Electrical Troubleshooting Quiz — June 15, 2021
During the brutally cold weather this past February, the plant’s HVAC system apparently could not keep up. While some people complained about being cold, others complained about being hot. Some plant processes were adversely affected by temperature fluctuations. Scans with a thermographic gun showed large variations in temperature.
In the administrative offices, people complained the air was too dry, though a humidification system is integrated into the HVAC. While collecting information, a junior maintenance person noted condensation and light mold on the windows and window frames. To determine whether the air is too dry or damp, he rubbed his feet on the carpet and then touched his finger to the back of the job planner’s neck. The job planner made it clear he was not amused. Yep, too dry.
The plant engineer asked you to determine what is wrong with the environmental controls. Where do you start?
Before checking the environmental controls, check the building envelope. How old are those windows in the admin area? Have them tested for air leaks and thermal integrity. Replace as needed, and then have a thermographer determine where else heat is leaking.
In extremely cold weather, humidity has a natural limiter. Windows, at best, can have an R value in the mid-single digits. In extreme cold, they are going to present a condensation problem. People will simply have to endure dry air, which is preferable to mold.
Look at the make-up air system in both areas. If it has manually adjustable dampers, it’s time to upgrade to automated dampers. You will need a mechanical contractor to review the system and make recommendations.
The next step would be to have an HVAC contractor test and tune the environmental controls.
About the Author
Mark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.