First off, don't attempt this if you're not comfortable working around electricity, wiring, etc. Second, yes, this is a bit of a MacGyver solution but after seeing other DIY versions of coolers and understanding how the concept... well, I feel pretty good about this solution. Third, if I haven't updated this post, then you can assume my pool cooler is motoring along just fine since this post.
Our fan motor died a couple months ago. In Houston with a pool that gets full sun, that spells trouble. Spent a lot of money for this unit three years ago, and it only came with a two year warranty. Ruled out capacitor or other issues. So, thought I'd bite the bullet and order a replacement 1/6 hp motor from Glacier. Their response and attention to customer service has been underwhelming.
A month later and I'm out $450 and no telling when the motor might show up. I have to email them to get any information. Reading many wait months for replacement parts from Glacier.
Google DIY pool chiller and you'll see the Glacier design in smaller form factors. It's all the same concept for these evaporative coolers. A fan drawing air over water cascading. So why is the replacement fan worth $450?!?
Cut the breaker off. Disconnect fan wiring. Unbolt the original fan cage. Lift off entire unit (heavy and awkward!). You're ready to replace with a $75, 20 inch, outdoor rated, sealed motor electric fan. Secure it to the unit (I used heavy duty zip ties but will see if that needs improvement). Wire it into the switch. Voilà!
And hey, if it fails every year for six years.... I'll still be ahead.
Our fan motor died a couple months ago. In Houston with a pool that gets full sun, that spells trouble. Spent a lot of money for this unit three years ago, and it only came with a two year warranty. Ruled out capacitor or other issues. So, thought I'd bite the bullet and order a replacement 1/6 hp motor from Glacier. Their response and attention to customer service has been underwhelming.
A month later and I'm out $450 and no telling when the motor might show up. I have to email them to get any information. Reading many wait months for replacement parts from Glacier.
Google DIY pool chiller and you'll see the Glacier design in smaller form factors. It's all the same concept for these evaporative coolers. A fan drawing air over water cascading. So why is the replacement fan worth $450?!?
Cut the breaker off. Disconnect fan wiring. Unbolt the original fan cage. Lift off entire unit (heavy and awkward!). You're ready to replace with a $75, 20 inch, outdoor rated, sealed motor electric fan. Secure it to the unit (I used heavy duty zip ties but will see if that needs improvement). Wire it into the switch. Voilà!
And hey, if it fails every year for six years.... I'll still be ahead.
