15
HUMIDIFIRST
3.
The water solenoid valve does not shut off (read this page completely before starting
to troubleshoot):
If the solenoid valve continues to allow water to pass when the humidifier power is
shut off, then there may be dirt in the solenoid valve, preventing it from seating. If
the solenoid valve stops water flow when the humidifier power is shut off then it is
most likely an electrical problem incorrectly holding the solenoid valve open (ie. float
switch or relay). Please note that the reed switches in a float switch may stick at
times, causing a temporary problem. Lighting strikes or bad power may cause this. If
this is an intermittent problem the float switch should be replaced.
a. If an electrical problem is keeping the solenoid valve open: (Warning – only
qualified technicians should do this test as the Humidifirst Master Panel must be
energized while making electrical measurements)
Call the factory to discuss the best way to test your humidifier. Depending on the
model of the humidifier, the solenoid control relay may be wired Normally Open
(NO) or Normally Closed (NC).
b. If the solenoid valve does not shut off when the humidifier power is turned “off”,
dirt may be preventing the solenoid valve plunger from seating. This permits water to
leak through it, causing the humidifier to overflow.
To inspect the valve for debris:
1)
Remove the nut that holds the coil in place
2)
Slide the coil housing off of the shaft
3)
Grip the end of the shaft that is nearest to the threads with a set of pliers
and turn counter-clockwise until the shaft is loose. Then continue turning
the shaft by hand until it unthreads from the valve housing. A spring-
loaded plunger will come out of the end of the shaft. Confirm that there is
no dirt on it or in the valve housing. Blow through the housing to clear
any dirt that may have accumulated.
4)
Reassemble the valve.
5)
To test the valve, connect water to the unit and see if water drips from the
water hose on the “discharge” side of the valve.
c.
Confirm that the humidifier has not been deprived of water. This can cause the
solenoid valve to overheat and fail open. Reverse osmosis water treatment systems
can sometimes reduce water flow to the humidifiers and cause this to happen.
Reduced water flow can occur when the water temperature drops or if the reverse
osmosis membrane fails. If this is the case, replace the valve.
