Getting the Most Out of Your Enclosure Cooling Unit

Electrical enclosure cooling and airflow products from Kooltronic are specially-designed to provide reliable, high-performance thermal management for heat-sensitive equipment. Unlike solid-state cooling units, Kooltronic refrigerant-based air conditioners offer higher cooling capacities (BTU/H) and a unique closed-loop design that delivers cooled clean air. As a result, the Kooltronic AC unit retains the optimal temperature within a sealed enclosure while keeping the internal components protected against humidity, dust, and other airborne contaminants present in the surrounding ambient air. Kooltronic closed-loop air conditioners are also unique in that they require very little maintenance – only the occasional replacement of the filter element (on an as-needed basis).

Consider the following tips to determine the frequency at which you should maintain the filter for your air conditioner, air-to-air heat exchanger, packaged blower, or other applicable enclosure cooling product.

The Benefits of Periodic Filter Maintenance

Kooltronic enclosure cooling products are dependable and built to last. By periodically maintaining the product filter, you can help ensure optimal production and long service life. Plus, routine filter replacement offers additional benefits, such as:

Increased operational efficiency of the cabinet cooling unit.
Decreased current draw (more energy efficient).
Less time to reach the desired temperature.
Extended component lifespan.

How Do I Maintain My Enclosure Cooling Product Filter?

Many Kooltronic air conditioners, packaged blowers, and air-to-air heat exchangers come equipped with corrugated aluminum mesh filters that can be easily removed and cleaned or replaced. Kooltronic customers can now save time by conveniently purchasing new, factory replacement filters online at kooltronic.com/SpareParts. Kooltronic replacement filters are ready to install right out of the box, and quantity discounts are available for many popular Kooltronic filter types. For added protection, a specialized recoating adhesive (Part # A-16) can be applied to the filter element prior to installation. This non-drying adhesive coating traps a high percentage of particulate matter and further safeguards the contents of the electrical enclosure or control cabinet.

How Often Should I Replace My Enclosure Cooling Product Filter?

Environmental conditions can vary from one location to the next, so the frequency of replacing the filter is not the same for everyone. As a general principle, Kooltronic suggests regular filter maintenance every six months. Filter maintenance may be required more or less frequently depending upon the conditions unique to your enclosure's location and operating environment. For example:

Enclosure cooling units operating in locations with a lot of dust, soot, dirt, and airborne contaminants should have their filter replaced at a minimum frequency of 1-3 months.
Enclosure cooling units operating in clean, particulate-free locations can generally go longer without filter changes but should not exceed 6 months without at least a visual inspection.

Additional Maintenance & Operating Suggestions

While early enclosure design and application planning help to prevent problems, it never hurts to do a bit of housekeeping to ensure that your Kooltronic cooling unit is operating under favorable conditions, which include:

Keep air intake areas clean and free of dust, dirt, and debris.
Make sure there is ample space near air intake areas to maintain a steady supply of cooling air.
Check that there is enough space around air exhaust areas to expel the unwanted heat.
Ensure that there is enough space for unimpeded airflow inside the electrical enclosure.
Wash down NEMA 4/4X rated enclosure cooling units with water and a non-abrasive cleaning solution.
Regularly inspect and clear any clogged condensate drains.

A little care and attention to your Kooltronic enclosure cooling product (and its filter) can go a long way toward maximizing performance and extending service life. Please contact an enclosure cooling specialist if you have any product questions, or need help finding the right replacement filter.