ESP Varimax I ASHP Installation And Operation Manual
ESP VARIMAX I ASHP
Installation and
Operation Manual
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WARNING !
READ THIS BEFORE
INSTALLING
THE UNIT.
The installation of all un-vented water heating systems above 15 litres
(this includes ESP Hot Water ASHP’s) MUST comply with local area
Building Regulations. It is a legal requirement that the local Building
Control Officer be notified of any proposed installation.
UK regulations require an appropriately sized expansion vessel
(internal or external) to be incorporated, safety devices to prevent the
stored water exceeding 100°C, and pipe work to convey discharged hot
water safely away from the safety devices.
Furthermore, the installation must be carried out by an engineer who
has successfully completed a recognised course in the installation of
un-vented heating systems such as CITB. Failure to fit the unit
correctly and in accordance with regulations may affect its safety,
efficiency and WILL invalidate any guarantee.
THE UNIT MUST BE INSTALLED, COMMISSIONED AND MAINTAINED BY A
COMPETENT INSTALLER IN ACCORDANCE WITH BUILDING REGULATION
G3 (ENGLAND AND WALES), TECHNICAL STANDARD P3 (SCOTLAND) OR
BUILDING REGULATION P5 (NORTHERN IRELAND) AND THE WATER
FITTING REGULATIONS (ENGLAND AND WALES) OR WATER BYELAWS
(SCOTLAND). FOLLOWING INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING, THE
OPERATION OF THE UNIT SHOULD BE EXPLAINED TO THE USER AND
THESE INSTRUCTIONS LEFT WITH THEM FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
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Contents:
1.0 Preface
1.1 Varimax I ASHP Units features
2.0 Safety Precautions
3.0 Varimax I Unit Specifications
3.1 Appearance of the Unit
3.2 Unit Dimensions
4.0 Choosing the right heat pump
4.1 Heat Load Calculation
4.2 Varimax Output Rating
4.3 Emitter systems
5.0 Installation
5.1 Where to use and Where to Site the unit
5.2 Location of the Unit
5.3 Transporting the Unit
5.4 Plumbing Considerations
6.0 Hydraulic Connection
6.1. Expansion vessels
6.2 Flow Switch
6.3 . Flexi Hoses
6.4 Automatic bleed valves
6.5 Transit Bung
6.6 Y-Strainer
6.7 TRVs
6.8 Distribution Water Pump
6.9 Glycol
7.0 Electrical Connection
7.1 Warning Notes
7.2 MCB
7.3 Isolation Switch
7.4 Cable Routing
7.5 Before You Start
7.6 Wiring-in The Unit
8.0 Unit Specifications
9.0 Commissioning
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9.1 Pre-Start Checks
9.2 Switching on the Unit
10.0 UNIT CONTROLLER
10.1 main Interface
10.2 Basic Operation
10.3 Main Menu
10.4 Frequency Control
11.0 Maintenance
11.1 Essential Checks
11.2 Advisory Checks
12.0 Trouble Shooting
12.1 Error Codes
12.2 Simple Faultfinding
13.0 Wiring Diagram
14.0 Guarantee
14.1 Guarantee Terms
15.0 Environmental Information
16.0 Adding a Remote Wired Controller
17.0 Weather Compensation
18.0 Performance
19.0 Parameter List
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1.0 Preface:
This manual includes all the necessary information about installation and
maintenance of the ESP Varimax I inverter driven air source heat pump
(ASHP) unit. Please read this manual carefully before carrying out any
installation or maintenance works on the unit. Please note that, failure to
observe the provisions in this manual will invalidate any warranty on the
unit and may lead to loss and/or damage to people and/or property that
ESP will not be liable.
All ESP ASHPs are covered by the warranty contained in the ESP Terms and
conditions of Business a copy of which will have been provided to you prior
to your purchase.
The Varimax I must only be installed by suitably qualified personnel.
The Varimax I air source water heat pump is a high efficiency, energy
saving and environmentally friendly unit that should be used primarily for
space heating. It can work with any kind of heat emitter unit such fan coil,
radiator, or under floor heating. The Varimax I can also be used to
generate domestic hot water (DHW) for sanitary purpose although ESP
recommend that space heating is achieved with an ASHP and the DHW
requirement be met by an ESP Ecocent unit. PLEASE NOTE that operating
conditions, such as ambient air temperature, required water flow
temperatures, target room temperatures and humidity will influence the
operating efficiency of the unit.
1.1 Features of the Varimax I ASHP:
1. Advanced controls
All user set parameters can be controlled via A PC based controller
that can control several units simultaneously.
2. Attractive appearance
The Varimax I is designed to be attractive and
discrete.
3. Compact design
Our Varimax I units have a built-in water pump
and is a stand-alone unit to make installation
simple and quick.
4. Quiet running
High quality and efficient compressors, fans, water pumps and
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sound insulation combines to ensure a very low running noise of 59
dBa.
5. Heat Exchanger
The Varimax I unit is equipped with a very high efficiency heat
exchanger to deliver exceptional efficiency.
6. Wide operating temperature capability
The Varimax I unit is designed to work effectively and efficiently
down to -15°C ambient air temperature.
2.0 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Please note the following important installation and operating
information: Failure to observe these points could lead to loss or
damage to property and/or injury/death of installers/operators and
will invalidate the warranty.
The unit must only be installed, moved and/or repaired by a
suitably qualified and experienced engineer. If you are in
doubt about who is qualified carry out works on the Varimax
I unit, please call ESP.
The Unit MUST be properly earthed.
Do not put fingers or other objects in to the grille covering
the fan and make sure that children do not play close to the
unit. The grills are there for a good reason.
If you hear abnormal noises, or smell strange odours, coming
from the unit, switch it off immediately and call your installer
or ESP.
Do NOT install the unit close to any gas fired appliance,
heater or fire.
Ensure that the base on which the unit is secured is both
large and strong enough to take the weight of the unit
comfortably and will not subside. The base should also be at
least 150mm above the surrounding ground level and you
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should check the base periodically to ensure that there is no
subsidence of the base. In areas prone to flooding, care
should be taken to ensure that the unit is elevated to avoid
flood damage.
Ensure that you use a suitably rated circuit breaker. If in
doubt, have your electrician call ESP Technical Support.
Switch off the power before carrying out any cleaning and/or
maintenance.
3.0 VARIMAX I UNIT SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 APPEARANCE OF THE UNIT
Unit
controller
The maximum length of cable for the unit controller is 200 metres
from the heat pump
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3.2 UNIT DIMENSIONS
4.0 Choosing the right heat pump
4.1 Heat Load Calculation
Based on the local climatic conditions, construction features and
insulation levels, your system designer will calculate the heat load
and, therefore, the appropriate unit size for your building. ESP can
provide a heat load calculation that conforms to MIS 3005. For new
builds, the requirements of Part L of The Building Regulations (or
better) for insulation will help ensure that the heat load of the
dwelling is kept to a minimum. For existing buildings, insulation
should be improved as much as possible to minimise the heat load.
4.2 Varimax Output Rating
The Varimax I operating capability rating has been based upon the
test conditions set out in BS EN 14511 and you should choose your
unit according to the rated output. Please NOTE that BS EN 14511
rates unit output based upon 6/7°C ambient air temperature and
you must ensure that you size your unit based upon the conditions
stated in MIS 3005. Performance graphs are included in section 18.
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Make sure that your supplier/installer is familiar with the
requirements of MIS 3005.
The Varimax I unit is MCS Accredited and, if you wish to take
advantage of certain funding that may be available, your unit MUST
BE INSTALLED BY AN MCS ACCREDITED INSTALLER – please consult
your supplier or ESP should you require further clarification.
4.3 Emitter system.
The Heat pump must be matched to a suitable emitter system.
Guidance on choosing a suitable system can be found at
www.microgenerationcertification.org\admin\documents\MIS
3005 Supplementary Information 2 - Heat Emitter Guide v2.0.pdf
where guidance on pipe spacing for UFH systems and sizing
consideration for fan coil units such as the ESP Thermovec and
traditional wet radiators can be found.
5.0 Installation
5.1 Where to use and Where to Site the unit
The Varimax I can be used for domestic or commercial premises
and you should consider the following when choosing an
installation site:
The unit must be installed in an outdoor location on a
solid base that can carry the weight of the unit. This can be
on the ground, a roof or balcony. If it is to be installed on a
roof or balcony, a steel frame must be used. Please contact
ESP for further details.
The must be well ventilated but NOT windy.
The site should be away from direct sunlight and sources
of high heat.
The unit must be sited 500mm from any obstacles to the
rear and sides. Further information is included in the section
below entitled “Location of Unit”.
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Rear of Unit
The unit generates condensate and this should be piped
away from the unit and in to a suitable drain to prevent ice
forming on the area around the unit. This applies to the
water resulting from a defrost cycle.
There must be enough space around the unit for
plumbing and maintenance works as detailed in the diagram
below.
The unit MUST be firmly fixed to a secure base using the
rubber anti-vibration feet using suitable fixings. Failure to
secure the unit properly using the rubber feet will mean that
it will fail accreditation.
To allow precipitation to run off the unit and to ensure
that any water entering the unit can drain through the holes
in the bottom of the unit, allow a 3mm fall left to right as you
look at the fan.
5.2 Location of the Unit
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5.3 Transporting the Unit
8m lifting web
Soft Protection
When lifting the unit during installation and transportation, an 8
meter strap must be used and the unit protected by soft material
placed between the lifting strap and the unit to prevent damage.
(See picture below).
5.4 Plumbing Considerations
When planning the plumbing for the unit, please consider the
following points:
Whenever possible, limit the number of bends in
pipework.
The pipework must be clear and free from debris and
blockages. Pipework should be hot flushed before the unit is
connected. Failure to observe this precaution will invalidate the
warranty.
Pipework must be tested for leaks before being connected
to the unit. Pressure testing must be carried before the unit is
connected to avoid damage to the unit. Failure to observe this
precaution will invalidate the warranty.
There must be an expansion vessel included in the design
of the system. The correct sizing of the expansion vessel(s) must
be determined by the installer and must include the volume of
water/glycol in all distribution pipework, emitters, the buffer
tank, pipe work between the unit and the buffer tank and all
other volumes.
Automatic bleed valves should be fitted at the highest
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points within the system and at any place within the pipework
that may be likely to hold air blocks. Manual air vents should
be fitted at the highest point on the pipework between the
unit and the buffer tank and at any point that presents air lock
potential.
It is highly recommended that a suitably sized buffer
tank be installed between the unit and the heating
distribution system. Please consult your installer or ESP when
considering this system design point – the right sized buffer
tank can make a significant difference to the economy and
efficiency of the unit and the heating effectiveness.
6.0 Hydraulic Connection
6.1. Expansion vessels.
An expansion vessel must be installed where the heating system is
unvented. The size of the vessel(s) must be t=determined by the installer
on site and take into account the entire volume of water/glycol mix being
heated including the volumes contained in the Unit, the buffer tank, the
distribution system, emitters and any other system connected to the unit..
6.2 Flow Switch
The unit is fitted with a water flow switch that will pause the unit
operation if water flow is not continuous (this includes where there is air
in the system). The flow switch is there to protect the unit and the
setting should not be altered. If the flow of water is insufficient, an
error code of “Flow Level” will be displayed on the controller. This will
occur on initial start-up if the installer has failed to purge all the air from
the system.
6.3 . Flexi Hoses
The final connection to the heat pump flow and return must be made with
suitable flexible pipes to prevent vibration in to the system pipework.
Please ensure that two wrenches are employed to take up the torque
created in tightening the fittings to avoid damage to both the fittings and
the heat pump.
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These flexible hoses are available from ESP as part of an Installation Pack
Transit Bung
Spirotrap Strainer
or individually.
6.4 Automatic bleed valves
Make sure that you fit automatic bleed valves (air vent)s at high points in
the system. The unit will shut down if air is in the system because the
water flow switch will recognize air in the system as no water flow and a
system alarm/protection code will appear on the unit controller. The
Error Message “Flow Level” will appear on the controller display.
6.5 Transit Bung
The unit is supplied with a transit bung beside the
flow/return pipes.
This bung must be removed and replaced with a drain-off- cock (DOC).
There must also be a DOC at any lower point in the system, to allow for
effective drain-down of the system as and when required. Please note
that, if the system is to be left idle for a long period in winter, the system
should be drained down. You should fit full flow lever valves on the flow
and return to the unit so that the unit can be quickly and effectively
drained down where required for maintenance.
6.6 Y-Strainer
You must fit a Y-strainer on in-line on the return pipe to
the unit. This is normally fitted in an external location
and must have a full flow lever valve side either side of
the strainer to minimise glycol loss during maintenance.
Due to the mix of metals on many systems it is both
advisable and preferable to install a Spirotrap ® rather
than the minimum standard Y strainer. Failure to fit a
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good quality strainer in the return flow to the unit will invalidate the
% Glycol
10
20
30
40
50
Ambient Temp
-3
-8
-14
-22
-33
Heating Capacity Fluctuation
.991
.982
.972
.961
.946
Power Input Fluctuation
.996
.992
.986
.976
.966
Water Flow Fluctuation
1.013
1.040
1.074
1.121
1.178
Water Drop Fluctuation
1.070
1.129
1.181
1.263
1.308
warranty on the unit.
6.7 TRVs
Where standard steel radiators are to be fitted, careful consideration
should be given before using Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) because
they are not designed to be used with low temperature systems. If the
decision is taken to use TRVs, one should NOT be fitted in the same room
as a room thermostat.
6.8 Distribution Water Pump
If, as advised, you are using a buffer tank in the system, you will need to
fit a suitably sized water pump on the water distribution side of the
system. This water pump will need to be wired to receive an appropriate
signal from the heating system.
6.9 Glycol
The system must be protected from freezing by using a glycol solution in
the water circuits. The glycol/water should be added into the system
from the expansion tank of the water loop or via the top of the buffer
tank. The following table details the volume of the glycol/water solution
mix:
Note: if the glycol/water mix is too strong, the water flow and water
pump will be affected and the efficiency of the unit will be
decreased. The above table is for reference only and you should use
a glycol/water solution that is suited to local conditions.
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7.0 Electrical Connection
7.1 Warning Notes
IMPORTANT! All electrical work MUST be carried out by a suitably
qualified electrician. We know that suitably qualified electricians charge
professional level fees for work that they carry out, but it is better to pay a
professional/fully qualified electrician to connect your unit in to an
appropriate power supply in the correct way, than for you to die trying or
as a result of a fire in your property caused by inappropriate or incorrect
electrical works. Also, it is law that only qualified electricians should
install, repair or maintain electrical connections and, if you do not kill
yourself installing the unit, you run the risk of prosecution if you do not
comply with the law. It is not an exaggeration to say that, if you
install/connect your unit to a power supply and that
installation/connection causes injury to, or death of someone (even years
after installation), you can be prosecuted under criminal law for murder,
manslaughter or bodily harm and spend many years in prison as a result.
IT IS NOT WORTHWHILE RUNNING THIS RISK.
SO, GET YOUR UNIT WIRED IN BY A PROFESSIONALLY QUALIFIED
ELECTRICIAN IF YOU DO NOT KNOW SOMEBODY THAT IS QUALIFIED TO
DO THE WORK, FIND SOMEONE AND DO NOT BREAK THE LAW BY DOING
THE WORK YOURSELF.
7.2 MCB
The connection to the electrical consumer unit in the property must
comply with current electrical standards and Regulations and be done via
a dedicated breaker on the consumer unit that corresponds to the heat
pump electrical capacity. Failure to do this correctly can result in fire
and/or permanent damage to the unit. If the unit is not appropriately
wired in to a suitable supply, the warranty on the unit will be voided. The
MCB must be a type C 24 Amp MCB.
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Typical Isolation Switch
7.3 Isolation Switch
The heat pump MUST be connected to the power supply through a two
port rotary isolation switch a two port rotary that
has at least a 3mm contact separation at all poles,
fixed in close proximity to the unit and suitably
positioned for general and emergency use as
required by relevant Regulations. The switch must
NOT be attached to the unit itself. The isolation
switch must be suitable for the unit electrical duty and comply with
applicable Regulations.
7.4 Cable Routing
All wiring should be routed neatly, be kept as far away as possible from
the units water pipes and valves and comply with relevant Regulations.
High voltage and low voltage wiring should be clearly separated.
7.5 Before You Start
Before starting to wire in the power supply to the unit, please check that
the power supply is suitable for the unit (e.g. single phase, correct size
cable, MCB etc. is available) having taken into account the requirements
of the entire site. The unit power specification is stated on a label on the
side of the unit. We recommend the use of a dedicated 32 Amp Type C
MCB for connection of the power supply to the consumer unit.
7.6 Wiring-in The Unit
The following points should be noted in relation to power supply wiring
and system components:
Open the front and top panels to access the electrical
connection terminals.
The power supply must go through the protective wire aperture
in the unit casing and be connected securely to the terminals in
the control box.
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