Supporting Indoor Pool HVAC Systems Over the Long Haul
The stresses on pool dehumidification systems are immense. They are responsible for removing water in the range of gallons every hour to ensure that indoor users remain comfortable. In addition, there is exposure to chemicals like chlorine that can wreak havoc on complex electrical components and motors. The simple fact is that supporting indoor pool HVAC systems over the long haul requires a detailed plan and consistent inspections for success.
Monthly and Annual Maintenance Protocols for Indoor Pool HVAC Systems
Due to constant operation and chemical exposure, indoor pool HVAC systems must be inspected more frequently than dehumidification systems in other settings. A sample monthly and annual protocol might include:
Monthly
- Inspect condensate line and unit exterior
- Check compressor oil level and interior for signs of wear, corrosion, or rust
- Monitor fan belts and drives
- Replace air filters, check for excessive contamination
Annual
- Inspect fan bearing and belts for wear
- Check electrical connections and contactors
- Check for leaks, potential wear points among tubing along the refrigerant circuit
- Replace filter-dryer for refrigerant and check for excessive contaminants
Issues that Can Arise While Supporting Indoor Pool HVAC Systems
Below are four common issues affecting pool dehumidification systems and some of the most common solutions that technicians use to resolve them.
Issue: Positive Pressure in Natatorium
Reason for Concern: Positive pressure pushes the humid air throughout the building where it cannot be treated as easily by the dehumidification system, leading to uncomfortable occupants and potential structural damage.
Symptoms: Rust on door and window fixtures, inability to control temperature and humidity in the rest of the facility.
Fixes: There are at least two possible issues that could cause positive pressure in a natatorium. There could be an issue with the ventilation design leading to backpressure buildup inside the system. More likely, the exhaust fan may have become worn down over time. Replacement may be necessary.
Issue: Frozen Evaporator Coils
Reason for Concern: Once frozen, evaporator coils can no longer move refrigerant, causing dehumidification systems to stop collecting moisture.
Symptoms: Inability for system to control relative humidity.
Fixes: Inspect causes of reduced airflow, such as ductwork, air filters, and even refrigerant loop for potential leakage. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning blower fan. For Dectron, replacement assemblies are available for indoor pool HVAC systems.
Issue: Mechanical Components
Reason for Concern: Impending mechanical failure can be costly for indoor pool owners and systems tend to continue to try to work even as parts wear down and lose efficacy.
Symptoms: Strange noises during operation and rapid compressor cycling.
Fixes: There are several potential failure points in a pool dehumidification system, but in the case of squealing belts, straining motors, and others, it may be necessary to replace the motors or smaller parts.
Issue: Error Codes or Malfunctioning Control Displays
Reason for Concern: The corrosive chemicals in an indoor pool can wreak havoc on electronics even with frequent servicing. If the controls become unusable, then the system is inoperable until a technician can identify the source of the problem.
Symptoms: Failure codes for sensors, non-responsive display.
Fixes: Old or corroded contactors, sensors in need of replacements or even control boards can all cause these types of issues. A multimeter can help establish which part of the circuit is causing the fault if a specific error code is unavailable.
Find Parts for Supporting Indoor Pool HVAC Systems
As a leading distributor for the most trusted names in commercial HVAC and dehumidification, Affiliated Parts has the kits that you need to maximize the performance and efficiency of your systems or those of your clients. Shop our complete list of replacement components for supporting indoor pool HVAC systems or contact us for more information.
