Manufactured Enclosure

A MANUFACTURED ENCLOSURE IS NOT STANDARD CONSTRUCTION

Manufactured enclosures have very little R-Value/U-Value-- or insulation value. Standard building construction is generally 2x4 or 2x6 construction with R-19 walls and R-38 ceiling. Therefore heat loss and solar gain is much greater for manufactured enclosures, and needs to be taken into consideration when sizing dehumidification, heating and cooling these structures. Some enclosure companies are better suited to this environment than others, and each client should review all specifications carefully.

EPS will require all specifications relating to R-Value & U-Values of all sections to determine the proper heating & cooling loads for dehumidification.

SENSIBLE CALCULATIONS (HEAT GAIN/HEAT LOSS) are required when engineering dehumidification, heating and potential cooling options for these structures. Typically operating costs can be 3 to 5 times higher than standard construction, and to help reduce these costs, we recommend a pool cover be used when feasible. This requires a complete specifications package on the structure from the structure manufacturer to do these calculations.

Windows should be double pane “glass” or use of other materials that deter condensation and corrosion. Single pane glass is not recommended and can be problematic in colder climates.

METAL/ALUMINUM FRAME STRUCTURES AND WINDOWS: All frames MUST be THERMALLY BROKEN in these types of enclosures.

On days where the humidity is low, opening doors and windows is recommended. However, o pening these retractable panels and bringing in outside air does not control the humidity level 100%. When opening panels on a day when outdoor temperature is 80 degrees with 90% humidity, you are bringing in this humidity to an envelope that will be maintained at 50-60% RH. Having these panels open on a “colder” day may result in the increased need to heat the room. Lastly, during cold months, the retractable windows and panels are not used. (Remember: anytime the outside temperature is lower than the inside temperature, Dew Point is reached, forming condensation on the inside surfaces).

Some structures may not be suitable for indoor poolrooms where high humidity and chlorine exist (i.e. – single pane glass and metal framing without thermal breaks). Chlorine can pit materials and cause corrosion. Humidity and water constantly dripping can cause rust, mold, & mildew. Even steel structures will deteriorate over time. Recommend and ensure that any materials used for the pool enclosure are corrosion proof. Review all materials used in the enclosure with the manufacturer.

Careful attention must be given to designing the air delivery or ductwork system for these types of structure. Properly sized ductwork must provide airflow to all “glass” surface areas of the structure to prevent condensation. Ceiling fans blowing up may be helpful to break up stratification and move airflow. We recommend a pool cover be used when the pool is not in use in projects where it is feasible to do so. This cover will save a great deal in evaporation rate, keep heat in the pool, dehumidification doesn’t run 24 hours a day – and utility bills can be reduced by as much as 75% with a pool cover.

With enclosures, underground or overhead ducting can be used. However, if underground ducting is used, you must ensure that air flow can reach the ceiling areas that will condense when warm meets cold. If it is not feasible to have overhead duct, then ceiling fans blowing up should be installed to help break up stratification and move air flow to these areas. Call EPS for more specifics.

Note: Waste ventilation systems have been typically used in the past for these structures. The cost of operation is extremely high and these systems cannot control humidity or provide the proper air turnovers per ASHRAE guidelines.

800-671-9629 | 248-634-7562 | Sales: sales@dry-air.com | Engineering: bob@dry-air.com

EPS is the home of DRY-AIR & VERI-DRY. We provide Design, Engineering, Consulting and Manufacturing for Residential and Commercial Indoor Swimming Pool Applications.

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