
Let me start by saying this: if you're looking to replace an old sidewall venter fan, the Tjernlund HS2 is a strong contender. I installed this bad boy two months ago to replace my decade-old unit, and it's been running like a champ ever since.
The installation process was surprisingly smooth - the instructions are clear (a rarity these days!), and everything fit perfectly. I particularly appreciate how this system saves on materials and labor compared to traditional chimney setups. That's some serious cost savings right there.
Now, let's talk about that control board. It's... interesting. While functional, it feels slightly over-engineered. I had a similar experience to some other reviewers where the wiring wasn't exactly intuitive. Pro tip: if you're replacing an older unit, you might want to keep some components from your old system to simplify the wiring process.
The safety features are where this unit really shines. The interlock controls and pressure switch give me peace of mind that my exhaust is working properly - something my old chimney could never guarantee. During our recent cold snap (-2°F!), this thing kept running without a hitch.
A word of caution though - customer service can be hit or miss. Some users report great experiences with tech support, while others (myself included) encountered some attitude when dealing with more complex installations. My advice? Have your HVAC pro on speed dial just in case.
Mounting position matters more than you'd think! After some trial and error, I found mounting it about 30 feet downpipe from my furnace works best to prevent overheating issues.
Final verdict? At this price point, the HS2 offers excellent value for money. It's not perfect (that control board could use simplification), but for most residential applications, it gets the job done reliably. Just be prepared for a potentially steep learning curve during installation.
