Modern HVAC Solutions for Indoor Pool Dehumidification and Climate Control
- ETS
- Oct 22
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
When ETS expertise meets CaptiveAire Systems innovation, the result is advanced indoor pool dehumidification and climate control built for performance.
Indoor pool rooms are some of the most challenging environments for HVAC systems. The combination of warm air, high humidity, chemical exposure, and constant ventilation demands means standard systems simply aren’t built to last.
That’s why at Engineered Temperature Solutions (ETS), we don’t just install equipment—we engineer climate solutions that keep indoor pool spaces safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient year-round.
Recently, our team completed a full HVAC system overhaul for a pool room, installing a CaptiveAire Make-Up Air Unit (MUA) and four new exhaust fans to deliver 100% fresh air exchange with precision control over temperature and humidity.
This project showcases how the right equipment—paired with thoughtful design and expert installation—can transform even the most demanding mechanical spaces.
Why Indoor Pool Dehumidification Matters
Before diving into the project details, it’s important to understand why indoor pool rooms require specialized HVAC strategies.
Unlike standard commercial spaces, indoor pool rooms are hot, humid, and corrosive. The constant evaporation from the pool surface releases moisture and chloramines into the air, which can quickly spiral into operational issues if not managed properly.
1. Excess Humidity and Structural Damage
Without proper dehumidification and air exchange, excess moisture can seep into building materials, causing rust, corrosion, and mold growth. Over time, this can weaken structural components, damage finishes, and drive up maintenance costs.
2. Indoor Air Quality Concerns
High humidity paired with chloramines from treated pool water can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and lungs for swimmers, staff, and visitors. Stagnant air or poor ventilation creates an uncomfortable and potentially unhealthy environment.
3. Comfort and Temperature Fluctuations
Pool rooms must be carefully balanced to keep both air temperature and water temperature within set ranges. Even small swings can lead to condensation, draft complaints, or higher energy use.
4. Energy Efficiency Demands
Because pool rooms require constant air movement and conditioning, energy costs can be significant. A well-engineered HVAC system can drastically reduce those costs through smart controls and fresh air management.
The Project: An Engineered Upgrade with CaptiveAire Systems
Our team at ETS was brought in to replace outdated equipment with a modern, fully engineered HVAC solution. This included installing a new CaptiveAire Make-Up Air Unit and four exhaust fans on the rooftop to support a 100% fresh air exchange strategy.
This wasn’t just an equipment swap. It was a complete indoor pool dehumidification strategy.
Step 1: Installing the CaptiveAire Make-Up Air Unit (MUA)
The MUA is the heart of the system. Its role is to introduce a steady flow of fresh outdoor air into the building while conditioning it to the precise temperature and humidity levels needed for the pool environment.
Precise Temperature and Humidity Control
The CaptiveAire MUA allows for modulating heat and A/C output, which means the air coming in is always conditioned to match the building’s setpoints. This creates a stable, comfortable climate that doesn’t fluctuate with outdoor weather.
Building Pressure Balance
Maintaining slightly positive pressure inside the pool area prevents unwanted air infiltration and ensures clean air is distributed evenly. This helps keep chloramine odors from spreading into adjacent spaces.
Year-Round Energy Savings
By preconditioning outdoor air efficiently, the MUA reduces the load on the main HVAC system, lowering energy costs while maintaining precise environmental control.
Step 2: Strategic Exhaust Fan Installation
The exhaust system is just as critical as the MUA. ETS installed four CaptiveAire exhaust fans, carefully positioned on the rooftop to create an even and controlled airflow path.
Humidity Removal at the Source
The fans continuously remove warm, humid air from the space, ensuring that excess moisture doesn’t have a chance to build up. This helps protect the building’s structure and finishes.
Balanced Airflow
With 100% fresh air intake and exhaust, the pool room maintains a controlled pressure differential, improving air quality and comfort. Properly balanced systems also prevent backdrafting or negative pressure issues.
Improved Air Quality
Targeted exhaust ventilation pulls chloramine-laden air out of the breathing zone, ensuring a healthier, cleaner environment for everyone in the space.
Step 3: Advanced Controls and Modulating Capability
The system’s backbone isn’t just the hardware—it’s the controls. For this project, ETS integrated advanced CaptiveAire controls that give the building operator complete command over the HVAC system.
Modulating Heating and Cooling
The system doesn’t just turn on and off; it adjusts continuously based on the space’s real-time temperature and humidity levels. This results in steady comfort and lower energy use.
Custom Setpoints for Every Season
Whether it’s a humid summer day or a freezing Ohio winter, the system maintains perfect balance. Operators can adjust setpoints without impacting air quality or comfort.
Easy Maintenance and Monitoring
The control panel gives technicians clear visibility into system performance, airflow rates, and temperature trends—making preventive maintenance simpler and more efficient.
Step 4: Final Balancing and Commissioning
No ETS installation is complete without thorough balancing and commissioning. This ensures the system operates exactly as designed, delivering predictable performance for years to come.
Airflow Testing and Verification
We verified CFM levels across supply and exhaust, ensuring that the fresh air and exhaust systems worked in perfect harmony.
Humidity and Temperature Calibration
Technicians fine-tuned sensors and controls to hit target setpoints precisely. Even slight deviations in pool environments can make a big difference.
Performance Optimization
By testing under various load conditions, we ensured the system can maintain comfort no matter the season or pool usage level.
Why CaptiveAire Systems for Indoor Pool Dehumidification
CaptiveAire is a leader in commercial ventilation and HVAC solutions, especially in demanding environments.
Their make-up air units and exhaust fans are engineered for:
Corrosion resistance in chloramine-heavy air
Energy-efficient operation with modulating controls
High performance even under continuous load
Ease of integration with building automation systems
When combined with ETS’s engineering expertise, CaptiveAire technology delivers a complete, integrated HVAC solution, not just another component on the roof.
The ETS Difference
At ETS, we approach indoor pool room HVAC projects differently. Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, we engineer custom systems designed to solve the specific challenges of each facility.
Our process includes:
Detailed site evaluation to understand airflow patterns, moisture loads, and pressure issues.
Custom design of make-up air and exhaust systems for balanced, energy-efficient performance.
Seamless installation by experienced commercial HVAC technicians.
Commissioning and verification to ensure setpoints, airflows, and comfort levels meet or exceed expectations.
This project is a perfect example of that philosophy in action.
The Long-Term Benefits of a Modern Pool Room HVAC System | RECAP
An upgraded HVAC system isn’t just about immediate comfort—it’s about long-term operational value.
By installing a CaptiveAire MUA and exhaust system, the facility can expect:
✅ Improved indoor air quality for swimmers, staff, and guests
💧 Better humidity control to prevent structural damage and mold growth
⚡ Lower energy costs thanks to modulating controls and fresh air strategies
🛠️ Reduced maintenance costs with reliable, corrosion-resistant equipment
🌿 Greater sustainability through efficient air handling and reduced waste
These are the kinds of results that don’t just improve comfort—they protect the investment in the building itself.
Partner with ETS for Your Next Indoor Pool Room HVAC Upgrade
If your indoor pool room is dealing with humidity problems, poor air quality, or an outdated HVAC system, now is the time to act.
ETS offers custom-engineered HVAC solutions tailored specifically to commercial and industrial spaces.
📞 Contact Engineered Temperature Solutions today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help transform your facility with a smarter, more efficient HVAC system.
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