Fall & Winter Prep for Evaporative Cooling Pads and Pump Systems

With summer coming to a close, your team will shift from keeping livestock cool to preparing for the winter chill. Don’t overlook your evaporative cooling system during this transition.

Proper seasonal prep not only protects your equipment from unnecessary damage but also ensures it’s ready to perform when warm weather returns.

Why Winterize Early

Getting a headstart on preparing your cooling systems before the cold truly sets in offers benefits to your farm equipment and the well-being of your livestock. Here are some reasons to get started sooner than later:

• Damage Prevention: The greatest risk of delayed winterization is freezing. Water left in the cooling pads, supply lines, or pump system can freeze and expand, causing cracks and costly repairs. Winterizing sooner prevents damage from unexpected early cold snaps.
• Mold and Bacteria Risk: Lingering water in cooling pads or distribution troughs can foster mold, algae, and harmful bacteria during the off-season. If left unchecked, these contaminants can impact air quality and compromise the health of your flock. Even if it’s not cold enough to freeze, keeping water in your system while it’s not running can still be an issue.
• Reduces Pest Damage: Uncleaned cooling systems can become nesting spots for rodents and other pests seeking warmth. Once inside, they can chew through wiring, damage pads, and create costly repairs.

Steps on How to Prepare Your Systems

Winterizing your evaporative cooling system takes careful attention to make sure nothing is left dirty or vulnerable to mold or pests. With the right cleaning supplies, you can protect your equipment and set it up for reliable performance next spring/summer.

1. Power Down: Start your cleaning off by tuning off all power to the cooling system, including the pump. 
2. Drain Water Thoroughly: Disconnect your pump and make sure all water is out of its housing. We find that the pumps we work with, such as the 3/4 HP Jet Pump, Pump 9EN-CIM, Pump 6-CIA, Pump 10EN-CIA, Pump 6EC-CIA-SFS, and various submersible sump pumps, are engineered to be easily drained and maintained for the off-season.
3. Clean Cooling Pads: Gently clean and remove your cooling pads to remove dirt, dust, mineral deposits, and organic matter from the previous season. A soft brush and low-pressure water will do the job. For stubborn buildup, consider a specialized, pH-neutral cleaner.
4. Inspect for Cracks: While cleaning, check all plumbing for cracks or loose connections. Inspect the pump for any visible wear or damage to the housing or electrical cords.
5. Store your Pump Systems: Once drained and inspected, store your pumps in a dry, protected environment to prevent freezing or chances of external damage. 

For a more comprehensive, step-by-step guide on this crucial process, be sure to read our complete guide on winterizing cool cell systems.

Signs That it’s Time for Replacements

During your inspection period, spotting signs of wear and tear can save you money in the future and prevent system failure. Here are major signs to look out for:

• Worn Cooling Pads: If your cooling pads are crumbling or clogged with debris that can't be cleaned, or show significant mold/algae growth, their effectiveness is greatly diminished. 
• Malfunctioning Pumps: Unusual noises and frequent tripping of breakers can indicate a failing pump motor or impeller. 
• Cracks in Plumbing: Check all pipes and fittings for any visible leaks or cracks. Especially in PVC pipes that your farm has had for years.
  

Storing Summer Cooling Products

Proper off-season storage is crucial for any standalone cooling equipment, like smaller circulation fans or misting kits. A little prep now will save you time and money next summer.

Here are some common storage solutions for commercial barns:

• Dedicated Storage Shed: A clean, dry storage shed is ideal to store seasonal products from unwanted pests and weather elements.
• Workshop: A workshop works well for smaller products such as pumps. 
• Covered Barn: Use a designated section in your barn that is clean and sectioned away from high-trafficked zones. 

If you’re looking for more help with winterizing your cooling products or looking for replacement parts, contact our team 1.800.845.3374 today!