OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

MODEL: HC-150 / DEW-150

Section 1
a) Operating and Maintenance Text

Section 2
a) General Arrangement Drawing ................................................................................... 82967
b) Wiring Diagram 115 /1/ 50/60 ..................................................................................... 50187
c) Wiring Diagram 208-240 /1/ 50/60 .............................................................................. 50188

Section 3
a) Replacing Fusible Links
b) Humidistat Field Connections ..................................................................................... 26992
c) Blastgate Installation Instructions ............................................................................... 27110
d) Recommended Spare Parts List (HC-150I) ................................................................ 21237
e) Recommended Spare Parts List (HC-150R) ............................................................... 21238

2014-05-30
OPERATING AND
MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
MODEL HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

Rev. 6.0 3/14

TABLE OF CONTENTS HC-150
SECTION 1 – INTRODUCTION ......................................................................... PAGE 1–1
1.1 Dehumidifier Operating Principle .................................................................... 1–1
1.2 About the HC-150 ............................................................................................ 1–2
1.3 Controls and Indicators ................................................................................... 1–3
1.4 Protective Circuits ........................................................................................... 1–5

SECTION 2 – SAFETY NOTES ................................................................................... 2–1

SECTION 3 – INSTALLATION AND STARTUP .......................................................... 3–1

3.1 Inspection ........................................................................................................ 3–1
3.2 Positioning the Unit ......................................................................................... 3–1
3.3 Connecting the Ductwork ................................................................................ 3–5
3.4 Electrical Connections ..................................................................................... 3–5
3.5 Connecting the Remote Humidistat ................................................................ 3–6
3.6 Adjusting the Dampers .................................................................................... 3–6

SECTION 4 – PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE ............................................................ 4–1

4.1 Clean the Air Filters ......................................................................................... 4–1
4.2 Check the Honeycombe® Wheel ..................................................................... 4–1
4.3 Check the Upper and Lower Air Seals ............................................................ 4–1
4.4 Check the Reactivation Outlet Temperature ................................................... 4–1

SECTION 5 – TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................... 5–1

5.1 Possible Trouble Conditions ........................................................................... 5–1
5.2 Auto/Off/Manual Switch is Set to Auto,
Running Light Does Not Come On .................................................................. 5–1
5.3 Fault Light is On, and Machine Should Be Running ....................................... 5–1
5.4 Reactivation Outlet Temperature is Too Low .................................................. 5–2
5.5 Poor Dehumidifying Performance ................................................................... 5–3
5.6 HoneyCombe® Wheel is Stopped,
Running Light is On ......................................................................................... 5–3
5.7 Checking the Heating Elements ...................................................................... 5–4
5.8 Checking the Thermistor ................................................................................. 5–4
5.9 Checking the Humidistat ................................................................................. 5–5
5.10 Checking the Drive Motor, Wheel and Seals .................................................. 5–5
5.11 Suggested Replacement Parts ....................................................................... 5–6

LIST OF FIGURES

Fig. 1–1 Operating Principle .................................................................................... 1–1

Fig. 1–2 HC-150 in Operation.................................................................................. 1–2
Fig. 1–3 Controls and Indicators.............................................................................. 1–3
Fig. 1–4 Front View, Cover Open ............................................................................ 1–4
Fig. 3–1 HC-150 Installed in Process Space ........................................................... 3–1
Fig. 3–2 HC-150 Installed outside of Process Space .............................................. 3–2
Fig. 3–3 HC-150 Installed with Existing Air-Handling Unit....................................... 3–3
Fig. 3–4 Do Not Install HC-150 This Way ................................................................ 3–4

i
1 – INTRODUCTION
Your HC-150 dehumidifier is durable, simple to operate, and needs very little mainte-
nance. The HC-150 can give you years of trouble-free service if you follow the recom-
mendations listed in this manual.

We strongly recommended that you read this whole manual. This should not take very
long. In return, you will learn how your dehumidifier works, and how to get the best
service from your unit.

This manual covers two models. The HC-150I is designed for operation on 208-240V
AC. The HC-150R is designed for 115V AC. The operating instructions are the same for
both models.

If you do not understand something in this manual, or you have a question about your
dehumidifier, please call Munters at (978) 241-1100 or send a fax to (978) 241-1217.
Ask to speak with one of our Technical Support people.

1.1 DEHUMIDIFIER OPERATING PRINCIPLE

Figure 1–1 shows how the HC-150 removes moisture from the air. The heart of the
system is the HoneyCombe® wheel. The detail in Fig. 1–1 shows the structure of the
wheel. As you can see, the wheel has a series of air passages or channels. The pas-
sages inside the wheel are coated with a special substance called a “desiccant.” When
this substance contacts damp air, it soaks up moisture. When the desiccant is heated, it
releases the moisture again.

Process Heated
air outlet reactivation
(dry air) air inlet

Full contact seals

to separate
2 air streams

Drying
Wet area zone
of wheel

HoneyCombe®
wheel

Process air inlet Reactivation air out

(moist) (damp) Detail of
HoneyCombe® wheel
J140

FIGURE 1–1
OPERATING PRINCIPLE

1–1
Let’s say that you want to dry the air in a storage room, using the HC-150. Damp “pro-
cess” air is pulled into the unit from the storage room. The desiccant in the Honey-
Combe® wheel picks up most of the moisture in the air. Once it has been “dried out,” the
process air is vented back into the storage room. At this point, the moisture has been
taken out of the process air, and “stored” in the HoneyCombe® wheel.

The next job is to move this moisture out of the wheel. As we said, the desiccant will
give up moisture when it is heated. When it is heated, and the moisture released, we
say it is “reactivated.” In the HC-150, a stream of “reactivation” air is taken from outside
the controlled space and heated using an electric heater. This heated air is forced
through the channels in the HoneyCombe® wheel. The desiccant releases the moisture
into the heated air stream. Finally, the damp reactivation air is vented outside. At this
point, the moisture has been moved from the storage room to the wheel, then from the
wheel into the outside air. The process is complete.

You may have noticed that, at one moment, we’re using the wheel to pick up moisture,
and a moment later, we’re heating the wheel to drive off the moisture. In the HC-150,
both actions are happening at the same time, on different sections of the wheel.

1.2 ABOUT THE HC-150

This is a simplified explanation of the operating principle. Figure 1–2 shows how we put
this principle to work in the HC-150. You can still see the parts we discussed in the last

Process air
Blower
damper
Process
air outlet
Temperature (dry air)
sensor
Overheat
TS02
anticipator
Overheating (TS03)
sensor HC-150I only
TS01 Filter
Process Heater
sector of wheel Reactivation
sector of wheel

Desiccant wheel
Reactivation air
Drive
Reactivation temperature sensor
Motor
Blower TSE1
Filter
Process air inlet Reactivation
(moist) air outlet
(moist)

J141.1
FIGURE 1–2
HC-150 IN OPERATION

1–2
figure — the HoneyCombe® wheel, process air stream and reactivation air stream. We
have also added a number of other parts:

• Two sets of seals to separate the two streams of air (damp process air and the
heated reactivation air)
• Blower, damper and filter for the process air
• Blower and filter for the reactivation air
• Temperature sensors
• Electric heating elements for the reactivation air
Figures 1–3 and 1–4 show some additional parts on the HC-150 unit. The Honey-
Combe® wheel is turned by a small drive motor and a toothed belt. A spring-type
tensioner automatically adjusts the belt tension.

1.3 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

The unit has four indicators and controls on the control panel:

Auto/Off/Manual switch:
Auto position (amber) This indicator is on whenever the HC-150 is operating in
the automatic mode. The unit is switched on and off by a
remote humidistat.

Off position (amber) This indicator is on when the AC power to the unit is on,
and it is not running (not set to Auto or Manual). (On shut-
down, the heating elements will switch off. The process

Auto/Off/Manual
switch

Fault light

Time meter Running light

FIGURE 1–3
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

1–3
 and reactivation blowers and drive motor will continue to
run to cool down the unit. Once cooled down, the unit will
become inactive.)

Manual position (amber) This indicator is on whenever the HC-150 is operating in

the manual mode. The unit runs continuously until it is
switched off.

Running light (green) This indicator is on whenever the unit is running (the Auto/
Off/Manual switch is in the Manual position, or the switch is in
the Auto position and the humidistat contacts are closed).

Fault light (red) This indicator is normally off. This light turns on when the
unit overheats. See the section on “Troubleshooting.”

Time meter This indicator shows how many hours the unit has operated.

The control system uses a number of sensors and controllers to supervise the activity of
the HC-150. On the model HC-150I only, a Solid State Power Controller (SSP1) turns
the heating elements on and off. This controller responds to a signal from a temperature
sensor (TSE1) which is located in the reactivation air stream after the wheel. (This design
allows reduced energy consumption at low load levels.)

Overheating Temperature sensor for

temperature wheel cool-down cycle
sensor (TS01) (TS02)

Reactivation air
inlet and filter

Process air
Drive motor and outlet
belt tensioner
Process air
blower
Process air
intake
Reactivation air
blower and outlet
Process air
Entrance for
filter
power connection

FIGURE 1–4
FRONT VIEW, COVER OPEN

1–4
The unit continues to run for a few minutes after the Auto/Off/Manual switch is turned off.
This “cool-down” cycle helps to protect the heating elements from overheating. During
the cycle, the wheel continues to turn, and the reactivation blower continues to operate.
The cool-down period is controlled by a thermostat switch (TS02).

On the HC-150R only, a temperature control switch (TS04) is included. This shuts the
heater off when the wheel is fully reactivated.

1.4 PROTECTIVE CIRCUITS

The HC-150 has several sensors and circuits which protect the machine and operator
from possible problems. A temperature high limit switch (TS01) is located between the
heater and the wheel. This sensor will tell the control circuits if the elements overheat
(temp. above 320°F). If this happens, the Fault indicator will light and the machine will
stop. To reset the machine, wait until the unit cools to normal temperature. Turn the
Auto/Off/Manual switch off, then on again.

The wiring for each heating element includes a fusible link. This link will open if the
element overheats. If this happens, the HC-150 will continue to operate, but will not
dehumidify the process air. To correct this, find the cause of the overheat condition and
replace the fusible link.

On the HC-150I only, an overheat anticipator (TS03) is included. This slows the response
of the heater circuit to reduce nuisance overheating faults.

If a blower motor is jammed, it will start to draw a large amount of electrical current. If
one of the motors detects this condition, that motor will shut itself down. The rest of the
unit will continue to operate, unless an overheat fault is triggered. The affected motor will
reset itself automatically.

1–5
1–6
2 – SAFETY NOTES
Munters is concerned about the safety of anyone who uses or services the HC-150 unit.
Some of the parts inside the HC-150 can be dangerous if an untrained person tries to
service the unit. Throughout this manual, we have pointed out some of the hazards
which may occur in the use of the HC-150. We have also listed the precautions which
you should take to avoid these problems.

In this manual, we will use three different kinds of messages to warn you of possible
problems:

Immediate hazard which will result in severe personal injury or

death.

Hazard or unsafe practice which may result in severe personal

injury or death.

Hazard or unsafe practice which could result in minor personal

injury or property damage.

Please keep these points in mind as you use or service the unit:

The HC-150 is wired for 115V to 240V AC. The unit can produce enough
voltage and current to kill you, or cause severe burns. Do not work with
the electrical parts unless you are a trained electrician. Always turn off
the power before you work inside the unit. There should be a
disconnect switch installed outside the unit. Turn off this switch
before you do any work. For extra safety, also turn off the circuit
breaker inside the unit.

Some HC-150 units are purchased with an optional humidistat. If wired

incorrectly, the contacts inside the humidistat may carry a high
voltage. This voltage and current can cause serious injury or death.
Don’t work on the parts inside the humidistat unless you are a trained
electrician.

Don’t place the HC-150 unit outdoors. The cabinet is not weather-
proof. If the unit is mounted outdoors, water may drip into the
electrical parts. This may cause an electrical shock hazard.

2–1
 The two blowers inside the HC-150 spin very quickly. Your hand may
be hurt if you put it inside a blower while it is turning. Keep your hands
away from the blowers while the unit is turned on. Do not run the HC-
150 unless both the process and reactivation fans are protected by
ductwork or finger guards.

There are two conditions which could cause the unit to start without
warning:

• When the Auto/Off/Manual switch is set to Auto, the unit may start
if the humidistat contacts close.

• The motors on the blowers have internal over-current protection.

If one of these blowers is overloaded, the affected motor will turn
itself off. This over-current protection will reset automatically, so
the blower may start without warning.

You can avoid either kind of problem if you turn off the power before
working on the unit.

This type of wheel is washable. It is best to clean the wheel using clean
water only. If you must use a detergent, choose a mild type (enzyme
or dish-washing detergent). The wheel is sensitive to high pH (alkaline
condition). Choose a detergent with a neutral pH. Do not use any
solvent to wash the wheel.

PLEASE READ ALL OF THIS MANUAL. PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS

CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY. PLEASE PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS.

2–2
3 – INSTALLATION AND STARTUP
3.1 INSPECTION
1. When the unit arrives, check immediately for signs of shipping damage. If you do
notice any damage, report it to the trucking company right away.

2. Remove the cover on the front of the unit, as shown in Fig. 1–4. Check the following
items:

• Remove the packaging restraints.

• Be sure the HoneyCombe® wheel is in position.
• Push in on the drive mechanism and release the belt. Be sure the HoneyCombe®
wheel can be turned by hand with some resistance.
• Replace the drive belt in the working position. Be sure that it is in good contact
with the drive sheave.
• Be sure the drive belt and rollers are free of grease.
• Ensure that the process and reactivation air filters are in place.

3.2 POSITIONING THE UNIT

1. You must allow three clearances around the unit:

• a 24" space in front of the unit so you can remove and replace the
HoneyCombe® wheel
• a 7" space in front of the process air intake to allow smooth air flow (not
necessary if ductwork is installed)

Reactivation air OUT –

Optional makeup air IN –
to outdoors
from outdoors Reactivation air IN –
from outdoors
OUTDOORS

PROCESS SPACE (STORAGE AREA)

Damper
HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

Damper

HUMIDISTAT
(option)
Process air IN – Process air OUT –
from process space to process space

J136

FIGURE 3–1
HC-150 INSTALLED IN PROCESS SPACE

3–1
 • a 7" space in front of the reactivation air intake to allow smooth air flow (not
necessary if ductwork is installed)

2. Figures 3–1, 3–2 and 3–3 show three different ways of installing the HC-150.

3. There are some simple rules for arranging the ductwork for the HC-150:

Process air intake .............. Taken from the storage space

Process air outlet ............... Vented to the storage space

Reactivation air inlet ........... Taken from a separate space (not from storage space–
don’t use dehumidified air)

Reactivation air outlet ........ Vented outdoors (air is very damp–don’t use for space
heating)

(Note – The reactivation air can also be taken from and returned to an indoor space
where the temperature and humidity levels are not important.)

4. Wherever the intake or outlet ducts open outdoors, protect them from the elements.
Install weather hoods and bird screens.

Optional makeup air IN – Reactivation air OUT –

from outdoors Reactivation air IN – to outdoors
from outdoors
OUTDOORS

PROTECTED SPACE

Damper
HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

Damper

PROTECTED SPACE

PROCESS SPACE
(STORAGE AREA)
Process air IN – HUMIDISTAT Process air OUT –
from process space (option) to process space

J137

FIGURE 3–2
HC-150 INSTALLED OUTSIDE OF PROCESS SPACE

3–2
 5. Do not locate the intake and outlet for the process air too close together. If possible,
allow a distance of at least 5 feet. Allow the same distance between the inlet and
outlet for the reactivation air.

6. Figure 3–3 shows the set-up if you are installing the HC-150 in a system with an
existing air-handling unit. Notice that both sides of the HC-150 are connected
upstream of the air-handling unit.

Do not connect the HC-150 so that it bypasses the air-handling unit. See Part A of
Fig. 3–4. If you connect the ductwork this way, some of the air from the air-handling
unit may be forced back through the HC-150, and the HC-150 will not be able to
work correctly.

You may connect both sides of the HC-150 downstream of the air-handling unit, as
shown in Part B of Fig. 3–4. The arrangement shown in Fig. 3–3 is better, however.
This set-up allows the air-handling unit to heat or cool the processed air after it
leaves the HC-150.

7. On some installations, “makeup” air is taken from outside the process space, and
added to the process air stream. Unconditioned makeup air can add a moisture

Reactivation air OUT –

Optional makeup air IN – to outdoors
from outdoors Reactivation air IN –
from outdoors

OUTDOORS

PROTECTED SPACE
Damper
HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

Damper
Process air
OUT
Process air
IN
AIR
HANDLING
PROTECTED SPACE UNIT

PROCESS SPACE (STORAGE AREA)

Return air IN – HUMIDISTAT

from process space (option)

J138

FIGURE 3–3
HC-150 INSTALLED WITH EXISTING AIR-HANDLING UNIT

3–3
 POOR ARRANGEMENT
Do not set up the HC-150 so it
bypasses the air handling unit. The air
handling unit can create back
pressure. This can cause the air to
flow backwards through the HC-150.
HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

AIR
HANDLING
UNIT

PART A

POOR ARRANGEMENT
When set up this way, the air handling
unit cannot condition the air temperature
after it leaves the HC-150.

HC-150
DEHUMIDIFIER

AIR
HANDLING
UNIT

J139.1
PART B

FIGURE 3–4
DO NOT INSTALL HC-150 THIS WAY

3–4
 load to the HC-150, and this can overload the unit. For recommendations, consult
the Service Operations Department at Munters.

3.3 CONNECTING THE DUCTWORK

1. Don’t try to operate the unit without ductwork. The unit will not be damaged, but it
will not operate correctly without the proper ductwork in place. Figures 3–1, 3–2 and
3–3 show some correct installations. Before you install the ductwork, remove the
finger guards from the duct openings.

2. Here are details on the duct connections:

Process intake .......................... If no ducting – allow 7" clearance.

An optional fitting is available for 5" round ductwork.
Process outlet ........................... Connection to 5" round ductwork.
Add damper downstream of outlet.
Reactivation intake .................... If no ducting – allow 7" clearance.
An optional fitting for 4" round ductwork is provided.
Reactivation outlet .................... Connection to 4" round ductwork.
Add damper downstream of outlet.

3. Always install dampers downstream of the outlets for the process and reactivation
air streams. The dampers provided are 5" diameter for the process air stream, and
4" diameter for the reactivation air. The dampers are very important for correct
operation of the unit.

4. The ductwork for the reactivation air outlet should always be insulated. This will
reduce condensation of the moisture in this air stream. Run the reactivation
ductwork so that it slopes away from the dehumidifier. This way any condensed
moisture will run away from the dehumidifier. On this type of installation, the unit
should be installed at least 3 feet above the floor to allow for the slope in the
ductwork.

If it is not possible to do this, include a vertical section in the ductwork, connected to

the unit via a Tee fitting. Any moisture will collect in the part of the ductwork below
the Tee connection. Install a “P” trap to allow a way of draining the moisture.

3.4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Electrical connections should only be made by a licensed electrician.

Check all electrical connections for tightness after 60 days of operation.

1. The HC-150R is designed to operate on 115V AC single-phase current. The HC-

150I uses single-phase 208-240V AC. The customer must provide a disconnect
switch on the AC line.

2. The entrance point for the AC wiring is shown in Fig. 1–4. Open the front cover of
the unit so you can make the connections. Make the AC connections to the “line”

3–5
 side of the circuit breaker.

3. Be sure the chassis of the HC-150 is connected to a good earth ground.

4. Turn on the disconnect switch, and turn on the circuit breaker inside the machine.
Open the dampers for the process and reactivation air. To start the unit, set the
Auto/Off/Manual switch to the Manual position. Open the front cover and check the
rotation of the HoneyCombe® wheel. The wheel should start turning clockwise
(when viewed from above the wheel).

3.5 CONNECTING THE REMOTE HUMIDISTAT

1. In some installations, the HC-150 operates in the manual mode. In this type of
installation, the HC-150 operates whenever the Auto/Off/Manual switch is set to
Manual. Other units are set up for automatic cycling. In an installation of this type,
the HC-150 is controlled by a device called a humidistat. The humidistat works
much like the thermostat in a home heating system. When the humidity rises above
a pre-set point, the humidistat turns on the HC-150.

2. The humidistat should be designed to operate at 24V AC. Use a “close on rise”
humidistat, with contacts which are normally open. (The contacts should be open
when the humidity is below the pre-set limit, and closed when the humidity is too
high.) The humidistat contacts should be rated at 1 Amp.

3. Mount the humidistat in the space you want to dehumidify. For best results, place the
humidistat near the inlet duct for the process air. This will provide the most accurate
sensing of the relative humidity in the process space. If possible, mount the humidistat
away from the floor and ceiling, and do not mount it near any doors and windows. Do
not mount the humidistat near the outlet vent for the process air from the HC-150.

4. Make the wiring connections between the humidistat and the HC-150 using 24 AWG
wire. Before you do this, turn off the power to the unit! The humidistat should
be wired to the plug connector on the side of the unit. See the wiring diagram for
the i.d. numbers of the plug terminals.

3.6 ADJUSTING THE DAMPERS

1. As shown in Fig. 3–1, 3–2 or 3–3, you should install dampers in the outlet ducts for
the process and reactivation air streams.

2. Open both of the dampers. Turn on power to the unit, using the circuit breaker. Set
the Auto/Off/Manual switch to Manual to turn on the unit.

3. Allow the unit to warm up for 1/2 hour. Check the temperature at the reactivation
outlet. It should be 120°F ±5°F.

4. If the temperature at the reactivation outlet is less than 120°F (±5°), the volume of the
process air must be reduced. (Notice that you’re changing the position of the process
damper to affect the temperature at the reactivation air outlet.) Close the process
damper completely. Wait ten minutes for the temperatures in the machine to stabilize.

5. Check the temperature at the reactivation outlet again. The temperature should now
be at least 120°F.

3–6
6. Open the process damper a bit. Wait ten minutes before checking the reactivation
outlet temperature again. If it is still above 120°F, open the process damper and
wait again. Continue doing this until you find the setting which causes the reactiva-
tion temperature to drop to 120°F. This is the correct setting for the process
damper.

7. When the process damper is set correctly, the temperature at the reactivation outlet
will be 120°F. Next, adjust the position of the reactivation damper. This will help
the unit to operate as efficiently as possible. Close the reactivation damper a bit,
and mark the damper setting. Wait ten minutes for the temperatures in the machine
to stabilize, then check the temperature at the reactivation outlet.

8. If the temperature remains at 120°F (±5°), close the reactivation damper a bit more,
and mark the new damper setting. At the point where the reactivation outlet tem-
perature drops below 115°F, the reactivation damper is closed too far. Reopen the
reactivation damper to the last setting.

Note – In some installations, the conditions of the process air entering the unit will
change frequently. In a case like this, it may be necessary to leave the reactivation
damper completely open. This will prevent nuisance overheating faults.

3–7
4 – PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
The HC-150 unit requires very little regular maintenance. Check these points every 30 days:

4.1 CLEAN THE AIR FILTERS

1. The HC-150 unit includes two air filters. These are shown in Fig. 1–4. Each filter is
made of expanded aluminum, mounted in a metal frame.

2. Switch the unit off and wait for the blowers to stop turning. Open the front access
panel. The process filter is located in the lower left hand corner of the unit.

3. The reactivation filter is mounted on the right end of the unit. See Fig. 1–4. Undo
the 2 thumbscrews on the bottom of the case. Using the tab, pull the bottom of the
filter outward, then down.

4. If necessary, clean each filter in warm soapy water. Allow each filter to air-dry, or
use compressed air. Once the filters are dry, reinstall them by reversing Steps 2
and 3 above.

4.2 CHECK THE HONEYCOMBE® WHEEL

Check the Honeycombe® wheel to be sure it is rotating correctly. Look for signs of
discoloration caused by dirt, dust, or other foreign materials. In order to clean the wheel
and inspect the seal, you must remove the drive motor and wheel. See the instructions in
section 5.10, Checking the Drive Motor, Wheel and Seals.

4.3 CHECK THE UPPER AND LOWER AIR SEALS

The HoneyCombe® wheel rides on the lower air seal. Make a quick check of this seal.
Be sure the outer surface of the seal is smooth. If the seal is very worn, the outer layer
will wear through. If the seal must be replaced, please contact the factory.

4.4 CHECK THE REACTIVATION OUTLET TEMPERATURE

After the unit has been operating for 30 minutes, the temperature at the outlet of the
reactivation air stream should be about 120°F. Check this outlet temperature with a
thermometer. It should be within ±5°F. If the outlet temperature falls outside this range,
see Section 5 – Troubleshooting.

4–1
5 – TROUBLESHOOTING
The HC-150 has a state-of-the-art design, with a sophisticated control system using solid-
state electronics. The technology used in this unit has proven to be very reliable in a
wide variety of installations. When service problems do occur, they are often caused by
the installation, rather than the HC-150 unit itself.

There are two parts to this section of the manual. In the first part, we will list some of the
trouble symptoms you may find, and tell you how to correct them. In the second part, we
will list some specific service routines – how to replace the HoneyCombe® wheel, how to
check the heating elements, etc.

5.1 POSSIBLE TROUBLE CONDITIONS

In order to check most of these trouble conditions, the HC-150 must be turned on and
operating, or trying to operate. Some units are wired with remote humidistats. With this
type of set-up, it is sometimes not clear whether the humidistat is trying to turn on the
HC-150. If you want to be sure the HC-150 is ready to operate, turn the Auto/Off/Manual
switch to the Manual position.

5.2 AUTO/OFF/MANUAL SWITCH IS SET TO AUTO,

RUNNING LIGHT DOES NOT COME ON

This service procedure involves an electrical hazard. Service work

should only be done by an electrician who has been qualified by
Munters.

1. Be sure the unit is receiving power. Check the circuit breaker or fuse which supplies
the unit.

2. There may be a problem with the humidistat. Set the Auto/Off/Manual switch to
Manual. Does the wheel start to turn?

3. If the HC-150 starts to operate, check the humidistat. For some reason, the humi-
distat is not starting the HC-150. (The humidistat is bypassed when you set the
switch to the Manual position.) Either the humidistat is not working, or the signal is
not reaching the HC-150. See section 5.9, Checking the Humidistat.

4. Check the small fuses on the circuit boards inside the unit.

5.3 FAULT LIGHT IS ON, AND MACHINE SHOULD BE RUNNING

(Auto/Off/Manual switch is set to Auto or Manual)

This service procedure involves an electrical hazard. Service work

should only be done by an electrician who has been qualified by
Munters.

5–1
1. The Fault light is triggered when the heating elements overheat. There can be
several possible causes. Begin by checking for a blockage in the reactivation air
stream. Once the unit cools down, you may be able to reset it by turning the Auto/
Off/Manual switch to Off, then back to Auto or Manual. You should still check the
installation carefully for any possible problems.

2. The heating elements may also overheat if the AC line voltage rises much above the
specified AC voltage. The line voltage should be within ±10% of the specified
voltage.

3. If the reactivation blower is overloaded, it will stop automatically. This may cause
the heater to overheat, and trip the Fault light. Once the motor has cooled, it should
restart automatically.

During the overheat condition, the fusible links on the heating elements may open.
When the unit restarts, you may find that there is no reactivation heat. See the
section on “Checking the Heating Elements.”

4. Model HC-150I only – The thermistor for the solid-state power controller (TSE1) may
be bad. See section 5.8, Checking the Thermistor.

5.4 REACTIVATION OUTLET TEMPERATURE IS TOO LOW

1. The air at the outlet for the reactivation air should be about 120°F, ±5°. This mea-
surement gives you a way of making a quick check of the overall operation of the
HC-150.

2. The temperature may be too low if you try to operate the HC-150 without any
ductwork. This can allow too much process air through the unit. Install a damper
downstream of the process outlet. See section 3.6, Adjusting the Dampers.

3. If the unit is overloaded, and is trying to remove too much moisture, the temperature
at the outlet will drop below 120°. (You can think of the excess moisture as “cooling
off” the stream of heated air.) Is there some reason why the air in the system has
suddenly become much more humid? This change could be overloading the HC-150.

4. You can see a similar problem if the unit is trying to handle too much of the damp air
at once. The volume of process air (the “process volume”) may be too great.
Change the volume of process air by adjusting the damper. Set the position of the
process damper to produce a temperature at the reactivation outlet of 120°F (±5°).
If the temperature at the reactivation outlet is less than this, the volume of the
process air must be reduced. (Notice that you’re changing the position of the
process damper to affect the temperature at the reactivation air outlet.) Close the
process damper completely. Wait ten minutes for the temperatures in the machine
to stabilize.

5. Check the temperature at the reactivation outlet again. The temperature should now
be at least 120°F.

6. Open the process damper a bit. Wait ten minutes before checking the reactivation
outlet temperature again. If it is still above 120°F, open the process damper and
wait again. Continue doing this until you find the setting which causes the reactivation

5–2
 temperature to drop to 120°F. This is the correct setting for the process damper.

7. If you close the process damper completely, or almost completely, and the reactiva-
tion outlet temperature is still low, one of the heating elements may have stopped
working. See section 5.7, Checking the Heating Elements.

8. A low outlet temperature can also be caused by a problem with the reactivation
blower. Turn off the HC-150 and try to spin the blower by hand. It should turn freely.

9. Model HC-150I only – There may be a problem with the overheat anticipator sensor
(TS03).

10. Model HC-150I only – This condition can also be caused by a faulty solid state
power control (SSP1).

11. Model HC-150R only - This condition may be caused by an open temperature
switch (TS04).

5.5 POOR DEHUMIDIFYING PERFORMANCE

1. Check the two intake filters, shown in Fig. 1–4. If these filters are dirty, clean them
as described in section 4.1, Cleaning the Air Filters.

2. If you have installed bird screens on the intake and outlet for the reactivation air,
check these.

3. Has something changed in the process space which could increase the moisture
load on the unit? Check all openings into the process space to be sure all doors
and windows are closed. Check for leaks in the ductwork.

4. The volume of process air may be too great. You can reduce the volume of process
air by closing the process damper.

5. Check the air temperature at the outlet for the reactivation air. It should be 120°F,
±5°. If it is not, see section 5.4, Reactivation Outlet Temperature is Too Low.

6. One or more of the heating elements may not be working. See section 5.7, Check-
ing the Heating Elements.

7. If the process blower is overloaded, it will shut down automatically. This will prevent
the unit from drying the process air. The motor will restart automatically, once it has
cooled.

8. The HoneyCombe® wheel may be stopped. See the next section.

9. Model HC-150I only – There may be a problem with the overheat anticipator sensor
(TS03).

5.6 HONEYCOMBE® WHEEL IS STOPPED, RUNNING LIGHT IS ON

1. Check the drive system. See Fig. 1–4. Pull back on the tensioner to loosen the
belt. Remove the belt from the drive wheel on the motor. Set the Manual/Off/Auto
switch to the Manual position to turn on the unit. The drive motor should turn slowly.
See section 5.10, Checking the Drive Motor, Wheel and Seals.

5–3
2. Check the seals. After long use, the lower seal may wear. The HoneyCombe®
wheel will then ride on the inner layer of the seal material. Since this is not as
slippery as the outer layer, the wheel will not turn easily. Check the condition of the
lower seal. The surface of the seal should be smooth. If the seal is very worn, you
will be able to see some of the inner layer of seal material. If the seal must be
replaced, please contact the factory for instructions. See section 5.10, Checking the
Drive Motor, Wheel and Seals.

5.7 CHECKING THE HEATING ELEMENTS

This service procedure involves an electrical hazard. Service work

should only be done by an electrician who has been qualified by
Munters.

1. The heating elements are located near the intake for the reactivation air. See Fig.
1–4.

2. To check the elements, you must remove them. Turn off the power to the unit!
Remove the inlet grill for the reactivation air. The element assembly is held in place
with one bolt at the corner of the reactivation inlet duct. Remove the bolt and slide
out the element assembly.

3. Check the resistance across each of the heating elements using an Ohmmeter. The
resistance across each element should be 8Ω to 19Ω. Take your measurements
at the incoming wire leads. If you find an infinite resistance, the element has
developed an open circuit, and must be replaced. A faulty heating element assem-
bly must be replaced as a unit.

4. Each of the power wires for the elements includes a fusible link. Once one of these
links opens, it will cut off power to the element. Check across each fusible link with
an Ohmmeter. A failed link will appear as an open circuit.

5. Model HC-150I only – Check for a problem with the thermistor (TSE1) for the power
controller (SSP1) If this thermistor open-circuits or shorts, the SSP1 will not pro-
duce any output for the heating elements.

5.8 CHECKING THE THERMISTOR

(Model HC-150I only)

1. A thermistor is a type of temperature sensor. This unit has one thermistor to sense
the temperature of the heating elements (TSE1)

2. Because of the way this part operates, it is difficult to check it with a volt-ohmmeter.
The thermistor may fail in either a shorted or an open-circuit condition. Either
condition will turn off the solid-state power controller (SSP1), so the heaters will not
operate. The easiest way to diagnose the problem is to substitute a new part.

5–4
5.9 CHECKING THE HUMIDISTAT
1. Start by adjusting the humidistat to the high end of the scale (close to 100% relative
humidity). At this point, the humidistat should not be calling for drying. The contacts
inside the humidistat should be open, and you should be able to measure 24 VAC
across the contacts.

2. Next, adjust the humidistat to the low end of the scale (close to 10% or 20% relative
humidity). Now the humidistat should be calling for drying, and the contacts inside
the humidistat should be closed. You should see 0 Volts across the contacts.

3. You can also check the wiring between the humidistat and the HC-150. The humi-
distat is connected to terminals on the printed circuit board. When the humidistat is
not calling for dehumidification, you should see 24 VAC across the contacts.

5.10 CHECKING THE DRIVE MOTOR, WHEEL AND SEALS

1. Before you can remove the wheel, you must remove the drive motor. Figure 1–4
shows the drive wheel and belt.

2. Pull back the tensioner to loosen the drive belt. Remove the belt from the drive
sprocket on the motor.

3. Unplug the wiring connectors to the motor. Be careful not to pull too hard on a
connector. This could damage the wiring or the circuit board.

4. Remove the motor and drive assembly. These are mounted on the right-hand roller
wheel assembly.

5. Remove the small roller wheels which are located on each side of the
HoneyCombe® wheel. To remove a roller wheel, lift the wheel shaft up. Pull the
bottom of the shaft toward you, then down.

6. Gently lift the wheel a bit and pull it forward. Be careful not to damage the lower seals.

7. The small passages in the HoneyCombe® wheel may be plugged by dust or dirt. To
inspect the passages, hold the wheel upright. Hold a lamp with a 60 watt bulb
behind the wheel. If the passages are clear, the light from the lamp should shine
through the wheel. Because the passages are so small, you won’t be able to see
the light directly. Instead, you should see the glow from the light. If any part of the
wheel is plugged, you will see a dark area.

8. If the wheel seems to be plugged, it may be possible to clean it. Use a wet/dry
vacuum, and a dusting brush attachment with a soft bristle brush. Vacuum both
surfaces of the wheel.

9. If you cannot clear the wheel using the vacuum, you may use compressed air to
help the process. You must do this carefully, so that you do not damage the wheel.
The compressed air should be dry and free of oil. Don’t use a pressure higher than
30 PSIG. Use the compressed air on one side of the wheel, and the vacuum on the
other. Don’t hold the compressed air hose closer than 12" to the face of the wheel.

10. This type of wheel is washable. It is best to clean the wheel using clean water only.
If you must use a detergent, choose a mild type (enzyme or dish-washing deter-

5–5
 gent). The wheel is sensitive to high pH (alkaline condition). Choose a detergent
with a neutral pH. Do not use typical laundry detergents. Do not use any solvent to
wash the wheel. This will permanently damage the wheel.

11. If the wheel is still plugged, or if the honeycomb structure has softened, please call
the Service Operations Department at Munters.

12. To replace the wheel, reverse Steps 2 through 6 above.

5.11 SUGGESTED REPLACEMENT PARTS

Note - For part numbers, see the electrical parts list attached at the end of this manual.

Noncritical Critical
Part Appl. Appl.

Desiccant wheel 11" dia. x 200 mm ....................... 1

Seal kit ................................................................... 1
Drive subassembly for desiccant wheel
(Model HC-150R) ................................................... 1 1
Drive subassembly for desiccant wheel
(Model HC-150I) ..................................................... 1 1
Belt for desiccant drive wheel ................................ 1 1
Process air filter ..................................................... 1 1
Reactivation air filter ............................................... 1 1
Reactivation heater (Model HC-150R)
1ø, 1.5KW, 115V .................................................... 1 1
Reactivation heater (Model HC-150I)
1ø, 3KW, 230V ....................................................... 1 1

5–6
Munters Corporation
79 Monroe Street, P.O. Box 640
Amesbury, MA 01913–0640
TEL: (978) 241-1100 or (800) 843-5360
FAX: (978) 241-1217

WWW: http://www.muntersamerica.com
e-mail: [email protected]
Replacing Fusible Links Revision 7/11
9. REMOVE INSULATED MALE SPADE TERMINAL FROM THE INSULATED
FEMALE SPATE ATTACHED TO THE WHITE WIRE.

10. ASSEMBLE NEW FUSE SUB ASSEMBLY. CRIMP THE NON INSULATED
FEMALE TERMINALS TO BOTH SIDES OF THE FUSE.

11. REMOVE FUSE ASSEMBLY FROM HEATER BY PULLING STRAIGHT

OUT ON THE UNINSULATED FEMALE TERMINALS.

12. REPLACE FUSABLE LINK WITH NEW FUSE SUB ASSEMBLY BY

REINSTALLING FEMALE TERMINALS TO SYSTEM TABS.

13. REPEAT STEPS 8 THROUGH 12 FOR THE SECOND REPLACEABLE

FUSE.

14. BOTH FUSE ASSEMBLIES MUST BE INSIDE THE INNER

REACTIVATION CHAMBER BEFORE REINSTALLING THE METAL MESH
FILTER.

15. REASSEMBLY: REVERSE STEPS 1 THRU 6.

Replacing Fusible Links Revision 7/11

 HC-150 and HC-300 Humidistat Field Connections
HUMIDISTAT
(VICONICS)
HSP1
Input Plug

G DEH

P-2
COM
P-1 PWR

P-3 DEH

All Dashed Wiring by others

HC-150 / 300

HSP1 Input Plug

Regin Humidistat p/n 90485-xx

HUMIDISTAT
HSP1 Input Plug
Regin

G All Dashed Wiring by others

P-1

P-2 2

P-3 1

1
26992, Rev. 2, 10/10/2013
 H200 Direct Connect to HC-150/300 Circuit Board

HUMIDISTAT
(VICONICS)

Board Ground
lug or G
mounting post
DEH

E19
PCB1 COM
E20
PWR

DEH

All Dashed Wiring by others

Main Unit Circuit Board

HUMIDISTAT
(ROTRONICS SF-D65)

HSP1
Input Plug

G
12 34
P-1

P-2

P-3
5 6
All Dashed Wiring by others

2
26992, Rev. 2, 10/10/2013
 21237 Recommended Spare Parts List HC-150I

MODEL: HC-150I
DESCRIPTION P/N QTY REQ

WHEELS (REPLACEMENT KITS)

SIGEL (Titanium Enhanced Silica Gel) 30146-10 (1)

SEALS
SEAL KIT, UPPER & LOWER 43552-01 (1)

MOTORS
DRIVE MOTOR (Desiccant Drive) 92483-01 220V (1)
DRIVE KIT (NEW CANTILEVERED) 43579-01 (1)

BELTS
DRIVE BELT 91626-04 (1)

FILTERS
PROCESS IN 95007-32 (1)
REACT IN 95007-39 (1)

ROLLERS
DESICCANT SUPPORT 15985 (2)

HEATERS
208V-230V 91761-03 (1)

FUSES
1 AMP/250 VOLT - (1)
3 AMP/250 VOLT - (6)
FNM 10 AMP/250 VOLT 92012-33 (2)

MUNTERS DH PH. (978) 241-1100 FAX (978) 241-1214 PH. (800) 843-5360

-02 DRIVE MOTOR WAS 92054-02 SAH 02/05/04 SAH

-01 ADDED FUSES SAH 12/04/97 SAH
REV DESCRIPTION DFT DATE APP
REVISIONS

DFT DATE REF SPEC # DWG NO.

Munters Corporation GR 2/97 21237
Dehumidification Division CHK CUST NAME:
GR 2/97 STANDARD
79 Monroe Street APP CODE REV
Amesbury, MA 01913 SB 2/97 PAGE 1 OF 1 IDENT # 82974 2
 21238 Recommended Spare Parts List HC-150R

MODEL: HC-150R

DESCRIPTION P/N QTY REQ

WHEELS (REPLACEMENT KITS)

SIGEL (Titanium Enhanced Silica Gel) 30146-10 (1)

SEALS
SEAL KIT, UPPER & LOWER 43552-01 (1)

MOTORS
DRIVE MOTOR (Desiccant Drive) 92485-01 (1)
DRIVE KIT (NEW CANTILEVERED) 43579-02 (1)

BELTS
DRIVE BELT 91626-04 (1)

FILTERS
PROCESS IN 95007-32 (1)
REACT IN 95007-39 (1)

ROLLERS
DESICCANT SUPPORT 15985 (2)

HEATERS
115V 91761-14 (1)

MUNTERS DH
PH. (978) 241-1100
FAX (978) 241-1214
PH. (800) 843-5360

-02 DRIVE KIT WAS 43579-01, HEATER WAS 91761-07 SAH 02/05/04 SAH
-01 DRIVE MOTOR WAS 92054-01 SAH 01/15/04 SAH
REV DESCRIPTION DFT DATE APP
REVISIONS

DFT DATE REF SPEC # DWG NO.

Munters Corporation GR 2/97 21238
Dehumidification Division CHK CUST NAME:
GR 2/97 STANDARD
79 Monroe Street APP CODE REV
Amesbury, MA 01913 SB 2/97 PAGE 1 OF 1 IDENT # 82974 2