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Climma HVAC Chiller System-Switching Power Sources

Overview #

This procedure defines the approved method for switching electrical power sources on vessels equipped with a Climma Marine HVAC Chiller System.

Proper power transfer procedures are essential to protect HVAC compressors, pumps, and electronic control components from damage caused by improper shutdown, voltage fluctuations, or frequency instability.

The Climma system must be completely powered down before transferring between shore power and generator supply. Switching power sources while compressors or pumps are operating may result in:

  • Compressor overload.
  • Control system faults.
  • Voltage or frequency-related damage.
  • Reduced equipment reliability.

Improper power transfer procedures may be considered operational misuse and may not be covered under manufacturer warranty.

Important: Only qualified personnel familiar with the vessel’s electrical system should perform power transfer operations.

1. Preparation & System Awareness #

Before switching power sources, verify the condition of both available electrical supplies.

Confirm Power Sources #

Shore Power #

Verify:

  • Correct voltage.
  • Correct frequency.
  • Stable shore power supply.
  • Proper connection to the vessel.

Generator Power #

Verify:

  • Generator is fully warmed up.
  • Generator is operating smoothly.
  • Output voltage is correct.
  • Frequency is within specification.

Confirm Climma System Status #

Before transferring power:

  • Turn OFF all Climma chillers.
  • Turn OFF all associated air handlers.
  • Confirm the Climma control panel indicates the system is OFF.

Do not begin power transfer while any compressor or cooling cycle is active.

2. Proper Shutdown of the Climma HVAC System #

Before changing power sources:

  1. At each Climma control panel or central controller, select OFF or Standby.
  2. Allow the system time to complete shutdown.
  3. Wait approximately 1–2 minutes for compressor pressure to equalize.
  4. Confirm:
    • Compressors are stopped.
    • Seawater pumps are stopped.
    • Circulation pumps are stopped.
    • No cooling cycle is active.

3. Switching Power Source #

The transfer procedure depends on the vessel’s electrical configuration.

Manual Transfer Switch #

Follow these steps:

  1. Confirm the Climma system is completely OFF.
  2. Turn OFF the main HVAC breaker from the existing power source.
  3. Move the transfer switch:
    • Shore Power → Generator
    • or
    • Generator → Shore Power
  4. Turn ON the main HVAC breaker from the new power source.
  5. Allow approximately 30 seconds for voltage and frequency to stabilize before restarting the HVAC system.

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) #

For vessels equipped with an ATS:

  1. Confirm the Climma system is OFF.
  2. Allow the ATS to complete the transfer cycle.
  3. Verify relays have engaged and the new power source is stable.
  4. Confirm proper voltage before restarting the Climma system.

4. Restarting the Climma HVAC System #

After power transfer is complete:

  1. Turn ON required breakers:
    • Seawater pump.
    • Circulation pump.
    • Chiller breaker(s).
  2. Power up the Climma controller.
  3. Confirm:
    • Display is operating normally.
    • Power indicators are correct.
    • No active alarms are displayed.
  4. Allow the compressor restart delay to complete.

Typical compressor restart delay: approximately 3 minutes

  1. Restart HVAC operation from the thermostat or central control panel.

5. Post-Restoration Checks #

After the Climma system restarts:

Verify:

  • Seawater flow is established.
  • No flow alarms are present.
  • Chillers are operating normally.
  • Air handlers are producing conditioned air.
  • No unusual noises or vibration are present.
  • Electrical supply remains stable.

Important Operating Notes #

Never switch power sources while Climma compressors or pumps are operating.

Always confirm:

  • Voltage matches equipment requirements.
  • Frequency matches equipment specifications.
  • Power source is stable before restarting the system.

Example:

230V / 50Hz or 60Hz (verify equipment rating plate)

Recommended Best Practices #

To protect HVAC equipment:

  • Allow compressors to fully shut down before transfer.
  • Avoid rapid cycling between power sources.
  • Verify generator output before transferring loads.
  • Consider delay-start protection devices where appropriate.
  • Monitor HVAC operation after every power transfer.

Warranty & Equipment Protection Notice #

The Climma HVAC chiller system contains sensitive compressors and electronic controls that require stable electrical power.

Power transfers performed while equipment is running, or operation outside specified voltage and frequency limits, may result in equipment damage and may be considered improper operation.

Following the approved transfer procedure helps protect system reliability, extend equipment life, and maintain proper HVAC performance.

This guide is intended as a supplemental Ocean Alexander operational reference and does not replace the official Climma installation, operation, or maintenance documentation.

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