This document is a service manual for the ProAir Electra Kool Rooftop RV Air Conditioner, providing comprehensive information on its operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty procedures.
Function Description
The ProAir Electra Kool Rooftop RV Air Conditioner is a 12V system designed to provide cooling for recreational vehicles. It operates in "COOL" mode, allowing users to set a desired temperature and blower speed. An "Auto" mode is available, which automatically adjusts the fan speed based on the difference between the set temperature and the ambient room temperature, maintaining the temperature within ±2° of the set point. The system is designed for rooftop installation on RVs, ensuring efficient air conditioning for occupants.
Important Technical Specifications
The manual provides several technical specifications and warnings relevant to the unit's operation and installation:
- Power Supply: The system requires a 12V DC power supply.
- Current Draw: When operating on high at 100°F (38°C) ambient temperature, the unit can draw approximately 100 amps. At 70°F (21°C) ambient temperature, it draws around 82 amps. This highlights the significant power demand of the unit, necessitating a robust electrical system in the RV.
- Refrigerant: The unit uses R-134A refrigerant, with a charge of 2 lbs.
- Oil: The system uses 100cc PVE oil.
- Fuses: The system incorporates a 5 AMP fuse and a 20 AMP blower fuse, located behind the return air filter. There is also a 20 AMP condenser fuse. These fuses are critical for protecting the electrical components of the unit.
- Pressure Switches: The compressor will cycle off if either the low or high-pressure switches open, indicating a potential issue with refrigerant pressure.
- Voltage Drops: The compressor is also designed to cycle off in response to voltage drops, protecting the unit from damage due to insufficient power.
- Wiring: The harness uses insulated wire equivalent to SAE Specification J1128 Type GXL. All ground wires must be securely fastened to the chassis. The manual includes a detailed wire schematic (Part No. 40 000 741) showing the connections for various components, including the compressor signal, blower signal, relays (condenser, trigger, speed), pressure switches (low and high), and power/ground studs.
- Physical Dimensions: The rooftop unit has a footprint of approximately 28.250 inches by 40.250 inches, with a roof cutout of 14.125 inches by 14.250 inches. The overall height is approximately 9.500 inches.
- Mounting: Rafter-supported cross beams are required for installation to prevent the roof from collapsing when the unit is bolted down or during vehicle movement.
- Parts List: Detailed parts lists are provided for the main unit (Part No. 50 001 911), the electrical package (36 000 001), and the plenum kit (52 001 125), including components like washers, bolts, nuts, covers, coils, hoses, drier, expansion valve, compressor, fan, and various brackets and seals.
Usage Features
The Electra Kool system offers straightforward usage:
- Control Panel: Users interact with a control panel to select the "COOL" mode, set the desired temperature, and adjust the blower speed using a slide bar.
- Auto Mode: For convenience, the auto mode automatically manages fan speed to maintain the set temperature within a narrow range.
- Safety Features: The system includes an auto-start feature, which means it can start without warning. Users are advised to keep service doors closed and guards in place, and to place the ON/OFF switch in the OFF position and disconnect the negative battery cable before working on or near rotating components. High voltage warnings are also provided for all-electric units.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of the air conditioner:
- Return Air Filter Cleaning: The return air filter should be cleaned regularly. To do this, turn off the system, turn the knobs counter-clockwise ¼ turn to remove the intake grill and filter. The filter should be vacuumed and washed with soap and water. Cleaning is recommended monthly under normal conditions, or daily/weekly if conditions warrant. It is explicitly stated that the air conditioner should never be run without the return air filter, as this can lead to the evaporator coil becoming clogged with dirt, impairing performance.
- Condenser Coil Cleaning: The condenser and fins should be cleaned annually with soapy or non-acid coil cleaning liquid under normal conditions, or more frequently in extreme conditions. This prevents dirt and dust from clogging the fins, which can reduce efficiency. High-pressure water or steam should not be used for cleaning condenser fins.
- Troubleshooting Chart: A comprehensive troubleshooting chart is provided to assist in diagnosing common issues, such as the unit not turning on, the evaporator blower being inoperative, or the unit not cooling (condenser fan and compressor not running, or condenser fan running but compressor not running). The chart offers probable solutions, including checking master switches, connections, fuses, harnesses, and contacting ProAir for service options.
Safety Warnings
The manual emphasizes several safety warnings:
- Qualified Technicians: Only trained and qualified technicians should test, repair, or adjust the equipment.
- Personal Protective Gear: Always wear protective clothing, eye protection, and exercise extreme care when working with refrigerants, hot coolant, battery acid, and other hazardous materials.
- Frostbite: Liquid refrigerant can cause severe injury upon skin contact.
- Toxic Gas: Refrigerants can produce toxic gases in the presence of an open flame and can cause suffocation in confined areas.
- Hot Surfaces: Compressor discharge manifold, engine exhaust system, and other unit components can become extremely hot and cause severe burns.
- Rotating Parts: Extreme caution is advised when working near rotating fans, pulleys, and belts. The unit should be switched OFF before working on these components.
- Steam: Allow the cooling system to cool before loosening or removing the radiator cap or other cooling system components to avoid severe burns from hot water and steam.
- Pressurized Systems: Never apply heat to pressurized containers or refrigerant lines, and never unsolder tubing or components on a sealed and pressurized system without verifying that refrigerant has been removed.
- Electrical Safety: Understand and follow safe electrical work practices, especially with high voltage units. Do not wear jewelry that could catch on equipment or conduct electricity.
- Mounting: Ensure all mounting bolts are the correct length and securely tightened.
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