Vaillant replacement filter set G4/F7 for recoVAIR 150/4

Product detailed description

Vaillant replacement filter set G4/F7 for recoVAIR 150/4

The G4/F7 replacement filter set (manufacturer code 0020180808) is a genuine accessory for the Vaillant recoVAIR VAR 150/4 heat recovery unit, designed for regular replacement of the filter cartridges that capture impurities from both the supply and exhaust air. The set contains two filters of different filtration classes - a coarser G4 pre-filter (which captures larger coarse impurities such as dust, fibres, insects and larger pollen particles) and a finer F7 filter (which captures finer particles including most pollen allergens, fine dust and some bacteria carried on larger particles). This combination ensures effective, multi-stage filtration of the incoming fresh air before it enters the living space.

The filters in the recoVAIR unit are not just an ordinary consumable - their condition directly affects the quality of the air you breathe, as well as the overall performance and lifespan of the unit itself. Clogged filters create higher resistance to airflow, forcing the unit's fans to work under higher load, which increases their noise level and energy consumption while reducing the actual air output delivered to the living rooms. This is why the manufacturer recommends regular, planned filter replacement rather than waiting until they become completely clogged.

Technical characteristics

• Device type: replacement filter set (2 pcs) for the recoVAIR unit
• Manufacturer order code: 0020180808
• Set contents: 1× G4 class filter (pre-filter, coarse impurities) + 1× F7 class filter (fine filter, pollen allergens and fine dust)
• Intended for: exclusively for the recoVAIR VAR 150/4 unit
• Recommended replacement interval: generally once a year, depending on the level of ambient air pollution and the service interval indication on the unit/controller
• Location in the air duct path: at the inlet of incoming outdoor air and at the inlet of outgoing indoor air into the unit
• Alternative for more demanding environments: F9/G4 filter set (higher fine filter class, suitable for polluted environments), available separately in our range
• Material: non-woven filter fabric in a frame adapted to the dimensions of the VAR 150/4 unit
• Country of origin: Germany / EU (Vaillant Group)
• Warranty: 2 years

Why regular filter replacement matters

The recoVAIR VAR 150/4 heat recovery unit continuously exchanges the air in a flat or house, with incoming outdoor air passing through the G4 filter and then the F7 filter before entering the living space. The G4 filter captures larger impurities (coarse dust, pollen, insects, fibres), protecting the unit's internal components (especially the heat exchanger and fans) from clogging. The F7 filter then captures finer particles, including most pollen allergens and fine dust, significantly improving the quality of the air supplied to living rooms compared to conventional ventilation through open windows.

As both filters gradually become clogged during operation, their air permeability decreases, which has two main consequences: first, the unit's fans must expend more energy to achieve the same air output (higher electricity consumption, higher noise), and second, the filtration itself may become less effective, as an overloaded filter may start releasing some of the captured impurities back into the airflow. This is why the manufacturer recommends replacing the filters at regular intervals, regardless of whether clogging is visually noticeable.

Installation and filter replacement

Replacing the filters in the recoVAIR VAR 150/4 unit is one of the simpler maintenance tasks, which the user can perform themselves after basic instruction - the filter cartridges are usually accessible after opening the unit's service cover without the need for special tools. Nevertheless, we recommend performing the first replacement together with a technician during scheduled service, so that the user learns the correct procedure, filter orientation (direction of airflow) and the placement of both filter types (G4 at the incoming air inlet, F7 at the outlet before entering the rooms, or according to the specific design layout of the unit stated in the manual).

For ceiling-mounted installations of the VAR 150/4 unit, typical especially in flats, we recommend checking the accessibility of the inspection space around the unit's service cover before replacing the filters - in some installations a stable ladder or step stool is required to make the replacement safe and comfortable.

Compatibility

This G4/F7 filter set is dimensionally and functionally intended exclusively for the recoVAIR VAR 150/4 model. For the medium and large VAR 260/4 and VAR 360/4 models, a separate G4/F7 filter set with larger dimensions is available in our range (code 0020180809, shared for both these models). Filters cannot be interchanged between models, as they differ in dimensions corresponding to the size of the air duct path of the particular unit.

Comparison of G4/F7 and F9/G4 filtration classes

The choice between the standard G4/F7 set and the more demanding F9/G4 set depends mainly on the quality of the ambient air at the unit's installation site - for a typical rural or suburban location, the standard G4/F7 set is generally sufficient, while for locations with higher dust levels, proximity to a busy road or an industrial zone, or increased sensitivity of residents to allergens, we recommend considering the F9/G4 set.

Filtration class classification and what it means in practice

The G4 and F7 filtration classes are based on European standards for air filter classification (historically EN 779, now replaced by EN ISO 16890, which classifies filters according to their efficiency in capturing particles of various sizes - e.g. PM10, PM2.5, PM1). Class G4 corresponds to a coarse, so-called coarse dust filter, which primarily captures larger particles with a diameter of roughly above 10 micrometres - typically coarse dust, textile fibres, insect parts and larger pollen grains. Class F7 belongs to the fine filter category and can capture a substantial portion of particles as small as approximately 1 micrometre, which includes most common pollen allergens, fine dust from roads and industrial activity, as well as some bacteria that travel through the air attached to larger dust particles.

In practice, this means that the combination of G4 (pre-filter) + F7 (fine filter) in one set provides two-stage filtration: the coarser G4 filter, as the first stage, extends the lifespan of the more expensive and finer F7 filter by capturing most of the coarse impurities before they would otherwise clog the finer filtration layer. This principle is also common in other areas of ventilation and air conditioning, where multi-stage filtration is used to extend the lifespan and maintain the performance of more expensive, finer filter materials.

The impact of filtration quality on health and comfort at home

The quality of the air we breathe indoors has a demonstrable effect on the health and comfort of household occupants - especially allergy sufferers, asthmatics and young children. Filtering the incoming air to F7 class standard significantly reduces the amount of pollen allergens and fine dust that would otherwise enter the living space unfiltered through conventional window ventilation. For residents suffering from seasonal pollen allergies, high-quality filtration of the incoming air can bring noticeable relief during the pollen season, as the recoVAIR unit allows sufficient air exchange to be maintained without needing to open windows and let pollen in directly.

Practical recommendations for households with allergy sufferers or young children

If your household includes people suffering from pollen allergies, dust mite allergies or other airborne allergens, or young children more sensitive to air quality, we recommend strictly following the recommended filter replacement interval and, in locations with higher pollution levels (urban environment, proximity to a busy road), considering switching to the more demanding F9/G4 filter set with higher efficiency in capturing fine particles. Shortening the replacement interval compared to the standard recommended one year (for example, to six months) may be justified in such cases even with the standard G4/F7 set, especially during the intense pollen season.

The effect of the season on filter clogging

The rate of filter clogging is not uniform throughout the year - in spring and early summer, during the main pollen season, the fine F7 filter is subjected to a greater load from pollen grains, while in autumn and winter the load tends to be dominated by coarse dust and, in urban environments, soot from heating. Households in allergy-prone areas therefore sometimes opt for a shortened, six-month filter replacement interval specifically due to the pollen season peak, while in less demanding locations the standard annual interval recommended by the manufacturer is sufficient.

When it's time to replace the filters

The manufacturer recommends an approximate replacement interval of once a year, though the exact timing depends on the level of ambient air pollution and the intensity of the unit's operation. If the unit is equipped with a VAZ S4/1 controller, it will alert you to the need for replacement with a visual signal once the set service interval is reached. We recommend not replacing the filters based solely on visual impression (contamination is not always clearly visible to the naked eye, especially with fine filters), but rather relying on the unit's signal or a regular annual replacement schedule.

Maintenance and care

In addition to replacing the filters at the recommended interval, we recommend checking the condition of the filter frame seal and adjacent surfaces in the unit at each replacement, to prevent air from bypassing the filter cartridge (the so-called bypass effect, which would reduce filtration efficiency regardless of the quality of the filter itself). Old, used filters can be disposed of as regular household waste, as they do not contain any hazardous substances - for fine F9 filters (if part of the more demanding set), it is advisable to wear gloves when handling them, as the captured fine particles could be released back into the air if handled carelessly.

Why choose this filter set

This filter set is a genuine accessory directly from the manufacturer of the recoVAIR VAR 150/4 unit, made precisely to fit the dimensions of the unit's filter compartment. Compared to non-original or universal third-party filters, it guarantees a proper fit in the frame without gaps (which would otherwise allow unfiltered air to bypass the filter), maintains the declared filtration class, and preserves the warranty conditions for the entire controlled ventilation system.

Frequently asked questions

How often do the filters need to be replaced?

Approximately once a year; the exact interval depends on the level of ambient air pollution - a unit with a signalling controller will alert you to the need for replacement automatically.

Which recoVAIR model is this set intended for?

Exclusively for the VAR 150/4 model. For the VAR 260/4 and VAR 360/4 models, a separate, dimensionally different G4/F7 filter set is available.

What is the difference between the G4 and F7 filter?

G4 is a coarser pre-filter that captures larger impurities, while F7 is a finer filter that captures smaller particles, including most pollen allergens and fine dust.

Can I replace the filters myself?

Yes, after basic instruction during the first replacement, it is a simple task that the user can perform themselves without special tools.

What happens if I don't replace the filters on time?

Clogged filters increase resistance to airflow, leading to higher energy consumption, higher fan noise and lower actual air output from the unit.

Is it worth switching to the F9/G4 set even without a signal from the unit?

Yes, if you are located in an area with higher dust levels, near a busy road, or suffer from allergies, we recommend considering switching to the more demanding F9/G4 set regardless of the service signal.

What warranty applies to this filter set?

We provide a standard 2-year warranty, the same as for other accessories and parts for Vaillant recoVAIR units.

Does the filtration class affect the unit's noise level?

Indirectly, yes - finer filters create greater resistance to airflow, so switching to the more demanding F9/G4 set may result in a slightly higher load on the fans compared to the standard G4/F7 set. However, with a properly sized and regularly maintained system, the difference is usually minimal.

Where can I order replacement filters in the future?

Replacement G4/F7 and F9/G4 filter sets for the VAR 150/4 model are a permanent part of our range of accessories for Vaillant recoVAIR units - we recommend keeping one in stock at home in advance, so that when the replacement signal appears, you don't have to wait for delivery and can replace the filters right away.

Note: we recommend consulting the exact recommended replacement interval for your specific location and way of using your home with an installation company or a Vaillant service technician, as the level of air pollution can vary significantly between locations.

We also recommend always having one spare filter set at home in advance - prompt replacement is the best guarantee of consistently high incoming air quality and smooth, quiet operation of the recoVAIR VAR 150/4 unit throughout the year.

Summary

The G4/F7 replacement filter set is a basic, regularly replaced consumable for the Vaillant recoVAIR VAR 150/4 unit, which significantly affects the quality of the incoming air as well as the energy efficiency and lifespan of the unit itself. As a genuine accessory directly from the manufacturer, it guarantees an exact dimensional fit, the declared filtration efficiency, and the preservation of the warranty conditions for the entire system. In case of increased ambient air pollution or sensitivity to allergens, we also recommend considering the more demanding F9/G4 filter set, available separately in our range.

Note: we recommend consulting the exact recommended filter replacement interval for your specific property and location with an installation company or a Vaillant service technician, as it depends on local air pollution conditions.