Problem Possible Cause Remedy
Blade rubbing inside of
fan cylinder (induced
draft models)
Improper water
treatment, insufficient
bleed rates or excessive
cycling of the fan
motors, or simply high
concentrations of solids
in water.
Initial start-up
Mechanical failure
Electrical issue
Misconception of head
increase or decrease
Make-up water pressure
too high
Debris in solenoid
Frozen float ball
Float ball is full of water
This can happen on
forced draft units due
to the positive pressure
in the casing section.
Overflow connection
has not been piped at
all or properly
Incorrect water level
This is normal
Problem with make-up
line.
If multi-cell unit, there
may be an elevation
problem.
Adjust cylinder to provide blade tip clearance.
This is not necessarily an indication that there is something wrong with
the unit, or with the water treatment. Scale should not be removed using
a power washer or wire brush becuase it could damage the louvers.
Remove the louver assemblies and let them soak in the cold water basin
of the unit. The water treatment chemicals in the unit will neutralize and
dissolve the buildup of scale. Please note that the time required for
soaking the inlet louvers depends on the severity of the scale buildup.
Note: This assumes chemicals are being used.
If the unit has only run for a few hours, the pump may overamp until
the pump wear ring has worn in. In this case, it would only be small
percentages, not 15 or 20%. Normally, after a few hours, the pump
amp readings will reduce and level off.
Verify that the pump can turn freely by hand. If not, pump most likely
needs to be replaced.
Verify that the pump has been wired properly. Verify that the voltage
supplying the pump is correct.
Note: Increase or decrease in pump flow as a result of clogged or blown
out nozzles or headers should NOT cause the pump to over amp.
Mechanical make-up valve water pressure must be between 140 and
340 kPa. If pressure is too high, the valve will not close. A pressure
reducing valve can be added to lower the pressure. For the 3 Probe
Electronic Water Level Control Package, the electrical actuator has a
35 to 700 kPa bar water pressure requirement.
Clean out solenoid of any debris.
Inspect, and if so, float or valve may need to be replaced.
Check ball for leaks and replace.
Pipe the overflow with a P-trap to an appropriate drain.
Verify actual operating level versus O&M recommended levels
The bleed line for the unit is piped to the overflow connection
Refer to Makeup Valve or Electronic Water Level section.
Make sure that multi-cell units are installed level to one another. If
they are not, it can cause overflowing in one cell.
Fan Noise
Scaled Inlet Louvers on
AT Units
Overamping Pump
Motors
Makeup Valve Will Not
Shut Off
Water Constantly
Blowing Out Overflow
Connection
Water Intermittently
Blowing Out Overflow
Connection
Cooling Tower
Cold Water Basin
Overflowing