The GALE FORCE VAF-16R is a vane axial fan designed for ventilation and structural drying applications. Manufactured by Dry Air Technology, Inc., this unit is engineered for reliability, durability, and portability, making it suitable for demanding jobs.
Function Description:
The primary function of the GALE FORCE VAF-16R is to provide powerful airflow for ventilation and accelerated drying. It is particularly highlighted as a breakthrough in structural drying, offering high CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) with low amperage draw. This design aims to reduce heat load on the environment, allowing dehumidifiers to operate more efficiently and produce drier air, ultimately leading to faster overall drying times compared to standard carpet dryers.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model: VAF-16R
- Voltage: 110/120V
- Frequency: 60 HZ
- Motor: 1/4 HP
- Current: 2.5 AMPS
- RPM: 1625
- Height: 22"
- Width: 21"
- Length: 15 ½"
- Weight: 34 lbs
- Power Cord: 20' 16/3 SJT-WA CEE
Key Components (Parts List):
- Intake Grill: Spiral Wound (AF-00C-M5A10524)
- Outake Grill: Spiral Wound (AF-00C-M5A10525)
- Motor: 115V 60HZ 2.5 amp (AF-00M-M1A10273)
- Fan Blade: 16" (AF-00M-P4A10270)
- Motor Mount: Vane 16" (AF-00C-M1NN0403)
- Shell: 16" (AF-00C-P4A20368)
- Feet: Tempest/Axial Feet, P/N 2544 (GN-00C-RNN10006) and 1.5" Foot (AF-00F-RNA10268)
- Capacitor: 7.5MF 370V (AF-00E-NNHN0279)
- Switch Plate: VAF 12E/16R (AF-00C-M3A10359)
- Gasket, Switch Plate: VAF 12/16 (AF-00C-R6A10360)
- Strain Relief: LQ TIGHT (AF-00E-PNN10015)
- Cover, Rocker Switch: (GN-00C-R3NN0335)
- ON/OFF Rocker Switch: BLK (GN-00E-P3B10218)
Usage Features:
- Structural Drying Technique: For optimal performance in structural drying, users are advised to place fans along the perimeter of the room, positioning each fan at a 30-degree angle to the wall, ensuring all airflow is in the same direction. Additionally, one or two fans with stands can be placed in the center of the room, blowing directly on the carpet or floor, with units moved daily to new locations along the wall.
- Portability: The unit's design emphasizes portability, making it easy to move and position as needed for various jobs.
- Easy Setup: The unit is packaged ready for service. For 220V models, an appropriate plug for the region should be attached. Users simply place the unit on a stable surface, plug it into a grounded alternating current circuit, and switch it on.
- Low Amperage: With a low draw of 2.5 amps per unit, it minimizes contractor setup hassles and reduces the electrical load.
Maintenance Features:
- Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, the unit should be inspected for damage, clogged inlet or outlet, or any excessive buildup of foreign material. Users should also check for excessive vibration when first turned on, as this could indicate a major problem requiring a service technician.
- Cleaning: The unit should never be serviced or cleaned while plugged into an electrical power source.
- Power Cord Care: Users must not operate the fan with a cut or frayed power cord. Unplugging should be done by grasping the plug firmly, not by pulling the cord. The safety ground pin must not be removed, and if damaged or missing, the power cord must be replaced immediately. Visual inspection of the power cord is recommended before each use.
- Airflow Obstruction: Drop cloths or other loose fabrics can restrict airflow and cause overheating. The air inlet must be kept clear of any obstructions.
- Safety Grills: The vane axial fan should never be operated with the safety grills removed to prevent personal injury.
- Shipping Carton: It is recommended to save the original shipping carton for potential future repairs or returns.
- Electrical Safety: The unit operates on 110/120 volt, 60 HZ alternating current. Never operate electrical equipment in standing water due to shock hazard. Do not expose the unit to rain or water to reduce the risk of electric shock.
- Physical Damage: Avoid dropping the unit, as sudden and severe impact can damage internal components.
- Personal Injury: Operating the fan with removed safety grills can result in personal injury.
- Overheating: Restricted airflow due to obstructions can cause the unit to overheat.
- Serious Personal Injury: Ignoring safety precautions may result in serious personal injury.
Troubleshooting Guide:
The manual provides a detailed troubleshooting guide for common issues:
- Unit will not run: Check power, switch position, switch functionality, and power cord/motor wire continuity.
- Unit runs but makes loud scraping noise: Inspect for severe jolting causing fan to rub against housing or housing deformation. Solutions include replacing damaged motor mounts or the fan blade.
- Unit runs but vibrates excessively: Check for bent motor shaft, damaged fan blade, or dirt buildup on the fan blade. Solutions include replacing the motor, blade, or cleaning the blade.
- Unit runs but fan does not turn: Look for fan jammed against housing, broken/loose capacitor wire, failed capacitor, or damaged housing. Solutions involve replacing motor, motor mounts, fan blade, repairing/replacing wires/capacitor, or replacing housing.
- Unit runs briefly, then shuts off on overload: This could indicate failing motor bearings, an internal electrical fault, obstructed intake/exhaust grills, or excessive duct length. Solutions include replacing the motor, removing obstructions, or reducing duct length.
Warranty and Return Policy:
- Warranty Period: 10 years on the cabinet, chassis, and housing; 1 year on parts, labor, and reasonable shipping costs (excluding filters and accessories).
- Warranty Coverage: Dry Air Technology warrants the unit to be free from defects in material or workmanship, offering repair or replacement.
- Return Authorization: A valid RMA number is required for returns, obtained by calling 1.888.755.9176.
- Packaging: Items must be returned in original packaging with plastic sleeves and cardboard separators to prevent freight damage.
- Non-Returnable Items: Items with customer markings, stickers, or damage are not returnable.
- Damaged Freight: All packages should be inspected upon arrival. Any physical damage to the box or parts must be noted on the bill of lading before acceptance. Claims must be filed within 7 days of discovery of internal damages.
This comprehensive overview covers the essential aspects of the GALE FORCE VAF-16R, from its operational benefits and technical specifications to its maintenance requirements and safety guidelines.
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