GeneralAire Model 3200M Evaporative Humidifier User Manual

1. Product Overview

The GeneralAire Model 3200M Evaporative Humidifier is designed to provide optimal humidity levels for homes up to 3200 square feet. This newly engineered humidifier is optimized for maximum humidity output, especially with today's high-efficiency furnaces that often operate at lower plenum temperatures. Its compact and lightweight design ensures easy installation and straightforward maintenance, making it an efficient solution for maintaining comfortable indoor air quality.

Figure 1: GeneralAire Model 3200M Evaporative Humidifier. This image shows the compact, white humidifier unit designed for duct mounting.

2. Key Features

• Designed for Modern Furnaces: Optimized for today's lower plenum temperatures (95°-120°F) with high-efficiency furnaces, ensuring effective humidity capture.
• Space-Saving Design: Features a low-profile cover and chassis, allowing for installation in smaller spaces.
• Efficient "Ram" Air Design: Scoop cover design forces hot furnace air directly through the Vapor Pad at its warmest point, maximizing humidity output.
• Optimized Pad Surface: A thinner chassis frame exposes more of the Vapor Pad for maximum humidity output.
• Durable Water Distribution: Equipped with stainless steel water supply tubing, allowing for hot water service and increased Gallons Per Day (GPD).
• Easy Maintenance Access: The UV stable cover is easily removed by lifting bottom tabs and then lifting the top portion off, providing quick access to the Vapor Pad holder.
• Flexible Installation: The cover, solenoid valve, and water distribution tube can be swiftly reoriented from left to right to accommodate various installation configurations.
• Replaceable Drain Components: Features a replaceable double-walled drain tube and spout that can be removed for cleaning.
• Manual Control: Includes an MHX3C Manual Humidistat for straightforward humidity level adjustment.

Figure 2: GeneralAire MHX3C Manual Humidistat. This image displays the manual control dial for adjusting humidity levels.

3. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the efficient operation of your GeneralAire Model 3200M Humidifier. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified HVAC professional or electrician to ensure safety and correct connections.

3.1. Choosing an Installation Location

The humidifier should be installed on the warm air supply plenum or return air duct of your furnace system. Ensure there is sufficient space for the unit and for future maintenance access.

3.2. Duct Opening and Mounting

1. Using the provided template (if applicable) or the unit's dimensions, mark the area on the ductwork where the humidifier will be mounted.
2. Carefully cut the marked opening in the ductwork. Ensure all sharp edges are deburred to prevent injury and damage to components.
3. Position the humidifier's chassis into the cut opening and secure it to the ductwork using appropriate fasteners (not included).

3.3. Water Connection

1. Connect the stainless steel water supply tubing to a cold or hot water line, as preferred. Hot water service can increase GPD output.
2. Install a shut-off valve and an inline water filter (if desired) in the water supply line to the humidifier.
3. Connect the water supply line to the humidifier's inlet. Ensure all connections are watertight.

3.4. Drain Connection

1. Connect the humidifier's drain tube to a suitable floor drain or condensate pump.
2. Ensure the drain line has a continuous downward slope to allow for proper drainage and prevent standing water.

3.5. Humidistat Installation (MHX3C Manual Humidistat)

1. Install the MHX3C Manual Humidistat in a central living area of your home (e.g., bedroom, living room, kitchen) where it can accurately sense the room's humidity. Avoid locations near heat sources, cold drafts, or directly in the path of humidifier output.
2. Wire the humidistat to the humidifier and the furnace control board according to the wiring diagram provided in the separate humidistat instructions.
3. Important: The humidifier operates on 24 Volts AC. Connecting it to a 120 Volts AC source will damage the unit. Consult an HVAC professional for electrical connections.

4. Operating Instructions

Once installed, operating your GeneralAire Model 3200M Humidifier is straightforward using the MHX3C Manual Humidistat.

4.1. Setting Desired Humidity Level

1. Locate your MHX3C Manual Humidistat.
2. Turn the dial on the humidistat to your desired humidity percentage. A common comfortable range is between 35% and 45% relative humidity.
3. The humidifier will activate when the furnace blower is running and the sensed humidity level in your home falls below the set point on the humidistat.
4. Adjust the dial as needed to maintain comfort levels, especially as outdoor temperatures change. Lower humidity settings are generally recommended during colder outdoor temperatures to prevent condensation on windows.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficient performance of your humidifier. The GeneralAire 3200M is designed for easy maintenance.

5.1. Vapor Pad Replacement

The Vapor Pad should be replaced at least once per heating season, or more frequently depending on water quality and usage.

1. Turn off the power to the furnace and humidifier at the circuit breaker.
2. Turn off the water supply to the humidifier at the shut-off valve.
3. Remove the UV stable cover by gently pulling out the bottom tabs and then lifting the top portion off the top tabs.
4. Open the hinged door of the humidifier.
5. Carefully slide out the old Vapor Pad assembly.
6. Insert a new GeneralAire Vapor Pad into the assembly, ensuring it is correctly oriented.
7. Slide the Vapor Pad assembly back into the humidifier.
8. Close the hinged door and reattach the UV stable cover, ensuring it snaps securely into place.
9. Restore water supply and power to the unit.

5.2. Drain Tube and Spout Cleaning

The replaceable double-walled drain tube and spout can be removed for cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and clogs.

1. Turn off the power and water supply to the humidifier.
2. Locate the drain tube and spout at the bottom of the humidifier.
3. Carefully detach the drain tube and remove the spout.
4. Clean any mineral deposits or debris from the drain tube and spout using a brush and mild detergent.
5. Rinse thoroughly and reattach the spout and drain tube, ensuring a secure connection.
6. Restore water supply and power.

5.3. General Cleaning

Periodically wipe down the exterior of the humidifier with a damp cloth to keep it clean.

6. Troubleshooting

If your GeneralAire Model 3200M Humidifier is not operating as expected, consult the following troubleshooting guide before contacting customer support.

7. Specifications

• Brand: GeneralAire
• Model Name: evaporative humidifier
• Model Number: 3200M
• Special Feature: Evaporative, Bypass, Flow Through
• Color: White
• Floor Area: 3200 Square Feet
• Operation Mode: Evaporative
• Item Weight: 3.5 Pounds
• Room Type: Bedroom, Living Room
• Included Components: MHX3C Manual Humidistat
• Voltage: 24 Volts
• Wattage: 12 watts
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 12 x 12.25 inches

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, product registration, and customer support, please visit the official GeneralAire websites:

• USA: www.generalaire.com
• Canada: www.generalaireiaq.ca

It is recommended to keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.