Selecting the wrong recovery core is expensive to undo. Run through these ten points — most map to a tool or guide on this site — before you request a quote.
1. Define the real duty
Airflow per stream (m³/h), inlet temperatures, and hours per year. This is the input to our sizing tool and the savings tool.
2. Balance the streams
Recovery peaks when supply ≈ exhaust. If they differ a lot, say so — it changes the core and the effectiveness you can claim (see efficiency factors).
3. Profile the contaminant
Grease, solvent, acid or dust in the exhaust dictates material and cleanability. Kitchen and lab exhaust need coated or washable cores (see materials).
4. Pick the type
Plate (cheap, sensible), rotary (high effectiveness, carries moisture), or heat pipe (no cross-contamination). Our plate vs rotary and selector help.
5. Set the effectiveness target
70–90% is the usual band. Higher needs more area and fan power — check the trade with the ε-NTU tool.
6. Check frost (cold climates)
If exhaust can drop below 0°C while humid, you need preheat, bypass or a defrosting wheel. Run the frost calculator and read frost control.
7. Cap pressure drop
Agree a max ΔP so fan energy stays sane. Cross-check with the duct loss tool and pressure-drop guide.
8. Require certification
AHRI, Eurovent or CE as the project demands — see our certifications guide. Verify the rating condition matches your duty.
9. Plan maintenance
Specify filters and access for cleaning; fouling silently kills recovery. See cleaning & maintenance.
10. Prove the payback
Run the payback calculator on the delivered price. In continuous industrial duty, 1–3 years is normal and justifies a better core.
One-page summary table
| Step | Decision to record |
|---|---|
| 1–2 | Airflow, ΔT, balance |
| 3–4 | Contaminant → type & material |
| 5–7 | Effectiveness, frost, ΔP limits |
| 8–10 | Certification, maintenance, payback |
Want a second opinion on your selection?
Send the ten answers above — we will sanity-check the size and flag any risk.
Request a quote