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SECTION II: PRINCIPLES, FUNCTIONS, AND FEATURES
THE MECHANICAL DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
The PoolPak™ System is a complete environmental control system designed expressly for indoor swimming pool
enclosures. It takes into account two important factors: the swimming pool occupant (personal comfort) and the
swimming pool environment (the physical structure and surrounding furnishings).
The swimming pool enclosure can be a hostile environment for equipment, decor and building structures. A PoolPak™
System’s major function is to dehumidify the pool enclosure air through a vapor compression cycle. During this cycle
the PoolPak™ System recycles the sensible and latent heat and places it back into the pool water and air as needed. This
recycling process saves money and keeps your pool environment efficient and safe.
Solid state microprocessor technology, working in conjunction with sensors, continually monitors water and air
conditions provide superior occupant comfort. Unlike typical outside air ventilation systems, a PoolPak™ System
recycles energy and blankets the walls and windows with warm, dry air.
PoolPak™ dehumidification systems reduce the energy input required to maintain pool water and air temperatures. By
dehumidifying the air and recycling the latent energy back into the pool air and water, the unit will reduce operating
costs when compared to conventional heating and ventilating systems. Pool water and enclosure heating are still required
but with greatly reduced requirements.
A PoolPak™ unit, when matched correctly to the evaporation rate of the pool water and overall dehumidification
requirements, will efficiently maintain the pool air at relative humidity levels between 50% and 60%. It should be noted
that a lower evaporation rate occurs when the pool enclosure’s air temperature is maintained above the pool water
temperature. Evaporation losses, and the energy required to maintain desired room conditions, will dramatically increase
if the air temperature is allowed to fall below the pool water temperature. It is recommended that the continuous dry bulb
temperature entering the evaporator of the PoolPak™ unit not fall below 75°F.
PoolPak™ International recommends that backup heating equipment for both pool water and pool enclosure air is
capable of carrying the full system heating requirements. This makes for a well-designed system that will provide the
least amount of pool down time if unforeseen system problems occur. Building conductive loads and other losses must
be taken into consideration.
AUTOMATIC CONTROL OF AIR TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
An integral part of any PoolPak™ System is a proven microprocessor control system which automatically senses and
maintains comfort conditions. Sensors detect changes in humidity and air temperature in the indoor pool environment
and quickly regulate supply air conditions to meet set point comfort levels, even during periods of unusually heavy pool
use.
To prevent condensation on walls and windows, The PoolPak™ System automatically adjusts humidity in response to
changes in wall or window surface temperatures. As the seasons and weather conditions change, the PoolPak™ System
changes its own mode of operation. Throughout the year, PoolPak™ thinks “efficiency” and automatically selects the
least expensive energy source for the poolroom conditions.
PoolPak™ models include a factory mounted and wired space temperature and humidity sensor at the return air opening
of the unit. Refer to the installation section for mounting location. Caution should be exercised. When the outside air is to
be introduced into the space for ventilation, adequate exhaust capacity via an integral (or a separate external fan) must be
specified to ensure the poolroom remains slightly negative. An inadequately sized exhaust system may result in damage
to the structure and pool odors may be forced into other areas of the building.
