FAQs

Recotherm has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing ventilation systems specifically for indoor swimming pools for 26 years. Over this time, they have refined their systems to ensure optimal performance, with a focus on minimizing running costs as much as possible. This extensive experience has allowed Recotherm to develop solutions that not only maintain the delicate balance of temperature and humidity required in pool environments but also ensure that these systems operate efficiently and cost-effectively for the long term.

Unlike simple, off-the-shelf ventilation units, Recotherm systems incorporate advanced energy-saving features that significantly reduce energy consumption. These innovations, such as highly efficient heat recovery systems, enable the recycling of energy within the system, dramatically lowering operational costs compared to standard ventilation solutions. A basic system with a couple of fans and a heater battery cannot match this level of efficiency and would likely lead to higher long-term expenses due to increased energy usage and more frequent maintenance requirements.

Additionally, the atmosphere of an indoor swimming pool is particularly harsh and corrosive due to the combination of high humidity and chemical content, such as chlorine and other sanitizers. This environment can quickly degrade standard ventilation equipment, leading to premature failure and costly replacements. Recotherm systems are specifically engineered to withstand these corrosive conditions, using materials and coatings designed for durability and resilience. As a result, their units have an impressive track record of longevity, with some systems still operating effectively after 25 years of service.

By choosing a Recotherm system, you are investing in a purpose-built solution that offers unmatched reliability, superior energy efficiency, and the ability to withstand the challenging conditions of indoor pool environments. These benefits not only ensure a comfortable and safe atmosphere for pool users but also protect the structural integrity of the pool and its surroundings, making it a wise long-term investment.

The idea that maintaining the air temperature 1°C above the pool water temperature prevents condensation is a common myth, but it oversimplifies the science of humidity control and condensation. Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a surface that is cooler than the air’s dew point. The dew point is determined by the temperature and humidity level of the air, not simply by the relationship between the air and pool water temperatures.

For example, you can safely have the air temperature 5°C below the pool water temperature without causing condensation, provided the dew point of the air is below the temperature of the internal surfaces, such as walls, windows, and ceilings. This is why managing humidity is just as critical as controlling temperature. Without proper control, high humidity levels can increase the dew point, causing condensation to form on cooler surfaces.

Recotherm ventilation systems are specifically designed to regulate both temperature and humidity within indoor pool environments. By controlling these variables, the system ensures that the dew point is kept below the surface temperatures of the room, preventing condensation. For instance, in a scenario where the external temperature is -1°C and the room temperature is 30°C, maintaining a humidity level of 50% would effectively prevent condensation on a double-glazed panel. Similarly, if the air temperature were lowered to 25°C, increasing the relative humidity to 55% would still prevent condensation on the same surface.

This precise control is what sets Recotherm systems apart. They are engineered to account for the complex interplay of temperature, humidity, and surface conditions, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment while protecting the structural integrity of the pool area. By debunking myths like the need for air temperature to exceed water temperature by 1°C, Recotherm systems demonstrate a more nuanced and effective approach to condensation prevention and indoor climate management

Yes, having a spa pool will influence the type of ventilation unit you need, as spa pools have unique characteristics that significantly impact the indoor environment. Unlike a standard swimming pool, a spa pool operates at a higher water temperature, which leads to increased evaporation rates. This is particularly true when the spa is in use, as the turbulence caused by bubbling and activity in the water further accelerates evaporation. The higher evaporation not only raises humidity levels but also increases the release of chemicals like chlorine or bromine into the air, which can contribute to a more corrosive atmosphere.

These factors must be carefully accounted for when selecting a ventilation unit. The increased evaporation rate means the unit needs to have the capacity to handle higher levels of moisture removal to maintain a comfortable and safe environment. Additionally, the higher concentration of chemicals in the air requires the system to be robustly designed to resist corrosion over time. Materials, coatings, and components used in the system must be chosen to withstand these harsher conditions to ensure reliability and longevity.

It is essential to inform whoever is specifying the ventilation system that you have a spa pool. Details such as the size of the spa, its typical usage patterns, and how it will be used alongside the main pool are crucial for accurately calculating the unit’s requirements. The ventilation system may need to be upsized or include specific features to manage the additional demands imposed by the spa.

By providing this information, you ensure that the chosen system will effectively control humidity, temperature, and air quality while protecting the structure and ensuring the comfort of users. A system designed without accounting for the presence of a spa may struggle to cope, leading to issues like excessive humidity, condensation, discomfort for users, and even damage to the building fabric over time. This makes clear communication with your system supplier or designer a vital step in selecting the right unit.

No, a heat pump dehumidifier is just one approach to managing condensation in a pool hall, and it comes with limitations that may make it less suitable compared to other systems. Heat pump dehumidifiers operate by recirculating the air within the pool space and removing moisture through a direct expansion evaporator. The heat generated during this process is then repurposed to warm the air and, in some cases, the pool water.

While this might sound efficient in theory, the reliance on electricity for dehumidification can make the system expensive to run, especially in the long term. Furthermore, because a heat pump dehumidifier primarily recirculates the same air rather than introducing fresh air from outside, it fails to remove odors and contaminants, such as chlorine byproducts and body odors, from the pool hall. Over time, this can result in a stale and unpleasant atmosphere, which affects the comfort and experience of pool users.

In contrast, a Recotherm ventilation system offers a more comprehensive solution. Instead of relying solely on air recirculation, Recotherm systems bring in fresh air, which not only removes excess humidity but also eliminates odors and improves overall air quality. This fresh air approach creates a healthier, more inviting environment in the pool hall.
Additionally, Recotherm units are designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating advanced heat recovery systems that recycle energy to minimize operating costs. As a result, they cost less to run than a heat pump dehumidifier, especially when considering the long-term benefits of improved air quality and energy savings.

By choosing a Recotherm system, you’re not only addressing condensation but also creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment for pool users. It’s a solution that balances performance, cost-effectiveness, and user satisfaction, making it a superior choice for most indoor pool facilities.