HUMIDIFIRST MIST-PAC SERIES User manual

HUMIDIFIRST
HUMIDIFIRST
ULTRASONIC HUMIDIFIERS
OWNER’S MANUAL
FOR
MIST-PAC SERIES
ULTRASONIC HUMIDIFIERS
7-21-05

2
HUMIDIFIRST
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introduction 3
Understanding humidification 3
Principles of ultrasonic humidification 4
Calculating your humidification load
Humidifirst load calculation sheet 6
Physical dimensions of the humidifier modules 7
Master panel dimensions and layout 8
Specification of the humidifier and controls 9
Positioning your humidifier module and Master Panel 10
Installation requirements 10
Installation Parameters & Guidelines 11
Before you start your humidifier for the first time 12
Starting your humidifier for the first time 13
Trouble shooting at start-up time 14, 15, 16
Trouble shooting after start-up 17
Recommended Maintenance
a. Basic maintenance 18
b. Transducer maintenance 18
c. End of humidifier season shutdown 19
d. Humidistat cleaning 19
Warranty 19
Manual Disclaimer 19
Start-up form 20, 21, 22

3
HUMIDIFIRST
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of a HUMIDIFIRST Mist-Pac ultrasonic humidifier –
the highest quality and most “User Friendly” commercial/industrial humidifier available
today. Your selection of an ultrasonic humidifier provides you with the benefits of this
technology, including energy efficiency, minimal maintenance, and healthy,
uncontaminated moisture. And HUMIDIFIRST humidifiers are 100% American
made.
HUMIDIFIRST humidifiers are made of ABS plastic. This ensures unit longevity,
minimal maintenance, and a clean, healthy humidifier.
UNDERSTANDING HUMIDIFICATION
Maintaining a specific relative humidity level in a building or a room is not an exact
science. Quality of construction, vapor barrier, air infiltration, and air exhaust all play a
role in the ability of a humidifier to maintain the relative humidity of a space. Also, some
older buildings may form ice in colder temperatures on the outside walls due to
humidified air seeping through cracks. Windows, too, may ice up when the outside
temperature drops. The type of window (e.g. single pane, double pane) can affect the
amount of window icing or sweating.
The level of relative humidity at which you maintain the space will also affect the amount
of window icing or sweating. For example, a building may have moisture problems at
50% RH but not at 30% RH.
Also, bear in mind that relative humidity may fluctuate in a given space. If you walk
around a large room with a hand held relative humidity meter, you may find variations in
relative humidity. This is typically due to variations in space temperature. Relative
humidity is “relative” to temperature, and hence changes in space temperature will affect
the relative humidity of the air.

4
HUMIDIFIRST
PRINCIPLES OF ULTRASONIC HUMIDIFIERS
Ultrasonic humidifiers vibrate a water mist into the air by using piezoelectric crystals
(transducers). The transducers are mounted in a pan of water approximately 1.5 inches
deep. Each transducer is approximately the size of a nickel and vibrates at approximately
1.6 megahertz, a speed so fast that the water above the crystal cannot follow the speed of
the transducer, causing the water to cavitate. This process emits very small water
droplets into the air, approximately one micron in diameter (similar in size to steam
droplets). The water droplets are so small that they evaporate almost immediately.
The water feeding an ultrasonic humidifier must be pure so that minerals and other
contaminates are not vibrated into the air. Such purity is achieved with de-ionized (DI)
water filters to remove all minerals and foreign matter from the water. DI water offers
additional benefits. It assures a pure, healthy mist for those
breathing the air, and it significantly reduces the amount of maintenance required for the
humidifier, i.e. no scaling or sludge to be removed from the humidifier pan.

5
HUMIDIFIRST
HUMIDIFIRST humidifier sizing calculations
When calculating the humidification loads of a space we will generalize and assume that
the majority of the humidification load will come from two areas:
1. Ventilation, Exhaust, or Infiltration of air: Most buildings have air exchanges with
the outside because of one or more of these three items.
A. Ventilation is a result of air conditioning systems bringing outside air in to
provide fresh air to the inhabitants.
B. Exhaust is the mechanical removal of air from a space when processes inside of
the building require the removal of dirty, hot or unwanted air.
C. Infiltration occurs when air comes into a space from outside. Air may come in
through small openings around doors, windows, ceilings, etc. Also, infiltration
often occurs from frequent opening of doors.
For each Cubic Foot per Minute (CFM) of outside air that is brought into the space,
moisture must be added to achieve your relative humidity requirements.
2. Air conditioning: When an air conditioner runs, it removes moisture from the air.
This is known as Latent cooling. If the air conditioner will be running during your
humidification season, you must take this dehumidification process into account.
The cooling ability of an air conditioner is normally rated by the manufacturer and is
stated in Sensible and Total cooling capacity in btu’s per hour. Subtract the Sensible
cooling capacity from the Total cooling capacity to get the Latent cooling capacity.
For every 1000 btu’s/hour of Latent cooling capacity you will need to add one pound
of moisture.
Please note that there are other factors that can add to your humidification requirements,
such as moisture absorption of items in your space. We generally ignore them because
most often they play only a minor part of your humidification requirements. Contact us
if you think you have unique requirements.
See the next page for a simple chart that you can fill in and send to us. We would be
happy to assist you with sizing your humidification system.

6
HUMIDIFIRST
HUMIDIFIRST can assist you with your humidifier sizing. Fax to us (801-760-2777)
the following information:
Your name: _________________________________
Your Company: _________________________________
Phone number: _________________________________
Fax number: _________________________________
Project name: _________________________________________
Zone: _________________________________________
Indoor design conditions required: Temperature ________ ° F Relative humidity _______% RH
Outdoor (ambient) design condition: Temperature _______ ° F Relative humidity _______% RH
CFM of outdoor (ventilation) air: (see item 1 on previous page) _______________
BTU’s per hour of Latent cooling (see item 2 on previous page) _______________
Please do not hesitate to call us (561-752-1936) if you have any questions or if we can
help you with your calculations.

7
HUMIDIFIRST
Physical dimensions of humidifier modules
Humidifier Capacity Power Weight Dimensions Number of Fan
Module (#/hr) used (lbs.) WxDxH (in.) Transducers CFM
MP-5 5 135 va 9 9.0 x 12.9 x 12.5 4 45
MP-15 15 380 va 12 21.0 x 12.9 x 12.5 12 90
2.0”
12.25”
12.9”

8
MIST PAC MASTER POWER AND CONTROL PANEL
DRAWN BY
CHK'D BY
SCALE
DATE
DRAWING # REV.
REVISION DATE
HUMIDIFIRST
UM - 5/15 A
DBW
PANEL MASTER PANEL
HINGE THIS SIDE
1-11-04
- PANEL SIZE: 12" X 12" X 8"
- 6' POWER CORD WITH PLUG ATTACHED
- 10' CONTROL/POWER HARBNESS WITH
QUICK-CONNECTS PROVIDED
- 10' CORD TO HUMIDISTAT
- PANEL TO BE UL LISTED
- ENCLOSURE TO HAVE HIGH QUALITY FINISH,
WITH BAKED POWERED PAINT, COLOR -
LIGHT BROWN NTS
POWER CORD WITH 115 V PLUG
HUMIDISTAT
ON /OFF SWITCH
FRONT DOOR FASTENER, 1/2 TURN
CONTROL / POWER HARNESS - TO HUMIDIFIER

9
HUMIDIFIRST
HUMIDIFIRST “Mist-Pac”
Ultrasonic humidifier Specifications
Humidifier module and Master Panel
The humidifier shall be a packaged, self-contained ultrasonic humidifier using the
principle of ultrasonic nebulization. Each humidifier shall use a multiple of ultrasonic
transducers that vibrate at approximately 1.6 megahertz, producing a droplet size of
approximately 1 micron. Each transducer circuit shall use the “thickness vibration
method” of humidification via a piezoelectric converter. The ultrasonic transducers shall
convert the electric energy into mechanical energy, causing the water to cavitate,
resulting in the production on one micron sized water particles. The design of the
humidifier housing shall prevent larger droplets from leaving the humidifier assembly.
The humidifier shall consume no more than 33 watts per pound of humidification
generated.
The ultrasonic humidifier shall not produce any unacceptable noise. The sound level
shall not exceed 50 db at 5 feet from the humidifier module
The ultrasonic humidifier shall not require a flush cycle and shall have instant on and off
operation in order to maintain precise room relative humidity.
The humidifier housing and discharge nozzles shall be made of ABS plastic.
The system shall be pre-wired with quick connects provided to connect the Master Panel
to the humidifier module. The Master Panel will be provided with:
1. Pre-wired humidistat with 10’cord
2. 6’ power cord with 120 volt plug
3. 10’ power/control cord to connect the Master Panel to the humidifier
Each humidifier shall have the following components:
A. A water tube connection kit to include a set of quick disconnect service
valves to easily isolate the humidifier when servicing.
B. Solenoid valve to control water flow into the humidifier
C. Float switch to control water level.
D. Float switch to provide for low water shutdown
E. Piezoelectric crystals (transducers)
F. On/off humidistat

10
HUMIDIFIRST
Positioning your Humidifirst Ultrasonic humidification system
Locating the humidifier module
Properly locating the humidifier module is very important and by doing so will eliminate
many potential problems. The MIST-PAC is designed for either shelf mounting or
suspending from the ceiling. Ceiling suspended units should be hung at least two feet
below the ceiling. Allow ten feet in front of and 6 feet below the unit for maximum mist
evaporation. Of course, the evaporation rate will depend upon the relative humidity and
temperature of the space. It is important that you locate the humidifier so that air
currents do not cause the discharged mist to re-circulate back to the intake fan(s).
This may cause failure of the fan(s) and internal electronic components.
See the “Installation Parameters & Guidelines” on the following pages.
Locating the Master Panel
The Master Panel can be mounted on an adjacent wall or laid adjacent to the humidifier
module. Care should be taken so that the panel cannot fall and cause harm to anyone.
The panel can be locked for security.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
HUMIDIFIRST humidifiers are packaged humidifiers. Our standard unit requires no
field power or control wiring. They simply plug into the standard 120 volt power outlet
(we provide a 6 foot power cord). A humidistat is pre-wired to a ten (10) foot cable. A
pre-wired ten (10) foot umbilical cord connects the humidifier to the control box.
The unit should be mounted so that it is level from side to side and from front to back.
The assembled MIST-PAC consists of an ABS plastic humidifier unit and industrial
plastic control box.

11
HUMIDIFIRST
INSTALLATION PARAMETERS & GUIDELINES
MECHANICAL
1. The supply air temperature to the humidifier modules should be between 40 F
and 122 F at 90% relative humidity or less.
2. It is advisable that a safety drain pan be installed underneath the humidifier
module and piped to the nearest drain.
3. The humidifier must be mounted level from front to back and from side to side.
WATER AND WATER PIPING
1. Water supply pressure should be between 10 psi to 75 psi.
2. Water supply temperature should be between 40 F to 100 F.
3. Pure water, 2.5 parts per million (ppm) or cleaner, should be used in the
humidifier. Water dirtier that 10 ppm can introduce dust into the air, which will
eventually collect inside of the facility. Dirty water will normally not damage the
humidifier but will require more frequent humidifier maintenance.
4. Reverse osmosis systems with de-ionization bottles or just de-ionization bottles,
alone, are typically used for water treatment. Please contact us for sizing and/or
selection of water treatment equipment. Undersized water treatment systems can
cause damage to the humidification system.
5. Water piping to each humidifier should be designed for use with de-ionized water
ie. stainless steel, appropriate plastic, etc.
(check local building codes requirements)
ELECTRICAL
1. Follow all local, State, and Federal wiring guidelines.
2. Allowable voltage variance +/- 10%.
3. The power source should be provided with a circuit breaker.

12
HUMIDIFIRST
Before starting the humidification system
CAUTION !!
1. With the power to the Master control panel disconnected, make sure that all
wire connections are tight. Excessive vibration during the shipping process can
cause wire connections at terminals and electrical components to become loose.
2. Before operating the humidifier for the first time, remove the humidifier lid and
pour water into the basin to a depth of 1”. This will help protect the transducers
from failing if problems occurred during shipment.
3. Always make sure the humidifier is mounted on a flat surface so that water
equally covers the transducers. Use a level to assure that the humidifier is
mounted correctly.
4. Always have at least 10 PSI of water pressure connected to the humidifier
module.
Caution:
a. When water purification systems are used, pressure drops may be
substantial and may reduce water flow to the humidifier.
b. Never operate the humidifier by “hand pouring” water into the humidifier.
Running the humidifier for extended periods of time without 1.5” of water
above the transducers will cause the transducers to fail. (The low water
safety switch that is integral to the humidifier control is only used to prevent
the humidifier from running dry. Also, not having water run through the
water solenoid valve may cause it to overheat and fail.)
5. Never service the humidifier with the power connected.
6. Incorrect field wiring between the Master Panel and the humidifier module can
cause immediate failure of all of the transducers.

13
HUMIDIFIRST
STARTING UP YOUR SYSTEM FOR THE FIRST TIME
First, make sure the system is ready to be started. This means that the humidifier module
and Master Panel are mounted properly and are ready. All the water connections must be
in place and supply water must be available. All electrical connections must be ready and
the main power must be available.
1. Before the Humidifirst humidification system is started, the water supply lines
that supply water to the humidifier module should be flushed for 5 minutes to
ensure that the water lines are clean and free of debris.
If you are using a Reverse Osmosis system to purify your water, it may take as
long as 45 minutes for water to start to flow. Even at peak flow, the Reverse
Osmosis unit may only produce a trickle of water. (One Mist-Pac 15 uses about 2
gallons per hour)
If you are using a De-Ionization bottle for water treatment, the water will start to
flow in 5 to 15 minutes.
2. Remove the humidifier lid and pour water into the basin tot a depth of 1”.
3. Before plugging the Master Panel into a 120 volt outlet check all electrical
connections for tightness. Make sure the system is ready to be started and that all
water and electrical connections are correct. Flip the circuit breakers to the “on”
position before closing the lid.
4. Plug the power cord from the Master Panel into the 120-volt wall receptacle.
5. Turn the “On/Off” switch (located on the front of the Master Panel) to the “On”
position.
6. Adjust the humidistat to the desired set point. It may take 5-45 minutes for the
water level in the basin to rise to the required level (approximately 1 ½”) before
the mist will start. If the mist does not start when the water level is reached then
adjust the humidistat to a higher set point - the room relative humidity set point
may already be satisfied or the humidistat may need calibrating.
CAUTION: OPERATING THE TRANSDUCERS WITHOUT WATER
COVERING THEM BY MANUALLY LIFTING THE FLOAT SWITCH
WILL CAUSE THEIR IMMEDIATE FAILURE.
7. To verify that the humidifier module is filling with water, you can briefly lift the
lid of the humidifier module to visually inspect the water.
8. Once the humidifier module is full the “low water safety” relay should switch to
the “on” position and the humidifier module should start operating. This will not
happen until there is approximately 1 ½” of water in the basin.
9. Visually inspect the humidifier modules for proper operation and the mist
absorption path.

14
HUMIDIFIRST
TROUBLE SHOOTING
IMPORTANT !!! NEVER WORK ON THE INSIDE OF THE HUMIDIFIER
WHEN THE UNIT IS PLUGGED INTO THE WALL OUTLET
Symptom:
1. The humidifier does not power up
a. If you want the humidification system to operate and it will not, first make sure
that there is a call for humidification and that the humidistat set-point is higher
than the relative humidity in the space.
b. Make sure the on/off switch in the “on” position.
c. There are circuit breakers/fuses in the Master Control panel, one for the main
input power and each one for 24 vac and 48 vac. Some versions have a 120 vac
circuit breaker on the secondary of the transformer. It is possible that one is in
the “off” position or a fuse is blown.
2. If water does not flow into the humidifier body:
Check that there is power to the humidifier first and make sure that there is a call for
humidifier operation – turn the humidistat to the highest set-point.
a. Check water source to confirm that the water is turned on.
b. Make sure that all water connections are made.
c. Check the circuit breakers that are located in the Master Panel on the terminal
strip.
d. Check the float switch in the humidifier body to ensure that it moves freely.
e. Check the relays to ensure that they are pushed in firmly.
f. Check all internal wiring connections and make sure that none are loose.
g. Using a volt-meter, and referring to the wiring diagram, check to see that 24 volt
power is going to the solenoid valve.
h. If the above are checked and water does not flow to the humidifier basin then it
should be assumed that the solenoid valve has failed and needs replaced.

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.

16
HUMIDIFIRST
TROUBLE SHOOTING (continued)
4. If the transducers are not making a mist:
(Please note that after a call for humidification, it may take up to 45 minutes for the
humidifier body to fill with water, depending on the type of water treatment system
you are using. The transducers will not operate until the low water safety switch is
satisfied.)
a. Turn the humidistat dial to “on” to make sure the humidistat is calling for the
humidifier to operate.
b. Check that there is power to the humidifier. The power-on switch should be lit.
c. Check to ensure that there is adequate water in the humidifier body
(approximately 1 to 1.5 inches).
d. Check the control relays to ensure that they are pushed firmly in place.
e. Using a volt-meter, and referring to the wiring diagram, check to see that 24 volt
power is going to the solenoid valve.
f. Check wire connections and make sure that they are tight.

17
HUMIDIFIRST
Trouble shooting after the humidifier has operated for a period of time
1. The transducers are so covered with deposits that they do not work properly and
the finger that is generated is very small and puts out little mist. The transducer
must be kept clean. The time period between cleanings will be dependent upon
the cleanliness of the air and water. Drain the humidifier module, and clean it
with a mild vinegar and water solution. Sometimes the transducers may get
coated with an oily substance, typically coming from new PVC or stainless steel
pipe. If this is the case, try washing the basin and transducer with a mild
dishwasher liquid solution.
2. Some of the transducers run and some do not: How long has the humidifier
module been in operation? The average life span of the transducer is 10,000
hours. If some of them operate and some do not, it indicates that some of the
transducers may have run their lifespan and need replacement. Peeling, surface
bubbling and cracking are an indication of this. If the transducers are discolored
it means that overheating has depolarized the transducer material and destroyed
them.

18
HUMIDIFIRST
MAINTENANCE
Basic Maintenance
Maintenance of Humidifirst Ultrasonic humidifiers is very simple and plays an important
part in keeping the humidifier modules operating properly and extending the life of the
components inside. No later than one month after start-up, the humidifier modules
should be drained and cleaned. After that they should be cleaned a minimum of once a
year, depending upon the cleanliness of the air and water going through them. The
procedure for cleaning the humidifier modules is as follows:
1. Make sure that the power supply is disconnected.
2. The humidifier modules should be completely drained and the mist diffuser
removed.
3. The humidifier basin and transducers should be cleaned thoroughly with a weak
vinegar and water solution. Never scrape the transducer surfaces or use
abrasive cleaners as this may cause damage. Typical kitchen cleaners can be
used but make sure that the cleaner does not advertise a “shining” agent. Shining
agents can leave a film on the transducers, which will reduce the mist output.
4. The basin should be rinsed completely.
5. The mist diffuser should be cleaned and rinsed before it is replaced.
Disconnect the power cord to the Master control panel and check all the wiring
connections for tightness. This should be checked a minimum of two times per year.
Transducers
The transducers and the printed circuit driver board produce the mist. The normal life of
a transducer can differ depending upon several variables. Typically, the operating life of
the transducer is around 10,000 hours. See “Basic Maintenance” above for cleaning
directions. The following variables will affect the life of the transducer.
1. The mineral content of the water affects the length of the transducer life. The
cleaner the water, the longer the transducers will last.
2. High entering water temperature will cause premature failure of the transducers.
3. High entering air temperature (above 122 ° F) may cause premature failure of the
transducers.
4. Excessively dirty air can soil the transducers and reduce the transducer output.
Caked on debris could cause overheating of the transducers and eventual failure.
5. Poor water pressure may not allow proper water flow into the humidifier basin.
A water level in the basin of less than 1 ½” may cause the water to become hot
and therefore cause transducer failure.

19
HUMIDIFIRST
Maintenance (continued)
End of humidifying season shutdown
The humidifier Master Panel should be powered off when the humidification system will
not be required for long periods of time. This will stop heat gain from the transformer.
This will also reduce ware on the electrical components that may occur during summer
storms. Shut off the power from the Building electric panel that feeds the Humidifirst
Master Panel or unplug the individual humidifier control/power panels. Also, empty the
water from the humidifier basin and wipe dry.
Humidistat
The humidistat is calibrated and tested before it is shipped. If you feel the humidistat is
out of calibration you can field adjust it but by only a small amount. If it is considerably
out of calibration, a new one may be required. Wipe any dust or dirt from the sensing
element to help to achieve proper readings.
When field calibration is called for, attempt to calibrate it in an environment that is
close to the desired set point of the space being humidified. Calibration should only
be done with a sling psychrometer.
To calibrate, set the humidifier humidistat indicator to read the same as the independent
measuring device. Remove the humidistat cover. Locate the adjustment screw at the top
of the humidistat and turn it until you hear a soft click. The humidistat is now calibrated.
Warranty
The warranty for the humidifier module and the Master Panel is for one year from the
date of start-up or 18 months from shipment, whichever comes first. Please find and
complete the “HUMIDIFIRST MIST PAC START-UP FORM”. There will be no
warranty of the equipment without the form being completed and returned to Humidifirst.
This warranty does not include labor. The warranty is for parts only. Spare parts are
under warranty for 60 days from the date of shipment. Humidifier modules controlled by
non-Humidifirst control boxes carry no warranty.
Manual Disclaimer
Humidifirst has made every effort to assure accuracy in the manual, and assumes no
responsibility and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from the use of this
information or for any errors or omissions.

20
HUMIDIFIRST page 1 of 3
HUMIDIFIRST MIST PAC START-UP FORM
Important – Read the complete Owner’s Manual before starting your Humidifirst
Ultrasonic Humidification system. Failure to read and understand the Owner’s Manual
may result in incorrect wiring, installation, and operation of the system and could cause
immediate harm to YOU and/or the humidification system.
Please complete the following checklist and return it to Humidifirst. There will be no
warranty of the equipment without the form being completed and returned in a timely
manner.
The End User/Owner of the Humidification System:
Company name:
Company location: City
State:
Serial number of the Master Panel:
For Zone:
Installer of the humidification System:
Company name:
Company phone number:
Start-up of the system is being completed by:
Name:
Company name:
Phone number:
Signature* :
Date of Start-up:
By signing the above you are representing that the following information is accurate to
the best of your knowledge.