COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Taps™ Odor Control Air Scrubbers, Manhole Inserts & Vent Filters

Q.

Are Taps™ Scrubbers big enough for my problem?

A.

It depends on how much air you need to move.  Both models will deliver a nominal maximum of 85 CFM, using either of the available fans.  If more CFM is needed, multiple scrubbers can be used in parallel.  If in doubt, choose Model M2.  It is most economical per pound of H ₂S oxidized, has nearly twice the oxidation capacity of Model M1 and provides the most flexibility.

Q.

How long will my scrubber/manhole insert/vent filter last?

A.

This depends on the level of H₂S and other odors in the air. The lower the levels, the longer the life. In general, granules in manhole inserts and vent filters need to be replaced about once per year. It is more difficult to predict scrubber life, but a one-year service life is not uncommon. For example, with 5 ppm H ₂S average loading at 20 cfm, service life for a Model M1 would be >1 year; for Model M2, about 2 years.

Q.

What percentage of H₂S can I expect to remove?

A.

Almost always >99%, but removal rates can be slightly lower if air is moved through the media at a rate beyond design.

Q.

Why will my scrubber last longer when operated at a lower CFM?

A.

Two reasons. Firstly, Taps™ Catalytic Media (see MSDS) operates with greater efficiency as residence time is extended, which maximizes its capacity. Secondly, it stands to reason that if you move 40 CFM through your scrubber at 5 ppm H ₂S versus 20 CFM at 5 ppm it will last only half as long.  For the best economy, move enough air to stop the nuisance-odor phone calls - but no more.

Q.

 Can I mount my vent filters upside down?

A.

Yes, they will function equally well when hanging.

Q.

 Will rain affect the media in my manhole inserts and/or vent filters?

A.

When water leaks into a manhole, it does so around the rim and through the pick hole, and then runs down the side of the insert and out the bottom holes.  Water does not run through the media.  Rain can run through a vent filter, but chemical reaction speed is enhanced by wet/damp media, and that may actually be beneficial.  However, if media is flooded, some of the chemistry could be washed out, and that would shorten service life.

Q.

 Can Taps™ media restrict airflow through my manhole or vent stack?

A.

Not through manholes - Taps™ media provides about 1/3 open space between granules, far more space than found around a manhole rim and pick hole.  Air normally moves through vents slowly enough so that static pressure is not created and airflow is not restricted, but not always.  Where restriction is a concern, order filters a size or two larger than the stack dimension and use a spigot x socket reducing bushing.

Q.

 My scrubber (pail of Taps™ Granules) wasn't quite full when I received it.  Why?

A.

Containers are filled to their maximum capacity before shipment.  Some settling of granules will occur during shipping and handling.  (Volume and weight figures provided are very close, but approximate.)

Q.

 How will I know when the media is worn out, and then what do I do?

A.

Your nose (or perhaps the neighbors) will tell you. If you have a meter, check H₂S in exhaust air occasionally. With a little experience, it will become predictable.  Replacing media in inserts and filters takes a few minutes.  With scrubbers, keep the cover (and fan) and replace the vessel. Most customers keep an inventory of media (and even scrubber vessels) on hand.  If not, we can normally ship in a day or two.

Q.

 What should I do with used-up media?

A.

Expended media can be land filled, but pH needs to be considered. Taps™ Oxidizing Granules function both by oxidation and absorption, so when the oxidation chemistry is used up they can still do some work. If left in place too long, pH can drop from the acidity of absorbed compounds. To be safe, many customers mix expended media with grit before land filling. Be aware of local regulations concerning pH.

Alternatively, save it up, send it to us (freight paid), and we will process at no charge.

Q.

 How much technical service will I need?

A.

 Very little. The products do what they are designed to do. The only question that remains open at the start concerns "service life", which will be answered after you try them. Order Service handles any problems with scrubber fans. Not much is left to go wrong.

Q.

 How can you be any good when priced so low?

A.

 It starts with design. Complications are removed for the user and in manufacturing. Central to this is some really good science in the media. And, Internet marketing significantly cuts sales and marketing costs.