TCL Portable Air Conditioner Owner's Manual

Introduction

This section provides an overview of the manual's contents, including important safety instructions, parts and features, how to use the unit, installation instructions, care and cleaning, and troubleshooting.

Important Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Your safety and the safety of others is very important. Always read and obey all safety messages.

Safety Alert Symbol: This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can hurt you and others. All safety messages will follow this symbol and either the word “WARNING” or “CAUTION”.

• WARNING: Indicates the possibility of death or serious injury.
• CAUTION: Indicates the possibility of injury or damage to property.

Basic Safety Precautions

• WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury:
• Do not attempt to repair or replace any part of your air conditioner unless specifically recommended in this manual. Refer all other services to a qualified technician.
• If the power cord is worn or damaged, it should only be replaced by a qualified service technician using genuine replacement parts.
• The air conditioner should be plugged into its own grounded circuit (15A, 60Hz, 115VAC). Do not plug other appliances into the same outlet to avoid overloading the circuit.
• Do not remove the round grounding prong from the plug.
• Supervise children to ensure they do not play with or climb on the air conditioner.
• Remove all packaging materials before use.
• Do not disassemble or modify the air conditioner or power cord.
• Do not place the power cord or air conditioner near heat sources.
• Do not use the appliance near flammable gases or liquids.
• Ensure the power cord is plugged firmly and completely into the outlet.
• Do not start or stop operation by plugging in or unplugging the power cord.
• If the air conditioner makes unusual sounds or emits smoke or an unusual odor, unplug it immediately.
• Do not use if the electrical socket is loose or damaged.
• Do not operate with wet hands or in a damp environment.
• Do not use this or any electrical appliance if you smell gas.
• Turn off and unplug the air conditioner before cleaning.
• Do not clean the unit with water; water can damage insulation and create a shock hazard.
• Utilize two or more people to lift and install the unit.

Electrical Safety

• WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
• This unit must be properly grounded. Do not cut or remove the ground prong.
• If you do not have a properly grounded outlet, have a qualified electrician check the outlet and circuit.
• This air conditioner must be plugged into a grounded 60 Hz, 115 VAC outlet protected by a 15 amp time delay fuse or circuit breaker.
• This air conditioner must be installed in accordance with national wiring codes.
• Do not use an extension cord.

Integrated Circuit Breaker

The power cord features an integrated circuit breaker with TEST and RESET buttons. Test the circuit breaker periodically by pressing the TEST button. If it does not trip, or if the RESET button does not stay engaged, unplug the unit and contact a service technician.

Grounding Methods

• Preferred Grounding Method: Ensure proper ground exists before use.
• Temporary Grounding Method: (Use of adapter plugs is not permitted in Canada) Ensure proper ground exists before use.

The use of an adapter plug is strongly discouraged due to potential safety hazards. To prevent damage to the adapter's ground terminal, hold the adapter in place while plugging in or unplugging the air conditioner. Attaching the adapter ground terminal to the wall receptacle cover screw does not ground the appliance unless the cover screw is metal and not insulated, and the wall receptacle is grounded through the house wiring. Frequent connection and disconnection can damage the ground terminal on the adapter. Never use a broken or damaged adapter.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Parts and Features

Key Parts and Components

• 1. Air Outlet Grill
• 2. Control Panel
• 3. Carrying Handle
• 4. Casters/wheels
• 5. Power cord
• 6. Air Filter
• 7. Middle drainage
• 8. Air Exhaust
• 9. Air Intake Grill
• 10. Condensation Drain hole
• 11. Exhaust Hose
• 12. Window Kit Adapter
• 13. Exhaust hose connector
• 14. Window Kit
• 15. Caster Locks
• 16. Remote Controller
• 17. Rubber plug
• 18. Screws
• 19. Foam seal type 1
• 20. Foam seal type 2

A diagram shows the location of these parts on the air conditioner unit.

Control Panel

The control panel features buttons for various modes and settings:

• Timer: For setting delayed start or shutdown.
• Mode Selection: Buttons for Cool, Eco, Dry, Fan, and Filter modes.
• Adjust Temperature or Timer: Up (▲) and Down (▼) arrows to adjust temperature or timer settings.
• Fan Speed/Filter Reset: Buttons to select fan speed (Hi, Med, Low, Auto) and reset the filter indicator.
• Power ON/OFF: Button to turn the unit on or off.

The control panel display shows the current mode, fan speed, and temperature.

Power On and Off

Plug the unit into the main socket. Press the POWER button to turn the unit on. Press it again to turn it off.

Cool Mode

Press the MODE button until the Cool mode indicator is lit. Select fan speed using the Fan Speed button. Adjust temperature using the ▲ and ▼ buttons.

Dry Mode

Press the MODE button until the Dry mode indicator lights. The screen displays the room temperature, and the “low” fan indicator lights. Fan speed cannot be selected in this mode.

Fan Mode

Press the MODE button until the Fan mode indicator lights. Select fan speed (Hi, Med, Low, Auto). The screen displays room temperature. The air exhaust hose does not need to be connected in this mode.

Eco Mode

Press the MODE button until the ECO mode indicator lights. Select fan speed using the fan speed button. Adjust temperature using the ▲ and ▼ buttons. The unit runs in energy saver mode. The fan may cycle on and off to maintain the set temperature.

Timer Mode

The timer allows for delayed unit startup or shutdown.

• How to delay startup: Plug in the unit to standby. Press the Timer button. Set desired operating mode, fan speed, and temperature. Confirm settings by pressing the Timer button again. Use ▲ or ▼ buttons to set the start-up time (0.5-hour increments up to 10 hours, then 1-hour increments up to 24 hours). Press the Timer button again to confirm. The unit will start up automatically at the set time. To cancel, press the Timer button again.
• How to delay shutdown: With the unit on, press the Timer button. Use ▲ or ▼ buttons to set the delay shutdown time (0.5-hour increments up to 10 hours, then 1-hour increments up to 24 hours). Press the Timer button again to confirm. The unit will shut down automatically after the set time. To cancel, press the Timer button again.

Filter Reset

The filter indicator illuminates after 250 hours of operation as a reminder to clean the air filter. To reset the indicator after cleaning, hold the “fan speed” button for 5 seconds.

How to Use

Remote Control

The remote control operates the air conditioner. It includes buttons for:

• LCD Display
• Power ON/OFF
• Mode Selection (Cool, Eco, Dry, Fan, Filter)
• Timer
• Sleep Mode
• Fan Speed (Hi, Med, Low, Auto)
• Temperature Adjustment (°F/°C)
• Swing

Inserting or Replacing the Batteries

Remove the cover on the rear of the remote control. Replace old batteries with two new “AAA” 1.5V batteries, inserting them correctly. Replace the cover. Point the remote control at the control panel. The remote control must be no more than 16 ft (5 meters) away from the unit, with no obstacles. Handle the remote control with care; do not drop it or expose it to direct sunlight or heat.

Dispose of batteries in accordance with legislation. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Do not dispose of batteries in fire.

Using the Remote Control

Turning the Unit On

Plug into the outlet. Press the POWER button. The unit starts operating in the same mode as when it was turned off. To switch the unit off, press the POWER button again, then remove the plug. Do NOT switch the unit off by removing the plug. Always switch off using the POWER button and wait a few minutes before removing the plug.

Cool Mode

Press the MODE button until the Cool mode indicator is lit. Press the Fan Speed button to choose the fan speed (Hi, Med, Low, Auto). Press the ▲ and ▼ buttons to choose the temperature.

Dry Mode

Press the MODE button until the Dry mode indicator lights. The screen displays the room temperature, and the “low” fan indicator lights. Fan speeds cannot be selected.

Fan Mode

Press the MODE button until the Fan mode indicator lights. Select fan speed (Hi, Med, Low, Auto). The screen displays room temperature. The air exhaust hose does not need to be connected.

Eco Mode

Press the MODE button until the ECO mode indicator lights. Select fan speed using the Fan Speed button. Adjust temperature using the ▲ and ▼ buttons. The unit runs in energy saver mode. The fan may cycle on and off to maintain the set temperature.

Sleep Mode

When the unit is in Cool, Heat, or ECO mode, press the “sleep” button to activate Sleep mode. Fan speed is automatically set to “low” and cannot be changed. In Cool or ECO mode, the temperature increases by 1°F after 60 minutes, and again after another 60 minutes, then maintains this new temperature for 6 hours before returning to the original setting. In Heat mode, the temperature decreases by 1°F per hour for 3 hours, then remains steady for 5 hours. Sleep mode can be cancelled by pressing the “Sleep”, “mode”, or “fan speed” button. Sleep mode cannot be set in Fan or Dry mode.

Louver Swing Function

Press the “swing” button to enable louver swing. The arrow indicator will light up. The louver on the top panel will swing up and down. Press the button again to disable the function.

°F /°C Function

Press the “°F /°C” button to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius.

Timer Mode

• How to program the delayed start up: Plug in the unit to standby. Press the Timer button. Set desired mode, fan speed, and temperature. Confirm settings by pressing the Timer button. Use ▲ or ▼ buttons to set the start-up time (0.5-hour increments up to 10 hours, then 1-hour increments up to 24 hours). Press the Timer button again to confirm. The unit starts up automatically. To cancel, press the Timer button again.
• How to program the delayed shutdown: With the unit on, press the Timer button. Use ▲ or ▼ buttons to set the delay shutdown time (0.5-hour increments up to 10 hours, then 1-hour increments up to 24 hours). Press the Timer button again to confirm. The unit shuts down automatically. To cancel, press the Timer button again.

Fault Code

• AS: Room temperature sensor has failed. Contact Authorized Service Center.
• ES: Pipe temperature sensor has failed. Contact Authorized Service Center.
• P1: The water collection tank is full. Refer to "Drainage Instructions" for draining. If error repeats, contact Authorized Service Center.

Installation Instructions

Preparing for Installation

Exhausting Hot Air

For Cool Mode, the appliance must be placed close to a window or opening to duct warm exhaust air outside. Ensure minimum 12" clearance around the unit and proximity to a single circuit outlet.

1. Extend one side of the hose and screw it to connector A.
2. Extend the other side of the hose and screw it to connector B.
3. Install connector B into the unit.
4. Affix connector A into the window slider kit and seal.

Diagrams illustrate hose extension and connection to the unit and window kit.

The hose can be extended up to 59", but it is best to keep the length to a minimum. Avoid sharp bends or sags in the hose.

Installation in a double-hung sash window

1. Cut foam seals A to proper lengths and attach them to the window and stool.
2. Open the window sash and place the window slider kit on the window stool. Attach the slider kit, adjusting its length to the window width. Screw down the two screws. Cut the adjustable slider kit if the window width is less than 26.6 inches.
3. Close the window sash securely against the window slider kit.
4. Drive two 1/2" screws to secure the window slider kit to the window sash.
5. Secure the window slider kit to the window stool using 3/4" screws for wooden windows or 1/2" hex head cap screws for Vinyl-Clad windows.
6. To secure the lower sash, attach a right angle sash lock with a 1/2" screw. Note: Locking may be difficult for Vinyl-Clad windows; use the window itself to lock.
7. Cut foam seal B to an appropriate length and seal the gap between the top window sash and outer window sash.

Diagrams illustrate the installation process for double-hung windows.

Installation in a sliding sash window

1. Cut foam seals A to proper lengths and attach them to the window frame.
2. Open the window sash and place the window slider kit on the window stool. Attach the slider kit, adjusting its length to the window height. Screw down the two screws. Cut the adjustable slider kit if the window height is less than 26.6 inches.
3. Close the window sash securely against the window slider kit.
4. Drive two 1/2" screws to secure the window slider kit to the window sash.
5. Drive two 3/4" screws to secure the window slider kit to the window stool.
6. Cut foam seal B to an appropriate length and seal the gap between the sliding sash and outer window sash.
7. To secure the sliding sash, attach a right angle sash lock with a 1/2" screw.

Diagrams illustrate the installation process for sliding sash windows.

Continuous Drainage

For DRY mode, a garden hose (sold separately) is needed to drain condensate.

• Unscrew the drain cap of the continuous drain outlet.
• Connect one end of the garden hose to the drain outlet and lead the other end into a drain lower than the unit.

Note: Condensate may flow out when removing the drain cap. Prepare a drip tray. Ensure the drain and hose section are not higher than the drain outlet. For Cool or ECO mode, it is recommended to disable continuous drainage by replacing the drain cap.

Emptying the condensate residue inside the unit during winter storage.

• Put a drip tray under the continuous drain outlet, then unscrew the drain cap to allow condensate to flow into the tray. Replace the drain cap when no condensate flows out.
• Put a drip tray under the bottom drain outlet, then remove the rubber stopper from the drain outlet to allow condensate to flow into the tray. Replace the drain cap when no condensate flows out.

Note: Tilt the unit slightly upwards from the front until no more condensate comes out from the drain outlet to ensure all residue is removed.

Care and Cleaning

Cleaning

Unplug the unit before cleaning to prevent shock or fire hazards.

Cleaning the Unit

Dust the cabinet and front with an oil-free cloth or a cloth dampened in warm water and mild liquid dishwashing detergent. Do not use harsh cleaners, wax, or polish. Wring excess water from the cloth before wiping around controls.

Cleaning the Filters

Clean the filters every week for efficient operation. Grasp the upper panel tab and remove the filter. Wash the filter using liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and shake off excess water. Ensure the filter is completely dry before replacing. Alternatively, vacuum the filter clean. Replace the filter after it is dry.

Winter Storage

If the air conditioner will not be used for an extended period:

1. Drain the water collection tank completely and leave the bottom drain cap and rubber plug removed long enough for residual water to drain. Reinstall the rubber plug and cap once drained.
2. Remove and clean the filter, allow it to dry completely, then reinstall it.
3. Remove the batteries from the remote control.
4. Store the air conditioner in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and excessive dust.

Before using the air conditioner again:

1. Ensure the filter and drain cap are in place.
2. Check the cord for damage.
3. Place new batteries in the remote control.
4. Install the air conditioner as described in the Installation Instructions.

Troubleshooting

Before Calling for Service

Review this list to save time and expense.