Power Failure Response

Remote notification of a power outage is provided automatically via the network battery backup (upon power loss) and/or via the pool systems automation dashboard computer (upon power return). All notifications require presence of an internet connection, either via the primary route or via the backup route (cellular modem, where applicable).

All notifications are sent by default to the Building & Grounds email account.

Sump Pumps

During a prolonged power outage, backup power will need to be provided to keep the sump pumps operating. This is particularly important in the pump house which is prone to flood within hours of power loss. Legacy foundation drain tiles in the club house may provide sufficient drainage, though sump pump operation is preferred.

Refrigeration

During the operating season, it is critical to provide backup power quickly in the event of a prolonged power outage. Otherwise, significant loss may be incurred as saleable product melts or warms to unsafe temperatures. The chest freezers in the basement hold temperature quite well. The units in the snack shack are prone to warm much quicker.

Pool Systems

The main pool pump motor is powered by a latching contactor (also referred to as a motor starter). Even a very brief power glitch may result in the contactor dropping out. This is by design, as the motor must only be started by manual operator intervention (no automatic start). Unfortunately, this requires that an operator be present to start the motor following a glitch or outage.

There is some urgency to restarting the pump. The pH and ORP probes must not be kept dry for an extended period of time. Regular filtration and chemical treatment of the pool is necessary to keep the water clear and properly balanced. Therefore, it is recommended that an operator be on site as quickly as possible following an outage.

Prolonged Outages

If the power is out for an extended period (hours) and the utility estimate for restoration is long, the pH and ORP probes should be removed and placed into water to prevent damage due to drying out.

Restarting

Observation has suggested that even a relatively brief outage (more than 30 minutes) may result in cloudy water being pumped to the pool upon startup. Therefore, it is recommended that a brief backwash is performed first after an outage above this threshold (until the outflow is clear). Otherwise, it may take several hours for the pool to clear.

Once the pump is operating (after completing the backwash):

• Bleed air from all four sand filter tanks.
• Bleed air from the boiler.
• Reset the low water cut-off on the boiler (as needed).
• If the boiler was operating when power was lost, a thermal trip fault may have occurred. Clear the fault by pressing the red button on the front of the boiler.
• If there is a call for heat, verify that the boiler starts up. If not, follow the troubleshooting steps.

Note that the ORP probe tends to read low when out of water for a period of time. Expect the ORP reading to have dropped, resulting in extended chlorinator operation. Minor overshoot of ORP (and chlorine PPM) may result.