This document describes the Dometic Value Air Distribution Box (ADB), Mechanical, which is a component of Dometic Climate Control Air Conditioners designed for Recreational Vehicles (RVs).
Function Description:
The Value Air Distribution Box (ADB), Mechanical, is an internal component of an RV air conditioner (AC) system. It works in conjunction with a rooftop component to provide climate control within the RV. The ADB is responsible for distributing conditioned air, housing the control mechanisms, and containing the air filter. It is designed for installation on the roof of an RV, either during manufacturing or as an aftermarket addition. The system is comprised of two main parts: the rooftop component (which includes the compressor, condenser, and evaporator coils) and the internal ADB component (which includes controls, air distribution, and filtration). The manual emphasizes proper installation to ensure a functional and safe product.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual provides detailed electrical specifications for various models of Dometic air conditioners that use this ADB. Key specifications include:
- Nominal Capacity Cooling (BTU HR): Ranges from 11,000 to 15,000 BTU HR, depending on the model.
- Electrical Rating: All models operate on 115 VAC, 60 Hz, 1 phase.
- Compressor Amps (Rated Load/Locked Rotor): Varies by model, with rated loads typically between 10.5 A and 13.6 A, and locked rotor amps between 52.0 A and 73.0 A.
- Fan Motor Amps (Rated Load/Locked Rotor): Varies by model, with rated loads typically between 2.0 A and 3.5 A, and locked rotor amps between 5.6 A and 10.0 A.
- Refrigerant (R-410A): Quantity ranges from 12.7 oz to 29.5 oz, depending on the model.
- Minimum Wire Size: 12 AWG for copper wiring up to 24 ft (7.3 m). For longer wire lengths, consult the National Electrical Code.
- AC Circuit Protection (Installer Supplied): Requires a 20 Amp time delay fuse or circuit breaker.
- Minimum Generator Size:
- For 1 unit: 3.5 kW
- For 2 units: 5.0 kW
- (Note: These are general guidelines; total RV power usage and altitude/maintenance factors should be considered.)
Rooftop Component Dimensions (by Model):
The manual includes detailed diagrams and measurements for various rooftop components, including Freshjet, Brisk Air, Brisk II, Blizzard NXT, High Performance, Penguin, and Penguin II. These dimensions include height, width, length, and clearance requirements (e.g., 18.0 in. (457 mm) clearance for Brisk Air, 4.0 in. (102 mm) clearance for Blizzard NXT).
ADB Component Dimensions:
Internal dimensions of the ADB component are also provided, including front of unit, width, length, and roof opening dimensions.
Placement Requirements:
- Roof Opening: Requires a 14.3 in. x 14.3 in. (363 mm x 363 mm) square opening (±0.1 in. (3 mm)).
- Rafter/Joist Support: Frames must be spaced no greater than 16.0 in. (406 mm) on center.
- Roof to Ceiling Distance: Must be between 1.5 in. (38 mm) and 6.0 in. (152 mm).
- Location: For a single unit, slightly forward of the RV's center (front to back) and centered side to side. For two units, at 1/3 and 2/3 the length of the RV, centered side to side.
- Tilt Allowance: Maximum acceptable roof tilt varies by model: 15° for Brisk Air, Brisk II, High Performance, Blizzard NXT, and FreshJet models; 8° for Penguin and Penguin II models. Measurements should be taken on a level surface.
Usage Features:
- Controls: The ADB features a Temperature Control Knob (7 positions) and a Fan Control Knob (7 positions, including OFF).
- Temperature Control: Manages ON/OFF operation within a temperature range of approximately 65–90 °F (18–32 °C) at the ADB inlet.
- Fan Control:
- Fan-Only Speeds (3 Steel Gray Positions): Low Fan (one dot), High Fan (two dots), Turbo Fan (three dots) for air circulation without cooling.
- Cooling Fan Speeds (3 Dark Gray Positions): Cool Low Fan (one dot), Cool High Fan (two dots), Cool Turbo Fan (three dots) for air circulation while cooling.
- Cooling Operation: Selectable coolness levels: Low Cool (shorter dash for nighttime), High Cool (medium dash for normal cooling), and Turbo Cool (longest dash for maximum cooling and dehumidification). The compressor cycles on/off to maintain the selected temperature.
- Safety: The manual emphasizes safety warnings regarding electrical shock, fire, explosion, and lifting hazards. It also advises against improper installation or modification and recommends service by qualified personnel.
Maintenance Features:
- Air Filter Cleaning: The return air filter should be removed periodically (at least every two weeks of operation), washed with soap and warm water, and dried completely before reinstallation. Running the unit without the filter can degrade performance.
- ADB Housing Cleaning: The ADB housing and control panel should be cleaned with a soft cloth dampened with a mild detergent. Furniture polish or scouring powders should not be used.
- Blower Motor: Factory-lubricated and requires no service.
Troubleshooting:
The manual includes a troubleshooting table for common issues such as the product not operating (due to circuit breaker, fuse, or power supply issues), or frost forming on the evaporator coil (due to low air speed or low outside temperature). Suggested remedies include resetting breakers, replacing fuses, confirming power supply, inspecting/cleaning filters, opening air vents, and adjusting the thermostat.
Warranty:
A limited two-year warranty is available at www.dometic.com/warranty.
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