Nortec NH-EL User Manual

Important: Read and save these instructions. This guide to be left with equipment.

2570435 D | 25 JUN 2014

NH-EL

Series

Installation and
Operation Manual

Includes installation, operation
maintenance and troubleshooting
information for your NH-EL Electric
Steam humidifier

INSTALLATION DATE (MM/DD/YYYY)

MODEL #

SERIAL #

CYLINDER #

Thank you for choosing Nortec.

Proprietary Notice

This document and the information disclosed herein are proprietary data of Nortec Humidity Ltd. Neither this
document nor the information contained herein shall be reproduced, used, or disclosed to others without the
written authorization of Nortec Humidity Ltd., except to the extent required for installation or maintenance of
recipient’s equipment.

Liability Notice

Nortec does not accept any liability for installations of humidity equipment installed by unqualified personnel or
the use of parts/components/equipment that are not authorized or approved by Nortec.

Copyright Notice

Copyright 2014, Nortec Humidity Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contents

1 Introduction

2 Receiving and Unpacking

3 Humidifier Components

5 NH-EL Models

6 Options and Accessories

9 Installation

10 Typical Humidifier Installation

11 Location

13 Mounting with Keyholes

14 Plumbing

15 Steam Distributor

16 Steam Lines and Condensate

Returns

21 Electrical

48 Operation

49 LED Status Lights

51 How the Humidifier Works

54 NH-EL Humidifier Configuration

62 Maintenance and

Servicing

63 Required Maintenance

68 Extended Shutdown

69 NH-EL Maintenance Checklist

70 Troubleshooting

72 General Troubleshooting

75 NH-EL Warnings and Faults

81 NH-EL Wiring Diagram (Cylinder A)

82 NH-EL Wiring Diagram (Cylinder B)

22 External Controls

36 Options and Accessories

38 Start Up

39 Installation Check

40 NH-EL User Interface

41 Start Up Procedure

42 Information Screens

43 Nortec Digital Controls

46 NH-EL Pre-Start Up Checklist

47 NH-EL Start Up Checklist

83 Spare Parts
95 Warranty

CAUTION: Servicing

Humidity Ltd.

CAUTION: Electrical

CAUTION: Plumbing

 All plumbing work should be done according to local plumbing code.

CAUTION: Installation

proving switch in series for this function.

Introduction

 Disconnect main power before any servicing.

 The plumbing and electrical compartments contain high voltage components and

wiring. Access should be limited to authorized personnel only.

 During and following operation of the humidifier, the steam and components in

contact with the steam such as the cylinder, blower pack, steam lines, steam
distributors, and condensate lines can become hot and can burn if touched.

 Nortec Humidity Ltd. does not accept any liability for installations of humidity

equipment installed by unqualified personnel or the use of

parts/components/equipment that are not authorized or approved by Nortec

 All electrical work should be done according to local electrical code.

 Electrical connection to be performed by a licensed electrician.

 Plumbing to be performed by a licensed plumber.

 Drain water from humidifier can be very hot. Do not drain to public sink.

 Do not mount on hot surfaces.

 Do not mount in area where freezing can occur.

 Do not mount on vibrating surface.

 Do not mount on floor.

 The NH-EL produces steam at atmospheric pressure; no devices which could block

steam output should be connected to the steam outlet.

 Steam lines must be installed so that no restriction can produce back pressure in

the humidifier. Failure to follow installation instructions will result in improper
operation and could void warranty.

 Regardless of selecting On/Off or modulating control method, NORTEC humidifiers

must have a closed circuit across its On/Off security loop control terminal to
operate. NORTEC highly recommends the use of a high limit humidistat and an air

1 | Introduction

Receiving and Unpacking

1 Check packing slip to ensure ALL material has been delivered.
2 All material shortages are to be reported to NORTEC within 48 hours from receipt of goods.

NORTEC assumes no responsibility for any material shortages beyond this period.

3 Inspect shipping boxes for damage and note damages on shipping waybill accordingly.
4 After unpacking, inspect equipment for damage and if damage is found, notify the shipper

promptly.

5 All NORTEC products are shipped on a Free-On-Board (FOB) factory basis. Any and all

damage, breakage or loss claims are to be made directly to the shipping company.

Before Installation

1 Ensure that available voltage and phase corresponds with humidifier voltage and phase as

indicated on humidifier’s specification label.

2 Ensure that the dedicated external fuse disconnect is of sufficient size to handle the rated

amps as indicated on the specification label. Refer to local codes.

3 Report any discrepancy immediately to the site engineer.
4 Ensure sufficient clearances will be available as described in Location on page 11.
5 Ensure steam lines can be routed to distributor or blower pack as described in Steam Lines

and Condensate Return on page 16.

Figure 1: Specification Label Location

Introduction | 2

Steam Outlet

Condensate Return

Fill Cup

Drain Valve

Drain Canal

Fill Valve

Cylinder

Cylinder Strap

Cylinder Plug

High Water Sensor
Plug

Touch Screen Display

On/Off Switch

Auxiliary Drain Switch

Door Interlock Switch

Driver Board

Remote Relay Board

Contactor

High Voltage
Terminal Block

Transformer

Integrated Controller

Control Terminal
Strip

NOTE:

NH-EL 005-030
shown, component
location may vary
slightly for other
models.

TEST

Humidifier Components

3 | Introduction

Figure 2: NH-EL Humidifier Components

Component

Function of Component

Auxiliary Drain

Drains water from cylinder by activating drain valve. Note that initiating a
drain in this manner will not induce Drain Water Cooling.

Condensate Return

Provides a connection to return condensate to humidifier.

Contactor

Turns On/Off power to cylinder electrodes.

Control Terminal
Strip

Terminal strip for connecting external controls and blower pack to
humidifier.

Cylinder Plug

Power connectors to electrodes in cylinder.

Cylinder strap

Securely holds cylinder in place.

Cylinder

Holds electrodes in water. Current between electrodes generates heat used
to generate steam.

Touch Screen
Display

User interface for configuring the humidifier.

Door Interlock
Switch

Prevents contactor from engaging when door is removed (pull out to
override this safety feature while troubleshooting).

Drain Canal

Combines cylinder drain water and fill cup overflow into a single drain outlet.

Drain Valve

Drains water from cylinder.

Driver Board

Provides input and output connections to humidifier components.

Fill Cup

Provides an air gap for backflow prevention.

Fill Valve

Controls flow of water into humidifier.

High Voltage
Terminal Block

Primary power connection from remote disconnect to humidifier.

High Water sensor
Plug

Used to detect max water level in cylinder.

On/Off Switch

Turns power On/Off to humidifier controller. Note: Turn off humidifier
disconnect to shut off primary power to the humidifier.

Remote Relay
Board (option)

Provides a terminal strip to dry contacts which open/close to indicate the
humidifier is on, humidifying, needs service, or is in a fault condition.

Steam Outlet

Connect to steam line with steam hose.

Integrated
Controller

Controls all functions of the humidifier’s operation and provides user

interface for configuration of the humidifier.

Transformer

Steps primary voltage down to 24 VAC for the controller and internal
components such as the fill valve and drain valve.

Description of Components

Table 1: Humidifier Components

Introduction | 4

NH-EL 005-030 NH-EL 050-100 NH-EL 150-200

Fill Connections Drain Connections

NH-EL Models

The NH-EL with its Integrated Controller and state-of-the-art features and options is the most
advanced electrode steam humidifier available. As well as controlling the operation of the
humidifier, the Integrated Controller can be connected directly to BACnet and to the Internet.
The NH-EL is available in capacities ranging from 5 lb/hr (2 kg/hr) to 200 lb/hr (90 kg/hr). NH­EL humidifiers are packaged in three different cabinets depending on capacity. Figure 3: NH-EL
Sizes shows the configuration and relative size of the three different cabinets. NH-EL models up
to 100 lb/hr (45 kg/hr) are also available with a built on blower pack. Table 3 provides
specifications for the NH-EL product line.

Figure 3: NH-EL Sizes

Double Unit (NH-EL 150-200)

NH-EL double units have two cylinders to provide increased capacity. The construction and
installation of double units is identical to units with a single cylinder with the following
exceptions:

 Double units have two driver boards (designated A and B). One driver board controls each

cylinder. (See Figure 3: NH-EL Sizes).

 Double units can operate both cylinders in series or parallel from a single set of control

signals or independently based on two sets of control signals (see Double Mode (NH-EL 150-
200 only) on page 56 for configuration instructions).

 Independent Operation - If configured for independent operation then 2 sets of control

wiring must be provided. Control wiring for each cylinder must be connected to the

cylinder’s corresponding driver board/terminal strip and each cylinder performs

independent of the other.

 Parallel Operation - If configured for parallel operation then only one set of control wiring is

required and the cylinders operate in parallel. The advantage is even wear on both cylinders.

 Series Operation – If configured for series operation, then only one set of control wiring is

required and the cylinders operate in series. Cylinder A’s output range is 0-50% and
Cylinder B’s output range is 50-100%. The advantage is the lower turndown ratio of one
cylinder.

 Double units have one primary power connection but have individual fill, drain, and steam

outlet connections for each cylinder.

5 | Introduction

Option / Accessory

Application

Steam Distributors

Adding steam into air ducts.

Remote Blower Pack

Adding steam into a space remote from the humidifier.

SAMe Steam Distribution Manifold

Adding steam into air ducts where short absorption is required.

Digital or Analog Control Humidistats

Controlling the output of the humidifier based on sensed RH (can
be mounted in the space being humidified or in the duct).

Digital RH Transducers

Communicating RH in a space or duct to the humidifier.

Digital or Analog High Limit Humidistats

Preventing over humidification in a duct by shutting down or
throttling down the humidifier when duct RH gets high.

Air Proving Switches

Ensuring humidification only occurs when air is moving in a duct.

Fill Cup Extension

Increasing the steam back pressure capability of an NH-EL.

Drain Water Cooling (Extreme)

Cooling drain water to less than 120 °F (49°C).

Foam Detection Kits

Increasing the range of water quality in which an NH-EL can
operate.

Options and Accessories

NORTEC provides a complete line of options and accessories for every humidification
application. The following options and accessories are available and may have been delivered
with your NH-EL humidifier. Refer to the installation instructions that came with the accessories
for the proper installation and operation.

Table 2: Options and Accessories

Introduction | 6

Phase

Capacity

lb (kg)

Volts

NH-EL

Part No.

Amps

Max

Ext

Fuse

KW

Stand-

ard

Cylinder

Fill

gal (l)

per min

Net/Full

Weight

lb (kg)

1

5 (2.3)

110-120

2573379

15.6

20

1.9

202

0.13 (0.5)

45/55

(21/25)

10 (4.5)

208

2573380

18.3

25

3.8

202

0.13
(0.5)

220-240

2573382

15.9

20

3.8

202

277

2573383

13.7

20

3.8

202

440-480

2573385

7.9

15

3.8

204

550-600

2573386

6.3

15

3.8

204

20 (9)

208

2573388

36.6

45

7.6

321

0.13
(0.5)

45/65

(21/30)

220-240

2573389

31.7

40

7.6

321

277

2573390

27.5

35

7.6

321

440-480

2573392

15.9

20

7.6

309

550-600

2573393

12.7

20

7.6

309

3

20 (9)

208

2573394

21.1

30

7.6

303

0.13
(0.5)

220-240

2573395

18.3

25

7.6

303

440-480

2573397

9.2

15

7.6

311

550-600

2573398

7.3

15

7.6

311

30

(13.5)

208

2573399

31.7

40

11.4

421

0.3

(1.2)

45/80

(21/37)

220-240

2573400

27.5

35

11. 4

421

440-480

2573402

13.7

20

11.4

411

550-600

2573403

11.0

15

11.4

411

50

(22.5)

208

2573404

51.9

70

18.7

621

0.5

(2.0)

85/150

(39/68)

220-240

2573405

45.0

60

18.7

621

440-480

2573407

22.4

30

18.7

605

550-600

2573408

18.0

25

18.7

605

75 (34)

208

2573409

77.9

100

28.1

621

0.5

(2.0)

220-240

2573410

67.4

90

28.1

621

440-480

2573412

33.8

45

28.1

605

550-600

2573413

27.0

35

28.1

605

100 (45)

208

2573414

94.4

125

34.0

621

0.9

(3.3)

220-240

2573415

90.0

125

37.4

621

440-480

2573417

45.0

60

37.4

605

550-600

2573418

36.0

45

37.4

605

150 (68)

208

2573419

155.8

200

56.1

621

0.5**

(2.0**)

120/245

(55/112)

220-240

2573420

135.0

175

56.1

621

440-480

2573422

67.4

90

56.1

605

550-600

2573423

54.0

70

56.1

605

200 (90)

208

2573424

188.7

250

68.0

621

0.9**

(3.3**)

220-240

2573425

180.0

225

74.8

621

440-480

2573427

90.0

125

74.8

605

550-600

2573428

72.0

90

74.8

605

Table 3: NH-EL Specifications

** Note: Per cylinder basis.

7 | Introduction

Phase

Capacity

lb (kg)

Volts

NH-EL
Space

Part No.

Amps

Max

Ext

Fuse

KW

Stand-

ard

Cylinder

Fill

gal (l)

per min

Net/Full

Weight

lb (kg)

1

5 (2.3)

110-120

2573429

17.2

25

2.0

202

0.13 (0.5)

83/93

(38/42)

10 (4.5)

208

2573430

19

25

4.0

202

0.13
(0.5)

220-240

2573431

16.5

25

4.0

202

277

2573432

14.2

20

4.0

202

440-480

2573434

8.2

15

4.0

204

550-600

2573435

6.6

15

4.0

204

20 (9)

208

2573436

37.3

45

7.8

321

0.13
(0.5)

83/103

(38/47)

220-240

2573437

32.3

40

7.8

321

277

2573438

28

35

7.8

321

440-480

2573440

16.2

20

7.8

309

550-600

2573441

13

20

7.8

309

3

20 (9)

208

2573442

21.8

30

7.8

303

0.13
(0.5)

220-240

2573443

18.9

25

7.8

303

440-480

2573445

9.5

15

7.8

311

550-600

2573446

7.6

15

7.8

311

30

(13.5)

208

2573447

32.4

40

11.7

421

0.3

(1.2)

83/118

(38/54)

220-240

2573448

28.1

35

11.7

421

440-480

2573450

14

20

11.7

411

550-600

2573451

11.3

15

11.7

411

50

(22.5)

208

2573452

52.6

70

18.9

621

0.5

(2.0)

123/188

(56/85)

220-240

2573453

45.6

60

18.9

621

440-480

2573455

22.7

30

18.9

605

550-600

2573456

18.3

25

18.9

605

75 (34)

208

2573457

78.6

100

28.3

621

0.5

(2.0)

220-240

2573458

68

90

28.3

621

440-480

2573460

34.1

45

28.3

605

550-600

2573461

27.3

35

28.3

605

100 (45)

208

2573462

95.1

125

34.5

621

0.9

(3.3)

220-240

2573463

90.6

125

37.7

621

440-480

2573465

45.3

60

37.7

605

550-600

2573466

36.3

45

37.7

605

Table 4: NH-EL Space Specifications

Introduction | 8

Installation

10 Typical Humidifier Installation
11 Location
13 Mounting with Keyholes
14 Plumbing
15 Steam Distributor
16 Steam Lines and Condensate Return Instructions
21 Electrical
22 External Controls

22 Control Wiring

22 Control Location

24 On/Off Control Wiring

25 Keep Warm Wiring

26 Modulating Control Wiring

28 Transducer Control Wiring

29 Double Unit Control Wiring

33 Remote Fault Option Wiring
34 Multi Mode Wiring
35 Modbus Digital Control
36 Options and Accessories

37 Fill Cup Extension

37 Extreme Drain Water Cooling

37 Condensate Cooling (External)

37 Foam Protection

37 Internal Fusing

37 Remote Fault Indication

9 | Installation

Typical Humidifier Installation

6 in.

(15 cm)

min.

right

clearance

36 in. (90 cm)

min. front
clearance

24 in.

(60 cm)

min.

3 in. (7.5 cm) Screws

1- 24 VAC
2- Security Loop
3- Common
4- Channel 1
5- Channel 2
6- 5 VDC
7- Ground
8- Blower Pack
9- Blower Pack

On/Off

Controls

Modulation

Controls

E
X

T
E
R

N
A
L

N
H

­E
L

L1L2L3

Ground

Dedicated

Circuit

Breaker or

Disconnect

NH-EL

EXTERNAL

Cold potable water
150-1200 microsiemens
30-80 psig

Air Gap

½ in NPT

2 in.

(5 cm)

min.

1ft (30 cm)

1 ft (30 cm)

min.

1 – 24 VAC
2 – Security Loop
3 – Common
4 – Channel 1
5 – Channel 2
6 – 10 VDC
7 – Ground
8 – Blower Pack
9 – Blower Pack

0” (0 cm)

right

clearance

6” (15 cm)

recommended

Mounting
Pg 13

Steam

Distribution

Pg 15

Controls
Pg 22

Plumbing
Pg 14

Electrical
Pg 21

Figure 4: Typical Humidifier Installation

Installation | 10

6 in.

(15 cm)

Recommended

Side

Clearance

36 in. (91.5 cm)

Min. Front Clearance

24 in.(61 cm)

Min Height

Mount Humidifier

Level

5-95%

(See Table for

Blowerpack

clearances)

(See Table for

Blowerpack

clearances)

(See Table for

Blowerpack
clearances)

If Blowerpack is used,

mount so that the steam

outlet is at least

96 in. (244 cm)

above ground level.

Note: Do not mount on hot surfaces, where freezing can occur, vibrating surface, or
floor.

Location

 Mount on a suitable wall or vertical surface. Do not sit the unit on the floor to allow

clearances required for plumbing and electrical connections.

 Clearance dimensions shown are for reference only and are the minimum required for

maintenance of the humidifier. Consult local and national codes before final location and
installation. NORTEC does not accept responsibility for installation code violations.

 Install only in areas with ambient temperature 41-104 °F (5 – 40 °C) relative humidity 5 -

95% (non condensing).

 When possible install the humidifier below the steam distributor. Take care to provide proper

steam line routing and proper condensate traps.

 DO NOT locate the humidifier any further than absolutely necessary from the steam

distributor location. Net output will be reduced as a result of heat loss through the steam
line.

 When possible, mount the NH-EL humidifier at a height convenient for servicing.

11 | Installation

Figure 5: Mounting Location / Clearance

Humidifier

Capacity

lbs/hr (kg/hr)

Minimum

No. of

Blower

Packs

Min. Frontal

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Overhead

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Left side

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Right side

Clearance

Inches (cm)

30 (13.6)

1

132 (336)

12(31)

12 (31)

12 (31)

100 (45.4)

1

Not

recommended

Not

recommended

Not

recommended

Not

recommended

Humidifier

Capacity

lbs/hr (kg/hr)

Minimum

No. of

Blower

Packs

Min. Frontal

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Overhead

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Left side

Clearance

Inches (cm)

Min. Right side

Clearance

Inches (cm)

30 (13.6)

1

120 (305)

12(31)

12 (31)

12 (31)

100 (45.4)

1

248 (630)

36 (91)

30 (76)

30 (76)

Table 5: Clearances for Blower Packs on Low Speed*

Table 6: Clearances for Blower Packs on High Speed*

*NOTES:
Nominal Conditions 72˚F (22.2˚C), 43% RH.
Low speed not recommended for 100 lbs/hr humidifier. Consult factory for recommendations.
Blower Pack should not be installed near cold surfaces or where dew point may be reached.
Higher humidity or lower room temperature may result in longer absorption distances.

Installation | 12

B

A

Install “L” brac ket

after hanging
humidifier

#12 x 3 in. (7.5 cm)
Wood Screws

Insert screws so that

1/4 in. (6 mm) exposed,

hang unit, tighten

screws.

Unit Size Screws Dim A in (cm). Dim B in. (Cm)

5-30 2 11.9 (30.2) -

50-100 2 16 (40.6) -

150-200 3 16 (40.6) 16 (40.6)

SPACESPACE

SPACESPACE

Mounting with Keyholes

1 The NH-EL Series humidifier is wall mounted using keyholes located on the back of the unit

cabinetry.

2 Use #12 x 3 in. (7.5 cm) screws mounted into 2x4 studs or better. Two screws are needed

for a single unit (NH-EL 010 to 100). Three screws are needed for a double unit (NH-EL 150
to 200).

3 Keyholes are spaced 16 in. (40.6 cm) apart center to center for large units and 11.9 in.

(27.2 cm) apart for small units. Insert screws into the studs until there is 1/4 in. of screw
exposed. Be sure the screws are level to each other.

4 Raise the unit and place the screws through the keyholes. Make sure the unit is level, then

tighten the screws to secure the unit in place.

5 Place “L” Shaped brackets on top of the unit, with holes inline with the studs. Using the

appropriate sized wood screw, fasten the “L” brackets to the studs, securing the unit from
any upward motion. See Figure 6: Mounting with Keyholes.

Note: Use screws longer than 3” (7.5 cm) if drywall or other spacer is present.

13 | Installation

Figure 6: Mounting with Keyholes

Min. 7/8 in. OD drain line.
Keep as short as possible.
Slope down to floor
drain or main drain.
Increase size if combining
multiple drains as in double unit.

1.2 in. (30 mm). OD
un-threaded outlet
with factory supplied
bent hose and clamp.

Air gap required.
2 1/2 in. to 7/8 in. copper
reducer is ideal.
(NORTEC option P/N 2522172)
Hose must not touch
the bottom of the funnel.

Always install a water
shut-off valve.

1/2 in. NPT

Use union to connect

supply pipe to unit.

*Pipe and water shut-off valve not supplied by NORTEC.

Note:

 Use material suitable for 212°F (100°C) for drain and condensate lines.

Plumbing

 Drain Water is very hot, do not drain to public sink

 Supply cold potable water (not Reverse Osmosis or Demineralized). Conductivity:

150–750 microsiemens and pressure: 30-80 PSIG.

 All water supply and drain line connections should be installed in accordance with local

plumbing codes.

 Supply water should at 30 to 80 PSIG and be between 150-750 microsiemens (Hardness

0-12 GPG). For 750-1200 microsiemens, please consult factory.

 Install water shut off valve and union before humidifier to facilitate servicing.
 The drain line should not end in a sink used frequently by personnel, or where plumbing

codes prohibit. Route to a floor drain or equivalent for safety reasons.

 Ensure drain line is adequately sized to provide free and easy draining and that an air gap is

installed as shown. A restricted drain can cause cylinder water to over concentrate,
resulting in poor operation or result in water backing up at the air gap.

Figure 7: Water Supply and Drain Connection

Installation | 14

12 in.

(30 cm)

min.

Calculated absorption

distance to any obstruction

or 8-10 ft (2.4 - 3 m)

if unknown

Mount distributor

to side of duct

2 x duct

height min.

2/3 Duct
height

Note:





Steam Distributor

 Steam generated by the NH-EL may be distributed directly into a space with a built on or

remote blower pack, or into an air handling system using either Nortec steam distributors or
Nortec’s SAMe steam distribution manifold.

 Whichever method is used, the steam distributor should be installed as close as possible to

the humidifier. Short steam distribution lines minimize condensate losses and the possibility
of generating back pressure in the steam distribution line.

 Figure 8: Distributor Location in Duct provides common guidelines for locating a steam

distributor in a duct.

Figure 8: Distributor Location in Duct

Install the NH-EL as close as possible to whatever steam distributor is used.

Refer to distributor, SAMe, or remote blower pack installation manuals for detailed installation
instructions.

15 | Installation

NH-EL

Maximum Steam

MED-L

Stainless

Possible Steam Losses

Model

Line Length

Copper

Steel

(based on 1” insulated copper pipe)

ft

(m)

Tube

Tube

lb/hr/ft

(kg/hr/m)

5

7

(2)

3/4

0.875 X 0.049W

0.06

(0.09)

10

12

(3.5)

20

17

(5)

30

22

(6.5)

50

43

(13)

1 1/2

1.75 X 0.065W

0.11

(0.16)

75/150**

47

(14)

100/200**

50

(15)

Oversized Steam Line (Use for longer steam runs)***

5

14

(4)

1

1.125 X 0.049W

0.06

(0.09)

10

24

(7)

20

34

(10)

30

44

(13)

50

86

(26)

2

2.0 X 0.065W

0.11

(0.16)

75/150**

94

(28)

100/200**

100

(30)

Nortec Steam Hose

5-30

10

(3)

Pt No 1328810 (7/8”)

0.1

(0.15)

50-200**

10

(3)

Pt No. 1328820 (1 3/4”)

0.15

(0.22)

Danger:

Steam Lines and Condensate Return Instructions

The following instructions must be followed for installation of steam lines for ASD, BSD, CSD,
SAM-e, and remote blower packs. Failure to use material recommended in

Table 7, exceeding maximum recommended length in Table 7, or failure to follow any other
steam line installation instructions will result in improper operation and could void the warranty.

The NH-EL is an atmospheric humidifier that will only operate properly when its steam
distribution system is installed so that it provides no significant backpressure.

Installing the NH-EL in such a way that backpressure can develop during operation
could result in serious injury or damage to property.

Table 7: Recommended Steam Line Material*, Maximum Length, Losses

Note: * The use of steam line other than copper, stainless steel tube or Nortec supplied steam line will void the warranty and may

adversely affect the operation of the humidifier.

** Use one steam line per cylinder for NH-EL 150-200 humidifiers. Do not combine lines except at distributor using a Nortec adapter

designed for that purpose and only if humidifiers operate in parallel.

*** These diameters require a reducer at humidifier and steam distributor connection.

Installation | 16

Ste

am

D

irectio

n

Ste

a

m Dir

ectio

n

S

t

e

a

m

D

i

r

e

c

t

i

o

n

2 in.
(5 cm)

1 ft (30 cm)

1ft (30 cm)

0.5 in.
(12 mm)

10 Degrees

2 Degrees

Use Appropriate Slope Insulate Pipe

1 in. (2.5 cm) pipe

insulation

Minimal Slope (up)

Minimal Slope (down)

Figure 9: Steam Line Slope and Insulation

Trap condensate

12 in. (30 cm)

min drop to

top of ‘P’ Trap

P Trap min

6 in. (15 cm)

or

duct static

pressure + 2 in

whichever is

greater

Tee is same size

as steam line

Use a full size tee, not a 90
degree elbow for vertical
to horizontal transitions.

‘P’ Traps Use:

- NORTEC 0.375 in condensate hose

- 1/4 in Med-L copper tubing, or

- 0.375 in stainless steel tubing

Condensate drains must be sloped down.

1 ft (30 cm)

0.25 in
(0.6 cm)

 Trap at all low points and recommended intervals using full size ‘T’ for traps.

 Condensate should not be routed to a sink used frequently by personnel. Route to a floor

 Route condensate to floor drain or equivalent in multi-unit to single SAM-e installation.

17 | Installation

drain or equivalent. Condensate normally cools in traps but is still hot. A SAMe or larger
steam line generates more condensate and water may not cool in the trap. A drain water
cooler option may be installed if required by code.

Figure 10: Condensate Traps

Hose cuff
with clamps

2 in. (5 cm)

min.

1 ft (30 cm)

‘P’ Trap

1 ft (30 cm)
min. before

any bend

Condensate line
Route to fill cup or drain .

Use steam hose and clamps
between cylinder and steam line.

Insulated copper
steam line. Support
so weight is not on
cylinder.

Never

1 ft (30 cm)

min.

< 1 ft
(30 cm)

Best

Never

< 1 ft
(30 cm)

Best

Good

Never

Never

1 ft (30 cm)

min 0.5 in.
(12 mm)

1 ft (30 cm)

min 2 in.

(5 cm)

Steam Line Rules

Figure 11: Typical Steam Line Installation

The following 10 points provide rules for installing steam lines connecting the NH-EL
humidifier to ASD, BSD, CSD, SAMe and remote blower packs. In addition to these rules
never use unapproved material for steam lines.

1. Allow minimum of 12 in. (30 cm) before first bend in steam line.

2. Slope the steam lines.

Installation | 18

> 10 ft (1.5 m)

Never

< 5 ft (1.5 m)

Note: 1) Always support hose. 2) Do not exceed 10 ft (3 m) hose length

Best

Best

Never

12 in.
(30 cm)
min. Radius

< 12 in.
(30 cm)
Radius

Never

< 12 in.
(30 cm)
Radius

Good

min. 12 in.

(30 cm)

Never

< 12 in.
(30 cm)

< 12 in.
(30 cm)

Good Never

Notes: 1. Units must operate in parallel.

2. Also for double units (cylinders must operate in parallel).

Condensate
Traps

Good

Never

3. Use steam hose only for short distances.

4. For steam hose maintain minimum 12 in. (30 cm) bend radius.

5. Install traps on condensate lines at least 12 in. (30 cm) below

connection.

6. Only combine steam lines at steam distributor with Nortec adapter.

7. Install condensate traps at low points and horizontal to vertical

transitions.

19 | Installation

Best

Good Never

Nortec
Condensate
Trap

Sloping Down

Increase =

Condensate

Blockage

max. 15 ft

(4.5 m)

max. 15 ft

(4.5 m)

Never

> 15 ft

(4.5 m)

max. 15 ft

(4.5 m)

max. 15 ft

(4.5 m)

Good

Never

> 15 ft

(4.5 m)

Never

Install a valve or other obstruction

Never Never

Reduce Steam Line Size Install Copper or SST without Insulation

Never Never

Never

Never Never

Never

Never

After Installation Always:

 Ensure all condensate lines / traps flow.

8. Increase diameter either on down slope or install condensate trap.

9. Install condensate traps if steam line > 15 ft (4.5 m).

10. In addition never:

 Purge steam lines to remove any contaminants and installation materials

Installation | 20

L1
L2

Ground

L1
L2

Ground .

L1
L2
L3

Neutral

Ground

L1
L2
L3

Neutral

Ground

L1
L2

Ground

L1
Neutral

Ground

L1
L2
L3

Neutral

Ground

L1
L2

L3

Ground

Three Phase NH-EL

Single Phase NH-EL

Single Phase Supply

Three Phase Supply

(Note: Load will be unbalanced)

Three Phase Supply

Dedicated

Circuit Breaker

or

Fused Disconect

Note:
1

2

3

4

Optional internal fuses are not

a substitute for external fuses.

Dedicated external fused
disconnect must be installed.
Fusing must not exceed max
circuit protection as indicated
on the specification label.

Ensure that adequate power is
available to carry full humidifier
amp draw as indicated on the
specification label.

All wiring to be in accordance
with national and local electrical
codes.

E
X
T

I

N

T

E
X
T

I
N
T

E
X
T

I
N
T

E
X
T

I
N
T

Three Phase Supply

(Note: Load will be unbalanced)

Electrical

Caution: Wiring to be performed by a licensed electrician.

21 | Installation

Figure 12: Primary Power Connection

1

2 3

10 ft min.

Humidity
Control

(return air
duct or
location
representative
of the room)

Duct High

Limit

4

Out

door

temp.

sensor.

Air

Proving

Switch

Humidity
Control

(return air
duct or
location
representative
of the room)

Caution: Failure to wire the humidifier in accordance with the wiring instructions
could cause permanent damage. Such errors will void the warranty.

External Controls

Control Wiring

The following information is relevant to all controls, factory supplied or otherwise. For wiring use
a minimum of 18 AWG and keep as short as possible. The NH-EL humidifier can be operated
with two modulating inputs. Signal types must be the same (both demand or both transducer).
The NH-EL can also be operated as On/Off. See NH-EL Humidifier Configuration on page 54 for
configuration.

Control Location

Figure 13: Control Location (Duct Humidification)

Duct Humidification

1 Air Proving Switch

 Locate so that it can sense air flow or lack of it.

2 Duct High Limit

 NH-EL can be modulating, On/Off, or a humidity sensor.
 Locate at least 10 feet from steam distributor or far enough that under normal conditions

steam is fully absorbed.

3 Humidity Control

 NH-EL can be Modulating, On/Off, or a Humidity Sensor.
 Can be located either in return air duct (preferred) or in room being humidified.
 Mount in area representative of room humidity (draft, doorways, sunlight, or overhang such

as a shelf can affect reading). Avoid placing near discharge diffuser of humidified air.

4 Outdoor Temperature Sensor
 Mount in area representing outdoor air temperature (makeup air duct, outside).

Installation | 22

1

Humidity
Control

(in location
representative
of the space)

1

Humidity
Control

(in location
representative
of the space)

1

Humidity
Control

(in location
representative
of the space)

Note: Regardless of selecting on/off or modulating control method, Nortec humidifiers must have a

closed circuit across its security loop control terminal to operate. Nortec highly recommends the use

of a high limit humidistat and an air proving switch in series for this function.

Space Humidification

Figure 14: Control Location (Space Humidification)

1 Humidity Control

 NH-EL can be modulating, On/Off, or a humidity transducer.
 Locate in room being humidified but not in discharge zone of blower pack(s).
 Mount on indoor wall in area representative of room humidity (draft, doorways, sunlight, or

overhang such as a shelf can affect reading).

2 High Limit Humidistat (not shown)
 Install a high limit On/Off humidistat in area representative of room humidity.

3 Outdoor Temperature Sensor (not shown)
 Mount outside in area representing air temperature.

23 | Installation

Figure 16: Digital On/Off Humidistat

Note: 1

2
3

4

Humidifier will run when circuit between
terminal 1 a n d 2 on h u midifier is closed.
T e rminal 1 is 24 VAC Hot, turn uni t o ff to
avoid shorting while wiring.
Digital Humidi stat requires 24 VAC power
from terminals 1 and 3 of humidifier.

2520273 - Digital On/Off Duct Humidistat
can also be used for duct high li mit. W ire
in series to 3 - Common and 4 - Digital Out
of the humidistat.

Humidifier Terminal Strip

Air Proving

Switch

Duct High

Limit

2548731 - Digital

On/Off Humidistat

1 – Common

8 – Temperature

On/Off Control Wiring

Figure 15: On/Off Controls

2 – 24 VAC

3 – Digital In

4 – Digital Out

5 – Fan Activation

6 – Fan Activation

7 – Temperature

Installation | 24

Air Proving

Switch

Duct High

Limit

Digital On/Off

Humidistat

Duct Sensor

1 - Common

2 - 24 VAC

3 - Analog Out

Wire remote sensor to digital display as shown below,

wire digital display to humidifier as shown above.

2520273 - Digital On/Off Duct Humidistat Package

1 - Ground

2 - 24 VAC

7 - Analog In

The security loop must
be closed for keep warm
to operate when the
humidifier is in standby.

Install an On/Off high
limit humidistat between
terminal 1 and 2.

Optional Modulating

Humidity Controller

Channel 2

Humidity Controller

Channel 1

Other On/Off
Controls

Figure 18: Keep Warm Wiring

1 – Common

7 – Analog In

Keep Warm Wiring

For the keep warm feature to work the security loop between terminal 1 and 2 on the low
voltage terminal strip must be closed. To accomplish this:

1 Install an On/Off high limit humidistat between terminal 1 and 2.
2 Install any other On/Off controls in series with the control signal connected to terminal 4

(Channel 1 control signal).

3 If desired a modulating high limit humidistat can also be installed and connected to terminal

5 (Channel 2 control signal).

2 – 24 VAC

Figure 17: Duct Sensor Wiring

25 | Installation

Note: 1

2

3

4

Install On/Off controls or jumper between
terminal 1 a n d 2 o f h u midifier in order to run.
Terminal 1 is 24 VAC Hot, turn unit off to
avoid shorting while wiring.

High Limit Humidistat must be duct mounted.
It can be On/Off or modulating.
Control Humidistat can be mounted in space
or in return air duct and can be On/Off or
modula ting.

Air Proving

Switch

High Limit Humidistat

Control Humidistat

Humidifier Terminal Strip

SPACE

SPACE

Figure 20: Digital Modulating Humidistats

1 – Common

2 – 24 VAC

1 – Common

2 – 24 VAC

Analog Out -3

24 VAC – 2

Common – 1

Modulating Control Wiring

Figure 19: Modulating Controls

Installation | 26

Air Proving

Switch

Duct High

Limit

2520261 - Digital
Wall W/O Sensor

1509858 - Wall

Sensor

1 - Common

2 - 24 VAC

7 - Analog In

1 - Common

2 - 24 VAC

6 - Analog Out

Wire wall sensor to digital display as shown

below, wire digital display to humidifier as shown

for 1510142 - Digital Wall Humidistat.

+

1509858 - Wall Sen so r

2520261 - Dig ital Wall W/O Sensor

2520261 - Digital
Wall W/O Sensor

1509858 - Wall

Sensor

Figure 22: Digital Wall Humidistat - On/Off High Limit Duct Humidistat

1 – Common

2 – 24 VAC

1 – Common

8 – Temperature

Figure 21: Digital Wall Humidistat – Remote Wall Sensor

2 – 24 VAC

3 – Common

4 – Digital Out

7 – Temperature

27 | Installation