UNISYS TECHNOLOGIES DM530 Duct Mount Atomizing Evaporative Humidifier User Manual

UNISYS TECHNOLOGIES DM530 Duct Mount Atomizing Evaporative Humidifier

Specifications

• Product Name: Duct Mount Atomizing/Evaporative Humidifier
• Model: DIGI-MisterTM DM530/DM538
• Manufacturer: Unisys Technologies
• Features:
  • Flexible capability for different settings
  • Easy installation, operation, and maintenance
  • Water and electricity saving
  • Neutralize and remove odors (DM538 only)

Product Usage Instructions

Installation

1. Cut out a small section on the supply duct for installation.
2. Connect the necessary components as per the user manual.
3. Ensure installation is done by qualified personnel.

Operation

1. Adjust the inlet water pressure based on your requirements.
2. Monitor the water mist status through the observation window during operation.
3. Use the humidity display and air temp display to set parameters.

Maintenance

1. Use the swing-out design for easy maintenance access.
2. Clean spray nozzles regularly with the provided nozzle clean needle.
3. Check for any blockages or buildup in the system periodically.

FAQ

Q: Can children operate this humidifier?

A: No, children should not operate this humidifier to avoid any safety hazards.

Q: How do I protect my eyes from UV-C light (DM538 only)?

A: Ensure to disconnect power before servicing the DM538 humidifier to protect your eyes from UV-C light.

Q: How to prevent electrical shock during installation?

A: Disconnect HVAC equipment before beginning the installation process to prevent any electrical shock hazards.

If you have any questions about the operation of your humidifier, please contact customer support:

• US and Canada: 1-888-966-8074
• E-mail: CustomerSupport@Unisys-Technologies.com
• Web Site: www.Unisys-Technologies.com

SAFETY DEFINITIONS AND PRECAUTIONS

SAFETY DEFINITIONS

These safety terms identify information you must read.

⚠ CAUTION:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could cause bodily injury or property damage.

⚠ WARNING:

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Make sure you read and understand this manual carefully and completely before installing, using, or working with the Digi-Mister humidifier. Installation and maintenance should be completed by qualified personnel.

⚠ WARNING: BODY INJURY HAZARD

Children should not operate this humidifier.

⚠ CAUTION: UV-C LIGHT HAZARD (DM538 ONLY)

Protect eyes from UV-C light (DM538 0nly), disconnect power before servicing.

⚠ WARNING: ELECTROCUTION HAZARD

Can cause electrical shock or equipment damage. Disconnect HVAC equipment before beginning installation.

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for choosing and using the Digi-Mister DM530/DM538 whole-house humidifier from Unisys Technologies LLC. This patented humidifier has the following outstanding features:

• Flexible capability. By adjusting the inlet water pressure, changing the number of nozzles (1 to 5) and hot air temperature, this humidifier can be used for homes and offices of various sizes. It can also work with a variety of different types of furnaces.
• Easy installation, operation, and maintenance. This humidifier only needs a small cut-out on the supply duct for installation. Setting and adjusting parameters are simple. Through an observation window, users can monitor the water mist status during operation. A “swing-out” design makes maintenance very easy.
• Water and electricity saving. Water is sprayed into the duct under normal pipe pressure to form an atomized mist. The mist could completely evaporate in the air, so no water is wasted during operation.
• Neutralize and remove odors (DM538 only). The germicidal ultraviolet LED lamps equipped on the DM538 humidifier can kill odor-causing bacteria and avoid mold stain on evaporator or duct surface in close proximity to the humidifier.

KNOW YOUR HUMIDIFIER

This new humidifier is installed to operate in conjunction with the forced-air heating, ventilating, air conditioning (HVAC) systems for residential houses or office buildings. Once the humidity is lower than desired and the hot air temperature rises to the pre-set point, the control board will turn a solenoid valve on, and atomized water mist will start being dispersed into the passing warm air by the spray nozzles. This operation will be indicated by both green LEDs above the display windows lighting up. A mini vibration motor on the spray nozzle bracket will be powered on for about two seconds to facilitate the formation of the fine water mist. The water mist will evaporate into the warm air and then be carried into your home by the furnace hot air flow.

PACKAGING CONTENT

COMPONENTS

SPECIFICATIONS

INSTALLATION

MOUNTING LOCATION

There are many different furnace plenum and duct settings. As shown in Fig.1 ⓐ the best mounting location is above the evaporate coil of an AC for a “T”-shaped supply duct. Other possible locations are showed in ⓑ ~ ⓓ. A good location allows installing as many as possible spray nozzles and all the water mist would not reach the duct walls. Please note:

• Mount the humidifier in a conditioned space to prevent freezing or excessive heat (temperature < 160°F).
• Allow adequate clearance in front of and above the humidifier so you can easily observe its working condition and perform maintenance and repair.

⚠ WARNING: WATER DAMAGE.

Do not install the humidifier where accidental overflow could cause damage to the home or properties. Dripping water can cause property damage.

⚠ WARNING: UV-C LIGHT HAZARD (DM538 ONLY).

Do not install the humidifier where the duct work is not totally closed. Do not install in an area near a vent or other opening through which the UV light is accessible, or completely close/disable them to prevent any potential UV light leakage. Leaking UV light is harmful to both skin and eyes. Avoid both direct and reflected exposure to UV light when the UV-C LEDs are powered on.

MOUNTING CUT-OUT

Locate the mounting gasket as a template, tape the template in position (Fig. 2) and trace around the inner square. Remove the template and carefully cut the rectangular opening. Finally, remove sharp edges and burrs.

⚠ CAUTION: SHARP EDGES

Carefully remove all sharp edges and burrs to prevent damage to the unit and injuring yourself.

MOUNT THE HUMIDIFIER

Remove the paper on the back side of the gasket and stick it to the position on the duct as shown in Fig. 2, or you can attach the gasket on the back side of the mounting frame of the humidifier. With the spray nozzle bracket in rotating-out position, push and slide the humidifier unit from left to right into the cut-out opening so that the 2 tabs at the right side of the mounting frame are inside of the opening’s edge (see Fig. 3). Fix the humidifier to the duct by using the 4 sheet metal screws provided in the box. Be careful not to strip the screw holes with excessively large torque.

MAKE CONNECTIONS ELECTRICAL WIRE CONNECTION

This humidifier is intended to be wired directly to the 24VAC secondary coil of a class II transformer whose primary coil should connected to the 120VAC power terminals of a furnace main control board. It should only be powered on when the heater and blower of the furnace are turned on. Don’t power the humidifier on permanently. To make sure that the humidifier has sufficient electric power, the transformer’s rating should not be lower than 10 VA. Strip about ¼” from the wire ends and crimp them with the two 16-14 AWG female disconnectors provided in the box. Push the disconnectors firmly into the two male spade connectors at the bottom left of the unit. A standard electrical diagram is illustrated in Fig. 4. A class II transformer is connected to the “HUM.” 120V terminal on the
furnace control board. 24VAC power will be provided to the humidifier whenever the main air blower motor is in operation.

Users of the DM538 humidifier, which has disinfection and purification functions using UVC LEDs, can choose to make the optional connection shown in Fig. 5. The primary side of transformer is connected to the “EAC.” 120V terminal. In this way you can enjoy the benefits of healthy circulating air not only in winter but also in summer seasons. Since the UVC LEDs rely on the air flow for cooling down, the furnace blower motor must be running before the DM538 humidifier is powered on.

Users can also power the DIGI MISTER humidifiers up through a smart thermostat such as NEST or EcoBee if its 24VAC power line is rated above 0.5A. In this case the humidity must be set at a high level and the smart thermostat takes over the humidity control

⚠ WARNING: ELECTROCUTION HAZARD.

Improper electrical wiring can cause personal injury or property damage. It is required by local codes that the unit be installed by a qualified HVAC technician or electrician. All wiring must be in accordance with NEC and existing local codes. HUMIDISTAT CONNECTION
To get an accurate and stable humidity reading, it is recommended that the humidistat be located inside living space within 10 feet of the humidifier unit (see illustration in Fig. 1). The humidistat housing can be fixed on a wall or cabinet. Avoid direct sunshine or areas with abnormal humidity. Push the 3-way female connector into the male connector at the bottom of the humidifier. Please note:

• The sensor wires can be extended if necessary. Make sure that the wires are correctly and securely reconnected.
• The humidistat sensor can be located inside the returning duct if it is difficult to reach the living space. However, the digital sensor reading will fluctuate significantly at beginning of each running period due to air flow in the returning duct.

WATER LINE CONNECTION

Please refer to the illustrations in Fig. 1 ⓐ for the water line connection. Install a ¼” saddle valve (not provided) to a (hot or cold) water line, connect an inline water filter (not provided) before connecting to the water pressure regulator provided. Users must assemble the in/outlet connectors and the dial meter to the regulator body at first by using PTFE tape or pipe thread sealant to ensure leak-free connections. A ¼” outside diameter (O.D.) soft tube, such as a vinyl or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) tubing (working pressure > 80psi), must be used to connect the pressure regulator to the humidifier unit. Cut the tube so that it has extra length (about 6”) and make a loop in front of the unit before pushing the end firmly into the push-to- connect fitting at the water inlet. Install the water pressure regulator and the wire clamp by using the mounting screws provided in the package at left side of the humidifier. Fix the wires and soft tubing as illustrated in Fig. 6. In this way, users can rotate out the spray nozzle bracket of the humidifier easily without stretching or severely bending any wires or tubing.

• Pay close attention to the indication of the flow direction of the saddle valve, water filter and pressure regulator, otherwise it could cause malfunction or even damage of the components.
• It is important that a good polyphosphate filter be installed to reduce scale or sediment build-up of hard minerals onto plenum and duct surfaces and prevent spray nozzle clogs.
• Consult local codes for proper plumbing.

After all the water lines are connected, turn the saddle valve on, check all the joints and around the body of humidifier for any water leaks.

SET UP AND OPERATION INLET WATER PRESSURE AND NUMBER OF SPRAY NOZZLES

There are two ways for the DIGI MISTER humidifier’s users to change how much water mist can be sprayed for evaporation: adjusting the inlet water pressure and the number of the nozzles. Please note:

• the water pressure regulator can only reduce the water pressure to a lower point, cannot increase it above the supplied pressure (40 ~ 60 psi for residential water systems).
• Decrease water pressure will reduce the stroke length as well as the quantity of water mist from an individual nozzle, so that increase the chance for a full evaporation. Based on test data, if the water pressure reduced from 60 to 30 psi, the water mist stroke length will decrease about 2 to 3 inches, and there will be about 30% less water mist sprayed.
• In rural areas where the water pressure fluctuates a lot set the pressure to match or slightly below the lower pressure limit, so that the inlet water pressure will be consistently all the time.
• Do not reduce the water pressure below 30 psi since the water mist cannot be atomized adequately at such low pressure.
• Due to the fan-shaped arrangement of five spray nozzles, the atomized water mist can be dispersed widely and evenly into the duct. This allows the mist to evaporate in the hot air quickly and effectively, meaning more moisture will be carried into your living space. Users can install one to five spray nozzles on the humidifiers depending on the size of the furnaces and supply ducts. Its capacity (at 60 psi) can be 7 gallons per day (one nozzle) to 35 gallons per day (five nozzles).

To gain access to the nozzles, remove the two mounting screws on the right side of the unit, then press down the locking latch and rotate the spray bracket out, as illustrated in Fig. 7. Nozzles or stoppers can be installed or uninstalled by turning clockwise or counterclockwise with fingers. To avoid damaging the threads, do not use excessive force.

⚠ WARNING: UV-C LIGHT HAZARD (DM538 ONLY).

Disconnect the 24VAC power before opening the spray bracket. Leaking UV-C light is potentially harmful to both skin and eyes. There are three major factors that affect what water pressure to set and how many nozzles should be installed. Best strategy is starting with a lower pressure setting and a small number of nozzles, increase pressure or add more nozzles if the water mist can be evaporated completely:

1. Housing or building size
   The table below shows the approximate number of nozzles vs. the square feet of the conditioned space as a guide. Square footage| 1000~2000| 1500~2500| 2000~3000| 2500~3500
   ---|---|---|---|---
   Spray Nozzles @ 60 psi| 1~2| 2~3| 3~4| 4~5
2. Dimensional limitation of the duct Fig. 8 shows the recommended arrangements of spray nozzles for different sizes of ducts. Limiting the number of nozzles ensures that the water mist will evaporate before reaching the duct wall.
3. Evaporating status of water mist Water mist evaporation relies on air temperature, hanging time of the water mist in the hot air and air moving speed. The types of furnaces will have a big impact on it. In general, multistage furnaces or heat pumps will have lower air temperature and slower blower speed than single stage furnace which makes evaporation more difficult. Users can check water mist status through the observation window as illustrated in Fig. 9 to make sure that the water mists are evenly and widely dispersed out of the nozzles and evaporated by the passing hot air, and there is no wet spot or water puddles in or outside the duct, especially in the area of downstream 2 ~ 3 ft. from the spray nozzles.Slowly increase the water pressure or add nozzles if all the surfaces of the plenum and duct are still dry and desired humidity in the living space is not reached yet. However, users must check frequently to ensure that there isn’t any water puddles or drips inside/outside the plume and duct to avoid any water damage to your furnace and property.

⚠ WARNING: UV-C LIGHT HAZARD ( DM538 ONLY).

Do not look at the water mist from locations other than the

observation window since UV-C light from DM538 humidifier can cause skin and eye damage.

HUMIDITY AND HOT AIR TEMPERATURE SETTING

Adjust the house thermostat to start the furnace operation. The humidifier will be powered up when the main blower starts to run and circulate air. The current humidity level in the living space (blue number on the left) and the current hot air temperature (red number on the right) will be displayed on the display windows. The default factory settings for the humidifiers to activate are below 50% relative humidity (RH) and above 110°F(43°C). To run the humidifier based on individual’s demands users can change the settings by following these instructions:

• Press the “Set/Test” button ONCE to enter humidity setting mode. A desired humidity value will be shown in the display. Users can press “▲” or “▼” buttons below the humidity display window to change it. After five seconds the room humidity level will reappear on the display and the set value will be saved.
• Press the “Set/Test” button TWICE to enter hot air temperature setting mode. A pre-set temperature value will be shown in the display window. Press “▲” or “▼” buttons below the window to adjust the value. After five seconds the current hot air temperature will reappear on the display and the set value will be saved.
• Press the “Set/Test” button THREE times to turn on the solenoid valve and spray water mist for ten seconds. Press the button within 10 seconds again to stop the test spray and return to normal operation. Use this feature to test the spray nozzle operation while bypassing humidity and temperature criteria.

Additionally, there are two more settings which can help run the humidifier more precisely and conveniently.

• Press the “▲” and “▼” buttons below the humidity window simultaneously to enter humidity value calibration mode. This is useful when the humidity reading is off a little bit from actual humidity. The adjustment value can be -10% to +10% RH.
• Press the “▲” and “▼” buttons below the temperature window simultaneously to switch the temperature unit between Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C).

All the setting values will be saved in memory permanently until a future change, even when the humidifier is powered off. Recommended settings of relative humidity level vs. outside air temperature are listed in the table below. These settings represent a compromise between RH levels that would be most desirable for comfort reasons and humidity levels that are suitable for protection of the home while avoiding condensation on windows.

A proper hot air temperature setting is critical for evaporating of the water mist in plume or duct. Recommended setting range is 100 ~ 120°F (38~49°C). Higher hot air temperature can help the water mist evaporate quickly and effectively. However, it will take more time to reach a high temperature, therefore it may reduce water mist spray time for each heating operation period of the furnace. Overall, it could bring less moisturized hot air into living space. The distance from the installed location of the humidifier to the heat exchanger and the type of furnaces can also affect the hot air temperature significantly. The temperature can be set higher if the humidifier is mounted close to the heat exchanger, such as right above the evaporator of AC. The hot air temperature in single stage furnaces will be higher than in multistage furnaces and heat pumps.

MAINTENANCE

Properly maintained and cleaned, this humidifier will provide years of dependable trouble-free and efficient service. During the heating season, check the water inlet pressure and mist status of each nozzle through the observation window weekly (Fig. 9). The mist should be fine droplets with an evenly spread-out pattern. There should be no water puddles or drips in and outside the duct.

The following symptoms indicate that the spray nozzles require cleaning or replacement:

• Abnormally large spray pattern
• Asymmetric spray pattern
• Constant solid water stream
• Absence of water spray

Note: This humidifier is equipped with uniquely designed spray nozzles, which include a fine ceramic orifice plate and a water filter on them (see Fig. 10). Using any other type nozzles on the humidifier could result in poor evaporation or water damage.

To clean or replace the spray nozzles:

• a. Turn OFF the power to the furnace.
• b. Follow the steps in Fig. 7 to rotate the spray bracket out.
• c. Remove the spray nozzles and soak them in white vinegar or other scale remover product for about 30 minutes.
• d. Take apart the components of the spray nozzles according to Fig. 10. Scrub off all the mineral build-up and scale on all the components and rinse it using water. Put the nozzle back together in the original order.
• e. Install the nozzles on the bracket and rotate it back into the duct. Turn the furnace on and let it run for heating.
• f. As soon as the humidifier is powered on (the hot air temperature may be still low) press the “Set/Test” button THREE times to turn on the solenoid valve to test the water mist spray.
• g. Observe the water mist. If issues persist, the nozzle needs to be replaced with a new one.
• h. Put the two mounting screws back on and tighten them gently.

It is strongly recommended that at the end of each heating season you perform the following steps:

1. Disconnect the 24VAC power from the furnace
2. Turn the water saddle valve off
3. Remove the water filter from the water line
4. Let the water in the water pressure regulator, soft tubing and solenoid valve run out
5. Replace all spray nozzles by using spray stoppers to seal the spray bracket water way
6. Clean and dry all the nozzles and store them in a bag.

The user of DM538 humidifier can keep the electrical connection shown in Fig. 5 so that the unit still has disinfection and purification functions of UVC LEDs during the summer season when the AC is running. Install a new water filter and new or cleaned spray nozzles at the start of each new heating season.

Question and Customer Support

• US and Canada: 1 888 966 8074
• E-mail: CustomerSupport@Unisys-Technologies.com
• Web Site: www.Unisys-Technologies.com
• UNISYS TECHNOLOGIES LLC, Troy, Michigan 48085, USA

WARRANTY

Unisys Technologies LLC warrants that for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase, all new DIGI-MISTER humidifiers will be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal, non-commercial use and services. All components are covered by this limited warranty except expendable items such as spray nozzles. Unisys Technologies LLC will repair or replace this product or any parts of the product to be defective during the warranty periods. Replacement will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of equal or greater value. Please submit it online at www.unisys- technologies.com/product-warranty to activate your warranty. Also keep the original sales receipt, as dated proof of purchase is required to obtain the warranty. This warranty is valid for the original purchaser from the date of initial retail purchase and is not transferable. In no event shall liability exceed the purchase price paid by the purchaser of the product. Under no circumstances shall there be liability for any loss direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damage arising out of, or in connection with the use of this product. We are not responsible for damages from the use of water softeners or treatments, chemicals, or descaling materials. This warranty does not cover parts installed by unlicensed HVAC or electrical contractors. This warranty does not cover parts damaged as a result of misuse, abuse, use on improper voltage or current, or any use other than its intended use, accident, or from improper operation, maintenance, installation, modification, or adjustments. Further, the warranty does not cover acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes, or tornadoes. UNISYS TECHNOLOGIES LLC SHALL NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENCIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS, REVENUE OR BUSINESS) OR DAMAGE OR INJURY TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY IN ANT WAY RELATED TO THE MANUFACTURER OR THE USE OF ITS PRODUCTS. The exclusion applies regardless of whether such damages are sought based on breach of warranty, breach of contract, negligence, strict liability in tort, or any other theory, even if Unisys Technologies LLC has notice of the possibility of such damage. Some states, provinces, or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What can I do if some of the nozzles I received cannot spray fine water mist?

  • The DIGI MISTER humidifiers can support max. 5 fine mist nozzles. These nozzles are specially designed to be used for low pressure applications. They have a tiny orifice hole (0.1mm) and several small components which must work together perfectly to form a fine water mist. It is impossible to have all the nozzles working flawlessly. They are critical components, but inexpensive and can be cleaned or replaced easily. Replacement nozzles can be purchased from our store on Amazon. Our built-in observation window can help users to identify which nozzle is good or not. Only install the nozzles which can spray atomized mist to avoid any potential water damage.

• What can I do to fix the nozzles with imperfect water mist?
  There are mainly two ways users can try to improve the nozzle spray condition:

  • Take off the front cap, orifice plate, O-ring and swirl core from the nozzle. Clean them if there is any build-up. Use the nozzle cleaning needle provided to clean the orifice hole. Put the components back in correct order. Install the nozzle in the humidifier to check how it performs.
  • If there are two or more faulty nozzles, you can try swapping the orifice plate or swirl core between them. Sometimes you may get good nozzles in this way.

• What can I do if I don’t have enough good nozzles?

  • The DIGI MISTER humidifier can support 1 to 5 nozzles depending on the size of the furnace, duct and homes. There are at least 2 or more extra nozzles provided with each humidifier. It is possible that some of the customers with large size houses may not have enough good nozzles to put into their humidifier. You can buy these spray nozzles from our store on Amazon. DO NOT USE OTHER TYPES OF SPRAY NOZZLES.

• What if the nozzles spray fine mist, but there are still wet spot or water puddles in the duct?

  • In this case you can decrease the water inlet pressure and reduce the number of nozzles because the furnace hot air cannot vaporize all the water mist sprayed. You can also try to increase the triggering hot air temperature or increase the draft motor speed for quicker evaporation. However, be aware that there is a limitation on how much water mist can evaporate in the passing hot air.

• Why doesn’t my humidifier power up?

  • The DIGI MISTER humidifier must be powered up by a 24VAC transformer (not provided) connected to the 120V power lines on the furnace main control board. Don’t connect it to a low power 24V terminal on the control board. It is not as simple as a “plug & play” indoor portable humidifier. Please consult a professional HAVC technician, or contact us by phone call, message, or email. We will help you to resolve the issues.

• How can I set up my humidifier for my multi-stage furnace with a variable speed blower?

  • In general, the multi-stage furnaces equipped with a variable speed blower, such as a ECM motor, will run in a slow motor speed and a relatively low hot air temperature (but not below  100℉). Due to slow air movement, you can use a few spray nozzles (like 1 or 2) first to check if the water mist can evaporate fully, only increase nozzles if it is okay. You may get enough humidity with fewer nozzles because this type of furnace is usually running at lower stage with long period time or almost constantly on.

• Can I use a smart thermostat with a humidistat to control the DIGI MISTER humidifier?

  • Yes, you can use a smart furnace thermostat to partially control the DIGI MISTER humidifier. If you use the humidifier control function of a Nest or EcoBee thermostat which could provide 24VAC and above 0.5A current to power up the DIGI MISTER humidifier, make sure to select “Hum.+Heat” for activate and set a high target humidity level on the DIGI MISTER. In this way the humidifier will be powered on when the smart thermostat calls for humidity and for heat. However, you must set the hot air temperature above 100℉ so that the water mist can be sprayed and fully evaporated when the air temperature in the duct reaches the setting point.

• Can I connect the DIGI MISTER humidifier to a permanent 24VAC power source?

  • No, for the DM530 and DM538, connecting to a permanent 24VAC power source is not recommended. The DIGI MISTER humidifier is designed to operate in conjunction with the forced air furnaces. It only turns on and off together with the furnaces, so that some of its electric components, such as temperature sensor, white LEDs and UVC LEDs can function over a long period of time. In addition, the DM538 requires moving air from the furnace to prevent the UVC LEDs from overheating.

References

• Technologies.com
• Unisys Technologies LLC

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