SolarAttic PCS1, User Manual

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Common Questions Page 9 of 10
than the pool's surface size in square footage [Or, the roof itself is two times the size of the pool in sq ft
area].
24. How do I know if my pool pump can handle the additional ÒheadÓ?
a) determine the vertical distance from the pump to the PCS1 located in your attic; b) divide
this vertical distance by 2.31 to calculate the added pressure to the pump; c) add this additional
pressure to your existing poolÕs pressure which can be usually read directly off of a filter pressure gauge;
d) ask your pool contractor if the pump installed will handle the total pressure [added lift].
An alternate approach is to use the existing pump and observe for any problems. If the pump is
inadequate, poor filtration will occur resulting in a ÒcloudyÓ pool [Note: this would be the direct result
of a dramatic reduction in the poolÕs water flow rate]. Also the pump may cutoff due to thermal
overload. Repeated cutout of the pumps thermal breaker indicates the pump is too small. Upgrading
by 1/2 horsepower should do the job.
You cannot simply feel the side of the pumpÕs motor. The motor should normally be running Òtoo
hotÓ to touch. If the pump was sized for filtration using a timer [less than 24 hours], the pump is
probably adequate in size to handle the lift to the PCS1. If the pump is running 24 hours a day [no
timer], it may require upgrading. This latter case allows a pool contractor to install a smaller pump to
accomplish the same filtration needs that a larger pump will accomplish in less time. Both
approaches are used for a variety of technical reasons. In fact, itÕs still argued [in the industry] about
which method results in the least amount of pump operating costs.
25. How can I lift the PCS1 into the attic?
One approach to the attic installation is the enlarged closet access [see question #3]. Assuming
you have used this approach, install an eye bolt near the peak and use a one ton come along or other
pulley type of device to lift the PCS1 up into the attic. Be sure to center the lift and use straps under
the unit. See the installation section of the PCS1 Manual for additional details.
26. How is the PCS1 delivered?
The PCS1 is shipped in a wooden crate that weighs 235 lbs. This crate must be removed from a
carrierÕs truck which can range from a small delivery truck to a semi trailer. When the carrier calls,
tell them youÕll need help removing the unit from the truck. Make sure they have a lift gate and a
dolly. This will make it easier to remove the unit from the truck. If no way exists for removing the unit
in its crated state, unpack the unit and inspect it. This will reduce the weight down to 134 lbs and can be
handled by two people.
27. Can the PCS1 cool down a hot pool?
Yes: The PCS1 can be manually turned on during the evening hours to cool down an overheated
pool. In this case, the heat exchanger will work in the reverse mode. The hot pool water will be routed
up to the PCS1 while cooler attic air will be drawn across the heat exchanger. This manual operation
ignores the temperature control sensors. To be effective, some ventilation must be present in the attic to
allow the heated attic air to escape into the atmosphere.
Cooling down an overheated pool is a common need during the hot summer months in various
parts of the country.