FAQs

A ventilation system is essential for an indoor pool because water, regardless of its temperature or state, constantly evaporates when exposed to air. This evaporation is a natural process and cannot be completely stopped, even if measures like covering the pool when it’s not in use are implemented. Although pool covers can significantly reduce evaporation and its associated effects, they cannot eliminate it entirely.

When evaporation occurs, it releases moisture into the air, increasing the humidity levels in the pool hall. If this moisture is not managed effectively, it can lead to several serious problems. High humidity creates the perfect conditions for mould and mildew growth, which can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks to occupants. Additionally, the damp environment encourages condensation on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, windows, and structural components. Over time, this can lead to corrosion, rot, and other forms of damage to the building materials, jeopardizing the structural integrity of the pool hall.

Without a ventilation system, the pool environment becomes uncomfortable for users, as high humidity and poor air quality can make the space feel oppressive and unpleasant. Furthermore, the accumulation of chlorine byproducts and other chemicals released into the air exacerbates these issues, creating a stale and potentially harmful atmosphere.

A properly designed ventilation system serves multiple critical functions. It controls humidity by removing moist air and replacing it with fresh, drier air, which prevents condensation and reduces the risk of mould and corrosion. Modern systems, such as those offered by Recotherm, are equipped with energy-saving features like heat recovery, which recycles energy from the outgoing air to precondition the incoming air, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. These systems also improve overall air quality by removing contaminants and odors, creating a more comfortable and inviting environment for pool users.

Investing in a ventilation system is not merely a luxury but a necessity for protecting your pool hall, maintaining its structural integrity, ensuring user comfort, and minimizing long-term maintenance costs. Without such a system, the unchecked effects of evaporation can result in costly repairs and an unhealthy environment, making a ventilation system an indispensable component of any indoor pool setup.

While opening a window might seem like a simple solution, it cannot provide the level of control and efficiency needed for proper swimming pool ventilation. Pool halls require precise management of humidity, temperature, and air quality, which an open window cannot achieve.

Indoor pools release large amounts of moisture into the air through evaporation. Without effective ventilation, this moisture increases humidity levels, leading to condensation on walls, ceilings, and windows. Over time, this promotes mould growth, corrodes building materials, and damages finishes. Opening a window provides inconsistent and unreliable airflow, as it depends on outdoor conditions like wind speed and direction, making it ineffective for maintaining proper humidity levels.

In colder months, open windows can cause a significant drop in room temperature, making the pool hall uncomfortable for users and increasing the cost of heating the space and the pool water. Proper ventilation systems regulate both temperature and humidity, ensuring a comfortable environment year-round.

Additionally, open windows do nothing to address air quality issues. Pools release chemical byproducts, such as chloramines, which can accumulate and create an unpleasant or unhealthy atmosphere. A ventilation system removes these contaminants and introduces fresh, filtered air to maintain a healthy and pleasant environment.

Modern ventilation systems, like those offered by Recotherm, are also designed with energy efficiency in mind. They include features like heat recovery, which captures energy from outgoing air to precondition incoming air, reducing heating costs. This kind of efficiency cannot be achieved with open windows, where heat is lost without recovery.

In summary, while opening a window may provide some minimal airflow, it is not a suitable alternative for managing the unique challenges of an indoor swimming pool. A dedicated ventilation system is essential to control humidity, maintain temperature, improve air quality, and optimize energy efficiency.

While you can install an extractor fan to remove air from the pool room, it is not an effective or efficient solution for ventilating a swimming pool environment. Extractor fans simply remove air but do not address the need to replace it in a controlled and energy-efficient manner, which is crucial in a pool hall.

When air is extracted from the room, it must be replaced by fresh air drawn in from outside. This incoming air is typically much colder and drier, especially during winter months. Without proper control, this can lead to significant energy costs as the fresh air needs to be heated to maintain the comfortable and stable environment required in a pool hall. Heating large volumes of cold outside air is inefficient and places a heavy demand on your heating system, leading to higher operational costs.

Additionally, an extractor fan does not address the humidity control needed for a swimming pool. Pools constantly release moisture into the air, and without proper dehumidification, high humidity levels can lead to condensation, mould growth, and corrosion of the building structure. Extractor fans lack the ability to regulate humidity or prevent condensation, which are critical for protecting both the building and the comfort of its occupants.

A well-designed ventilation system, like those from Recotherm, not only extracts moist air but also introduces fresh air in a controlled manner. These systems are equipped with heat recovery technology, which captures energy from the outgoing air and uses it to precondition the incoming air. This reduces the energy needed for heating, making the system far more efficient than a simple extractor fan.

Moreover, a proper ventilation system helps to improve air quality by removing chloramines and other chemical byproducts released into the air by the pool. Extractor fans lack this capability, leaving the pool environment prone to unpleasant odors and potentially harmful air conditions.

In summary, while a setup of fans and a heater battery might offer a temporary or low-cost solution, it cannot match the efficiency, durability, and performance of a Recotherm ventilation system. Investing in a purpose-built system ensures long-term protection for your building, lower running costs, and a superior environment for both users and the facility itself.

While fans and a heater battery might seem like a simple and inexpensive solution, they are not designed to handle the unique challenges of a swimming pool environment. Recotherm ventilation systems, on the other hand, have been specifically engineered for indoor pools over the course of 26 years of expertise, offering unmatched performance, energy efficiency, and durability.

Swimming pool halls are high-humidity environments, with constant evaporation introducing significant amounts of moisture and chemical byproducts, such as chloramines, into the air. A basic setup of fans and a heater battery lacks the capability to effectively control humidity, manage air quality, and prevent condensation. Without these critical controls, you risk long-term damage to the building’s structure, including corrosion, mould growth, and degradation of finishes. Fans alone cannot adequately remove moisture or replace it with fresh air, leading to an uncomfortable, unhealthy, and potentially damaging environment.

Recotherm ventilation systems are purpose-built to address these challenges. They incorporate advanced energy-saving features such as heat recovery technology, which captures heat from the outgoing air and uses it to warm the incoming air. This significantly reduces running costs by minimizing the energy needed for heating. In contrast, a fan and heater battery system continually introduces cold air that must be reheated from scratch, resulting in much higher energy consumption.

Moreover, Recotherm systems are constructed with high-quality materials and components designed to withstand the corrosive nature of the swimming pool atmosphere, which is laden with moisture and chemicals. Many off-the-shelf systems or improvised setups are not built for such conditions and will deteriorate quickly, leading to frequent maintenance, repairs, or replacements. Recotherm’s commitment to durability is evident in the fact that some of their units have been in operation for over 25 years, providing reliable performance and long-term value.

Additionally, Recotherm systems create a healthier and more comfortable environment for pool users by effectively removing chloramines, odors, and other contaminants from the air while maintaining optimal humidity and temperature levels. This not only protects the building but also ensures a pleasant experience for swimmers.

In summary, while a setup of fans and a heater battery might offer a temporary or low-cost solution, it cannot match the efficiency, durability, and performance of a Recotherm ventilation system. Investing in a purpose-built system ensures long-term protection for your building, lower running costs, and a superior environment for both users and the facility itself.

No, a three-phase electrical supply is not necessary for many Recotherm ventilation systems. Recotherm offers single-phase units that can handle airflow rates of up to 1m³/s, which is sufficient to accommodate a domestic pool with a surface area of up to 100 m². This means that for most residential pools, a standard single-phase power supply is perfectly adequate, eliminating the need for costly electrical upgrades or modifications to your property.

Recotherm’s single-phase units are designed with the same efficiency, reliability, and advanced features as their larger systems, ensuring optimal performance for smaller-scale applications. These units are capable of managing the humidity, air quality, and temperature requirements of a domestic pool environment while being compatible with the standard electrical infrastructure found in most homes.

For larger pools or commercial applications requiring greater airflow, a three-phase electrical supply may be necessary to power the higher-capacity units. However, for the vast majority of private pool owners, Recotherm’s single-phase systems provide an effective and convenient solution without the need for additional electrical work.

By offering both single-phase and three-phase options, Recotherm ensures that their systems are accessible and tailored to meet the needs of a wide range of pool sizes and settings, making it easy to find a system that fits your specific requirements.

Yes, Recotherm ventilation units can be designed for external installation by incorporating weatherproofing features to ensure they operate reliably in outdoor conditions. These weatherproof units are built to withstand exposure to the elements, including rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations, making them a practical option when indoor space is limited or when external installation is more convenient for your pool hall design.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the unit itself can be weatherproofed, the display panel, which provides access to controls and system information, must be protected. To address this, the display panel can either be installed inside the building where it is easily accessible or housed in a dedicated weatherproof enclosure if it needs to be located outside. This ensures that the controls remain functional and protected from moisture, dust, and temperature extremes.

By offering the option for external installation, Recotherm systems provide flexibility to accommodate various building layouts and space constraints, all while maintaining the performance and durability that Recotherm is known for. Whether installed indoors or outdoors, the unit will deliver the same high level of efficiency, air quality, and humidity control for your swimming pool environment.

Yes, the display panel can be installed remotely, up to 800 meters away from the ventilation unit, providing flexibility in its placement. The panel is connected to the unit via a multi-core cable, which ensures reliable communication between the two components regardless of the distance.

This feature allows the display panel to be conveniently located in an area that is easily accessible to operators, such as a plant room, maintenance area, or office, even if the unit itself is installed in a less accessible location like an outdoor space or a separate building. By separating the panel from the unit, you can ensure that system monitoring and adjustments are simple and hassle-free, without needing to access the physical unit directly.

Recotherm’s design flexibility in allowing remote placement of the display panel ensures that their systems can be seamlessly integrated into a variety of layouts and configurations, offering convenience and functionality tailored to your specific needs.

Yes, a pool cover can significantly reduce evaporation and is highly recommended for domestic pools, particularly when the pool is only in use for 1 to 2 hours a day. Covering the pool during non-use hours minimizes the amount of water that evaporates into the air, which in turn reduces humidity levels in the pool hall. This not only decreases the load on your ventilation system but also lowers heating costs by retaining the water’s warmth and reducing energy consumption. For domestic applications, a pool cover is an excellent investment that enhances energy efficiency and helps to maintain a comfortable pool environment.

For commercial pools, however, the benefits of a pool cover may not be as clear-cut. In many commercial settings, the pool remains uncovered for aesthetic purposes, allowing the water to be a central feature of the space. Additionally, commercial pools often have extended operating hours, meaning the pool may only be covered for a short period each day, limiting the potential savings on evaporation and heating. In such cases, the cost of a high-quality cover might not be recovered within its lifespan, making it a less practical option.

Ultimately, the decision to use a pool cover depends on your specific needs and circumstances. For domestic pools with limited daily use, a cover offers clear advantages in terms of energy savings and reduced wear on ventilation systems. For commercial pools, the decision may hinge on factors like operational hours, aesthetics, and the overall cost-benefit analysis. Consulting with a ventilation and pool management expert can help determine the best approach for your pool environment.

Yes, you can reduce the air temperature when the pool cover is on because the evaporation rate is significantly lower when the pool is covered. With minimal evaporation occurring, a slight reduction in air temperature will have only a minor impact on the rate of moisture entering the air. This adjustment can help save energy and reduce heating costs during periods when the pool is not in use.

Recotherm ventilation systems are designed to accommodate this functionality seamlessly. The system can be programmed to automatically lower the air temperature whenever the pool cover is deployed. This automation is achieved through a connection between the pool cover mechanism and the Recotherm unit, typically using a simple telephone-style cable. Once connected, the system can detect when the cover is on and adjust the air temperature settings accordingly, ensuring optimal energy efficiency without the need for manual intervention.

By integrating this feature, Recotherm systems not only enhance convenience but also maximize cost savings while maintaining a stable and efficient pool environment. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking to optimize energy use without compromising the overall comfort and condition of the pool hall.

Yes, the presence of a spa pool will affect the type and size of ventilation unit required for your pool environment. Spa pools operate at higher temperatures than standard swimming pools and are typically more active when in use, producing significantly more moisture due to increased evaporation. The combination of higher water temperatures and vigorous activity, such as bubbling and jets, results in elevated humidity levels that must be managed effectively to maintain a comfortable and safe environment.

When planning your ventilation system, it is essential to inform the supplier or installer that you have a spa pool, including its size and usage patterns. This information will help ensure that the selected unit is capable of handling the additional moisture load produced by the spa. The ventilation system may need to be larger or have enhanced features to manage the higher levels of evaporation and maintain the desired humidity and temperature levels in the pool hall.

Recotherm ventilation units are specifically designed to adapt to different environments and can be tailored to handle the unique demands of spa pools. These systems provide efficient humidity control and ensure that the air quality remains high, even in more challenging conditions caused by spa usage. Proper sizing and customization of the unit are crucial to avoid issues such as condensation, mould growth, and discomfort for users.

By selecting the right unit, you can enjoy the benefits of both your swimming pool and spa while protecting your building structure and maintaining an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment.

Yes, the ventilation unit should run continuously, as its primary function is to protect the building structure by managing humidity and preventing issues like condensation, mould growth, and corrosion. However, the system is designed to operate efficiently and adjust its performance based on the conditions in the pool hall, minimizing energy consumption when the pool is not in use. 

If your pool hall is well-insulated and you use a pool cover when the pool is not in use, the evaporation rate will be significantly reduced. In these conditions, the ventilation unit will automatically slow down to its minimum operating speed, using only a small amount of electricity to power the return fan. This ensures that even when the pool is covered, the unit continues to monitor and maintain the environment, preventing moisture build-up and protecting the structural integrity of the building.

Modern Recotherm units are equipped with intelligent control systems that optimize energy usage, reducing operational costs without compromising the protection of the pool hall. By continuously running at a low speed during periods of inactivity, the unit ensures a stable and safe environment while consuming minimal energy.

Running the unit 24/7 not only safeguards the building but also ensures that the pool hall is always ready for use, maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity level for swimmers at all times.

No, a heat pump dehumidifier is not the only option for controlling condensation in a pool hall, and in many cases, it may not be the most effective or cost-efficient solution. A heat pump dehumidifier operates by recirculating the air within the space, removing moisture through a direct expansion evaporator. The heat generated during this process is then used to warm the air and, in some cases, the pool water.

While this approach can reduce humidity, it has significant drawbacks. First, the dehumidification process relies heavily on electricity, which is expensive to operate. This can lead to higher energy costs, especially in comparison to systems that incorporate advanced energy-saving technologies like heat recovery.

Second, because a heat pump dehumidifier primarily recirculates the air within the pool hall, it does not address the removal of contaminants such as chloramines (produced by the interaction of chlorine with organic materials) or unpleasant body odor smells. This can result in a poor-quality atmosphere that is less enjoyable for pool users and potentially damaging to the building structure over time.

Recotherm ventilation systems offer a superior alternative. They prioritize the use of fresh air to manage humidity, remove odors, and maintain a healthier and more pleasant environment. Recotherm units also incorporate highly efficient heat recovery technology, which captures and reuses heat from the outgoing air to preheat the incoming fresh air. This reduces the reliance on electricity and significantly lowers operating costs compared to heat pump dehumidifiers.

Additionally, Recotherm systems are specifically designed to withstand the corrosive environment of swimming pools, ensuring long-term durability and reliability. By focusing on both air quality and energy efficiency, Recotherm units provide a more comprehensive solution that protects the building, enhances user comfort, and minimizes running costs.