Hired-Hand Unitized Mega Cool: Square Bottom - Manual (Page 56)

Part No. 4801-5396 Rev 5-08 Unitized System – Square Reservoir Page 56 of 63
more water to escape. If you see scale beginning to form on the pads, you will
need to increase your bleed off rate.
The best method of determining the bleed off rate is to first find out how much
evaporation is occurring. To calculate a rough estimate of your evaporation,
multiply the area of pad by the air speed through the pad, by the temperature
drop from one side to the other, then divide the final number by 500,000.
For example, if your pad is five feet tall and 60 feet long, an your air speed is
300 feet per minute, and the outside temperature is 95 degrees, and inside
temperature is 75 degrees, then you would give 3.6 gallons per minute.
If water is extremely hard-large amounts of minerals, etc. – the bleed off rate
should equal evaporation.
If minerals are a small problem, make the bleed off rate from 1/4 to 1/2 the
evaporation rate.
For areas with little or no dissolved solids, make the bleed off rate anywhere
from 1/10 to 1/4 the evaporation rate.
These values are estimates, so individual rates will vary. Try to keep your water
as clean as possible to minimize scale formation on the pads.
Water Distribution
Maintaining even water distribution to the pads is the most important way of
extending pad life. If an area of pad does not receive enough water, it will clog
or soften.
By raising the water plate on the top of the pads, while the pump is running, you
will see the jets of water shooting up into the air. If any of the jets look weaker
than the others, it needs to be cleaned out. If at any time you see dry spots or
streaks, investigate to see why. Most problems associated with water
distribution may be fixed with a good cleaning of the distribution pipe.
Algae Treatment
If algae develops on pipes or on the pads, it may be necessary to add a water
treatment compound to control algae growth. Consult your local agricultural
distributor for a recommended water treatment compound.
Winterizing the System
1. Shut off pump.
2. Close ball valve between strainer and reservoir.
3. Remove strainer cover.
4. Open ball valve between strainer and reservoir. Drain water from system.
NOTE: Expect about 70 gallons of standing water per 50 feet of reservoir
pipe.
5. Do not replace strainer cover until recharging the system for normal
operation.
Hired-Hand Mega-Cool Checklist
H
ave the right amount of water running over the pad.
I dentify and correct leaks in the system.
R educe the amount of on-off cycles.
E xcessive dust, fumes and harsh cleaners, should be avoided.
D
isinfect the whole system once per quarter.
H
ave the sump and pad in the shade if possible.
A llow the pads to dry completely every 24 hours.
N ever use phosphate based water treatment chemicals.
D rain the system during extended shutdowns.