NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner Instruction Manual

NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner

Safety Instructions

Please read all instructions before servicing this equipment. Pay attention to all safety warnings and any other special notes highlighted in the manual. Safety markings are used frequently throughout this manual to designate a degree or level of seriousness and should not be ignored. WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in personal injury or death. CAUTION indicates a potentially dangerous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury or property damage.

1. Failure to follow safety warnings exactly could result in serious injury, death, or property damage.
2. Improper servicing could result in dangerous operation, serious injury, death, or property damage.
3. Before servicing, disconnect all electrical power to the indoor blower.
4. When servicing controls, label all wires before disconnecting. Reconnect wires correctly.
5. Verify proper operation after servicing.
6. Before beginning the installation, verify that the unit model is correct for the job.
7. This equipment contains liquid and gaseous refrigerant under high pressure.
8. Installation of equipment may require brazing.
9. Follow all precautions in the literature, on tags, and labels provided with the equipment.
10. Use caution when handling this appliance or removing components.

Requirements & Codes

This packaged air conditioner is designed only for outdoor ground-level installations and can be readily connected to the high static duct system of a home. This unit has been tested for capacity and efficiency by AHRI Standards and will provide many years of safe and dependable comfort, provided it is properly installed and maintained. Abuse, improper use, and/or improper maintenance can shorten the life of the appliance and create unsafe hazards. To achieve optimum performance and minimize equipment failure, it is recommended that periodic maintenance be performed on this unit. The ability to properly perform maintenance on this equipment requires certain mechanical skills and tools.

• All electrical wiring must comply with local,  state, and national codes and regulations, and with the National Electric Code (ANSI/NFPA 70) or, in Canada, Canadian Electric Code Part 1, CSA C.22.1.
• The installer must comply with all local codes and regulations that govern the installation of this type of equipment.
• Local codes and regulations take precedence over any recommendations contained in these instructions.
• Consult local building codes and the National Electrical Code (ANSI CI) for special installation requirements.
• Air Ducts must be instathebythe the standards of the National Fire Protection Association “Standards for Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilation Systems” (NFPA 90A), “Standard for Installation of Residence Type Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Systems” (NFPA 90B), these instructions, and all applicable local codes.
• Plug the appropriate wire into the appropriate motor speed tap for the required airflow.

Before You Install this Unit

• The cooling load of the area to be conditioned must be calculated, and a system of the proper capacity selected. It is recommended that the area to be conditioned be completely insulated and vapor sealed.
• Check the electrical supply and verify that the power supply is adequate for unit operation.
• If there is any question concerning the power supply, contact the local power company.
• All units are securely packed at the time of shipment, and upon arrival, they should be carefully inspected for damage before installing the equipment at the job site. Verify coil fins are straight.
• If necessary, comb fins to remove flattened or bent ones. Damage claim (apparent or concealed) should be filed immediately with the carrier.
• Please consult your dealer for maintenance information and the availability of maintenance contracts. Please read all instructions before installing the unit.

Locating the Air Conditioner

• Survey the job site to determine the best location for mounting the outdoor unit.
• Select a solid, level position, preferably on a concrete slab, slightly above the grade level, and parallel to the home.
• If possible, select a site for the unit that is as close as possible to the proposed return grille location.
• The unit should be located with consideration of minimizing the length of the supply and return ducts.
• If practical, place the air conditioner and its ducts in an area where they will be shaded from the afternoon sun, when the heat load is greatest.
• The length of the supply and return ducts should be kept to a minimum with no sharp radius bends.
• Overhead obstructions, poorly ventilated areas, and areas subject to the accumulation of debris should be avoided.
• The hot condenser air must be discharged up and away from the home, and if possible, in a direction with the prevailing wind. Do not place the unit in a confined space.
• Sufficient clearance for unobstructed airflow through the outdoor coil must be maintained in order to achieve rated performance.
• Consideration should also be given to the availability of electric power, service access, noise, and shade.

Minimum Clearance Requirements

Sufficient clearance for unobstructed airflow through the outdoor coil must be maintained in order to provide room for proper servicing and achieve rated performance. See Figure 1 for minimum clearances to obstructions.

Service Access Clearance

• Blower and electrical control access panels…………..24.”
• Compressor compartment access panel……………….2.4.”
• Clearance from top of unit ………………………………….72.”
• Clearance arthe ound condenser coil area to the Wall or shrubs (excludes duct panel side)……………..1.2.”

Clearances to Combustibles

• Combustible base – wood or Class A, B, or C
• roof covering material…………………………………………0”
• Supply & return air ducts …………………………………….0”
• Duct connection side ………………………………………….0”

Air Duct System

Air ducts must be instaby with the standards of the National Fire Protection Association “Standard for Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilation Systems” (NFPA 90A), “Standard for Installation of Residence Type Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Systems” (NFPA 90B), these instructions, and all applicable codes. NFPA publications are available by writing to: National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, QuiMAy, MA,02269, or visit www.NFPA.org on the web.

• Design ductwork according to methods described by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
• The supply duct system, including the number and type of registers, will have much more effect on the performance of the system than any other factor.
• The duct must be sufficiently large to conduct an adequate amount of air to each register.
• Ductwork should be attached directly to the unit flanges for horizontal applications.
• For highly resistive duct systems, it may be necessary to use a return air duct and or supply to achieve maximum performance and prevent coil icing and refrigerant flood back.
• The air conditioning output of the system will not cool the home if air is lost to the outside through leaks in the duct system. Ducts that are collapsed or restricted by foreign objects will also prevent adequate air flow.
• A ductwork passing through unconditioned space must be properly insulated to minimize duct losses and prevent condensation. Use insulation with an outer vapor barrier. Refer to local codes for insulation material requirements.

Installation

Unpacking the Unit

It is recommended that the unit be unpacked at the installation site to minimize damage due to handling.

1. Remove the bands from around the unit.
2. Unfold the top and bottom cap flanges.
3. Carefully remove the top cap and tube.

Installing Return & Supply Air Collars (Optional)

Supply and return collars are not supplied with the unit but are offered as an accessory item. Check with your distributor for pricing and availability. They can be easily positioned over the unit openings and secured with sheet metal screws.

• The diameter of the return duct collar is 14”.
• The diameter of the supply duct collar is 12”.
• Before permanently installing the collars, it is recommended that you pre-fit them over the openings first to determine the best fit and alignment.

Supply Duct

1. Assemble the collar by overlapping the two ends.
2. One end of the collar is slotted, and the opposite end has two small holes.
3. Position the end with small screw holes underneath the slotted end.
4. Fasten the collar ends with two self-drilling sheet metal screws.
5. Position the collar over the opening and align the 4 holes in the collar with the 4 holes (or dimples, depending on the model) in the rear panel.
6. Using self-drilling screws (10-16x.5), secure the collar to the rear panel.

Return Duct

1. Assemble the collar by overlapping the two ends.
   Fasten the collar ends with self-drilling sheet metal screws.
2. Position the collar over the opening.
3. Align the four holes in the collar with the four dimples or holes in the panel.
4. Secure the collar to the rear panel using self-tapping screws (10-16x.5)

Locating & Installing the Return Air Assembly

To simplify installation, locate and install the return air assembly first. If desired, the return opening can be located inside a closet with louvered doors that has an open area equal to or greater than a 12” x 20” grille. The return air grille can be placed in the wall of a closet, and the air ducted into the filter box through a boxed-in area at the closet floor level (Figure 4). Verify the filter is readily accessible.

The return air box with grille and filter should not be located in heavy traffic areas, like hallways or the center of rooms. A good spot is in a corner or under a table, if a minitwo-inch clearance is available.

1. Start the installation from under the home by cutting a small hole in the subfloor. Determine how the floor joist location will affect cutting the opening needed for the return air box.
2. After measuring the return air box (approximately 12-1/4” x 20-1/4”), cut the hole through the floor so that the box will fit between the floor joists.
3. Care should be taken when cutting through carpeting to avoid snags.
4. In most installations, it will be necessary to cut a similar hole in the fiberboard directly under the hole in the floor. However,
5. if the floor is more than ten inches deep, it will only be necessary to cut a hole for the collar on the return air box or for the insulated duct.
6. Set the box into the opening and fasten n with screws or nails.
7. Install the filter and return air grille in the air box.

Connecting the Ducts

• Flexible ducts may be cut to the required length and spliced with sheet metal sleeves and clamps. Keep all ducts as short and straight as possible. Avoid sharp bends. Please follow all instructions packed with the duct.
• Flexible ducts can be secured to the corresponding fittings with the clamps provided with the ducts. To prevent a loss in cooling capacity, make sure all connections are tight.
• Ducts may be spliced with sheet metal sleeves and clamps. After the inner duct is connected to the proper fitting, the insulation and plastic sleeve should be pulled over the connection and clamped.
• Homes with multiple supply ducts (or special applications), a Y fitting is available to divide the supply air so it can be ducted to different areas of the home for more efficient cooling.

Locating & Installing the Supply Damper(s)

If installing this air conditioning system in conjunction with a furnace, a damper must be installed in the furnace base assembly to prevent cold air from being discharged around the heat exchanger. Damage to the heat exchanger and asphyxiation may occur if a damper is not installed. Check with the furnace manufacturer for damper requirements. Failure to install the required furnace damper may invalidate code agency listing and limited warranty on the furnace.

When locating the supply damper(s), carefully check floor joists and frame members that could interfere with the installation of the damper or flexible duct. Ideally, the damper should be located at the bottom of the main duct, forward of the center of the home, at least three feet from the nearest register. See Figure 5. The round supply opening in the slanted side of the damper should face the side of the home where the air conditioner is located.

1. Locate the center of the heat duct by cutting a small hole in the fiberboard below the duct at the desired location.
2. Cut a hole approximately 3/4” larger than the damper opening in the fiberboard.
3. Cut a 9-1/8” x 13-1/8” hole in the duct and bend over all tabs flat on the inside of the heat duct.
4. Insert the damper into the duct and bend over all tabs flat on the inside of the heat duct.
5. Seal the opening between the fiberboard and the damper or flexible duct.

Condensate Drainage

A 3/4” condensate fitting extends out of the side of the unit (Figure 6). The drain trap, shipped in the electrical compartment, must be installed to prevent water from collecting inside the unit.

1. Thread the elbow provided with the unit into the drain connection until hand-tight.
2. Connect the condensate tubing to the fitting, forming a trap near the drain connection.
3. Route the condensate tube from the trap to a suitable drain.

Electrical Connections

Failure to follow safety warnings exactly could result in serious injury, death, or property damage. Improper servicing could result in dangerous operation, serious injury, death, or property damage.

• Before servicing, disconnect all electrical power to the indoor blower.
• When servicing controls, label all wires before disconnecting. Reconnect wires correctly.
• Verify proper operation after servicing.
• All electrical connections must be in compliance with all applicable local codes and ordinances, and with the current revision of the National Electric Code (ANSI/NFPA 70).
• For Canadian installations, the electrical connections and grounding shall comply with the current Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1 and/or local codes).

Pre-Electrical Checklist

• Verify that the voltage, frequency, and phase of the supply source match the specifications on the unit rating plate.
• Verify that the service provided by the utility is sufficient to handle the additional load imposed by this equipment. Refer to the unit wiring label NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner for proper high and low voltage wiring.
• Verify factory wiring by the unit wiring diagram, as shown in Figure 10 (page 12) and Figure 11 (page 13). Inspect for loose connections.

Wiring Diagram

Line Voltage

• A wiring diagram is located on the inside NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner cover of the electrical box of the unit. The installer should become familiar with the wiring diagram before making any electrical connections to the unit.
• Provide power supply for the unbyith the unit wiring diagram and the unit rating plate. Connect the line-voltage leads to the terminals on the contactor inside the control compartment. Extend the power wiring hole (Figure 7). Connect L1 & L2 directly to the contactor.
• The unit requires both power and control circuit electrical connections. Make all electrical connections by all applicable codes and ordinances.
• Use only copper wire for the line voltage power supply to this unit. 208/230 Volt units are shipped from the factory wired for 230 volt operation. For 208V operation, remove the lead from the transformer terminal marked 240V and connect it to the terminal marked 208V.

Grounding

The unit cabinet must have an uninterrupted or unbroken electrical ground to minimize personal injury if an electrical fault should occur. Do not use gas piping as an electrical ground! Ground the air conditioning unit using the green grounding screw provided in the control panel.

Overcurrent Protection

Overcurrent protection must be provided at the branch circuit distribution panel and sized as shown on the unit rating label and according to applicable local codes. Generally, the best fuse or breaker for any heat pump is the smallest size that will permit the equipment to run under normal usage and provide maximum equipment protection. Properly sized fuses and breakers also prevent nuisance trips during unit startup.

Thermostat / Low Voltage Connections

• The unit is designed to operate from a 24 VAC Class II control circuit. The control circuit wiring must comply with the current provisions of the NEC (ANSI/NFPA 70) and with applicable local codes having jurisdiction.
• Low-voltage wires must be properly connected. Route 24V control wires through the sealing grommet near the power entrance.
• Select a thermostat that operates in conjunction with the installed accessories.
• Refer to the thermostat manufacturer’s instruction sheet for detailed mounting information.

Cooling Only Thermostat

Connect the red & yellow wires from the unit to the R & Y terminals on the thermostat subbase. Connect the green wire to the yellow wire at the unit. See Figure 8.

Heat / Cool Thermostat

Connect the red, yellow-green, and brown/orange-voltage wires to the R or RCY,  G, W, or W2 (if applicable) terminals on the thermostat base. The black wire 24-volt common is required on some thermostats. See Figure 8 (page 7).

Blower Speed

For optimum system performance and comfort, it may be necessary to change the factory speed setting. Table 3 (page 11) for factory settings.

• Label all wires before disconnection when servicing controls.
• Wiring errors can cause improper and dangerous operation. Verify proper operation after servicing.
• Disconnect all electrical power to the unit and remove the service panel.
• Locate the orange and red wires terminated to the blower motor.
• The orange wire controls the he operation, and the red wire controls the heating operation.
• Check all factory wiring as shown in the wiring diagram and inspect the connections to make sure none of them loosened during shipping or installation.

Start Up & Adjustment

Pre pre-start checklist

should be observed before starting the unit.

• Verify the unit is level and allows proper condensate drainage.
• Verify the ductworkssealed to prevent air leakage.
• Check the condenser fan to make sure it turns freely.
• After unit startup, the compressor must run for a minimum of 12 hours.

Start-Up Procedure

Failure to comply may result in damage and could cause premature failure of the system. The control circuit thermostat may consist of an anti-short cycle timer that will not let the compressor start before 5 minutes have elapsed.

1. Set the system mode to OFF and the temperature mode to its highest setting.
2. Turn the power on at the disconnect switch.
3. Set the system mode to ON or COOL.
4. The ductwork has no air leaks.
5. Set the temperature mode above room temperature. The unit should stop.
6. Instruct the homeowner on unit and thermostat operation and filter servicing.

Air Circulation

Leave the thermostat system mode on OFF, and set the fan mode to ON. The blower should run continuously. Check the air delivery at the supply registers and adjust register openings for balanced air distribution. Examine ducts for leaks or obstruction if insufficient air is detected. Set the thermostat fan mode to AUTO. The blower should stop running.

System Cooling

Set the thermostat’s system mode to COOL and the fan mode to AUTO. Lower the thermostat temperature selector below the existing room temperature. Allow the cooling system to operate for several minutes and check for the discharge of cool air at the supply registers.

System Heating

(Available only when Electric heat is supplied) NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner Set the thermostat’s system mode to HEAT and the fan mode to either AUTO (intermittent air) or to ON (continuous air). Raise the thermostat’s temperature selector above the existing room temperature and check the following:

1. The compressor and outdoor fan should not run.
2. The blower will run according to the thermostat’s fan mode setting.

Maintainance

Proper maintenance is important to achieve NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner optimum performance from the air conditioner. The ability to properly perform maintenance on this equipment requires certain mechanical skills and tools. If you do not possess these skills, contact your dealer for maintenance. Consult your local dealer about the availability of maintenance contracts. Routine maintenance should include the following:

• Inspect and clean or replace air filters at the beginning of each heating and cooling season, or more frequently if required.
• Inspect the condensate drain and outdoor coil at the beginning of each cooling season.
• Remove any debris. Clean the outdoor coil and louvers as necessary using a mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly with water.
• Inspect the electrical connections NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner for tightness at the beginning of each heating and cooling season. Service as necessary.
• Do not add additional oil to motors unequipped with oil tubes.

Charging

Charging the Unit

This air conditioner contains liquid and gaseous refrigerant under pressure. Under no circumstances should the homeowner attempt to install and/or service this equipment. Failure to comply with this warning could result in equipment damage, personal injury, or death.

For a fixed orifice system

• If your measured superheat at the suction valve is LESS THAN the recommended superheat value in the table refrigerant.
• If your measured superheat at the NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner suction valve is GREATER THAN the recommended superheat value in the tab, le then ADD refrigerant.

For TXV systems

• If your measured subcooling at the NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner liquid valve is LESS THAN the recommended subcooling value in the table, then ADD refrigerant.
• If your measured subcooling at the liquid valve is GREATER THAN the recommended subcooling value in the tab, le then REMOVE refrigerant.

If the outdoor temperature is below 65 degrees F: After leak checking the system and evacuating the system, perform the following steps:

1. Weigh in the charge amounts recommended and printed on the unit rating plate. The rating plate can be found on the exterior panel of the unit.
2. Return to the system when the outdoor temperature is 65 degrees F or higher and follow the instructions in If the outdoor temperature is 65 degrees F or higher” section above.

Switches

If the NORTEK P7RE SERIES Air Conditioner liquid pressure rises above 650 psig, the switch will open and de-energize the unit. The switch will close again when the liquid pressure decreases to 460 psig.

Figures & Tables

Unit Dimensions

• Top View
• Side View
• Rear View (1.5, 2, 2.5, & 3 Ton)
• Rear View (3.5, 4, & 5 Ton)

Physical Data

Installation Checklist

Replacement Parts

Replacement parts are available through your distributor. Please have the complete model and serial number of the unit when ordering replacement parts.

Electrical

• Capacitors
• Temperature Limit Switches
• Compressors
• Thermostats
• Contactors
• Time Delay Relays
• Pressure Switches
• Transformers
• Relays

Motor

• Blower Motor
• Fan Motor

Components

• Blower Assembly
• Fan Grille
• Cabinet Panels
• Filter/Driers
• Expansion Valves

Warranty Information

A warranty certificate with full details is included with the equipment. Carefully review these responsibilities with your dealer or service company. The manufacturer will not be responsible for any costs found necessary to correct problems due to improper setup, improper installation, adjustments, or improper operating procedure on the part of the user. Some specific examples of service calls which are not included in the limited warranty are:

• Resetting circuit breakers or other switches.
• Adjusting or calibrating of thermostat.

Customer Service

• Ph: +47 6717 4500
• Website https://support.nortekgroup.com/

FAQs

What power supply does the P7RE Series require?

Although the precise voltage and amperage requirements vary depending on the type and capacity, this series runs on 230V single-phase power. Make sure the installation conforms with local electrical codes and always check the electrical ratings on the unit’s nameplate.

Can I install the P7RE unit myself?

No, only a certified electrician or HVAC technician should do the installation. Only qualified experts should handle the unit’s duct connections, electrical wiring, refrigerant handling, and safety clearances.

How often should I replace or clean the air filters?

In addition to limiting airflow and decreasing performance, clogged filters can overheat or freeze the system.

How do I reset the system if it shuts down?

For five minutes, turn off the thermostat and turn off the main breaker. Restart the system after restoring power. Get in touch with a trained service expert to look for issues or safety lockouts if the device keeps shutting down or going into protection mode.

How do I clean the condenser coil?

After turning off the electricity, use a garden hose with low pressure to gently rinse the condenser fins. Every year, have a professional coil service done by a technician for deep cleaning.