The BERNER Air Curtain is a versatile and energy-efficient solution for maintaining indoor climate control and minimizing energy loss in commercial settings such as drive-thru windows, industrial doorways, and retail entrances. Proper installation and maintenance are critical to ensuring the air curtain performs as intended, offering benefits such as energy savings, insect control, and thermal comfort. This guide compiles information from official installation instructions, maintenance checklists, and technical specifications provided by BERNER to offer a comprehensive overview for installers, facility managers, and technical professionals.
The air curtain, also referred to as an "air door," functions by creating a barrier of air across an open doorway or window. This barrier helps prevent the exchange of conditioned and ambient air, reduces the infiltration of flying insects, and minimizes the entry of outdoor pollutants, smoke, and debris. BERNER offers various models, including the CHD10, DTU03, and SHD07 series, each tailored to different mounting requirements and performance needs.
This guide will cover installation procedures, maintenance recommendations, technical specifications, and best practices for maximizing the efficiency and longevity of a BERNER Air Curtain system.
Installation Procedures
Proper installation is the foundation of a well-functioning air curtain. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, the installation process includes several key steps:
1. Verify Installation Requirements
Before beginning installation, it is essential to review the installation manual provided with the unit. The manual is typically located inside the junction box or control panel and is also affixed to the interior panel of the air curtain. If the manual is missing, it can be obtained by contacting BERNER directly at 800.245.4455, providing the unit’s serial number.
BERNER air curtains can be wall-mounted, top-mounted, or suspended from threaded rods, depending on the model and application. For example, the DTU03 model supports ceiling or wall bracket mounting and is designed for 3-foot mounting heights. Wall mounting brackets and extension brackets may be required to provide adequate door clearance. Floor mounting brackets are also available for vertical mounting.
The installation instructions should be reviewed to determine the appropriate mounting method for the specific model. The DTU03 Heated Air Curtain, for instance, is ideal for drive-thru and pass-thru window applications and features a factory-installed fan and heat switch.
2. Electrical Wiring
Each air curtain includes wiring instructions inside the junction box or control panel. Additional components such as switches are typically shipped in a fluorescent bag labeled "additional parts inside" and placed near the junction box or control panel. It is important to check the packaging to ensure that all components are present and correctly installed.
Electrical connections must be made according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The DTU03 model, for example, includes a 6-foot plug-in power cord and is rated for 1.7 kW of electric heat. The electrical data sheet provided by BERNER outlines the average cubic feet per minute (CFM) and amperage draw for different nozzle widths, such as 18 inches and 26 inches. These specifications are critical for ensuring proper power supply and performance.
3. Mounting and Alignment
Once the mounting location is selected, the unit must be securely fastened to the wall, ceiling, or floor according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. For wall-mounted units, brackets may need to be adjusted to accommodate door clearance. For ceiling-mounted units, the nozzle extension is often used to create a linear appearance.
The air discharge nozzle vanes, which direct the airflow, are factory-installed and typically require minimal adjustment. However, if the air stream is not properly directed, the vanes can be adjusted by a qualified mechanical contractor. Once the correct angle is achieved, the vanes should not need further adjustment.
4. Final Checks and Power-Up
Before turning the unit on, all components must be inspected for correct installation and secure connections. The power should be turned off at the service panel during installation and maintenance to ensure safety. A warning device such as a tag should be placed on the service panel if the disconnecting means cannot be locked.
Once the installation is complete and all connections are verified, the unit can be powered on. The existing sequence should be tested to ensure that the door switches and interlocks are cycling the unit and heat on and off as intended.
Maintenance Recommendations
Regular maintenance is essential for maintaining optimal performance and extending the lifespan of the air curtain. According to BERNER’s maintenance checklist, the following tasks should be performed on a routine basis:
1. Visual Inspection
A visual inspection should be conducted to check for signs of wear, dirt accumulation, or damage to components. The exterior cabinet should be wiped down regularly to remove dust and dirt that could be drawn into the intake. If the unit is installed in a particularly dirty or dusty environment, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
2. Air Discharge Nozzle Vanes
The nozzle vanes are responsible for directing the air stream. While they are factory-installed and require minimal maintenance, they may need to be cleaned or adjusted if the air stream is misdirected. Wiping down the vanes with a dry or slightly damp cloth can help maintain their performance.
3. Filter Replacement
The DTU03 model includes a washable aluminum filter, which should be inspected and cleaned periodically. If the filter becomes damaged or excessively dirty, it should be replaced with a new one. Replacement filters are available through BERNER and are model-specific.
4. Electrical and Mechanical Checks
Periodic checks should be performed to ensure that all electrical connections are secure and that the unit is operating within its expected parameters. The thermal overload protection and fan operation should also be verified during maintenance checks.
5. Scheduled Maintenance
BERNER recommends a minimum of three-monthly maintenance cycles for optimal performance. In high-dust, greasy, or industrial environments, more frequent maintenance may be necessary to prevent performance degradation and ensure safety.
Technical Specifications and Model Variants
BERNER offers a range of air curtain models to suit different commercial applications. The following models are highlighted in the source data:
CHD10 Series – Commercial High Performance Air Curtain
The CHD10 series is designed for high-performance commercial use and is often used in environments where energy efficiency and thermal comfort are critical. The unit is certified for sanitation and is suitable for industrial doorways, retail entrances, and other commercial applications.
The CHD10 includes features such as thermal overload protection and is designed to work with door interlocks and switches to optimize energy usage. The model is compatible with wall, top, and vertical mounting options.
DTU03 – DRIVE-THRU Heated Air Curtain
The DTU03 model is specifically designed for drive-thru and pass-thru window applications. It features 1.7 kW of electric heat, a 3-foot mounting height, and a factory-installed fan and heat switch. The unit includes a thermal overload protection system and a powder-coated aluminum cabinet for durability.
The DTU03 is available in two nozzle widths—18 inches and 26 inches—and has average airflow ratings of 135 CFM and 200 CFM, respectively. The model includes a 6-foot plug-in power cord and a washable aluminum filter.
SHD07 – Sanitation Certified Air Curtain
The SHD07 model is designed with sanitation in mind and is certified for use in food service and industrial environments where hygiene is a priority. It offers similar performance to the CHD10 but is specifically optimized for environments where cleanliness is a key concern.
Compatibility and Accessories
BERNER air curtains are compatible with a range of accessories and mounting options to suit different installation requirements. The following accessories are commonly used with BERNER models:
1. Mounting Brackets
- Wall Mounting Brackets: Used to secure the unit to the wall and provide door clearance.
- Extension Brackets: Provide additional clearance for doors or windows that require extra space.
- Floor Mounting Brackets: Used for vertical mounting in industrial settings.
2. Electrical Accessories
- Load Center Kit (9012LC20ASSA): A 120V load center with a magnetic reed switch for controlling the unit’s operation.
- Extension Bracket (66DTU008WMB): Provides additional support for ceiling-mounted units.
- Replacement Filters: Washable aluminum filters are available for specific models such as the DTU03.
3. Control Options
The DTU03 includes a factory-installed fan on/off and heat switch. Additional control options can be integrated with the unit’s control panel to provide more precise operation and automation.
Safety and Compliance
BERNER air curtains are designed to meet strict safety and compliance standards. The units are UL listed for use in the United States and Canada and are covered by a one-year parts warranty. The following safety precautions should be observed during installation and operation:
- Always turn off the power at the service panel before servicing or cleaning the unit.
- Use a lockout/tagout procedure to prevent accidental power-on during maintenance.
- Ensure that all wiring and connections are made according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- In high-risk environments, additional safety measures such as thermal overload protection and fire suppression systems may be required.
Performance and Energy Efficiency
Properly selected and installed BERNER air curtains are highly effective at reducing energy loss. According to BERNER’s documentation, air curtains can be approximately 80% effective at maintaining thermal separation when a door is open. This means that warm air remains on one side of the opening and cold air on the other, significantly reducing the need for additional heating or cooling.
In addition to energy savings, air curtains help reduce the infiltration of flying insects, smoke, and vehicle exhaust fumes. This is particularly important in commercial and industrial settings where air quality is a concern.
Conclusion
The BERNER Air Curtain is a reliable and effective solution for maintaining indoor climate control in a variety of commercial and industrial applications. Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. By following the manufacturer’s installation instructions and maintenance recommendations, users can maximize the benefits of the air curtain, including energy savings, thermal comfort, and environmental protection.
For installers and facility managers, understanding the technical specifications, mounting requirements, and maintenance procedures is key to ensuring the system operates as intended. BERNER provides comprehensive documentation and support to assist with the installation and operation of its air curtain models.
With a range of models to choose from, including the CHD10, DTU03, and SHD07 series, BERNER offers a solution for almost any commercial application. Whether used in drive-thru windows, industrial doorways, or retail entrances, BERNER air curtains are a proven and effective way to maintain indoor comfort and reduce energy costs.