COMPONENTS TESTING

HEATING ELEMENT

All heat pumps and electric heat models are equipped with a heating element with the exception of model YS10M10. The other “YS” and “ES” models are equipped with a 3.3 KW element. The “YM” and “EM” models are equipped with a 4.0 KW element. The “YL” and “EL” models are equipped with a 5.2 KW element.

Heating Element

Sample

The heating element contains a fuse link and a heater limit switch. The fuse link is in series with the power supply and will open and interrupt the power when the temperature reaches 199°F or a short circuit occurs in the heating element. Once the fuse link separates, a new fuse link must be installed.

NOTE: Always replace with the exact replacement.

The heater element has a high limit control. This control is a bimetal thermostat mounted in the top of the heating element.

Should the fan motor fail or filter become clogged, the high limit control will open and interrupt power to the heater before reaching an unsafe temperature condition.

The control is designed to open at 110°F ±6°F. Test continuity below 110°F and for open above 110°F.

HEATING ELEMENT (Heat Pump Models)

The heating element for the “Y” model is energized by an outdoor thermistor via the electronic control board. The outdoor defrost thermistor is adjusted at

apredetermined temperature to bring on the heating element and turn off the compressor. The room

TESTING THE HEATING ELEMENT

WARNING

ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD

Disconnect power to the unit before servicing. Failure to follow this warning could result in serious injury or death.

Testing of the elements can be made with an ohmmeter across the terminals after the connecting wires have been removed. A cold resistance reading of approximately 14.5 ohms for the 3.3 KW heater, 11.9 ohms for the 4.0 KW heater and 9.15 ohms for the 5.2 KW heater should be registered.

DRAIN PAN VALVE

During the cooling mode of operation, condensate which collects in the drain pan is picked up by the con- denser fan blade and sprayed onto the condenser coil. This assists in cooling the refrigerant plus evaporating the water.

During the heating mode of operation, it is necessary that water be removed to prevent it from freezing during cold outside temperatures. This could cause the con- denser fan blade to freeze in the accumulated water and prevent it from turning.

To provide a means of draining this water, a bellows type drain valve is installed over a drain opening in the base pan.

This valve is temperature sensitive and will open when the outside temperature reaches 40°F. The valve will close gradually as the temperature rises above 40°F to fully close at 60°F.

Bellows Assembly

Drain Pan Valve

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Friedrich R-410A Heating Element Heat Pump Models, Testing the Heating Element Electric Shock Hazard, Drain PAN Valve
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R-410A specifications

Friedrich R-410A is an advanced refrigerant widely used in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, known for its high efficiency and environmental friendliness. As a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) blend, R-410A has become the preferred alternative to R-22, which is being phased out due to its ozone-depleting potential. One of the main features of R-410A is its high latent heat of vaporization, which allows for efficient heat transfer and improved cooling performance in air conditioning units.

Technologically, R-410A operates at higher pressures than older refrigerants, meaning systems designed for R-410A need to be built with more robust components to safely handle these pressures. This results in a more compact system design that offers enhanced performance and reliability. The dual-component nature of R-410A—composed of difluoromethane (R-32) and pentafluoroethane (R-125)—provides an optimal balance of thermodynamic properties, leading to superior energy efficiency, especially in variable speed applications.

In terms of characteristics, R-410A has a higher cooling capacity, which enables HVAC systems to effectively cool larger spaces or run more efficiently when cooling smaller areas. The refrigerant is non-toxic and non-flammable, which enhances safety during its use. In addition, R-410A has a lower global warming potential relative to other refrigerants, making it a more environmentally responsible choice for modern cooling systems.

Moreover, R-410A systems typically require less refrigerant charge due to their efficiency, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of R-410A aligns with regulatory trends aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of refrigerants in cooling applications.

Overall, the Friedrich R-410A refrigerant embodies a combination of technology and environmental stewardship, making it a cornerstone of contemporary HVAC design. Its ability to provide effective and energy-efficient cooling solutions while being compliant with modern environmental regulations positions R-410A as the refrigerant of choice for engineers and installers focused on sustainability and performance in air conditioning systems.
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