Bryant EVOLUTION V 288BNV

This document describes the 288BNV EVOLUTION® V Variable Speed Heat Pump with Puron® Refrigerant, an advanced heating and cooling system designed for residential use.

Function Description:

The 288BNV EVOLUTION® V is a "split system" heat pump, meaning it consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit connected by copper refrigerant lines. Its primary function is to provide both heating and cooling for a home, maintaining a desired indoor temperature. A key feature of this system is its variable speed operation, which allows it to adjust its performance based on temperature and humidity conditions. This variable speed capability contributes to more consistent indoor temperatures, reduced drafts, improved humidity control, enhanced comfort, and greater energy efficiency compared to traditional single-speed systems. The system is controlled by a wall-mounted Evolution® Connex™ Control or a standard thermostat.

For cooling operation, the system removes humidity from the home, with water trickling from the condensate drain of the indoor coil. During the heating cycle, the heat pump delivers a constant flow of air at temperatures ranging from approximately 95°F (35°C) to 105°F (41°C). In colder conditions, the system may automatically engage a defrost cycle to melt ice or frost that forms on the outdoor coil, a normal operation that may produce steam or fog. The system can also utilize a supplementary heating source, which can be engaged automatically or manually as needed.

Important Technical Specifications:

The manual does not provide specific numerical technical specifications like BTU ratings, SEER/HSPF values, or electrical requirements. However, it does specify operational temperature ranges:

Minimum Cooling Operating Temperature: 40°F (4°C) with Evolution® Connex™ Control; 55°F (13°C) with Thermostat Control. The system may not operate below these minimums due to built-in protections.
Maximum Heating Operating Temperature: The outdoor unit is not designed to operate in heating mode when outdoor temperatures are higher than 66°F (19°C). However, it can safely operate above this temperature in emergency or auxiliary heat mode.
Minimum Heating Temperature: When the outdoor temperature drops below 10°F (-12°C), the unit control may automatically shut off the heat pump and energize auxiliary heat to maintain the desired indoor temperature.

Usage Features:

Variable Speed Operation: The system runs for longer periods at varying speeds to precisely meet heating and cooling demands, resulting in more consistent temperatures, fewer drafts, better humidity control, and improved energy efficiency.
Automatic Defrost Cycle: During winter heating, the outdoor unit automatically melts ice or frost, which is a normal part of heat pump operation.
Control Options: Operates with either an Evolution® Connex™ Control or a standard thermostat for setting desired temperatures and modes (Cool, Heat, Auto, Fan On/Auto).
Supplementary Heat: Can automatically or manually engage a supplementary heating source when additional heat is required.
Sound Characteristics: Due to its variable speed nature, the sound from the outdoor unit may vary with changing temperatures and humidity. Higher speeds in colder weather produce a higher sound. A slight hissing sound in the off-cycle is normal, indicating system pressure equalization for soft starts.
Outdoor Unit Elevation: Heat pumps installed in snowy regions are elevated with support feet.

Maintenance Features:

The manual outlines routine maintenance tasks to ensure economical and dependable operation. These include:

Monthly Maintenance (can be performed by the consumer):

Clear away debris and vegetation near the outdoor unit.
Rinse the outdoor condenser coil with fresh water (more frequent rinsing is required for units near a sea coast).
Check for and remove debris from the base pan of the outdoor unit to ensure proper drainage.

Annual Maintenance (to be performed by a qualified service technician, unless otherwise specified):

Outdoor Unit Specific:
- Inspect cabinet for damage and rust.
- Inspect electrical disconnect for proper function.
- Inspect electrical wiring and connections, tighten loose connections, and perform functional tests.
- Check refrigerant system subcooling and/or superheat.
- Inspect and clean the inside of the unit if debris is present.
- Inspect and clean the condenser coil.
- Inspect motor and fan for damage and free spinning.
- Ensure the outdoor unit is level to assure proper drainage.
Indoor Unit Specific:
- Inspect, clean, or replace the air filter (refer to indoor unit literature for detailed information).
- Inspect and clean the blower assembly (housing, wheel, motor).
- Inspect and clean the internal and external of the cabinet.
- Inspect electrical disconnect for proper function.
- Inspect electrical components, wiring, and connections, tighten loose connections.
- Inspect and clean the evaporator coil.
- Clean condensate pan, trap, and drain lines (more frequent maintenance may be required in humid climates).
- Inspect airflow system (ductwork) for leaks and repair as needed.

General Maintenance Guidelines:

Keep Filter Clean: A clogged filter increases operating costs and shortens unit life.
Do Not Block Vents: Ensure floor, wall, or ceiling vents are unobstructed to maintain system efficiency and lifespan.
Do Not Cover Outdoor Unit: Maintain unrestricted airflow to the outdoor unit; keep a minimum 12-inch (305 mm) clearance from tall grass, vines, shrubs, etc.
Check Condensate Drain: Periodically check for proper drainage from the indoor coil during cooling season.
Sea Coast Coil Maintenance: For coastal locations, periodically wash all exposed surfaces and the outdoor coil (approximately every 3 months) due to corrosive airborne salt.
Professional Service: Regular dealer maintenance by a trained service technician is recommended, often available through service contracts that may offer benefits like parts discounts.
Troubleshooting: Before calling for service, check disconnect switches, circuit breakers/fuses, airflow, thermostat settings, and be aware of normal operational time delays.