Argo Relax Style Portable Air Conditioner
SERVICE MANUAL
Read the instructions carefully before operating the appliance or carrying out maintenance work. Observe all the safety instructions; failure to observe the instructions may lead to accidents and/or damage. Store these instructions in a safe place for future reference.
Important Safety Information
The appliance is filled with flammable gas R290.
Before installing and using the appliance, read the owner manual.
Before installing the appliance, read the installation manual.
For any repairs, contact the nearest authorized Service Centre and strictly follow the manufacturer's Service Manual.
The Refrigerant R290
- The air conditioner unit uses a special refrigerant, R290, which is a natural greenhouse gas with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3. This refrigerant is flammable and odorless. While it can lead to explosions under certain conditions, its flammability is very low and requires direct fire to ignite.
- Compared to common refrigerants, R290 is non-polluting, harmless to the ozone layer, and has no effect on the greenhouse effect. It also offers excellent thermodynamic features, leading to high energy efficiency and requiring less refrigerant filling.
Warning:
- Do not attempt to accelerate defrosting or clean the appliance using methods other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
- For repairs, contact your nearest authorized Service Centre. Repairs by unqualified personnel can be dangerous.
- The appliance must be stored in a room free from continuously operating ignition sources (e.g., open flames, operating gas or electric heaters). Do not pierce or burn the unit.
- The appliance requires installation, use, and storage in a room with a floor area larger than 11 m².
- For appliances filled with R290 flammable gas, repairs must strictly follow manufacturer's instructions. Be aware that refrigerants are odorless.
General Operating and Safety Instructions
- This appliance is a local air conditioner designed for domestic use. Use it only as described in this manual.
- Ensure the power source voltage and frequency (220-240V/50 Hz) match the appliance's requirements.
- The fuse is rated T3.15AH250V; electricity passing through it should not exceed 3.15A.
- Children aged 8 years and above, and individuals with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, may use this appliance if given supervision or instruction on safe use and understanding the associated hazards.
- Children must not play with the appliance.
- Cleaning and user maintenance must not be performed by children without supervision.
- Ensure the electrical system can supply the required operating current for the air conditioner, plus that absorbed by other appliances. Refer to the data plate for maximum power input.
- Connection to the electricity grid must comply with current installation standards.
- Ensure automatic switches and system protection valves can withstand a start-up current of 6A (typically for less than 1 second).
- The system socket must have an efficient earth connection.
- Ensure the plug is fully inserted. Do not use multiple adapters. Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Ensure the plug is clean.
Operational Precautions
- Do not use the plug to start/stop the air conditioner; use the ON/OFF button on the remote control or control panel.
- Do not install the air conditioner in rooms prone to water splashes (e.g., laundry rooms).
- Children aged 8 years and older, and persons with reduced physical, sensory, and mental abilities, or lacking know-how and experience, may operate the unit under supervision, ensuring they are aware of the risks.
- Before moving or cleaning, ensure the device is unplugged.
- Do not move the air conditioner while operating. Turn it off first, check for condensate build-up, and empty if necessary.
- To turn off, set the remote control to OFF and remove the plug from the socket by pulling the plug only, not the cord.
- Do not use the appliance if the cord or plug are damaged. If the power supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, dealer, or a qualified person to avoid safety risks.
- Keep the unit away from fire, possible fire sources, and flammable or explosive objects.
- Do not leave the unit unattended while operating; turn it off and unplug it.
- If a drainage hose is used, the ambient temperature must not be lower than 0°C to prevent water leakage.
- Do not splash or pour water on the air conditioner.
PRECAUTION! Do not insert any objects into the air conditioner, as the fan operates at high speed, which is very dangerous.
Positioning and Warnings
- Ensure air circulates freely around the unit. Do not cover the air intake and delivery grilles.
WARNING!
- The air conditioner must be positioned at least 50 cm from walls or other obstacles, on a flat and stable surface, to avoid water leaks.
- The air conditioner has a compressor overload protection system. The compressor starts 3 minutes after its previous stoppage. Wait at least 3 minutes before starting the unit to prevent compressor damage.
WARNING! In case of an anomaly, switch off and unplug the appliance. Do not dismantle, repair, or modify the product. Contact the service centre directly for malfunctions.
WARNING! Do not expose the air conditioner to direct sunlight, as it may change the material color and cause overheating, triggering the protection mechanism. Do not use insecticides, oils, detergents, or spray paints near the appliance. Avoid aggressive chemical detergents for cleaning the casing, as they may damage the finish and color. Close all open windows to maximize air conditioning efficiency.
The manufacturer is not liable if safety and accident prevention rules are not observed.
Description of the Appliance
FRONT VIEW
The front view shows the portable air conditioner unit. Key components are indicated by numbers:
- 1) CONTROL PANEL AND FUNCTION BUTTONS WITHOUT REMOTE CONTROL
- 2) HORIZONTAL FINS AND AIR INTAKE
- 3) VERTICAL FINS AND AIR INTAKE
- 4) WHEELS
- 5) AIR FILTER
- 6) AIR EXPULSION HOSE END FITTING
REAR VIEW
The rear view shows the unit with additional components:
- 7) AIR EXPULSION HOSE
- 8) JOINT
- 9) END FITTING FOR WINDOW
- 10) WINDOW ACCESSORY
- 11) CORD CABLE CLAMP
- 12) REMOTE CONTROL
Operating Limits (Internal Temperature):
- Cooling: 16 °C DB / 35 °C DB
- Dehumidification: 16 °C DB / 35 °C DB
- Cooling mode room temperature adjustment range: 16 °C DB / 30 °C DB
Pre-Operating Checks and Operations
Ensure the following space is maintained for efficient operation of the portable air conditioner:
[Diagram showing the unit with 50 cm clearance required on all sides]
Appliance Start-Up
Open the packaging and remove the product and other supplied elements:
- LCD remote control
- Type AAA batteries for the remote control
- Round fitting for window (1): To be positioned between the end of the tube and the end fitting for the window (same fitting as the porthole kit A).
- Flat fitting: For positioning between the air discharge outlet and the hose.
- End fitting for window (2): Supplied in two parts to be joined with 2 flaps.
- Hose
- Clamp
- Drain hose
- Cord winder
- Screws
- Window unit kit (3 pcs) A+B+C: Includes round fitting for window unit, to be positioned between the end of the tube and the window unit (A), Window unit (B), and Cap (C).
Position the product vertically on a flat and stable surface, as close as possible to a window and at least 50 cm from walls or other nearby obstacles.
Installation
Installation of Cord Winder Hooks
Install the cord winder hooks to the back of the unit using the screws, as shown in the figure. The hooks must be positioned facing upwards and downwards.
[Diagram showing hooks attached to the back of the unit]
When the appliance is not being used, wind the power cord around the hooks.
Use with End Fitting for Window
Connect the flat fitting to the hose. Extend the hose as far as necessary to reach the outside and connect it to the back of the air conditioner.
Next, slide the flat fitting downwards into the grooves (A) and secure it with the hook (B). The upward-facing side of the flat fitting is marked "TOP".
[Diagram showing the flat fitting connecting to the hose and then to the window]
Connect the round window fitting (1) to the end of the hose, then the end fitting for the window (2), previously obtained by joining parts A and B.
Open the window and lock one of the leaves with the handle. Place the end fitting against the fixed leaf of the window, and draw the other leaf towards it.
Use with Window Unit Kit
- To make the hole in the glass, it is advisable to take the porthole kit accessory to a glazier.
- Insert the window unit into the window.
- Insert the round fitting onto the flexible pipe.
- Insert the round fitting into the retractable flexible pipe and insert the latter with its round fitting into the window unit without the plug.
- Insert the flat fitting onto the hose.
- Slide the flat fitting downwards into the grooves (A) and secure it with the hook (B). The upward-facing side of the flat fitting is marked "TOP".
- The outlet must be between 40 cm and 130 cm above the ground. Avoid tight curves or bends in the flexible hose.
[Diagrams illustrating steps for installing the unit into a window, including making a glass hole, inserting the unit, connecting the hose, and securing the fitting.]
[Diagram showing the correct outlet height (40-130 cm) and avoiding bends in the hose.]
If the air conditioner is not used for prolonged periods, disconnect the pipe and plug the window unit.
How to Use the Appliance
This appliance can be used for cooling, dehumidifying, and ventilating.
When switching between modes, the fan continues to rotate, but the compressor stops. The compressor will start after a 3-minute delay to prevent potential damage.
[Diagram showing the unit in Cooling/Fan mode with discharge tube pointing outwards]
[Diagram showing the unit in Dehumidifying mode with discharge tube removed or pointing downwards]
The discharge tube must always be connected to the appliance, except when used solely for dehumidification, in which case it is advisable to let the appliance discharge directly into the environment for maximum efficiency (refer to the "Dehumidification Mode" paragraph).
Regularly clean the air filters beneath the easily removable rear grille to maintain efficient operation.
Operating Modes
- COOLING MODE (COOL)
- Upon first use, the air conditioner operates in ventilation mode.
- Press the MODE button to select Cool mode. The "Cool" LED will illuminate.
- Temperature can be adjusted between 16 °C and 30 °C.
- In this mode, the unit saves the temperature setting when switched off and resumes it upon switching back on.
- Fan speed can be adjusted, and Timer and SLEEP functions can be set. For quieter operation, use a low fan speed.
- DEHUMIDIFICATION MODE (DRY)
- Press the MODE button to select Dry.
- Temperature is controlled by the PCB and cannot be regulated.
- The unit saves settings when switched off and resumes them upon switching back on.
- Fan speed is fixed at low and cannot be adjusted.
NOTE: The air conditioner does not cool the room when used as a dehumidifier. For maximum dehumidification efficiency, the flexible hose must not be connected, allowing discharge directly into the environment.
- VENTILATION MODE (FAN ONLY)
- Press the MODE button to select Fan; the relative icon will appear.
- Fan speed can be adjusted.
- Temperature cannot be adjusted.
The dehumidification mode is recommended during autumn and winter. If used in summer, attach the flexible hose to discharge hot air outside. During dehumidification, continuous drainage is recommended.
How to Eliminate Condensate
This appliance automatically vaporizes condensate in cooling mode. Continuous drainage is usually not required, but may occur in very humid conditions. When the inner tank is full, the air conditioner beeps 8 times and displays "H8", stopping operation.
Installation of the Drainage Hose
- Remove the rubber plug at the back of the unit (1).
- Mount the clamp (2) onto the back of the unit, to the right of the drainage opening (1), using a screw (3).
- Screw the drainage hose (4) onto the drainage opening and secure it with the clip (2).
- Insert the cap onto the other end of the drainage hose (1), secure it with the clip (2), then insert it into the clamp (5).
[Diagrams showing steps for attaching the drainage hose.]
Cooling: When operating in cooling mode, ensure the rubber cap closing the drainage opening is properly positioned. To empty the container, switch off and unplug the unit. Remove the cap, place its end over a drain, ensuring the tube is not twisted or bent and slopes downwards. Re-close the opening with the cap, insert it into the clamp, and resume use.
Dehumidification
WARNING! In dehumidification mode, ensure continuous drainage for maximum efficiency. Use the drainage outlet and connect a 14 mm internal diameter tube (not supplied) to a drain.
- Remove the cap by turning it anti-clockwise, then remove the plug.
- Screw the connection tube provided clockwise.
- Insert the drainage tube into the connection tube.
- Avoid bends in the drainage tube.
[Diagrams showing steps for connecting the drainage tube.]
Remote Control Operation
For optimum operation, address the transmitter head towards the receiver on the air conditioner. Press the ON/OFF button; the icon on the remote display will flash, and a sound signal will indicate the signal has been sent.
In off mode, the set temperature and timer are displayed on the remote control.
[Diagram of the remote control with numbered buttons (1-7) and a display with lettered indicators (A-N, M, L).]
Remote Control Buttons and Functions:
Button | Function | Indicator |
---|---|---|
1. ON/OFF Button | Switches the unit on or off. Saves last settings. | |
2. MODE Button | Selects operating modes: Cooling (COOL), Dehumidification (DRY), Ventilation (FAN). | COOL LED illuminates in Cool mode. |
3. TEMPERATURE + / - AND TIMER ADJUSTMENT BUTTONS | Adjusts temperature (16-30 °C) in Cool mode. Also used for setting the TIMER. | '+' increases temp by 1°C, '-' decreases by 1°C. |
4. FAN Button | Adjusts ventilation speed in Cooling mode (AUTO, Low, Medium, High). Fan speed is fixed to low in DRY mode. | |
5. SWING Button | Activates/deactivates horizontal louver swing. | |
6. SLEEP Button (Remote control only) | Activates Sleep function, adjusting temperature for comfort and energy saving. Not available in Ventilation, Dehumidification, or Auto modes. | Indicator light on remote display. |
7. TIMER Button | Sets Timer-on (automatic switch-on) or Timer-off (automatic switch-off) from 0.5 to 24 hours. | T-ON/T-OFF icons on remote. |
Remote Control Indicators:
- A. Cooling
- B. Dehumidification
- C. Ventilation
- D. Temperature setting
- E. Timer setting
- F. Speed setting
- G. Lock
- H. Sleep mode setting
- I. Swing on/off
- L. Signal transmission
- M. T-ON on timer
- N. T-OFF off timer
Battery Information:
- Use only type AAA 1.5V batteries.
- Remove batteries if the remote control is not used for a month or longer.
- Do not attempt to recharge batteries. Replace all batteries simultaneously.
- Do not throw batteries into fire, as they may explode.
Information for Correct Disposal of Batteries (EU Directive 2006/66/EC): Replace depleted batteries. Dispose of used batteries separately from unsorted waste at designated collection points. This prevents negative environmental and health effects and allows for material recovery and recycling.
[Diagram showing battery insertion into the remote control]
Temperature and Error Display
The temperature and error display lights up only in COOL mode. In DRY and FAN modes, the display does not light up.
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
H8 | Tank full of water. | Empty the tank. If the problem persists, contact a service centre. |
F1 | Room temperature sensor failure. | Contact a service centre. |
F2 | Failure of temperature sensor on the evaporator. | Contact a service centre. |
F0 | Refrigerant leakage. Air conditioner out of order. | Contact a service centre. |
H3 | Overload protection device on compressor. | Contact a service centre. |
E8 | Overload protection. | The room temperature exceeds the appliance's operating range (beyond 35°C) or there is too much humidity. Wait for the temperature to drop below 35°C. |
F4 | The external temperature sensor has short-circuited. | Check if the evaporator and compressor are obstructed by objects. If they are, remove the objects, disconnect the unit, then restore the power supply. Clear obstructed ventilation grilles. If the problem persists, contact a service centre. |
Safety Functions
- Remote Control Lock: Simultaneously press "+" and "-" to lock the remote control. The "Lock" icon will light up, and the remote will not respond to commands.
- Switching Between °C and °F: Press the "-" and "MODE" buttons simultaneously to switch between °C and °F.
- Light Function: Press the "+" and "FAN" buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to activate/deactivate the lamp.
Care and Maintenance
WARNING! Prior to carrying out any cleaning or maintenance, unplug the unit from the power socket.
1. Cleaning the Air Filters
The air filter must be checked at least once every two weeks. Dirty or clogged filters reduce effectiveness and can cause problems.
To remove the filter, release the rear grille and slide out the filter by gently pulling it sideways.
[Diagram showing how to remove the filter from the rear grille]
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. If insufficient, wash the filter with lukewarm water and neutral detergent, rinse with cold water, and allow to dry naturally before reinserting. Close the grille afterwards.
2. Cleaning the Casing
Use a soft damp cloth to clean the outer surface. Do not use hot water, solvents, petrol, aggressive chemical compounds, talcum powder, or brushes, as they may damage the surface or color.
Remove stains with warm water and a little neutral detergent.
Do not pour water onto the air conditioner to clean it, as this may damage internal components or cause a short circuit.
[Diagram showing a cloth cleaning the unit, with "SOLVENT" and "PETROL" crossed out with "NO"]
3. Storage
If the appliance will not be used for a long time, clean the filters before storing. Keep the appliance in a vertical position. Do not place heavy objects on top. Protect with a plastic sheet if possible.
[Diagram showing the unit in a vertical position]
4. Transport
Preferably transport the air conditioner in a vertical position. If not possible, rest it on its right-hand side. Upon reaching its destination, immediately place it vertically and wait at least 4 hours before using it in cooling mode.
[Diagram showing the unit in a vertical position and then on its side]
5. Power Cord Check
For complete safety, regularly check the condition of the power cord. If damaged, contact the Service Centre for replacement.
Tips for Maximising Comfort and Minimising Consumption
Check that:
- The unit's extraction and delivery grilles are always unobstructed.
- The air filters are always clean; a dirty filter reduces air passage and unit performance.
- Doors and windows are closed to prevent infiltration of unconditioned air.
- The flexible hose is correctly positioned, without folds or sharp bends.
- The room temperature is above 18 °C for cooling mode and above 10 °C for dehumidification mode.
Regulations and Disposal
REGULATION (EU) No. 517/2014 – F-GAS
The unit contains R290, a natural greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) = 3. Kg: 0.22 = 0.00066 Tons CO2 equiv. Do not release R290 into the atmosphere.
Information for Correct Disposal of the Product (European Directive 2012/19/EU)
This appliance must not be scrapped with domestic waste at the end of its life cycle. Consumers play a crucial role in the re-use, recycling, and recovery of waste. The appliance must be disposed of by a sorted waste disposal centre or returned to the retailer (at no charge when purchasing a new equivalent appliance).
Sorted disposal of electrical and electronic equipment prevents negative environmental and health effects from improper scrapping and allows for material recovery and recycling, saving energy and resources. The "crossed-out dustbin" symbol on the appliance indicates the requirement for sorted disposal.
[The crossed-out dustbin symbol is represented here as text: ♺]
For more information, visit: www.argoclima.com