Installing a swamp cooler motor involves several steps that require attention to detail and safety precautions. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the installation process, along with technical specifications and DIY tips to ensure a successful and safe installation.
Step 1: Disconnect Power
Before starting the installation process, it is crucial to ensure that the electrical power is disconnected at the source. This is a crucial safety measure to prevent electrical shock or electrocution. Use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is turned off before proceeding.
Step 2: Remove the Old Motor
- Unplug the power cord to the motor.
- Remove the slotted adjustable clamps securing the motor at both ends.
- Loosen the two screws on the cover and the screw for the ground.
- Unplug the wire connections from the motor.
- Loosen the set screw on the front half of the pulley.
- Slide the back half of the pulley onto the shaft and tighten the set screw onto the flat spot.
- Slide the plastic boots back over the connectors and install the cover plate.
Step 3: Install the New Motor
- Slide the belt over the pulleys and turn the power on at the breaker panel.
- Reinstall the cooling pads and ensure that the vent holes are facing downward.
- Place the motor in the motor mounting bracket with the vent holes down and the motor label up.
- The groove in the rubber mounting rings should seat securely on the mounting bracket.
- Tighten the clamps.
Step 4: Check Motor Specifications
- Examine the motor thoroughly to ensure it was not damaged in shipment.
- Check the motor shaft to ensure it rotates freely when turned by hand.
- Check the nameplate rating for voltage and frequency to match the electrical power source.
- The motor HP must be suitable for your cooler size. Common motor sizes for swamp coolers are 1/3 HP, 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, and 1 HP.
Step 5: Adjust Motor Pulley and Belt Tension
- The motor pulley must be the same size and type recommended by the cooler manufacturer. Do not use a larger pulley size.
- Recommended motor pulley sizes:
- 1/3 HP Motor: 3¼” adjustable, or 2¼” to 2½” fixed with ½” bore
- 1/2 HP Motor: 3½” to 3¾” adjustable, or 2½” to 2¾” fixed with ½” bore
- 3/4 HP Motor (Single Inlet Coolers Only): 3¾” adjustable, or 3″ to 3¼” fixed with ½” bore
- 1 HP Motor: 4″ adjustable, or 3¼” to 3½” fixed with 5/8″ bore
- Adjust the belt to deflect 1/2 to 3/4 inch with about 3 lb. of force at the center of the span.
- Re-adjust belt tension after any pulley adjustment.
Step 6: Electrical Connection
- Disconnect the electrical power source prior to making any connections.
- For 115 VAC Motors:
- Connect the green wire (ground) to the green screw of the motor housing.
- Connect the black wire (hot) to terminal “H” (high) and the white wire (common) to terminal “C” (com).
- For 230 VAC Motors:
- Connect the green wire (ground) to the green screw of the motor housing.
- Connect the black wire (hot, L1) to terminal “H” (high) and the orange wire (hot, L2) to terminal “C”.
- For Two Speed Motors:
- Connect the white wire (common) to terminal “C” (com).
- Connect the black wire (Hot- high speed) to terminal “H” (high).
- Connect the red wire (low speed) to terminal “L”.
DIY Tips
- Use a voltage tester to ensure that power is disconnected before starting the installation process.
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury.
- Keep all parts of the body and loose clothing clear from belts, pulleys, and other exposed parts at all times.
- Install all wiring, fusing, and grounding in accordance with National Electrical Code, local requirements, and according to the cooler manufacturer’s instructions.
Technical Specifications
- Voltage and frequency must match the electrical power source.
- Motor HP must be suitable for the cooler size.
- Motor pulley size and type must be the same as recommended by the cooler manufacturer.
- Belt tension should be adjusted to deflect 1/2 to 3/4 inch with about 3 lb. of force at the center of the span.