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Enthalpy Wheels Come of Age: Applying Energy Recovery Ventilation to Hospitality Venues in Hot, Humid Climate
Abstract
Energy recovery ventilation systems, including rotary
heat exchangers or enthalpy wheels, utilize mature
technologies that are routinely applied in commercial
buildings. Energy recovery is particularly important
in buildings with significant outdoor air intake
requirements and has recently become widely
accepted in applications such as schools and theatres.
Hospitality applications including restaurants, bars,
casinos and similar settings also stand to benefit from
application of the technology, however, there is a
lack of experience and therefore of accepted guidance
in these applications. Furthermore, the unique
challenges inherent in the variety of hospitality
venues may limit appropriate use of the technology.
Applying energy recovery ventilation to hospitality
venues in hot, humid climates need not be complex.
This paper proposes guidelines that can facilitate
application of the technology by specifiers or other
construction professionals. These guidelines address
evaluation of typical projects for the suitability of
energy recovery, selection of appropriate energy
recovery ventilation technology, and criteria for
successful application of enthalpy wheels. Examples
of applications developed for different mechanical
systems and building types are provided. The
literature describing the opportunities and limitations
associated with enthalpy wheels is summarized and
referenced. Installation, operation, and maintenance
insights are presented, derived from the body of
industry experience with enthalpy wheels.
Citation
Wellford, B. W. (2000). Enthalpy Wheels Come of Age: Applying Energy Recovery Ventilation to Hospitality Venues in Hot, Humid Climate. Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu); Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu). Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /6805.