User and Maintenance Manual
for the Homeowner
and
Installation Instructions
for the Contractor
ACU-STEAM™ Humidifi er
by Thermolec
ACU STEAM
!
Please read this manual carefully before beginning installation.
Important Notice to the Contractor :
Once the installation is complete, please leave this manual with the customer for future reference.
April 2014 V2.1
1. Warnings and Disclaimer – Installation Precautions and Recommendations
Please read and understand the warnings and provided instructions fully before you begin this installation and
keep them handy for future reference.
The manufacturer will assume no responsibility and the warranty will be void if the installer or the user does not
adhere to the following precautions/recommendations :
1.1 Water quality and hardness can signifi cantly affect the maintenance frequency of your Acu-Steam
humidifi er. If the cold water supply exceeds 180 mg/L, the water is classifi ed as hard and excessive
scaling inside the tank reservoir is possible. If the water supply exceeds 180 mg/L, a water conditioner/
softner is recommended to minimize the maintenance frequency (see section 8.). Other known benefi ts
of whole house water conditioners/softeners are improved operation and longevity of plumbing
appliances and fi xtures.
1.2 This humidifi er will be connected to and used under water pressure and it must be installed in such
a way that if a leak occurs, the water will not cause any damage to the property. Make sure all water
connections are properly installed or a water leak could occur.
1.3 This humidifi er is intended for use on ducted forced air furnaces and heat pumps as well as multi-
fuel furnaces, which have at least one supply duct connected to the furnace and where a positive air
pressure can be measured.
1.4 Do not install a humidifi er where the surrounding temperature may be 32ºF (0ºC) or colder. Freezing
water will damage the humidifi er.
1.5 Do not install the humidifi er directly on the furnace housing.
1.6 Always check that you are not about to cut or drill into an air conditioning coil or electrical accessory
during installation.
1.7 Do not install a humidifi er if the city water pressure exceeds 90 psi. Check the local codes related to
pressure reduction.
1.8 Do not install the diffuser in the supply duct if the pressure exceeds 0.5” Water Column (0.125 kPa).
1.9 The installation, wiring and plumbing of the humidifi er must comply with national and local electrical,
plumbing and building codes.
1.10 Electrical wiring and water tubes must not come in contact with sharp edges or hot surfaces.
1.11 Make certain an appropriate drain system is installed and there is no resistance to the fl ow of the
discharged water.
1.12 Do not set the humidity level higher than that recommended or condensation damage could occur.
1.13 Please beware of sharp edges when you cut into a metal duct.
1.14 Always shut the power off before you start the installation or when doing maintenance. An electric
shock from 120 or 240 volts could cause serious injury or death.
1.15 Caution: when you perform maintenance, please be careful because the unit can be extremely hot.
Always allow enough time for the unit to cool down.
1.16 To prevent electric shock or injuries, never operate the humidifi er without the covers as there are high
voltage and hot components inside.
1.17 This humidifi er will only work with non demineralized water. The maximum water supply temperature is
86 ºF (30 ºC)
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
CONTRACTOR
Page 1
Instructions and User Manual for the Homeowner
2. View of the unit
2.1 External view of the humidifi er. Fig. 2a
ACU STEAM
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
!
2.2 Water Tank Top View. Please see Fig. 2b.
2.3 Water tank Side View. Please see Fig. 2c.
'NGEVTKE8CNXG
*
Fig. 2b
6QR8KGY
/CPWCN6JGTOCN%WVÄ1WV
*
9CVGT.GXGN5GPUQTU
5VGCO1WVNGV
*GCVKPI'NGOGPV
6CPM%QXGT
6CPM.CVEJ
+PVGTPCN&TCKP1WVNGV
(CEVQT[KPUVCNNGFYKVJJQUG
*Acu-15 model has
two steam outlets
9CVGT6CPM
Fig. 2c
Page 2
3. Startup
3.1 The startup of the humidifi er is done as follows :
Adjust the knob on the humidistat to the humidity level (percentage) desired.
Confi rm that the water supply valve is open.
Put the main power ON at the electrical panel. The green pilot light comes ON on the LED panel. The
humidifi er is ready to work.
Working Principle :
3.2 Unlike other types of humidifi ers which produce humidity by passing warm air through a moist pad, Acu-
Steam produces humidity from steam dispersed directly into the supply duct.
3.3 A humidistat (installed either on the wall or the air return duct) controls the unit. You set the knob of the
humidistat according to your desired level of humidity (35-45% recommended). Please read the next section
about the Acu-Steam humidity control.
3.4 When the humidistat senses a need for humidity, it starts the humidifi cation process.
3.5 The tank fi lls with water.
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3.6 The electronic control starts the blower fan in the furnace to move the air as the humidifi er starts boiling
water and producing steam. If the fan cannot start (i.e. there is no air movement to transport the steam or
insuffi cient air pressure), the humidifi er stops itself. Please note that it may take a few minutes to bring the
water to a boil. The steam exits the water tank through the steam hose, moves through the steam diffuser
installed in the warm air duct and is released into the duct where it mixes with the moving air.
3.7 As water evaporates, the electric valve opens as needed to replenish the water in the tank.
3.8 When the humidity reaches the desired level, the humidifi er stops producing steam. In order to remove
scale and keep the tank as clean as possible, the humidifi er drains after a certain number of steam producing
cycles (see section 18.5 on page 24 of install manual for more details).If there is still a demand from the
humidistat after draining, the tank refi lls and starts to produce steam again. This process is part of the self-
cleaning feature.
3.9 When the humidistat is satisfi ed, the fan continues to run for a short period of time in order to eliminate
the steam from the ducts and the unit goes to ready mode, waiting for the next call from the humidistat.
Page 3
4. How to Control the Humidity
4.1 Humidity level and comfort are personal matters but it is generally acknowledged that a Relative
Humidity of 35-45% is desirable. However, you should take the outside temperature into consideration
before setting the humidity level in order to avoid condensation on the windows. Usually, a narrow strip of
condensation around or at the bottom of the window is considered as normal.
4.2 If you installed an ACU-STEAM humidistat and an outdoor sensor, this adjustment will be done
automatically through a function called outdoor reset. The outdoor sensor automatically reduces the humidistat
setting according to the outdoor temperature during cold days; it does the opposite during mild days. Please
see Fig. 4b for the percentage of relative humidity on the electronic humidistat label. The middle of the scale
corresponds to the middle of the comfort zone, approximately 35% RH (Relative Humidity).
Note: There are no numbers printed on the Humidistat itself.
4.3 If you are using a humidistat by others, the humidity adjustment according to the outside temperature
might have to be done manually. For your information, the following table shows the recommended setting of
the humidistat according to the outside temperature. Please see Fig. 4a.
.
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Outside Temprature Recommended Setting
-22ºF (-30ºC) 15%
-13ºF (-25ºC) 20%
30
35
40
!
-4ºF (-20ºC) 25%
+5ºF (-15ºC) 30%
+14ºF (-10ºC) 35%
above
23ºF (-5ºC) 40%
20
50
Fig. 4a
Fig. 4b
4.4 No matter which humidifi cation system you are using, please do not forget that the humidity level
cannot adjust quickly. It may take some time to build up the humidity to your comfort level. Depending on the
dryness of the house, carpets, furniture, drapes and wood will absorb moisture before you can feel the change.
4.5 If the house remains unoccupied during the winter season, set the humidistat to the minimum set point
in order to prevent condensation.
Page 4
5. Functions of the Electronic Circuit
5.1 The electronic board located inside the unit controls all the humidifi er functions. The front LED panel is
equipped with pilot lights indicating the status of the humidifi er. Please see Fig.5a.
Please refer to Article 5.2 for the description of the functions.
The red pilot light, which is a warning light, can either glow all the time or fl ash when activated.
In case of error, the humidifi er enters standby mode. The fl ashing of the pilot lights indicates which error
happened. The error recognition sequence is as follows :
The green pilot light near the power button blinks once;
The red light fl ashes a certain number of times, this is the error code;
A pause with no light at all;
Another blink of the green light, once;
Another series of fl ashing of the red light;
And so on until the condition is reset or service is performed.
Shutting the power OFF at the breaker in the main panel or depressing the power button until the
green light is fully on will reset the error code.
Mode
On/Standby - Green
Fan
!
Warning
Steam
Fill
Drain
- White
- Red
- White
- Blue
- Yellow
Fig. 5a
5.2 The ACU-STEAM humidistat also has two pilot lights to indicate the current status.
The green light is lit when the humidistat is demanding for humidity, thus activating the boiling cycle. The red
light indicates a warning and reproduces the same warning code as the red light on the humidifi er control
panel. If ever the red light is lit or fl ashing on the humidistat, you know immediately that the humidifi er needs
attention.
Display Status Description
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On/Standby
Green light OFF The humidifi er has no power – Breaker is OFF.
Blinking The humidifi er has power, but is in standby mode.
ON The humidifi er has power and is functional.
White button Press to put the humidifi er in standby mode.
The green light is blinking.
Press and keep depressed 3 seconds to power
or reset the humidifi er. The green light is ON.
Fan
White light ON The fan control is activated.
Page 5
Warning
Red light ON An abnormal condition occurred.
!
Please refer to the error code table in Section 7.
Steam
White light ON The humidifi er is heating water to produce steam.
Filling cycle
Blue light ON The electric water valve is open thus fi lling the
humidifi er.
Draining cycle
Yellow light ON The humidifi er is in draining mode.
White button Not active on residential models.
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
Page 6
6. What To Do if a Malfunction Occurs
6.1 Shut the main power OFF and restart the humidifi er to see if the error code (fl ashing red light)
disappears.
6.2 If you see a water leak, follow the water supply tube and close the valve installed on the water pipe
located near the humidifi er.
6.3 Please refer to the error code table to identify the possible cause of the malfunction and the actions that
you can take.
6.4 Should the problem persist, please call your service company for they are the best qualifi ed to help you.
Describe the problem to them and mention the error code you observed on the front panel. They may be able
to help you solve the problem over the phone. If not, they can call our technical service department.
6.5 Should you attempt to look at the unit yourself, please apply all appropriate safety measures. - Shut the
main power OFF and wait for the unit to cool before you open it.
7. Description of Error Codes
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Number of
fl ashes of
the red light
OFF
Countinuous
ON
1
3
4
5
Error Description Humidifi er Status
No error The humidifi er is working fi ne None
The fl ood sensor under the
tank senses water in the pan.
The two water level sensors
are miswired or do not read
the water level properly.
Inadequate water supply. The
supply valve was open for
more than 6 minutes.
Inadequate drainage. The
tank did not drain or the
draining cycle is too long.
The air pressure switch
does not detect enough air
pressure OR the high limit
HSTAT (optional) senses
extremely high humidity in
the duct.
Humidifi er immediately suspends the ongoing
operation. Heating elements and supply valve
are switched off. The power green light is
blinking.
Humidifi er attempts to operate, then stops
because of wrong information from water level
sensors. The power green light is blinking.
Humidifi er immediately suspends the ongo-
ing operation. Heating elements and supply
valve are switched off. The power green light is
blinking.
Humidifi er immediately suspends the ongoing
operation. Heating elements and supply valve
are switched off. The power green light is
blinking.
Humidifi er immediately suspends the ongoing
operation. The unit goes back to normal
operation as soon as the error condition
disappears. The power green light is blinking.
Actions to be Taken
by the Technician
Turn power off. Check for leaks around the
tank clamp, SW valve and drain tube. Make
sure tank arrows align and gasket is sealing
properly.
Turn power off. Clean or replace HLS or LLS
water sensors. Check for proper wiring of HLS
and LLS sensors.
Turn power off. Check SW valve circuit for
24V DC at the valve. Refer to manual (p. 20)
and check for proper drain installation. Make
sure SW shut-off valve is open, SW valve is
responding and SW tube is clear of debris.
Turn power off. Check for proper drain setup
by referring to manual (p. 20). Check and clean
tank, SS siphon tube and silicon drain tube if
necessary.
Check if the FF motor is running. If not, turn
FF to continuous operation. Check fl ow sensor
(pitot tube) in duct for blockage, then make
sure plastic tube is connected properly from
fl ow sensor to PD switch under PC board in
unit (see manual). Change furnace fi lter if
needed.
Reset
Automatic Reset
when
Overfl ow pan dries
up.
Automatic Reset
when switching
main power ON
Automatic Reset
after 5 min or after
switching power off
and on.
Automatic Reset
when switching
main power ON
Automatic
Reset when
error conditions
disappear
Temperature inside the
6
tank exceeded the high
temperature cut-out setting.
The high temperature cut-out has tripped. The
humidifi er immediately suspends the ongoing
operation. Heating elements and supply valve
are switched off. The power green light is
blinking.
Turn power off. This is a serious condition and
will likely require assistance from a service
technician. Call 1-800-336-9130.
After pushing on
the thermal cut-out
button, automatic
reset when
switching main
power ON
Legend: SS = stainless steel, FF = furnace fan, SW = supply water, HLS = high level sensor, LLS = low level sensor
Page 7
8. Maintenance
WARNING : The water tank and its contents can become extremely hot. Please be careful before proceding.
As with any evaporative water device , some minerals normally dissolve in the tank water will create varying
degrees of deposits inside the tank. Even though the unit drains and cleans itself during normal operation,
it will require a minimum annual maintenance check (see sections 8.5 through 8.8) to assure all humidifi er
functions and components are operating properly.
8.1 Drain the water from the tank. Most of the time there will be water in the tank even when the humidifi er
is in standby mode since it only drains once per set amount of steam cycles (see section 18.5 for drain cycle
settings). First turn down the humidistat to avoid a steam cycle. Please note that when using an ACU-STEAM
electronic humidistat, if the relative humidity is extremely low the humidifi er may still run with the knob at
the minimum setting because of a range limiter inside the cover. If this occurs you will need to remove the
humidistat cover by pulling it off and turning the knob completely counter-clockwise. The main power to the
humidifi er (the breaker at the main panel, not the power button on the unit) needs to be turned off and then
back on. Once the power is reset the unit will start fi lling with water (blue LED will light) and keep fi lling until
draining starts (yellow LED). This process can take a number of minutes. Once draining has completed, turn
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
the main power off. There should be approximately one inch of water in the tank. Wait a few minutes or until
the unit has cooled before proceeding with the following steps.
8.2 After draining the tank, TURN THE MAIN POWER OFF.
8.3 Remove the cover by turning the 1/4 turn screw to the left.
8.4 Unplug the white quick connect wire connected on the overfl ow pan at the bottom of the unit. This wire
is connected to the overfl ow sensor. Please see Fig. 8a.
White Wire
2. Pull
1. Lift
Overflow Pan
Main drain Tube
Overflow Sensor
Overflow Tube
Fig. 8a
Page 8
Rigid Drain Pipe
8.5 Pull the plastic tube attached to the bottom of the overfl ow pan out of the rigid drain pipe on the wall.
You do not have to remove the plastic tube attached to the bottom of the pan. Remove the overfl ow pan from
the unit by lifting the front of the pan off the screw and pulling it towards you, slightly loosen the front screw if
nescessary. Please see Fig. 8a. Also remove the main drain tube from the rigid drain pipe attached to the wall
and check that both tubes are clean and clear from deposits.
8.6 CAUTION: Check that the water tank is not too hot to handle. Unfasten the latch around the water tank
and remove the tank bottom from the main body of the tank vessel by pulling it down carefully in a twisting
motion. Reminder: there should be a small amount of water in the tank. After you remove the tank, clean the
round o-ring gasket, but don’t discard it.
NOTE :This round gasket is mandatory and the tank will not seal properly without it, likely resulting in
a water leak.
8.7 There will be varying degrees of scale on the tank bottom/sidewalls and interal components which is a
normal byproduct of boiling water containing minerals. Simply discard the scale from the bottom of the tank,
leaving the scale on the tank sidewalls and elements (it will not adversely affect the operation of the unit).
Clean the scale from the bottoms of the stainless steel water discharge and water supply tubes using vinegar
or a cleaning product designed to remove scale, lime or calcium to enable unresricted water fl ow. If scale is
excessive, affecting the fl ow of water replace the drain tube and sensors when necessary (normally every 2-4
years); these replacement parts are included in a maintenance kit available from your installing contractor. DO
NOT use any acids when cleaning your Acu-Steam humidifi er.
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8.8 Once completed, reinstall the o-ring gasket around the bottom tank collar. Please see Fig. 8b. Align the
two arrows located at the front of the tank and the fi xed part while lifting the tank in place. Please see Fig.8c.
Apply even pressure to secure the tank properly in the tank cover. Then close the latch holding the tank in
position. The clamp should close with minimal pressure. Verify that the o-ring gasket and tank are seated
properly by checking for leaks when re-starting the humidifi er.
Fig. 8b
Fig. 8c
Page 9
8.9 Put the overfl ow pan under the tank by sliding the slot on the back screw and hooking the key hole on
the front screw.
8.10 Reconnect the white wire of the overfl ow sensor on the overfl ow pan.
8.11 Put the overfl ow and main drain tubes back into the rigid drain pipe.
8.12 Put the cover back on the humidifi er and lock it with the quarter-turn screw.
8.13 When fi nished, turn the main power back “ON”.
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
Page 10
9. Preventative Maintenance
9.1 In order to avoid problems due to accumulation of deposits, we suggest that you replace the silicone
drain tube and the low and high water level sensors every 2 to 4 years. We also suggest you replace the round
o-ring gasket around the tank. All these components are available in a kit. Contact your service company for
more information.
9.2 To prepare for the Summer Season
Perform a complete maintenance as described in section 8
Shut the main power OFF
Close the water supply valve
Dry the inside of the tank
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
Page 11
10. Warranty
10.1 Thermolec Ltd. warrants against defects in materials and workmanship of the steam humidifi er and
all its components for a period of two (2) years from the date of installation. An Extended Limited Warranty
coverage applies to the following components: 10 years on the element and 5 years on the tank.
10.2 Any claim under warranty shall be considered only if the product has been properly installed, by a
certifi ed technician, and operated in accordance with Thermolec’s written instructions.
10.3 Any misuse of the steam humidifi er or any repair by persons other than a certifi ed technician, carried
out without Thermolec’s written consent, voids the warranty.
10.4 All defective parts must be claimed within the warranty coverage period and shall be replaced at no
charge (transport included) by Thermolec. Thermolec does not cover the labor costs to execute the said
repairs.
10.5 Thermolec will not be held responsible for accidental or consequential damages, nor for operational
delays caused by the replacement of said steam humidifi er.
HOME OWNERHOME OWNER
Thermolec Ltd
2060 Lucien-Thimens St. Montreal, QC, H4R 1L1
Tel : 514-336-9130 Fax : 514-336-3270
Web site :
www.thermolec.com
Help line for technical assistance during business hours
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00 pm (Eastern Time)
1-800-336-9130
Page 12
Detailed Instructions for the Contractor
11. Unpacking the Unit
11.1 Contents
Please inspect the carton’s contents and report any missing parts or damage immediately.
1 ea Humidifi er
1 ea Main siphon tube (32” long – already installed and coiled inside the unit)
1 ea Steam hose (4 feet long x 1 inch I.D.) / 2 ea Steam hoses for Acu-15
1 ea Steam diffuser (12” or 16”, depending on the humidifi er model) / 2x 16” diffuser for Acu-15
1 ea Instruction and maintenance manual
1 ea Pressure Differential Switch (mounted inside cabinet)
1 Plastic bag containing installation material and hardware as follows:
2 ea Adjustable hose clips for the steam hose / 4 clips for Acu-15
1 ea Small bag - KIT #10S
1 ea Water supply tube (1/4” dia. x 7’ long)
1 ea Overfl ow tube for the overfl ow pan (7/16” dia. x 24” long)
1 ea Pitot tube with plastic tube (5/16” dia. X 48” long)
NOTE : The electronic humidistat and the outdoor reset sensor are optional. The humidistat can be either wall
type (RH) or duct type (DH).
11.2 Water Tank Detailed View. Please see Fig.11a.
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9CVGT.GXGN5GPUQTU
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*
6CPM%QXGT
6CPM.CVEJ
+PVGTPCN&TCKP1WVNGV
(CEVQT[KPUVCNNGFYKVJJQUG
5VGCO1WVNGV
6QR8KGY
*
CONTRACTOR
*GCVKPI'NGOGPV
*Acu-15 model has
two steam outlets
Fig. 11a
9CVGT6CPM
Page 13
12. Dimensions and Available Models
12.1 Humidifi er dimensions Fig. 12a
11 5/8”
ACU STEAM
14”
!
9”
12.2 Available models Fig. 12b
CONTRACTOR
Capacity
Model Lbs/Hr Power Voltage Current
(Kg/Hr) (Kw) (V) (A)
4.8
Acu-5
Acu-10
Acu-15
(2.2) 1.5 120 12.5
9.6
(4.4) 3 240 12.5
12.8
(5.9) 4 240 16.6
13”
Page 14
13. Detailed View and Wiring
View of the top of the unit. Fig. 13a
Black
Black
Yellow
High Level
Level
Sensors
White
Heating
Element
Low Level
Steam Outlet
Acu-15 model has
two steam outlets
Manual
Thermal
Cut-out
Green
Blue
Electric
Valve
CONTRACTOR
Blue
Red
Red
Overflow Pan
White
Page 15
View and list of the wire harness by color and function. Please see Fig. 13b & Fig. 13c.
Green
Ground
connection
Element
Relay
Neutral
connection
Element
Relay
%QPPGEVVJGHCPEQPVTQNFT[EQPVCEVUQVJCVKVYKNNUVCTVVJGHCP
YJGPVJGTGKUCFGOCPFHTQOVJGJWOKFKUVCV6JGFT[EQPVCEVKU
TCVGFCVCORU8#%
%QPPGEVVJGJWOKFKUVCVUWRRNKGFYKVJVJGJWOKFKHKGTVQVJGEQPVTQN
DQCTFCEEQTFKPIVQVJGYKTKPIFKCITCOUWRRNKGF
Fuse
Transformer
Blue
Blue
Red
Red
Relay
Fan
White
FAN
Yellow
GIN24V
H-STAT
Overflow Sensor
connection
ON
ON
OFF
1 2 3
A
A A
&+2ÄUYKVEJVQCFLWUVVJG
VCPMHNWUJKPVGTXCN
6JGDWKNVÄKPCKTHNQYUYKVEJKUHCEVQT[
YKTGFVQVJGUGVGTOKPCNU
6JGCNCTOHWPEVKQPKUPQVCXCKNCDNGQP
TGUKFGPVKCNOQFGNU
On/Standby LED
On/Standby
Switch
Fan LED
Alarm LED
Steam LED
Fill LED
Drain LED
CONTRACTOR
Fig 13b
Description of Wire Harness
Color
Green
Blue/Blue
Pair
Red/Red
Pair
Grounds the electronic board to
the tank for the level sensors
Powers the electric valve with
Function Connected to
Bracket of the high limit
cut-out
24 VDC
Electric Valve
Overheat signal High-Limit Cut-Out
White Reads the low water level Low Level Sensor
Yellow Reads the high water level High Level Sensor
Fig. 13c
Page 16
Note: Please read sections 14 and 15 before proceeding.
14. Installing the Steam Diffuser and the Steam Hose
14.1 Proper installation of the diffuser and steam hose is critical for the trouble-free operation of the
humidifi er. Please fi nd an accessible location on the duct and make sure you have a minimum length of
35” of straight duct downstream (without elbows or other obstructions on which the steam could condensate),
to allow the steam to disperse easily into the airfl ow. Once a suitable location has been found make a 1 1/8”
middle insertion hole in the warm air duct for the steam diffuser. For a horizontal duct, make the 1 1/8” hole in
the lower third of the duct height. Please see Fig. 14a. For a vertical duct, make the 1 1/8” hole in the middle of
the duct. Please see Fig. 14b.
Note: For High Velocity systems, the diffuser should be installed in the RETURN and not the warm air duct.
W
Air flow
W/2
Air flow
H
1/3 H
Fig. 14a HORIZONTAL DUCT
Warning : Before installing anything on a duct, always check that you are not about to cut or drill into an air
conditioning coil or electrical accessories.
14.2 Insert diffuser in duct and align arrow to point up. Fasten the steam diffuser to the duct using four #8 x
1/2” screws provided in Kit #10S. Make sure the holes on the steam diffuser, where the steam exits from, are
pointing up. Please see Fig. 14c.
Fig. 14b VERTICAL DUCT
Fig. 14d
UP
6” to 12”
CONTRACTOR
Fig. 14c
Note: Acu-15 models are supplied with two diffusers, hoses and clamps, if there are dual ducts install one
diffuser in each duct with equal lenth of hose on each. When installing in the same duct keep a distance of 6”
to 12” between diffusers. Please see Fig. 14d.
Page 17
IMPORTANT: For horizontal ducts that are only 8” to 10” inch high, install the diffuser at the very bottom of the
duct with only the top two screws and rotate approximately 30º away from the airfl ow to avoid condensation
forming at the top of the duct. Please see Fig. 14e.
Air flow
UP
Fig. 14e
14.3 Install one end of the steam hose onto the steam diffuser using a hose clamp and tighten it.
14.4 After installing the humidifi er (Section 15) use the second supplied hose clamp, to install the other end
of the steam hose (4 feet long) onto the steam outlet on the top of the water tank and tighten it.
Never try to reduce the diameter of the steam hose or any added rigid piping. It has to be the same as the
diameter of the humidifi er top steam outlet fi tting. The steam must fl ow without obstruction.
WARNING : Do not let the hose sag when it is connected to the duct. Please see Fig. 14f.
A suffi cient slope with no horizontal section is mandatory to allow any condensation to fl ow back naturally
to the water tank. Please see Fig. 14g. If condensation water accumulates in the hose, the steam will not be
able to escape normally through the diffuser and will lead to a malfunction of the humidifi er. Please keep in
mind that the hose will soften when heated and will have a tendency to sag.
Warm air duct
A
CU STEAM
!
WRONG
Fig. 14f
Warm air Duct
CONTRACTOR
Warm air duct
Continuous slope without
sagging is MANDATORY.
Cut hose to the shortest
length possible even
though 4 feet is
supplied.
A
CU STEAM
Min. 12”
Unit must be installed a
minimum of 12” below
the bottom of the duct.
!
A
CU STEAM
IDEAL
Fig. 14g
!
CORRECT
Fig. 14h
NOTE : If it is not possible to get enough slope for the condensation to return properly to the water tank, then
an S-shaped steam trap (not supplied) must be installed at the lowest point of the steam hose. This steam trap
hose should have a minimum height of 4”. Please see Fig. 14h.
Page 18
15. Installing the Humidifi er
For ease of service, keep a minimum space of 24” in front of the unit.
15.1 Remove both covers by fi rst turning the 1/4 turn screw to the left and swing open the tank cover and
unhook it. Then unscrew the two screws holding the electrical cover and pull it towards you.
15.2 Remove the white wire connected on the water pan at the bottom of the unit. This is the overfl ow
sensor.
15.3 Remove the overfl ow pan by lifting the front off its holding screw and pull towards you. Do not remove
those screws from the humidifi er middle wall.
15.4 The humidifi er must be installed on a vertical fl at surface (i.e. wall or vertical furnace duct). Because of
the length of the steam hose supplied, select the location of the unit as close as possible within a maximum
of 4 feet of the diffuser.
Please see Fig. 15.a for necessary clearances around the humidifi er.
WARNING: Never install the humidifi er directly on the furnace cabinet as this could void your furnace warranty.
6”
12”
A
CU STEAM
3”
CONTRACTOR
!
12”
Fig. 15a
Page 19
15.5 A rigid drain pipe has to be installed under the unit and connected to the main house drain. We
recommend a 1” minimum I.D. tube or standard 1-1/2” I.D. ABS plumbing tube to do the installation.
Please also install a siphon (P-trap) with a drain cap, if required.
The two fl exible tubes (main drain and overfl ow) coming from the humidifi er and which will be inserted in the
rigid pipe, require a minimum free vertical length of 18” below the cabinet. It is very important to leave an air
gap between the rigid pipe and the tubes to allow the siphon to function properly. The fl exible tubes cannot
touch any water contained in the drain pipe. Please see Fig. 15b.
Water Hammer Absorber
Water intake
A
CU STEAM
!
Min. length 18”
Keep this hose straight
For the correct operation of the
siphon, this tube must have a
minimum length of 18”. An air
gap is mandatory between the
tubes and the rigid drain pipe.
6” Minimum
Water
CONTRACTOR
Warning: These two tubes cannot touch
water in the drain pipe. Keep a minimum
distance of 6” between the end of the
tubes and any water in the drain pipe at
all times. Immersing the tubes in water
will interfere with draining and affect the
operation of the unit.
Rigid pipe
Min. 1” ID
Fig. 15b
15.6 Since the unit is equipped with water level sensors, it is important to install it level from left to right and
from back to front.
15.7 Draw a level horizontal line on the wall and install two screws (# 8 minimum ) spaced at
11-5/8” from each other to hook the humidifi er on the wall, then install two screws at the bottom of the unit and
tighten them partially.
15.8 Level the unit and tighten the four screws fi rmly.
Page 20
16. Installing the Water Supply and drain pan connections
Important Notes :
Close the main water supply valve before beginning.
We recommend installing a quarter of a turn shut off valve (not supplied) near the unit. This supply valve (not
supplied) must be attached to a cold water pipe only, easily accessable from the Acu-Steam unit. Since the
unit is draining hot water, cold water is added to reduce the temperature before sending the water to the drain.
In case of hard water or water containing particles, we recommend installing a strainer in the water line to
protect the solenoid valve. See section 1.1 for additional information and recommendations concerning water
quality.
16.1 The water intake fi tting on the top of the humidifi er must be wrapped with tefl on tape. Screw the water
hammer absorber (piece of red rubber hose with two brass fi ttings) onto the water intake on the top of the
humidifi er without stripping. Please see Fig. 16a. Use the double wrench method for tightening.
9CVGT*COOGT
#DUQTDGT
9CVGT
+PVCMG
Fig. 16a
16.2 At the other end of the water hammer absorber, connect the water supply tube, using the same type of
fi tting used on the water supply valve. Tighten the compression nut, without stripping, with two wrenches, one
to hold the water hammer end, and one to turn the compression nut. Please see Fig. 16b.
NOTE : The brass sleeve supplied in kit #10S is to be used only if the plastic supply tube is replaced by a
copper tube. Either system works with this humidifi er, but only plastic tubing is supplied.
CONTRACTOR
Fig. 16b
Keep the supply valve closed for now, you will open it during the start-up procedure.
Page 21
16.2 Take the 5/16 dia. plastic tube and push one end on the connector located at the bottom of the overfl ow
pan. Please see Fig. 16b and Fig. 16c.
Fig. 16c
Fig. 16d
16.3 Install the overfl ow pan under the tank by sliding the slot on the back screw and hooking the key hole
on the front screw. Please don’t tighten the screws.
16.4 Reconnect the white wire for the overfl ow sensor on the overlow pan.
16.5 Cut the two drain tubes and insert them in the rigid pipe. Note that the main silicon drain tube must
have a minimum length of 18” to allow the siphon to work properly. It is important to leave an air gap
between the soft tubes and the rigid pipe.
16.6 Open the water supply valve (fully counter-clockwise) to bring water to the humidifi er and let the water
pressure enter the system.
16.7 Follow the water supply path completely and carefully check for leaks at the fi ttings.
CONTRACTOR
Page 22
17 Installing the Air Pressure Probe
17.1 The pressure probe (also called a Pitot tube) connected to the pressure differential switch inside the
unit checks whether there is enough air pressure in the warm air duct to activate the humidifi er.
17.2 The probe can be installed in either the warm air or cold air return duct, as close as possible to the
humidifi er, but before the steam diffuser. A 48” long plastic tube is supplied to connect the pressure probe to
the humidifi er.
Warning : Before installing anything on a duct, always check that you are not about to cut or drill into an air
conditioning coil or electrical accessories.
17.3 Drill a hole 3/8” dia. in an accessible location in the air duct.
17.4 Insert the probe and fasten it’s base to the duct using two sheet metal screws. The arrow visible on the
probe fl ange indicates the air fl ow direction in the duct (i.e. the curved end of the probe has to face the air fl ow)
Please see Fig. 17a and Fig. 17b.
9CTO#KT&WEV
#KTHNQY
AIR FLOW
%QNF#KT&WEV
#KTHNQY
Fig. 17a
Fig. 17b
17.5 Push one end of the plastic tube onto the probe outlet. Slip the other end of the tube onto the plastic
barbed connector at the end of the tubing already attached to the humidifi er for a warm air installation or
connect the plastic tube to the LOW barbed connector on the PD Switch located below the electronic control
board for a cold air return installation of the probe. Please see Fig. 17c.
This end is
connected
to PD Switch
HIGH (warm air)
LOW (cold air)
Fig. 17c
CONTRACTOR
Page 23
18. Making Electrical Connections
FAN
GIN24V
A
H-STAT
A A
Fan
Relay
Fill LED
Drain LED
&+2UYKVEJ
ON
1 2 3
OFF
ON
NOTE : All internal wiring is done at the factory. All external wiring shall be done by a qualifi ed electrician and
must conform to procedures, regulations and local codes.
18.1 A dedicated breaker in the main panel (or fused disconnect) must be installed.
18.2 Ensure that the wire size and protection equipment conform to the sizes required by the Electrical
Code.
18.3 Wire according to the wiring diagram supplied in the cover of the unit.
18.4 Starting the fan is mandatory with this type of humidifi er. The electronic controller board has a control
relay that supplies a dry contact at the terminals marked “FAN” to start the furnace fan. The installer must use
this contact to engage a relay that starts the furnace fan motor. Please refer to the furnace instruction manual
to fi nd the right wiring diagram. The standard rating of these contacts is 3A @ 240VAC or 6A @ 120VAC.
Please do not exceed these ratings.
18.5 Adjusting the DIP switches, located on the lower right corner of the circuit board (see Fig 18a), will
change how the humidifi er determines automatic tank fl ushes. The humidifi er will completely drain and refi ll
with fresh water after a set number of “refi ll cycles”. Every time the unit replenishes the tank while producing
steam is counted as one cycle. The table below shows how to set the DIP switches in order to make the unit
fl ush the tank at different intervals. To keep deposits in the tank to a minimum, by default the tank will fl ush
every 30 cycles which equals approximately 5 hours of operation.
NOTE: The total cycles are cumulative across humidistat cycles. This means that if the humidistat satisfi es
when the counter is at 15 cycles, the count will resume from 15 upon a new call for humidity. After the
number of cycles, as set by the DIP switches, the tank will drain and refi ll. If there is no call for humidity for 7
consecutive days, the tank will be drained and wait for future demand from the humidistat. Cycle selection for
the DIP switch settings should be based on water hardness conditions as stated in the chart below. Depending
on the water quality the unit may drain more frequently that the DIP switch setting.
Switch numbers on DIP-switch
CONTRACTOR
1 2 3 Cycles Before Tank Flush Water Hardness
OFF OFF OFF 180 Soft 0 - 60 mg/L
ON OFF OFF 120 Moderate 60 - 120 mg/L
OFF ON OFF 60 Hard 120 - 180 mg/L
OFF OFF ON 30 (DEFAULT) Very Hard > 180 mg/L
Fig 18a
Page 24
19. Installing and Connecting to a Humidistat
19.1 See wiring diagrams in section 21 for proper connection. When using an ACU-STEAM electronic
humidistat with outdoor sensor please refer to the instructions included with the humidistat (see page 4,
sections 4.1 through 4.5 explain the functions of the Acu-Steam wall and duct humidistats). If you decide to use
a standard mechanical humidistat by others, connect the mechanical humidistat between the terminals marked
GND (ground) & IN (input) on the humidifi er electronic board.
Page 25
CONTRACTOR
20. Start-up and Test Procedure
20.1 Turn the breaker “ON” to supply power to the humidifi er. The green light comes ON to confi rm that the
unit is ready to work.
20.2 Test of the On/Standby button. Press the white button once. The green light goes OFF then fl ashes,
indicating that the unit is in standby mode but still powered. Press the white button again and keep it depressed
for 3 seconds to power the humidifi er. The green light will come ON, confi rming that the unit is ready to work.
20.3 Turn the humidistat clockwise past the middle of the scale to create a demand for humidity.
20.4 The tank fi lls to the proper water level.
20.5 The fan control starts the fan to move the air as the humidifi er starts boiling water and produces steam.
If the fan cannot start, the humidifi er suspends the ongoing operation. If the air pressure is insuffi cient, the unit
will stop by itself. Please note that it may take a few minutes to bring the water to a boil. The steam exits the
water tank through the steam outlet and steam hose.
20.6 The steam moves through the hose to the diffuser and is released into the warm air duct where it mixes
with the moving air.
20.7 As water evaporates in the tank, the electric valve opens as needed to maintain the proper water level.
20.8 When the humidity reaches the desired level the humidifi er stops producing steam. In order to eliminate
the residues and keep the tank as clean as possible, the humidifi er drains after a certain number of boiling –
refi ll cycles. If there is still a demand from the humidistat after draining, the tank refi lls and starts to produce
steam again.
20.9 When the humidistat is satisfi ed, the fan continues to run for a short period of time in order to eliminate
the steam from the ducts.
20.10 When everything is working fi ne, put both covers back on the unit and attach them with the two screws
(electrical cover) and by turning the 1/4 turn latch to the right (tank cover).
CONTRACTOR
20.11 Sequence of Operation.
Power
Dra in in g Cycle Boiling C y cle
On
12 3 45678
!
Filling
Cycle
Up to 5 sec. Up to 3 min. Up to 4 min.
Up to 9 minutes total for drain cycle 1 Steam cycle* (see below)
* The unit will repeat this cycle until the humidistat is satisfi ed or the selected number of cycles is reached
before going to the draining cycle. If there is no more demand for humidity, the unit will automatically go on
ready mode until the next demand. If there is no demand for 7 days, the unit will fl ush and drain the tank.
Up to 2 min. U p to 2 min. Up to 5 sec. Up to 12 min. Up to 2 0 sec.
Page 26
NOTE:
The Acu-Steam board has a memory that remembers the last sequence of operation when the power is turned
off, hence the unit might start at step 2 or 3 when you put the power back on. Also, timings may slightly vary
depending on the capacity of the unit (1.5 kW, 3 kW or 4 kW), the pressure of the water inlet and the quality of
the water.
20.12
Please don’t forget to leave this instruction manual with the customer.
Page 27
CONTRACTOR
21. Wiring diagrams
LEGEND
PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD
---
MANUAL RESET CUT-OUT
OPERATING RELAY
PRESSURE DIFFERENTRIAL SWITCH
---
BACK-UP RELAY TO THERMAL CUT-OUT
LOW LEVEL SENSOR
HIGH LEVEL SENSOR
ELECTRIC VALVE 24 VDC
---
-
TRANSFORMER
FLOOD SENSOR
HEATING ELEMENT
ROOM OR DUCT HUMIDISTAT
---
-
-
FAN RELAY
GROUND CONNECTION
OUTDOOR SENSOR
CONTRACTOR
GREEN
ELECTRIC WATER
V1
BLUE
RED
VALVE 24VDC
BLUE
RED
M- CUT-OUT
225F
HLS
LLS
RED
RED
BLUE
BLUE
YELLOW
WHITE
IMPORTANT:
BEFORE WIRING AND OPERATING.
CODES. READ CAREFULLY INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
WIRE IN ACCORDANCE TO LOCAL & NATIONAL ELECTRIC
FS
PC-1
M
PDS
LLS
HLS
K2
K1
TV1FS
H-STAT
GNDRS-15
HE
240V MODELS
PDS
S-15
AA
MODE
IN24G
H-STAT
FAN A
ODR
COM
ST1
24V
GND
ACU-STEAM ROOM OR HSTAT
120/240VAC
GREEN
G
IN
STEAM HUMIDIFIER CONTROLLER
GREEN
GREEN
L1
N
L2
123456789101112131415
GND
K2
COM
NO
NEUTRAL
FUSE
CONTROL
F2
TRANSFORMER
K1
COM
NO
OPTION ACU-STEAM HUMIDISTAT OPTION
STANDARD HUMIDISTAT
HE
GND
HUMIDISTAT
R
24VAC
R
FAN CIRCUIT
CIRCUIT DE VENTILATEUR
Page 28
LEGEND
PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD
---
MANUAL RESET CUT-OUT
OPERATING RELAY
PRESSURE DIFFERENTRIAL SWITCH
---
BACK-UP RELAY TO THERMAL CUT-OUT
LOW LEVEL SENSOR
HIGH LEVEL SENSOR
-
ELECTRIC VALVE 24 VDC
TRANSFORMER
FLOOD SENSOR
---
HEATING ELEMENT
ROOM OR DUCT HUMIDISTAT
FAN RELAY
GROUND CONNECTION
---
-
-
OUTDOOR SENSOR
GREEN
ELECTRIC WATER
BLUE
VALVE 24VDC
V1
BLUE
RED
RED
M- CUT-OUT
225F
HLS
LLS
RED
RED
BLUE
BLUE
YELLOW
WHITE
IMPORTANT:
BEFORE WIRING AND OPERATING.
CODES. READ CAREFULLY INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
WIRE IN ACCORDANCE TO LOCAL & NATIONAL ELECTRIC
FS
PC-1
M
PDS
K2
K1
AA
MODE
H-STAT
FAN A
LLS
HLS
PDS
IN24G
TV1FS
H-STAT
GNDRS-15
HE
ACU-5
120V MODEL
S-15
ODR
COM
ST1
24V
GND
ACU-STEAM ROOM OR HSTAT
CONTRACTOR
GREEN
GREEN
GREEN
G
L
N
120VAC
STEAM HUMIDIFIER CONTROLLER
123456789101112131415
GND
K2
COM
NO
NEUTRAL
TRANSFORMER
FUSE
CONTROL
F2
Page 29
COM
NO
IN
GND
OPTION ACU-STEAM HUMIDISTAT OPTION
STANDARD HUMIDISTAT
K1
HE
R
24VAC
HUMIDISTAT
R
FAN CIRCUIT
CIRCUIT DE VENTILATEUR
CONTRACTOR
Page 30
22. Detailed Error Codes
Reset
Automatic Reset when
Overfl ow pan dries up.
by the Technician
Actions to be T aken
Automatic Reset when
switching main power ON
Automatic Reset after
5 min or when switching
main power off and on
Automatic Reset when
switching main power ON
Automatic Reset
when error conditions
disappear
After pushing on the
thermal cut-out button,
automatic reset when
switching main power ON
Error Description Humidifi er Status
No error The humidifi er is working fi ne None
Turn power off. Check for leaks around the
tank clamp, SW valve and drain tube. Make
sure tank arrows align and gasket is sealing
properly.
ongoing operation. Heating elements and
supply valve are switched off. The power
Humidifi er immediately suspends the
green light is blinking.
The fl ood sensor under the tank
senses water in the pan.
Turn power off. Clean or replace HLS or LLS
water sensors. Check for proper wiring of
HLS and LLS sensors.
Turn power off. Check SW valve circuit for
24V DC at the valve. Refer to manual (p. 20)
because of wrong information from water
level sensors. The power green light is
Humidifi er attempts to operate, then stops
The two water level sensors are
blinking.
miswired or do not read the water
level properly.
ing operation. Heating elements and supply
Humidifi er immediately suspends the ongo-
Inadequate water supply. The
(pitot tube) in duct for blockage, then make
and check for proper drain installation. Make
sure SW shut-off valve is open, SW valve is
responding and SW tube is clear of debris.
Turn power off. Check for proper drain setup
by referring to manual (p. 20). Check and
clean tank, SS siphon tube and silicon drain
tube if necessary.
Check if the FF motor is running. If not, turn
valve are switched off. The power green
light is blinking.
supply valve was open for more
than 6 minutes.
ongoing operation. Heating elements and
supply valve are switched off. The power
Humidifi er immediately suspends the
green light is blinking.
Inadequate drainage. The tank
did not drain or the draining cycle
is too long.
sure plastic tube is connected properly from
FF to continuous operation. Check fl ow sensor
ongoing operation. The unit goes back
to normal operation as soon as the error
Humidifi er immediately suspends the
The air pressure switch does not
detect enough air pressure OR
the high limit HSTAT (optional)
fl ow sensor to PD switch under PC board in
unit (see manual). Change furnace fi lter if
needed.
condition disappears. The power green light
is blinking.
senses extremely high humidity
in the duct.
Turn power off. This is a serious condition and
will likely require assistance from a service
technician. Call 1-800-336-9130.
The high temperature cut-out has tripped.
The humidifi er immediately suspends the
ongoing operation. Heating elements and
supply valve are switched off. The power
green light is blinking.
Temperature inside the tank
exceeded the high temperature
cut-out setting.
CONTRACTOR
OFF
of the red light
Number of fl ashes
ON
1
Countinuous
3
Page 31
4
5
6
Legend: SS = stainless steel, FF = furnace fan, SW = supply water, HLS = high level sensor, LLS = low level sensor
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