The Elwell AIR8 is an integrated air conditioning system designed for maximum comfort and efficiency, providing outstanding performance in warm conditions. It is specifically engineered for marine and RV applications, offering a clean, hidden installation with no visible side wall openings or penetrations. The system utilizes a ducted air distribution network to ensure even circulation of cold air throughout the living space, minimizing hot spots and maintaining a consistent temperature. This ducted design also contributes to reduced noise levels while maximizing cooling efficiency.
Function Description:
The AIR8 system cools the interior of a vehicle or living space by drawing in warm air, processing it, and then distributing cold air through a ducting system. It is designed to be installed in a central, hidden location, such as a stowage box, to ensure uniform cooling distribution. The unit incorporates several sensors to monitor its operation and protect its components. A built-in air sensor monitors the circulated air temperature, an anti-freeze air sensor prevents the evaporator coil from freezing, a discharge temperature sensor protects the compressor from excessive high discharge temperatures, and a discharge pressure switch prevents the unit from operating under excessive high pressure. The system is controlled via a wall pad, which allows users to select operating modes, set temperature, adjust fan speed, and program timers.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Nomenclature: AIR8
- Number of units: 1
- Power supply: 115VAC ±10%/60Hz
- Nominal cooling capacity: 6000 BTU
- Power consumption: 900 W
- Starting current: 15 A (<1S)
- Operating current: 9 A
- Protection class: IP 54
- Energy Efficiency Rate (EER): 2.3
- Air flow: Max 220 CFM
- Refrigerant: R410A / 18 oz
- Compressor oil / Precharge: VG68 / 8.5 Cu In
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 22.8 x 16.5 x 12.2 inches (unit only)
- Weight: 45 lbs
- Max tilt of unit in operation: 5°
- Input voltage: 110V
- Product Dimension: 12" x 16.5" x 23" (This differs slightly from the L x W x H in the table, suggesting the table might refer to the main body while the product dimension includes external features or packaging.)
Usage Features:
The AIR8 system is operated via a wall pad, which provides intuitive control over various functions:
- Switching On/Off: The system can be turned on or off by pressing the "Switch On / Off" button. Previous settings are logged.
- Operating Modes: Users can select from "Cooling," "Dry," or "Fan Only" modes by pressing the "MODE" button.
- Temperature Setting: The desired room temperature can be set using the "Temperature Buttons" ( "+" and "-"). The temperature setting range is 60°F to 85°F. Pressing both "+" and "-" buttons together for more than 5 seconds converts the temperature unit between °F and °C.
- Fan Speed: The fan speed can be adjusted by pressing the "Fan Speed" button, with options for "Auto," "Low," "Mid," and "High." Fan speed setting is disabled in "Dry" mode.
- Clock and Date Setting: The wall pad allows users to set the current time and date. This involves pressing specific buttons for a duration, adjusting the date (Sunday to Saturday), and then adjusting the clock. The system automatically exits the setting interface and saves changes after a period of inactivity or upon confirmation.
- Timer Function: The system includes a timer feature that allows for scheduled operation. This involves pressing specific buttons to enter timer setting mode, adjusting the date and clock for the timer, and setting the "switch on/off" times. The timer can be set for intraday or whole-week operation.
- Sleep Mode: A "Sleep Mode" can be activated by pressing specific buttons. This mode is automatically disabled in "Fan Only" and "Dry" modes and switches off automatically after 8 hours of operation.
- Alarm Codes: The wall pad displays alarm codes to indicate specific issues, such as sensor failures (Return air, Coil, Discharge temperature), compressor overload, high pressure sensor trigger, communication failure between wall pad and control board, coil frozen detection, and high discharge temperature.
Maintenance Features:
- Installation Access: The unit is designed to be installed in a location that allows easy access for service work and removal.
- Filter Replacement: A minimum clearance of 8 inches at the front of the unit is required for filter replacement.
- Condensation Drain: The system includes a condensation drain connector that must be properly sealed and located in a recess in the vehicle floor to prevent water permeation into the interior.
- Electrical Connections: All electrical connections, including the 115 VAC power supply and wall pad cable, must be made by a licensed expert. The power supply cable is 5 feet long and requires protection with a 15 A fuse.
- Ducting System: The cold air ducts should be routed as short and straight as possible to achieve optimal cooling. The total length of the cold air duct should not exceed 50 feet, with the longest duct (max. 27 feet) connected to the central cold air outlet for highest air capacity.
- Air Circulation: The air inlet and outlet must not be obstructed. The circulated air return requires openings with a total area of at least 50 sq.in, and covers may be needed to prevent obstruction by stowed objects.
- Unit Stability: The AC system must be clamped at all four sides by brackets to prevent unintentional movement, especially during vigorous vehicle movements.
- Operating Conditions: To protect the compressor, the unit should not be tilted more than 5 degrees horizontally when operating while driving. It should also not be operated for long periods when the vehicle is at an angle to avoid condensation flowing backward.
- Power Cable Management: The default power supply cable is 5 feet long. To prevent overheating of the RV's power cable (minimum cross-section 3 x 2.08 mm²), the cable drum must be fully unwound.