Installation Guidelines for Multi Ton Condensing Units

When choosing the proper model Central System Multi Ton Condensing Unit, primary consideration should be given to calculated BTU loads and available power supply. Special consideration should be given in determining the reverse cycle heating capacities under anticipated conditions. Reverse cycle operation is affected by the sea water temperature. As it decreases, the unit's heat transfer capacity also decreases and proportionaltely affects the output of warm air. It is not recommended that the unit be operated in the heat cycle with water temperatures below 40°F.

The location of the condensing unit should be dry and accessible for service, and provide the most direct routing of refrigerant line sets relative to the evaporator location(s). The vibration isolated condensing unit should be secured to a horizontal shelf that is designated for the weight of the unit and torsion loads and torsion loads from the vessel's movement. The remote electrical box may be fastened to a bulkhead using the hardware provided.

Refrigerant-grade copper tubing should be properly sized for the specific application. The suction line should be insulated with approved closed cell foam jackets (i.e. Rubatex 1/4" wall thickness). The refiregerant line ends should remain capped until the actual connections are made to prevent contamination. Tube benders are recommended to prevent kinks in the tubing, which will adversely affect the performance and longevity of the system.

When using multiple evaporators with one condensing unit, locate all unions and tee fittings properly in areas accessible for service. Use approved flaring techniques and refrigerant grade components for all connections.

Insulate fittings using insulation tape (only after system has been leak checked). Wrap fittings sufficiently to equal R-value of tube insulation.

Reinforced marine grade hose should be used for the sea water circuit. All hose fittings should be double clamped. The hose should be routed upward from the thru hull intake to the condensing unit to prevent air locking and provide draining of water circuit.The condensation drain should be connected and routed downward to a proper sump or overboard discharge.

All circuit breakers and wire guage must be sized according to marine design standards. Only stranded tinned copper wire should be used. All equipment must be properly grounded.

The installed line sets and evaporator(s) must be evacuated to remove air from these components and prevent moisture acidity formation. All connections should be properly leak-checked upon releasing the refrigerant charge from the condensing unit into the system. If the system is to be opened for any reason at this point or for future service, the refrigerant charge must be "pumped down" back into the condensing unit or recovered to prevent it from escaping into the atmosphere.

Never install your air conditioner air handler in bilge or engine room areas. Insure that the selected location is sealed from direct access to bilge and / or engine room vapors. Do not terminate condensate drain lines within three (3) feet of any outlet of engine or generator exhaust systems, nor in a compartment housing an engine or generator, nor in a bilge (vapors can travel up the drain line), unless the drain is connected properly to a sealed condensate or shower sump pump. Failure to comply may allow bilge or engine room vapors to mix with the air conditioners return air and contaminate living areas.