General Filters GeneralAire 5500 User manual

1 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
GeneralAire® 5500 Steam Humidier
Installation & User Manual
Before installing or handling the humidier, please carefully read and follow the instructions and safety
standards described within this manual and on the labels attached to the Model 5500 Steam Humidier.
Test water conductivity before installing the Model 5500 Steam Humidier.
Avant d’installer ou de manipuler l’humidicateur, veuillez lire attentivement et respecter les instructions et les
normes de sécurité décrites dans ce manuel et sur les étiquettes apposées sur l’humidicateur à vapeur modèle
5500. Testez la conductivité de l’eau avant d’installer l’humidicateur à vapeur modèle 5500.
Installation Kit and Mounting Straps are included.
Le kit d’installation et les sangles de xation sont inclus.
User manual
Mode d’emploi
Manuel d’installation et d’utilisation
LISEZ ET ENREGISTREZ
CES INSTRUCTIONS
READ AND SAVE
THESE INSTRUCTIONS

2
You must be a qualied
contractor to install this product.
Before You Start
1. Test water conductivity by using AP-2
(GFI #7066) conductivity meter or similar.
2. Check for the following items inside the box:
• Duct Steam Humidier
• Installation Manual
• Installation Kit
• Steam manifold
• 6’Steam hose
• 10’drain hose
• Water tube supply kit (10’ tubing)
• Water ll connector
• GFX4 Digital Automatic Humidistat
• Ball valve
• Hose clamps
• Fasteners
• Mounting straps
IMPORTANT: Remove the following items prior to
installation:
• Remove internal packaging support
located above the cylinder.
• Close the metal cylinder clamp
on top of the cylinder.
• Remove the plastic tie around the cylinder body.
Remove shipping
insert and plastic
before installation.
WARNING: You must select the desired power supply voltage in two places:
1. INTERNAL SWITCH: THE FACTORY DEFAULT SETTING IS 230 VAC; however, the humidier can also be powered at
a nominal voltage of 115 VAC 50/60 Hertz. Ensure the 5500’s internal power selection switch matches the power
supplied to the 5500 (also described in this manual).
230
115
2. CONTROL PANEL - ON INITIAL STARTUP: THE FACTORY DEFAULT SETTING IS SETTING #3 (230V/11A),
if no selection is made. To change this setting, press the ‘RESET/SEL’ button and then adjust the value on
the display to one of the four options shown below. Press the ‘DRAIN/ENT’button to conrm.
Option Voltage Current Output Output Output
1115 V 11 A 10.1 gpd 1.5 kg/h 3.5 lbs/hr
2115 V 14.5 A 13.9 gpd 2.2 kg/h 4.9 lbs/hr
3230 V 11 A 20.9 gpd 3.3 kg/h 7.3 lbs/hr Default setting if no selection is made
4230 V 14.5 A 28.5 gpd 4.5 kg/h 9.9 lbs/hr
NOTE: If the incorrect setting is selected or the setting needs to be changed in the future, please contact Technical
Support for further instruction or follow instruction in Section 4.4.
Before You Start

3 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
WARNINGS
BEFORE INSTALLING OR HANDLING THE REMOTE
BLOWER, PLEASE CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW
THE INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY STANDARDS
DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL AND ON THE
LABELS ATTACHED TO THE REMOTE BLOWER.
THIS PRODUCT MUST BE INSTALLED BY A QUALIFIED
HVAC, PLUMBING, OR ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR.
ALL WARRANTIES ARE VOID IF INSTALLED BY A NON-
TECHNICIAN.
IMPORTANT:
• Install the humidier out of the reach of children.
• The humidier must be installed in accordance with
all local and national standards.
• All service and/or maintenance operations must be
performed by qualied personnel who are aware
of the necessary precautions and are capable of
performing the operations correctly.
• The conditions of the environment and the power
supply voltage must comply with the specied
values listed on the data label in the humidier.
• All other uses and modications made to the
humidierthatarenotauthorizedbythemanufacturer
are considered incorrect, and the manufacturer
assumes no liability for the consequences of any such
unauthorized use.
CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE MAIN
POWER TO THE HUMIDIFIER BEFORE OPENING OR
SERVICING THE HUMIDIFIER OR REMOTE BLOWER!
IMPORTANT: BEFORE beginning installation:
• Check for shipping damage to cartons. Mark the
shipping waybill accordingly.
• Open cartons and check for any hidden damage.
Mark the shipping waybill accordingly.
• Check packing slip to ensure all items have been
received. Notify General Filters of any shortages
or damaged parts. You must notify General Filters
within 5 working days of any shortages.
PLEASE NOTE: This product is to be installed only in a
residential setting. The conditions of the environment and
the power supply voltage must comply with the specied
values listed on the data label in the humidier. The humidier must
be installed in accordance with all local and national standards. All
other uses and modications made to the humidier that are not
authorized by the manufacturer are considered incorrect, the
manufacturer assumes no liability for the consequences of any such
unauthorized use and will void warranty.
CAUTION: DISCONNECTTHE MAIN POWER BEFORE OPENING
OR SERVICING THE HUMIDIFIER!
CAUTION: ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD! The humidier has
components under power inside!
CAUTION: SCALDING HAZARD! The humidier has hot parts
(100°C / 212°F).
WARNING: Install out of reach of children. Your humidier
requires water to operate. Do NOT mount it above materials or
machinery that could be damaged if a leak occurs. General Filters
assumes no responsibility for consequential or inconsequential
damage as a result of any leaks.
PLEASE NOTE: The humidier contains powered electrical
devices and hot surfaces. All service and/or maintenance
operations must be performed by qualied personnel who are
aware of the necessary precautions and are capable of performing
the operations correctly. Disconnect the humidier from the main
power supply before accessing any internal parts.
Disposal of the parts of the humidier: the humidier is made up
of metallic and plastic parts. All parts must be disposed of according
to the local standards on waste disposal.

4
Contents
1. HOW IT WORKS 1
1.1 Operating Stages ...............................................................................................................1
1.2 Cylinder Life............................................................................................................................2
1.3 Calculating Humidity Load............................................................................................3
2. MODEL INFORMATION 4
3. INSTALLATION 5
3.1 Positioning...............................................................................................................................5
3.2 Mounting / Dimensions and Weight......................................................................5
3.3 Fastening to the Wall.........................................................................................................6
3.4 Characteristics of the Supply Water.........................................................................7
3.5 Water Connections ............................................................................................................8
3.6 Steam Distribution & Installation...............................................................................8
3.7 Steam Manifold ................................................................................................................ 10
3.8 Steam Hoses........................................................................................................................ 11
3.9 Room Steam Kit................................................................................................................. 11
3.10 Power Supply Voltage Selection............................................................................. 12
3.11 Power Wiring....................................................................................................................... 12
3.12 Control Wiring.................................................................................................................... 13
3.13 Connect the GFX4 Humidistat for ON/OFF Operation ............................ 14
3.14 Modulating Operation ................................................................................................. 14
3.15 Pressure, Safety, and High Limit Switches (Field Supplied) ................... 14
3.16 Furnace Blower Operation / Air Conditioner Relay Interlock .............. 15
3.17 Wiring Connections........................................................................................................ 16
3.18 Wiring Diagram of Controller....................................................................................17
4. START UP 18
4.1 Start-Up Checklist ............................................................................................................ 18
4.2 Starting the Humidier ................................................................................................ 18
4.3 Controller Display............................................................................................................. 19
4.4 Initial Conguration........................................................................................................ 20
4.5 New Steam System or Replacement Steam Cylinder ............................... 20
5. OPERATING THE HUMIDIFIER 22
5.1 Displaying Information................................................................................................. 22
5.2 Selecting Signal Type..................................................................................................... 22
5.3 Changing the Maximum Production................................................................... 23
5.4 GFX4 Humidistat ............................................................................................................. 23
5.5 Alarms ..................................................................................................................................... 25

5 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
6. TROUBLESHOOTING 26
7. MAINTENANCE 27
7.1 Periodic Checks ................................................................................................................. 27
7.2 Cylinder Maintenance................................................................................................... 27
7.3 Maintenance of Other Plumbing Components ...........................................28
7.4 Replacement Parts........................................................................................................... 28
8. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 30
9. LIMITED WARRANTY 34

6

1 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
1. HOW IT WORKS
The 5500 Steam Humidier is an electrode humidier. Unlike
heating elements, electrode steam humidiers produce
steam for humidication by passing electric current through
the water between metal electrodes inside the plastic steam
generator cylinder. Steam output is directly proportional to the
conductivity of the water, the power supply (115V or 230V),
and the amount of electrode immersed in the water.
IMPORTANT: Test the water prior to installation with a
conductivity tester (use GFI #7706 or CGF #GF-AP-2 or
similar) to ensure water conductivity falls between 125 to
1250 S/cm.
1.1 OPERATING STAGES
On a call for humidity, the 5500 Steam Humidier (See Fig. 1.a.)
controller will:
• Open the water ll valve ❶ and allow water to enter the
cylinder. A ow restrictor prevents the unit from lling too
quickly or with too much pressure.
• The water ows up the ll tube ❷and into the ll cup
❸, which creates a 1” air gap to prevent backow of
contaminated water into the feed lines, through the second
ll tube❹and into the bottom of the steam cylinder ❺.
Any backow or overow of water travels through the
overow hose ⓫to the drain.
HL
EVP DT
WATER
OUTLET WATER
INLET
DRAIN
CUP
DP
FILL
CUP
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
STEAM
BOILER UNIT
8
9
10
11
Fig. 1.a
• As the water lls the cylinder, it will reach the electrodes
❻ and electrical current will begin to ow. As the water
continues to ll the cylinder, the current will increase. This is
monitored by an amperage transformer connected to one
of the power wires located on the electronic controller.
• When the desired current is reached, the ll valve will close,
and the water will then begin to warm and produce steam.
• If the water reaches the cylinder full probe ❽or if current
rises too much, the drain pump ❿will be activated to drain
away some water and reduce the current ow to acceptable
levels.
NOTE: Any time the drain pump is activated, the
tempering valve ❾will be opened for tempering the
hot drained water down to less than 140°F / 60°C in
accordance to local and national standards.
Periodically, the unit will activate the drain pump ❿ and
drain water to reduce mineral concentration. Every 120 hours
the unit automatically drains to remove mineral sediment on
the bottom of the cylinder. A strainer in the cylinder helps to
prevent mineral debris from jamming the drain pump.
If the 5500 Steam Humidier remains powered but idle (i.e.
without producing steam) for more than 72 hours (3 days), the
cylinder will automatically be emptied of water and will not
rell until the unit is restarted. If there is no water in the cylinder,
there will be no current ow and no steam production.
The electrodes do not burn out but they will eventually
become completely coated with mineral and the cylinder
will then need to be replaced. Cleaning cylinders may cause
electrode damage, therefore voiding its warranty.
See Section 7: Maintenance for more information.
See Fig. 1.b. for basic components.

2
A
B
C
D
E
Fig. 1.b
NO. DESCRIPTION
A User Interface / Display
B Steam Generator Cylinder
C ON / OFF Switch
DFill and Tempering Valves
E Drain Pump
Tab. 1.a
1.2 CYLINDER LIFE
Basics of the Steam Cylinder
The steam cylinder is the engine of the humidier. As the
water is evaporated inside the cylinder, minerals are left
behind. Much of these minerals are removed through the
cylinder drain, however, some are deposited on the walls of
the cylinder and the cylinder electrodes. When a lower section
of the electrodes develops a thick coating, the water level is
raised to expose clean electrode surface. Eventually minerals
cover the electrodes’entire length with a thick coating and little
electrical current can pass between them, resulting in poor
steam output. The humidier can sense the low amperage
and will display the E8 Cylinder Expired error code. There are
several factors that inuence cylinder life. It is recommended
to replace the steam cylinder every year, before or after every
heating season.
Water
Water characteristics (mineral percentage and types) inuence
cylinder life and can vary greatly from place to place. Most
water conditions result in aky scale that eventually lls the
bottom of the cylinder until it can no longer function. Water
with high silica content can result in a thin glass-like coating
on the electrodes that is highly insulating resulting in shorter
cylinder life. Use only cold water since the supply water is
used to temper the hot drain water. Water quality aects the
operation of this unit, so the 5500 Steam Humidier should be
supplied with water that is untreated, drinkable, not softened,
and not demineralized. The water converted into steam
is automatically replaced through an electric ll valve.
Water Filtration
Typically with municipal/city water, additional ltration of the
incoming water supply is not necessary, but may be required
with well or lake water. If mineral content is known to reduce
cylinder life excessively or if cylinder life proves insucient,
then water ltration can be added. In most cases the addition
of a two-element water lter can improve cylinder life.The lter
should contain an activated carbon element and a particulate
lter element rated for about 5 microns or less (micron is a size
measurement) with a ow rate of at least 2 GPM. The activated
carbon will absorb much of the mineral content while the
particulate lter will catch any granular material or sediment. It
is important to remember that an increase in cylinder life will
be accompanied by the need to replace lter elements with
each cylinder change.
Humidity Load and Cylinder Life
Humidity load demands aect cylinder life. Normal installations
where humidity capacity is properly sized require only
intermittent periods where full humidier capacity is required.
This allows the water level in the cylinder to be increased only
as electrode segments become insulated thus extending
cylinder life. Two-stage ltration is recommended, if excessive
sediment and/or water discoloration occurs, especially with
well or lake water.

3 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
Installations that require constant operation at full capacity
will reduce cylinder life. The water level in the cylinder is, on
average, much higher and the electrodes become completely
insulated more quickly.The importance of providing adequate
humidier capacity should not be underestimated.
Maximum Production
Another factor aecting cylinder life is the maximum
production setting. A higher production rate will result in a
shorter cylinder life (See Fig. 1.c.).
Structures Under Construction
In high-end construction projects, humidication is often
required while the structure is being nished. Humidication
is necessary to protect and stabilize wood oors, trim and
decoration. Humidication load, however, in an unnished
structure may be ve to eight times higher than when nished.
5500 Steam humidiers may be operated while construction
is underway, but reduced cylinder life is to be expected. Good
practice dictates that the steam cylinder also be replaced
once the project is completed.
20%100% Output
Cylinder
life
Fig. 1.c
1.3 CALCULATING HUMIDITY LOAD
Steps to Estimate Humidity Load
Humidity Load Calculation (GPD)
Total Square Footage
x Average Ceiling Height
x Factor from Table 1.b.
x 1.05 for each Fireplace
x 2.88
_________________________
Gallons per Day
Pounds of Moisture / Hour / Cubic Foot*
Temp 0F/0C 35% 40% 45% 50%
68°F/20°C 0.00015 0.00018 0.00021 0.00024
70°F/21°C 0.00017 0.00020 0.00023 0.00026
72°F/22°C 0.00019 0.00022 0.00025 0.00028
* Based on .5 air charges per hour
Tab. 1.b
Example:
• 2,500 SF house with 1,000 SF basement (3,500 SF total
square footage)
• 9 ft. ceilings
• 70°F and 40% RH
• 2 replaces
Humidity Load = 3,500 x 9 x .00020 x 1.05 x 1.05 X 2.88 = 20
gpd
For more accurate results based on U.S. geographic region, see
the GeneralAire® online humidity calculator at https://www.
generallters.com/support/humidity-calculator.html.

4
2. MODEL INFORMATION
Model 5500
Fig. 2.a
Installation Kit (Included)
Fig. 2.b
RMB15/RMB35 Room Steam Kits
(Optional and sold separately)
Fig. 2.c
GFI # CGF# DESCRIPTION PARTS INCLUDED
5580 GF-5500 Model 5500 steam unit features:
• 115V – 230V dual voltage
• 125 – 1250 µS/cm water conductivity
using AP-2 (GFI #7066)
• Duct steam injection
• Drain pump output - 10 to 28.5 gpd
(3.5 to 9.9 lbs./hr)
Includes humidier and duct steam mounting
kit components: 6 ft. steam hose, 8 inch steam
manifold, GFX4 humidistat, 10 ft. drain hose,
ball valve, water ll connector, water supply
tubing kit, mounting straps, hardware kit.
Tab. 2.c
Optional Room Steam Kits (Purchased Separately)
GFI # CGF# DESCRIPTION PARTS INCLUDED
7665 RMB15R RMB15 – Room Steam Kit 115V.
For use with 115V setting on steam unit.
115V room blower assembly
and grille package
7660 RMB35R RMB35 – Room Steam Kit 230V.
For use with 230V setting on steam unit.
230V room blower assembly and grille package
Tab. 2.d

5 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
3. INSTALLATION
3.1 POSITIONING
The 5500 Steam Humidier has been designed for wall
mounting and since it is an electrode steam humidier,
should be placed close to the point where the steam will be
ducted to minimize the steam hose length (and the amount
of condensate).
IMPORTANT: Certain minimum clearances must be
maintained around the unit for safety and maintenance.
(See Fig. 3.a. and Table 3.a)
IMPORTANT: DO NOT introduce steam into duct that has
interior insulation.
E
A
B
C
D
F
Fig. 3.a
Item Description Inches mm
A Side 6 150
BTop 6 150
C Side 6 150
D Bottom 6 150
E Front 24 600
F Angularity 0.20 max
Tab. 3.a
3.2 MOUNTING / DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
Removing the Front Cover
The front cover is fastened by two tabs at the top and one
screw located at the bottom center of the unit. Use a Phillips
head screwdriver to remove the screw (Fig. 3.b.), then swing
and lift cover away from the back part of the unit. Return it in
reverse order. Be careful not to over-tighten the screw.
See Table 3.b for dimensions and weights.
A
B
C
Fig. 3.b
Item Description Inches mm
A Width 13.0 345
B Depth 8.25 206
C Height 21.0 533
Pounds Kilos
Empty weight 16 7.3
Weight with water 24 10.9
Shipping weight 26 11.8
Tab. 3.b

6
3.3 FASTENING TO THE WALL
The 5500 Steam Humidier can be installed on a nished wall or exposed studs per the following options:
• Option 1: Attach directly to a wall using the supplied screws and anchors. Use the two inner holes of the supplied mounting
strap as a template for the humidier mounting holes (marked by “A” in Fig. 3.c). Once marked, the two top screws can be
installed rst and then the steam unit can be hung on the screws using the keyhole slots.
• Option 2: Attach to studs using the supplied mounting straps (Fig. 3.c.). The mounting straps can be used to span an open
stud cavity or secured to studs through a nished wall. Secure the mounting straps to the studs using the two outer holes.
Then secure the steam humidier to the mounting straps using the two inner holes, which will align to the mounting holes
in the steam unit.
18.48”
[469.5 mm]
2.13”
[54 mm]
2.52“
[64 mm]
TOP
A A
5.51”
[140 mm]
11.02”
[280 mm]
A A
4.09”
[103.9 mm] 3.15” [80 mm] 1.46”
[837 mm]
1.67”
[42.5 mm]
1.38”
[35 mm]
BOTTOM
16”(406.4 mm)
11.02”(280 mm)
3.49”
[88.6 mm]
1“
[25.4 mm]
MOUNTING STRAP
(2 PER UNIT)
2.13”(54 mm)
Fig. 3.c

7 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
3.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SUPPLY WATER
The humidier must be supplied with water with the following characteristics:
• Incoming Pressure: Between 20psi and 90psi or 0.1 and 0.8 MPa (1 - 6 bar)
• Maximum intermittent pressure: 110psi (8 bar). Maximum intermittent pressure includes water hammer or other supply water
pressure spikes. High-water pressure can be addressed with water hammer arrestors or pressure regulators.
• Temperature: Between 33°F and 70°F or 1°C and 21°C
• Flow-rate: Minimum of 0.45 L/min or 0.12gpm
• Hardness: No greater than 40°fH (equal to 400 ppm of CaCO3)
• Conductivity: From 125 to 1250 S/cm using AP-2 (GFI #7066) or similar
• Absence of organic compounds
• The characteristics of the water of supply must fall within the following limits (Table 3.c.)
NORMAL WATER LOW SALT
CONTENT WATER
UNITS MIN MAX MIN MAX
Hydrogen ions (pH) 7 8.5
Specic conductivity (R,20°C) S/cm 125 1250
Total dissolved solids (c R) mg/l (*) (*) (*) (*)
Dry residue at 180°C mg/l (*) (*) (*) (*)
Total hardness mg/l CaCO 0 200 50 160
Temporary hardness mg/l CaCO = 150 = 200
Iron + Manganese mg/l Fe + Mn = 0.2 = 0.2
Chlorides ppm Cl = 20 = 30
Chlorides mg/Si2O = 20 = 20
Chlorine residue mg/l Cl- = 0.2 = 0.2
Calcium sulphate mg/l CaS4O = 60 = 100
Tab. 3.c
* Values are dependent on the specic conductivity: cR~=0.65*σR, 20°C; R180~=0.9*σR, 20°C.
NOTE: There is no relationship between the hardness and conductivity of water.
IMPORTANT: The following water types are not acceptable:
• Softened water (will lead to foam, electrode corrosion and greatly shortened cylinder life)
• Water containing disinfectants or corrosion inhibiters (potential irritants)
• Industrial water, boiler water or water from cooling circuits
• Any potentially chemically or bacteriologically-contaminated water
• Heated water

8
3.5 WATER CONNECTIONS
Before proceeding, make sure that the humidier
is disconnected from the main power supply.
Connection to the main water supply
Connect the ll valve and the water supply line using a
soft ¼” poly hose capable of absorbing water hammering
in order to avoid damage to the ll valve. Route the water line
throughthebottomofthe unit. Assoftpolytubingisused inthe
installation,installtubingsupporttopreventtubingcollapseand
leaks. The tting threads onto the ll valve inlet located on the
bottom of the humidier using a 3/4”G connection (supplied).
NOTE: A strainer is built into the ll valve tting
underneath the unit that requires periodic cleaning. Be
sure to allow clearance for access (See Fig. 3.d.).
Water Drain and Drain Hose
The 5500 Steam Humidier requires a connection to an open
drain. A 10’ length of ¾” ID drain hose is included with unit.
Attach the drain hose to the water drain tting and secure
with the hose clamp provided. The hose must have a constant
downward slope (cannot be kinked, blocked, or create a trap)
and can be routed directly to a oor drain, condensate pump,
or drain standpipe. Trim the drain hose as needed and ensure
that that drain hose is located such that it cannot be blocked
or pinched after installation.
Note: The drain hose should have a smooth bend to an open
drain. A 90 degree elbow or closed piping may cause the
water to back up into the drain pan area of the humidier,
possibly overowing under unit.
See Technical Specications for drain ow rate.
Condensate Pump
When using a condensate pump, ensure pump is capable of
storing about 1.1 gallons in 15 seconds with a pump output of
3 gpm or more.
Water drain tting Fill valve and lter
Fig. 3.d
3.6 STEAM DISTRIBUTION & INSTALLATION
The maximum allowed duct static pressure is 2 in. WC.
IMPORTANT: Allow 5 feet (1-1/2 M) of straight return duct
downstream of the distributor pipe or nozzle for absorption of
the steam. Always allow 3 feet (0.9M) of straight supply duct
upstream of the distributor pipe or nozzle for evaporation of
the steam. Turbulent air ow may require longer lengths.
8”Steam Manifold (included)
The model 5500 Steam Humidier comes standard with
an 8” steam manifold. An optional steam nozzle and steam
manifolds are available separately for other installations.
The 8”steam manifold should be installed on a vertical surface
and must be angled up (see Fig. 3.e.). The steam distribution
holes must always be facing up; the holes should never be
installed facing downward. A condensate hose is not required.
To install the 8” steam manifold, drill a 1” diameter hole in the
vertical surface of the duct as shown in Fig. 3.g. Apply silicone
sealant to the mounting plate of the tube. Attach the manifold
to the duct using (4) #10 sheet metal screws (supplied).
Connect the steam hose with the hose clamps provided.

9 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
.25”Dia.
(4) Holes
8.301.76
.90”Dia.
UP
2” Sq.
3” Sq.
Fig. 3.e
Side Installation Horizontal Duct
Height >8”
1/3 Height
Fig. 3.f
Side Installation Vertical Duct
==
8” Min
Fig. 3.g
Important: DO NOT introduce steam
into a duct that has interior insulation.
Steam Nozzle (optional)
The optional steam nozzle (See Fig. 3.h. and Table 3.d.) can be
used for horizontal surface installations (i.e. the bottom of a
horizontal duct) or vertical surface installations (See Fig. 3.i.).
A condensate hose is required. To install the steam nozzle,
cut a 2-1/2” round hole in the duct. Apply silicone sealant to
the mounting plate and insert the nozzle through the hole
and secure with sheet metal screws. Connect the steam and
condensate hoses using the hose clamps supplied. Select
an accessible location on the duct, allowing at least 36” of
straight duct (no elbows or obstructions) after the point where
the steam nozzle will be installed and the clearances can be
maintained as per the following drawings.
F
H
G
I
C
A
BB
D
A
A
E
BA
Steam Inlet
Condensate drain Apply silicone
sealant to this face
Fig. 3.h
Inches mm
A 1.24” 31.5 mm
B 1.96” 50 mm
C 2.20” 56 mm
F 2.26” 57.5 mm
E 3.93” 100 mm
F  0.31”  8 mm
G  0.86”  22 mm
H 1.18“  30 mm
I 0.87” 22 mm
Tab. 3.d

10
10
1/3 height
H > 8”
Airow
1000 cfm. min
Airow
1000 cfm. min
Airow
min 8” 200 mm
=
=
Airow
1000 cfm min.
24”min
Upstream 36”min
Downstream
=
=
min 8” 200 mm
Bottom Installation
Horizontal Duct
Side Installation
Horizontal Duct
Side Installation
Vertical Duct
Fig. 3.i
3.7 STEAM MANIFOLD 12”& 17.5” OPTIONS AVAILABLE
For certain applications, a longer steam manifold may be required. Select an accessible location on the duct, allowing at least
36”of straight duct (no elbows or obstructions) after the point where the steam manifold will be installed and the clearances can
be maintained as per the following drawings.
To mount the steam manifold, cut or drill a 2-1/2”hole in the duct (See Fig. 3.i). Apply caulk to the mounting plate of the manifold.
Attach the steam manifold to the duct using (4) #10 sheet metal screws (supplied). Install end bracket to maintain correct slope.
IMPORTANT: Allow 5 feet (1-1/2 m) of straight return duct downstream of the distributor pipe or nozzle for absorption of
the steam. Always allow 3 feet (0.9 m) of straight supply duct upstream of the distributor manifold or nozzle for evaporation of
the steam. Turbulent air ow may require longer lengths.
The return condensate hose from the steam nozzle / steam manifold must be trapped. Coil the hose into a vertical loop and
secure it below the steam nozzle / steam manifold. This trap prevents steam from being released into the cabinet. The end of the
¼”ID hose may be run through the knockout at the top of the humidier and inserted into the hole located on top of the ll cup.
A
B
Y
X
dimensions in mm (inches)
use the manifold support bracket, supplied, to ensure
the 2° slope due to the shape of the ange
22 (0.87”)
10 (0.39”)
58 (2.28”)
35 (1.38”)
68 (2.68”)
30 (1.18”)
10 (0.39”)
68 (2.68”)
45 (1.77”)
77 (3.03”)
Optional stainless-steel steam manifold
USA: 25-10 12”or 25-11 17.5” Canada: GF-DP030 Kit 12”or GF-DP045 Kit 17.5”
condensate drain ange gasket
steam inlet
BY
hole in wall
screws max. dia.“M5”
X
A
X
°2
fasten the manifold support bracket
L (see table on above)
Fig. 3.j

11 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
3.8 STEAM HOSES
To avoid these problems, remember one simple fact when running the steam hose: steam naturally ows up hill and
condensate naturally ows downhill. Run the steam hose or piping to avoid any kinks, sharp elbows, or low spots that could
collect or restrict the ow of steam to the distributor manifold, or the ow of condensate back to the humidier. Support
the hose adequately to avoid sags. The following diagrams are provided as guidelines. Contact General Filters for unusual
installations.
IMPORTANT WARNING: Most operational problems are created by improper steam hose installation from the
humidier unit to the duct distributor manifold.
≥5%
≥5%
1.5 m (5 FT max.)
3 m (10 FT max.)
≥20%
0 m (3 FT max.)
1.5 m (5 FT max.)
YES
1.5 m (5 FT max.)
without condensation drainage
horizontal stretch
Steam pipes Condensate
Drain
Condensate drain
with siphon
Note: The condensate
drain trap height must
exceed the static pressure
of the duct.
NOTE:
• The minimum slope of the steam delivery pipe in the
ascending section must be 20%;
• The minimum slope of the steam delivery pipe in the
downward section must be 5%;
• The maximum tube length is 4m / 13ft.
Typical installation of the unit
is located above the
steam distributor
condensate drain
NO
curvature radius too small
bottleneck
depression no slope
no siphon
dip without
drainage
depression without
drainage
no condensate
drainage
≥20%
≥20%
≥20%
Fig. 3.k
IMPORTANT: The standard steam unit comes with 6 feet (1.8m) of steam hose. Maximum total length of rubber steam
hose is 3.65m (12 feet). The maximum total length of insulated copper tubing may be up to 6.1m (20 feet). The maximum
combined allowed length of steam hose and insulated copper tubing is 9.75m (32 feet). In all cases, minimize sharp bends and
elbows. Use two 45° elbows instead of one 90° elbow. Hose inner diameter 7/8” (22 mm); Hose outer diameter 1¼” (30 mm).
Additional steam hose is available GFI #7513 / CGF #GF-20-2.
3.9 ROOM STEAM KIT
Refer to instructions included in the RMB15 (115V) / RMB35 (230V) Room Steam Kit.

12
3.10 POWER SUPPLY VOLTAGE SELECTION
The humidier can be powered at either a nominal voltage
of 115 Vac 50/60 Hertz or a nominal voltage of 230 Vac 50/60
Hz. If the main power supply is 115 Vac, the setting must be
changed accordingly, following the procedure described
below:
• Make sure the power cable is disconnected from the main
power supply and the power button is in the OFF position.
• Remove the top cover from the unit.
• Set the line voltage selector (shown in Fig. 3.l.) to the desired
voltage.
WARNING: Select desired power supply
voltage. The factory setting is 230 Vac.
230
115
Fig. 3.l
3.11 POWER WIRING
Insert the power and ground connection cables into the
electrical panel compartment using the cable clamps (See Fig.
3.m).
Connect the power cables to the terminal block at the bottom
left of the control module; polarity does not matter (See Fig.
3.n).
WARNING: All wiring must be in accordance with local,
state and national electric codes.
NOTE: To avoid unwanted interference, the power cables
should be kept separate from any control wiring.
NOTE: Tolerance allowed on main voltage =
- 15% to + 10%.
Connect the ground wire to the unit’s chassis ground, located
just behind the power wiring terminal block. (See Fig. 3.o.)
Refer to Table 3.e for electrical specications.
Fig. 3.m
L1 L2
Fig. 3.n
Fig. 3.o

13 Form No. 5500-32 Rev C
Code: +0700092EN REV 3.2 04APR2022
ENG
Model Power Supply
(single phase)
Steam Output
(lbs/hr)
Steam Output
(kg/h) Power (kw) Current (A) External Power Wires
External Fuse
(A) or Breaker
5500 115-230 VAC
50/60 Hz
9.9 @ 230V
4.9 @ 115V
4.5 @ 230V
2.1@115V 3.3 max. 14 AWG12 20
Tab. 3.e
3.12 CONTROL WIRING
5500 Steam Humidiers allow for the connection of any simple
or automatic humidistat, safety devices such as a high limit
humidistat, air ow proving switch, or remote ON/OFF switch).
The control wiring terminal blocks are located at the top right
of the control module (Fig. 3.p).
Fig. 3.p
The humidier is operated by the closing of a mechanical
humidistat H, by the closing of a voltage-free remote
contact, or by a combination of both. The most common is a
combination of a humidistat and pressure switch.
The diagrams following show the connections to
be made on the terminal block, in case of:
• Fig. 3.q: Operation controlled by an external mechanical
humidistat
• Fig. 3.r: Operation performed by a simple enabling contact
• Fig. 3.s: A combination of both humidistat and pressure
switch
N2
G ND
N1
AB
AB
G ND
IN H
Fig. 3.q
N2
G ND
N1
AB
AB
G ND
IN
Fig. 3.r
N2
G ND
N1
AB
AB
G ND
IN H
Fig. 3.s

14
Contact AB-AB:
• Closed: humidier enabled to produce steam (production
starts when humidistat closes).
• Open: steam production is immediately stopped.
• The remote ON/OFF contact is usually a series of external
potential-free contacts that enable the humidier to produce
steam when all of them are closed, indicating the duct/AHU
is ready to accept steam. Connect the 12502 Pressure Switch
NO and C terminals to the AB-AB contacts.
For Example:
• Fan contact closes when fan is running.
• Downstream cooling coil contact closes when coil is o, etc.
Contact IN-GND:
• Closed: steam production starts if contact AB-AB is closed.
• Open: steam production is stopped after 5 seconds.
3.13 CONNECT THE GFX4 HUMIDISTAT FOR
ON/OFF OPERATION
Reference Fig 3.t See the GFX4 installation manual for
complete instructions.
1. Remove the humidistat from the base, squeeze the
louvered base at the top and bottom. To remove the
humidistat from the wall, lift up on the humidistat and
pivot top away from wall.
• Before wall mounting, remove the black foam gasket.
• Before return air duct mounting, remove the breakout
piece.
2. If return air duct mounting, route wires between humidistat
and base.
3. Mount the sensor outside the house, at least 4 feet away
from any exhaust vent. If in air intake, place 1 foot or closer
to outside wall. Place at least 6” higher than possible snow.
Do not mount on south side of the house or in direct
sunlight. Do not route sensor wire near high voltage wires.
4. Connect the GFX4 and steam humidier to the HVAC
equipment as shown in Fig. 3.s. to activate the HVAC
blower.
N2
G ND
N1
AB
AB
G ND
IN
NO
C
NC
C
NO
GND
24V
JUMPER
R C G
HVAC EQUIPMENT STEAM HUMIDIFIER
Fig. 3.t
3.14 MODULATING OPERATION
Connect an external 0 to 10 VDC modulating input between
terminals IN-GND. Connect any safety switches (high limit, air
ow switch, remote ON/OFF) in series to terminals AB-AB. If
no safety switches are used, then a jumper must be installed
between AB-AB. DO NOT apply any voltage to AB-AB.
3.15 PRESSURE, SAFETY, AND HIGH LIMIT
SWITCHES FIELD SUPPLIED
Recommended as an additional precaution. Remove the
jumper between terminals AB-AB and connect any simple
high limits air ow switch (suggest part HC-201; GFI #7520
or similar); a pressure switch (suggest part 12502; GFI #7021
or similar), and remote contacts in series to terminals AB-AB;
otherwise, if no such dry contacts are available, the jumper
must remain in place between terminals AB-AB. DO NOT
apply any voltage to AB-AB. Thread the control wiring through
the bottom of the unit, and the strain relief (see photo at top
of previous page), and then up the side of the control module
to the top right wiring terminal blocks. Connect the control
wiring to the control wiring terminal blocks found at the top
right side of the control module. See Fig 3.u.
PRESSURE
SWITCH
REF
OUT
Fig. 3.u