Ensure free air intake and exhaust: Make sure that nothing obstructs the airflow through the external and internal openings of the recuperator. Do not block the recuperator with curtains, furniture, or any other objects, and avoid any other means of hindering the airflow.
• Consider maintenance convenience: Choose a location where periodic cleaning and maintenance of the system will be easy to perform.
• Installation in rest and sleep areas: The systems should be placed on the opposite side of the area where people spend most of their time. In winter, the incoming air, being colder than the room temperature, may create a drafty sensation in the room.

Additionally, it is important to consider the determination of the installation zone in rooms with air conditioning:

The air conditioner and recuperator perform different, yet complementary functions in the same room. The air conditioner cools the air, while the recuperator ensures constant air renewal, providing fresh air while maintaining the coolness (or warmth during the cold period).

For the effective joint operation of these two devices, it is necessary to maintain the recommended distance between them.

It is prohibited to install the recuperator directly below the air conditioner. It is better to position the recuperator to the side of the air conditioner or above it, at a distance of at least 30 cm. This is necessary to prevent the cooled air delivered by the air conditioner from being immediately extracted by the ventilation system. Maintaining this distance ensures optimal air circulation in the room and the efficient operation of both devices.

2. Installing the recuperator at a 2–3 degree angle toward the outside

To ensure proper drainage of condensate that may form during the operation of the recuperator due to temperature differences, it is essential to install the unit at a slight angle (2–3 degrees) toward the outside. This tilt allows the condensate to naturally drain outward, preventing it from accumulating inside the housing.

Failure to maintain the recommended tilt prevents condensate from draining freely to the outside. Instead, it accumulates inside the housing, which can result in leakage into the room or even cause a short circuit in the electrical components.

3. Orientation of the condensate drain outlet vertically downward

Another important aspect is the correct positioning of the condensate drain outlet. This outlet should be oriented strictly vertically downward. This ensures the unobstructed drainage of condensate under the influence of gravity.

If the condensate drain outlet is incorrectly positioned, the condensate will not be able to drain effectively from the system. This will lead to the same negative consequences as an improper tilt: moisture accumulation, electrical issues, and malfunction of the device.

4. The external protrusion of the casing to the air intake grille should be at least 10 mm.

To ensure effective air intake from the outside and prevent precipitation from entering the system, the external protrusion of the recuperator casing to the air intake grille should be at least 10 mm.

Insufficient protrusion of the casing can lead to a lack of air intake.

5. The external cover must not be inverted.

The design of the external cover of the Prana recuperator is intended to protect against atmospheric precipitation and direct the airflow. Inverting the external cover is unacceptable, as it would disrupt its functionality.

Avoid installing the external cover in an inverted position. This blocks the lower condensate drainage hole, leading to moisture accumulation inside the device.

6. Sealing of the installation

In addition to following the basic installation requirements, ensuring the sealing of the Prana recuperator installation in the wall opening is crucial. Even the smallest deviations, gaps, or poor sealing can lead to a number of negative consequences:

• Inefficient air exchange: Airtightness issues lead to uncontrolled air movement, bypassing the recuperation system, which reduces energy efficiency and increases heating/cooling costs.
• Damp walls and mold formation: An airtightness issue leads to moisture and condensate accumulation, creating conditions for mold and mildew growth, which are harmful to both human health and the condition of the building.
• Moisture and dust entering gaps: Airtightness issues open the path for atmospheric precipitation, dust, insects, and other contaminants to enter the wall and even the internal components of the recuperator, which can negatively affect its performance and lifespan.

To ensure airtight installation, it is essential to carefully fill all gaps between the recuperator casing and the wall using high-quality sealing materials that are resistant to temperature fluctuations and moisture.

Additional recommendations for special installation conditions

For rooms located in areas with frequent strong winds, as well as on floors above the fourth, it is recommended to install a windscreen cover on the external cover of the Prana recuperator.

Strong wind gusts can create excess pressure on the intake duct of the system, which may lead to:

• An increase in the volume of incoming air: This can disrupt the balance between intake and exhaust, as well as lead to unwanted cooling of the room during the colder months.
• Increased noise levels: Wind entering the duct can generate additional noise.
• Reduced recovery efficiency: Uneven airflow can affect the heat exchange process.

Using special windproof elements will help optimize the operation of the ventilation system under such conditions, ensure stable air exchange, and prevent the influx of excess air, maintaining a comfortable microclimate in your room.

Avoiding issues: Choose professionals.

Installing the Prana ventilation system is a responsible task that requires expertise and attention to detail. Ignoring installation guidelines can lead to serious malfunctions in the device’s operation.

We strongly recommend contacting only certified Prana installers who possess the necessary knowledge and tools for quality and professional system installation. This will help you avoid unpleasant consequences, ensure the long-lasting and efficient operation of your recuperator, and allow you to enjoy clean and fresh air in your home.

You can find quick answers to installation questions in our Telegram chatbot.

Contact our managers for personalized consultation in more complex cases.

By choosing Prana and entrusting its installation to professionals, you are investing in your health, comfort, and the energy efficiency of your home!