Cleaning the heat recovery cell

Warning: The safety switch automatically turns off the power when the upper door of the Vallox ventilation unit is opened. Always disconnect the Vallox ventilation unit from the mains before starting maintenance.

Check that the heat recovery cell (HR cell) is clean roughly once a year, or whenever the filters are replaced. Clean by washing as required.

To check and clean the heat recovery cell:

  1. Disconnect the ventilation unit from the mains electricity supply.
  2. Open the door of the ventilation unit by undoing the finger screws.
  3. Lift the door off.
    CAUTION: The door is heavy.
  4. Remove the sealing strip (E) above the HR cell in the direction of the arrow.
  5. Remove the extract air filter (C).
  6. Lift and pull the HR cell (D) out of the unit.
    Important: Handle the cells carefully! For example, do not lift the cells by the layers. The cell layers are very thin and easily damaged.
  7. If the cell is dirty, clean it by immersing it in warm water, to which a small amount of a mild detergent has been added.
  8. Rinse the cell clean with a water spray. Do not use a high-pressure cleaner.
  9. When all the water has drained from between the layers, reassemble the ventilation unit as follows:
  10. Ensure that the lower support (F) is in place between the knobs at the bottom of the unit.
  11. Push the heat recovery cell in place.
  12. Push the sealing strip (E) in place so that the strip is supported by the corner bracket (G) at the rear.
  13. Install the extract air filter (C) in place.
  14. Close the door. Ensure that the safety switch catch of the door is touching the safety switch, allowing the unit to be turned on.
  15. Plug the ventilation unit back into the mains.
The heat recovery cell has now been checked and cleaned.