How to Clean a Venmar HRV110 or ERV130 Air Exchanger

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Identify the unit, stop it, and unplug

Read the rating label and confirm HRV110 or ERV130. Check which filters are actually installed, including any optional HEPA membrane. Stop the unit and disconnect its power cord before opening it; a wall-control setting alone is not the same as electrical isolation. Venmar recommends gloves and eye protection because internal sheet-metal edges can be sharp. Clear a supported work surface for removed components. If safe access requires working over stored items or reaching an inaccessible outlet, arrange access before beginning maintenance.

Step 2: Open the cabinet and record component positions

Release the door latches and follow the manual’s door-handling instructions. Photograph the core and filters in place so their orientation is clear during reassembly. Keep the picture close enough to show slots and edges rather than only the outside cabinet. Wipe the inside of the door with a damp cloth. Do not spray into the unit or remove wiring, circuit boards, or blower assemblies. Note standing water, torn seals, or damaged components now; cleaning should not conceal a problem that needs service.

Step 3: Clean only the filters that are washable

The HRV110/ERV130 manual calls for vacuuming the supplied filters, then washing them with mild soap and warm water, rinsing, and drying. Keep them supported so handling does not distort their shape. The optional HEPA membrane filter is disposable: vacuum it gently as directed and replace it when too dirty, rather than washing it. Put an unidentified filter aside until its part number is checked. Similar dimensions do not establish that two media types are both washable.

Step 4: Use the correct recovery-core method

During annual core maintenance, treat an HRV110 core with the manual’s cold or lukewarm mild-soap soak, thorough rinse, and careful drying. For an ERV130 core, remove dust using a vacuum’s soft brush attachment; do not soak it. Keep the two methods visibly separate if servicing more than one unit. Handle the core by its supported structure, not by forcing a tool into its channels. If the core is damaged or the model cannot be established, stop before choosing a wet method.

Step 5: Clean the tray and inspect accessible airflow paths

With the core removed as directed, wipe the condensing tray using a damp cloth. Remove accessible dust with a soft vacuum brush without disassembling the blowers. Check the exterior intake hood from a safe position for leaves, twigs, snow, or ice. Do not climb onto a roof or lean from a window for this routine. Avoid changing balancing settings or disconnecting ducts while chasing dust. A ventilation system that needs internal mechanical repair is a different task from cleaning its accessible surfaces.

Step 6: Reassemble dry components and restore power

Check that washed parts have dried and that no cloth, brush, or loose debris remains inside. Slide the core and filters into their correct positions, using the photograph and manual to confirm orientation. Make sure filter edges engage the intended slots. Close the door securely before reconnecting power. On the specified wall control, the manual uses a five-second INT/AUTO button press to reset the filter reminder when required. Resetting that indicator records maintenance; it does not itself clean a filter or resolve an error.

Step 7: Verify operation and note the next inspection

Listen for new noise and check that the unit resumes its expected operating mode. If a blower does not turn freely during the manual’s unplugged check, or unusual noise remains afterward, contact Venmar rather than forcing or lubricating it experimentally. Record the service date, washed components, and replacement filter number. The manual separates quarterly maintenance from annual fall core cleaning. Keep that distinction in the record so a quick filter vacuum does not accidentally become a claim that the entire annual service was completed.