TM 9-4120-407-14
2-11. OPERATION IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. (Cont)
C.
Operation In Dusty Or Sandy Conditions. Dusty and sandy conditions can seriously reduce the
efficiency of the air conditioner by clogging the air filter, mist eliminator, and coils. This will cause a
restriction in the volume of air flow. Accumulation of dust or sand in the condenser coil and/or in the
compressor compartment may cause overheating of the refrigeration system. Dust or sand may also clog the
condensate trap and water drain lines. Some of the steps that may be taken are:
(1) Frequent cleaning of filters, mist eliminator, coils and all other areas of dust and sand
accumulation. In extreme conditions, daily cleaning of filters may be necessary.
(2) Limit the amount of dusty or sandy outside air introduced through the fresh air damper to that
essential for ventilation.
(3) Roll down and secure the fabric cover on the back of the cabinets during periods of shutdown.
d. Operation In Unusually Wet Conditions. The air conditioner is designed for normal exposure to the
elements, so it is reasonably waterproof. Some of the steps that should be taken in an extremely wet
climate are:
(1) More frequent inspection and cleaning of the mist eliminator, condensate trap, and drain lines to
insure proper drainage and prevent accumulation of water inside the cabinet.
(2) Roll down and secure the fabric cover on the back of the cabinet during periods of wet, windy
weather and when the air conditioner is not in use.
(3) Roll up and secure the fabric cover during dry weather when the air conditioner is not in operation
so that the interior can dry out.
e. Operation In Salt Air Or Sea Spray. Salt air or sea spray may cause many of the same clogging
problems as experienced when operating in a dusty or sandy environment. In addition, the nature of salt
presents serious corrosion problems. Some of the steps that should be taken when operating in a salt air or
sea spray environment are:
(1) All exposed surfaces should be thoroughly spray rinsed or sponged with fresh water to remove salt
deposits.
(2) Roll down and secure the fabric cover on the back of the cabinet during all periods when the air
conditioner is not in operation.
2-12. OPERATION UNDER EMERGENCY CONDITIONS. During periods when full electrical power is
in critically short supply, if the air conditioner cannot be turned off completely, it should be operated in
Ventilate mode when possible.
2-13. NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL, AND CHEMICAL (NBC) DECONTAMINATION.
NOTE
Detailed decontamination procedures can be found in FM 3-3, FM 3-4,
AND FM 3-5.
a . General. The following emergency procedures can be performed until field NBC decon facilities are
available.
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