18
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
VAPORSTREAM
®
Model VLC Only
Using softened water will significantly reduce mineral
build-up in the humidifier. When softened water is not
available, the VAPORSTREAM VLC is designed to deal
with water hardness in one of two ways depending on the
degree of hardness. For light to moderate hardness, up to
10 grains per gallon ( 170 mg/l), using the surface water
skim time feature with annual cleaning is recommended.
For high mineral content water, above 10 grains per gallon
(170 mg/l), a periodic drain and flush through the motor-
ized drain valve, in addition to the surface water skim time
feature, is recommended. The frequency of cleaning will
depend on water condition and evaporation load.
The humidifier should be inspected for leaks at least
annually. Also, the current draw of the heaters should be
checked and all safety devices in the control circuit should
be cycled on and off to verify that they are functioning.
Caution: When performing maintenance on the
VAPORSTREAM Model VLC, always set control module
switch to "STBY” position, place main disconnect in “OFF”
position, and close manual water shut-off valve.
Seasonally or as Required
1. Cleaning Tank - Slide the clean-out tray out and
dispose of any loose scale that has collected in the tray.
This should be done before the build-up reaches the
underside of the heating elements.
2. Cleaning Probes - Disconnect the plug and cable
assembly and unscrew the probe holder from the
VAPORSTREAM VLC unit. The scale will easily flake off
from the sensing portion. The sensing portion, bottom
3/8" (10 mm), of the probe should be brushed clean with
stainless steel wool.
3. Cleaning Skim Overflow Port - Loosen deposits with
a long tool, such as a screwdriver. Proper skimmer
drainage should be verified by a weekly visual inspection.
Water should drain from skimmer drain pipe after each fill
cycle. (For cleaning piping, disconnect and flush out. If
mineral deposits have restricted the flow, replace piping.)
Summer Maintenance
After the humidification season, a complete inspection and
cleaning of the heaters, probe control, skimmer port, and
water chamber is recommended. After cleaning, the unit
should remain empty until humidification is required.
Adjusting the Surface Skim Bleed-Off Quantity
The skim time determines the quantity of water skimmed
with each fill cycle. The skim time is field adjustable
using the VAPOR-LOGIC
®
keypad.
Each time the VAPORSTREAM VLC refills, it fills to an
elevation near the lip of the skim overflow fitting. A
portion of the refill water then flows to drain carrying the
minerals floating on the water with it. This reduces the
mineral concentration, thereby reducing the frequency of
cleaning needed.
The heated water that flows to drain is a cost of
operation. Cleaning the humidifier is also an operational
cost. Therefore, it is recommended that the user observe
and adjust the skimming quantity. By doing so, a balance
between minimizing mineral build-up and conserving hot
water can be achieved.
VAPORSTREAM
Model VLDI Only
The humidifier should be inspected for leaks at least
annually. Also, the current draw of the heaters should be
checked and all safety devices in the control cabinet
should be cycled on and off to verify that they are func-
tioning.
Make-up Water Piping
Use cold or hot makeup water. If the water pressure is
above 60 psi (410 kPa) and/or water hammer would be
objectionable, a pressure reducing valve or shock arrester
should be installed. Even though the VAPORSTREAM
VLC has an internal 1" (25 mm) air gap, some local codes
may require a vacuum breaker.
Caution: Minimum water supply pressure is 25 psi (172
kPa).
Cleaning Evaporating Chamber
As long as mineral-free water is used in the
VAPORSTREAM VLDI, no cleaning or flushing of the
evaporating chamber should be necessary.
For trouble-shooting instructions, see the VAPOR-LOGIC
®
Installation Instructions and Maintenance Operations
Manual.
TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
