Do you have a question about the Pahlen Aqua compact and is the answer not in the manual?
Details power output and consumption for different heater models.
Provides physical measurements and diagrams of the heater unit.
Specifies contactor, isolator, and wiring requirements for safe installation.
Step-by-step guide for initial heater setup and functional testing.
Instructions for normal heater use, backwashing, and freezing risk management.
Recommended water parameters for optimal heater performance and longevity.
The Pahlén Aqua compact is an electric heater designed for premium pool equipment, available in various power outputs from 3 kW to 18 kW. It is engineered to provide efficient and reliable heating for swimming pools, ensuring a comfortable water temperature.
The primary function of the Aqua compact electric heater is to heat pool water. It integrates several built-in safety features to ensure safe and consistent operation. These include an adjustable thermostat, which allows users to set the desired water temperature within a range of 0-45°C. This flexibility enables precise control over the pool's warmth, catering to individual preferences and environmental conditions.
Additionally, the heater is equipped with overheating protection, which automatically activates if the internal temperature exceeds 60°C, preventing potential damage to the unit and ensuring user safety. A flow monitor is also incorporated into the design. This feature ensures that the heater only operates when there is sufficient water flow through the system, preventing dry running and protecting the heating elements from damage.
The heater's casing is constructed from reinforced thermoplastic, providing durability and resistance to the pool environment. Depending on the power output, the casing comes in two sizes: a short casing for 3/6/9 kW models and a long casing for 12/15/18 kW models. The heating element itself is made of Incoloy 825, a high-grade alloy known for its corrosion resistance, or titanium, offering superior resistance in more aggressive water conditions. The connections are made of PVC, ensuring compatibility with standard pool plumbing systems.
The Aqua compact is designed for installation in circulation systems, specifically on the return line to the pool, after any filtration equipment. This placement ensures that filtered water is heated before being returned to the pool. The heater must be installed horizontally and completely filled with water before operation to prevent damage. The flow direction is clearly marked on the unit to guide correct installation.
The Aqua compact heater is designed for straightforward use. Once installed and connected to the pool's circulation system, the user can easily set the desired water temperature using the adjustable thermostat knob. The heater will then automatically maintain this temperature, switching on and off as needed to achieve and sustain the set warmth.
For optimal performance and longevity, it is crucial to adhere to recommended water quality values, including specific ranges for chlorine content, pH-value, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and various metal concentrations. The standard Incoloy element version is not recommended for use with aggressive water, salt water, or pools utilizing chlorine machines/salt chlorinators; for such applications, the Aqua Compact Titanium version is required due to its enhanced corrosion resistance.
The heater should never be operated without being completely filled with water. During maintenance activities such as backwashing or cleaning the filter, it is important to switch off the power to the heater. In regions where there is a risk of freezing, the heater should be drained of all water to prevent damage.
Maintenance of the Aqua compact primarily involves ensuring proper water quality and addressing any operational issues promptly. Regular checks of the pool's water chemistry against the recommended values are essential to prevent scale buildup, corrosion, and premature wear of the heating elements.
In case of operational problems, a troubleshooting guide is provided. This guide typically directs users to check the fuses, verify sufficient water flow through the heater, and investigate if the overheating protection has tripped. The overheating protection, a key safety feature, can be reset manually after the cause of the trip (e.g., lack of water or poor circulation) has been identified and rectified. This involves unscrewing a protective cap and pressing a reset button located on the junction box.
The heater is designed to be robust, but proper installation and adherence to operating guidelines are critical for its warranty. Failure to follow installation instructions or maintain water quality within specified limits can invalidate the product warranty. Cleaning and maintenance should not be performed by children without supervision.
At the end of its life cycle, the Aqua compact, containing electronic components, must be disposed of separately from household waste in accordance with local laws and provisions, promoting environmental responsibility through proper recycling.
| Type | Electric Heater |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pahlen |
| Model | Aqua Compact |
| Material | Thermoplastic |
| Overheat Protection | Yes |
| Thermostat | Yes |