Costway Mini Split Air Conditioner
User's Manual
Models: FP10293US, FP10302US, FP10318US, FP10324US
Important Safety Information
Please read and keep this instruction booklet for future reference. The installation of this equipment should be done only by a licensed electrician or an HVAC technician.
WARNING: Flammable Refrigerant
This air conditioner uses R32 flammable refrigerant. Mishandling can cause serious harm. Ensure installation, use, repair, and storage spaces are well-ventilated (greater than 5m²). Do not exceed 1.7kg of refrigerant. Never pierce or burn the unit. Store away from ignition sources. Handle refrigerant with care and consult professionals for maintenance.
Safety Precautions Summary
- Grounding: The air conditioner must be grounded. Incomplete grounding may result in electric shocks. Do not connect the earth wire to gas, water, lightning, or telephone lines.
- Power Supply: Always switch off the device and cut the power supply when not in use. Do not operate with wet hands. Do not share sockets with other appliances.
- Maintenance: Always switch off the device and cut the power supply before any maintenance or cleaning.
- Usage Restrictions: Do not install in places with flammable gas or liquid (minimum 1m distance). Do not use in lightning storm weather. Do not put hands or objects into air inlets/outlets. Do not block air inlet or outlet. Do not use for drying clothes or preserving food. Do not apply cold air directly to the body for extended periods. Ensure the outdoor unit is stable.
- Repairs: Do not attempt to repair the air conditioner yourself. Contact a qualified service technician.
- Installation: Install according to national wiring regulations. Use an earth leakage breaker (rated capacity not exceeding 30 mA). Ensure power supply circuit has leakage protector and air switch rated for 1.5 times the maximum current.
- Environment: Avoid places with flammable/explosive gases, strong electric/magnetic fields, noise, severe natural conditions, or within reach of children. Ensure good ventilation.
- Electrical Safety: Use rated voltage and dedicated circuit. Ensure proper cable diameter. Use air switch or leakage protection switch for current ≥ 16A. Operating range is 90%-110% of rated voltage. Minimum clearance from combustibles is 1.5m.
- WEEE Warning: Do not dispose of electrical appliances as unsorted municipal waste. Use separate collection facilities.
Notices for Usage
Operating Conditions
The air conditioner may stop running or show anomalies outside the following temperature ranges:
Mode | Location | Temperature Range |
---|---|---|
Cooling | Outdoor | >43°C (Apply to T1) |
Indoor | >52°C (Apply to T3) | |
Heating | Outdoor | <-7°C |
Indoor | <18°C |
High temperatures may activate protection devices. Low temperatures may cause freezing of the heat exchanger. High humidity (above 80%) with open doors/windows may cause condensation.
Notes for Heating
- The indoor unit fan may not start immediately during heating to avoid blowing cool air.
- Frost may form on the outdoor unit in cold, wet conditions, triggering a defrost cycle (5-12 minutes). Vapor may be emitted during defrost, which is normal.
Notes for Turning Off
When turned off, the controller may stop the unit immediately or after a short run with reduced speed.
Emergency Operation
If the remote controller is lost or broken, use the force switch button. Pushing it with the unit OFF starts Auto mode; pushing it with the unit ON stops the unit.
Airflow Direction Adjustment
Use up-down and left-right swing buttons on the remote controller. For models without left-right swing, the air vent must be moved manually. Move air vents before operation to avoid finger injury. Never place hands into air inlets or outlets during operation.
Specific Caution
Open the front panel of the indoor unit. Ensure the connector does not touch the terminal board.
Names of Each Part
Indoor Unit
Two types (Fig A, Fig B) exist; actual shape prevails. Components include Air inlet grille, Panel, Air filter, Air louver, Air vent, Air outlet, Force switch, Pipe protection ring.
Outdoor Unit
Components include Air inlet, Power cable, Air outlet grille, Pipe protection ring, Connecting pipe, Drain hose, Air outlet.
Note: Illustrations are for explanation; actual units may differ. Plug, WIFI, Negative-ion, and swing functions may be optional.
Clean and Care
General Cleaning Precautions
- [Warning] Shut down and cut off power for at least 5 minutes before cleaning.
- Do not wet the air conditioner.
- Use a soft dry cloth or a damp cloth with neutral detergent for the housing. Avoid volatile liquids like thinner or gasoline.
- Clean the filter regularly to maintain performance. Avoid touching the fin part of the indoor unit.
Clean the Panel
Clean the indoor unit panel with a wrung towel using tepid water below 40°C. Do not remove the panel during cleaning.
Clean the Air Filter
Remove the air filter by opening the panel (Fig A) or accessing it above the fuselage (Fig B). Rinse with a vacuum cleaner or water. For greasy dirt, use warm water (below 45°C) with mild detergent, then air dry.
Mount the Filter
Reinstall the dried filter in reverse order of removal and lock the panel.
Check Before Using
- Check air inlets/outlets are unblocked.
- Check drain pipe outlet for blockages.
- Verify ground wire is grounded.
- Check remote control batteries and power.
- Inspect outdoor unit mounting bracket for damage.
Maintain After Using
- Cut off power, turn off the main switch, and remove remote batteries.
- Clean the filter and unit body.
- Remove dust/debris from the outdoor unit.
- Inspect outdoor unit mounting bracket for damage.
Troubleshooting
[Caution] Do not repair yourself; contact an authorized service center.
Phenomenon | Troubleshooting |
---|---|
Air conditioner does not work. | Check for power outages, loose plug, blown fuse, or active timer. |
Cannot run after immediate start-up. | Protective delay switch may delay operation by 3-5 minutes. |
Stops running after a while. | Reached setting temperature, in defrosting state, or Shutdown Timer is set. |
Poor cooling/heating effect. |
|
Indoor unit blows out odor. | Clean air filter or activate cleaning function. Odor may be from the environment. |
Sound of running water during operation. | Normal sound of refrigerant flow. |
Slight "click" sound at start-up/shut-down. | Normal sound due to temperature changes causing parts to swell. |
Indoor unit makes abnormal sound. |
|
Water drops on indoor unit surface. |
|
Indoor unit blows out mist during cooling. | Normal when indoor temperature/humidity is high; mist disappears as unit runs. |
Immediately stop operations and contact the service center if: Harsh sound or awful odor occurs, power cable/plug is abnormal, unit/remote has impurity/water, or air switch/leakage protection switch is frequently disconnected.
Installation Service
Important Notices
- Contact local authorized maintenance center for installation.
- Install according to national wiring rules and manual.
- Refrigerant leak test is mandatory after installation.
- Contact a special service center for moving or re-installing.
Unpacking Inspection
Open box in a well-ventilated area without ignition sources. Operators should wear anti-static devices. Professional check for refrigerant leakage is required before opening the outdoor unit box. Prepare fire prevention and anti-static equipment. Check refrigerant pipeline for damage.
Safety Principles for Installing Air Conditioner
- Prepare fire prevention device. Keep site ventilated.
- No ignition sources, smoking, or calling allowed where R32 refrigerant is present.
- Use anti-static precautions (e.g., cotton clothes, gloves).
- Use leak detector during installation. If R32 leakage occurs, detect concentration until safe. Stop operation if performance is affected and vacuum the unit.
- Keep electrical appliances, switches, sockets, heat sources, and static away from indoor unit sidelines.
- Install in an accessible location, free from obstacles blocking air inlets/outlets, and away from heat sources or flammable/explosive conditions.
- Use correct length connecting lines; extension is not allowed. Use new connection pipe unless re-flaring.
Requirements For Installation Position
Avoid places with flammable/explosive gases, strong artificial electric/magnetic fields, noise, severe natural conditions, or within reach of children. Shorten connection between units. Select easy-to-service locations with good ventilation. Do not install outdoor unit in aisles, stairways, exits, fire escapes, or public areas. Install as far as possible from neighbors' doors/windows and green plants.
Installation Environment Inspection
Check outdoor unit nameplate for R32 refrigerant. Ensure room space is adequate (≥5m²). Install outdoor unit in a well-ventilated place. R32 units should not be in enclosed reserved spaces. Check for pre-buried pipelines before drilling walls.
Requirements of the Mounting Structure
Mounting rack must meet national/industrial standards, be rustproofed. It must withstand 4 times the unit's weight or 200kg, whichever is heavier. Fasten with expansion bolts for secure installation.
Electrical Safety Requirements
- Use rated voltage and dedicated circuit. Cable diameter must meet national requirements.
- For current ≥16A, use air switch or leakage protection switch.
- Operating range: 90%-110% of rated voltage.
- Minimum clearance from combustibles: 1.5m.
- Interconnection cord size must be chosen carefully. Supply cords for outdoor use should be 1.5-3m long (EXTRA HARD USAGE or HARD USAGE CORD).
- Refer to the table for minimum cross-sectional area of power cable and interconnection cord based on appliance current (North America and Other Regions).
- Maximum current is indicated on the unit's nameplate.
- Disconnection means must be incorporated in fixed wiring.
Requirements for Operations at Raised Height
For installation at 2m or higher, wear safety belts and use strong ropes to prevent falling.
Grounding Requirements
The air conditioner is Class I electrical appliance; ensure reliable grounding. Do not connect grounding wire to gas/water pipes, lightning rods, or poorly grounded circuits. Use the specially designed grounding wire. Interconnection cord diameter should match standards; use Type O terminals. Check screw tightness after installation.
Others
Connection methods are subject to the wiring diagram affixed to the machine. Fuse model/rating is on the silkscreen.
Packing List
Indoor Unit: 1 Set Indoor Unit, 1 PC Remote Controller, 2 PC Batteries (7#), 1 Set Instructions, 1 PC Drain pipe. (Optional parts may not be included).
Outdoor Unit: 1 Set Outdoor Unit, 2 PC Connecting pipe, 1 ROLL Plastic Strap, 1 PC Pipe Protection Ring, 1 PACKET Luting (putty). (Optional parts may not be included).
Installation for Indoor Unit
Dimension drawing of indoor unit installation
Diagram shows required clearances: 15cm above to ceiling, 20cm above to wall, 20cm above to wall, and space to the floor. Dimensions 230-260cm are indicated.
Mounting plate
- Ensure the wall is hard and firm to prevent vibration.
- Use a "+" type screw to mount the peg board horizontally and vertically.
- Pull the peg board after installation to confirm solidity.
Wall-through Hole
- Drill a hole (approx. 60mm-80mm) on the wall, slanting 5°-10° outwards for piping.
- Install a pipe protecting ring and seal with putty to protect piping/cables and prevent rodent entry. Avoid pre-buried wires and hard walls.
Route of Pipeline
Piping can be routed sideways (Fig 1) or vertically from the back (Fig 2). Cut off outlet stock on the opposite side for sideways routing.
Install the connection pipe
- Remove the fixed part, screw the hexagon nut to the joint.
- Connect the connecting pipe to the indoor unit. Tighten the Taper nut with fingers, then with a torque wrench. Refer to the tightening torque table for different pipe sizes (e.g., Ф6/Φ6.35: 15-25 N·m).
Note: Check for joint damage. Joints cannot be reused unless re-flared. For units with quick connectors, refer to the separate booklet.
Wrap the Piping
- Use insulation sleeve and insulating material to wrap the joint part and pipe to prevent condensate generation.
- Connect water outlet with drain pipes. Straighten pipes, cables, and drain hose.
- Use plastic cable ties to secure pipes, cables, and drain hose. Ensure the pipe slopes downward.
Fixing the Indoor Unit
- Hang the indoor unit on the peg board, moving it left/right to position the hook correctly.
- Push the unit towards the peg board until the hook clicks into place.
Interconnection cord installation
- Open the panel, remove the wiring cover.
- Route the interconnection cord through the back hole and out the front.
- Connect the cord to the wiring terminal according to the wiring diagram. Tighten screws and secure with wire clip.
Note: Wiring diagrams are for reference; refer to the unit's attached diagram if different. Constant speed and variable speed wiring are shown.
- Replace and tighten the wiring cover.
- Close the panel.
After installation check
- Verify screw tightness.
- Check display board connector placement.
- Ensure control box cover is secure.
Installation for Outdoor Unit
Dimension drawing of outdoor unit installation
Diagram shows required clearances: 50cm above to obstruction, 10cm above to air inlet, 30cm above to obstruction, 50cm above to obstruction, 200cm above to air outlet. Includes a table for Outdoor Unit Size of Shape (W1/W2*H*D) with corresponding A and B dimensions for bolts.
Install the connection pipe
- Aim the counter-bore of the connecting pipe at the stop valve and tighten the Taper nut with fingers, then with a torque wrench.
- When changing connecting pipe length, adjust refrigerant amount accordingly (refer to table for Added or reduced refrigerant based on pipe length and unit BTU).
Note: Joints cannot be reused unless re-flared. Check stop valve cover. For quick connectors, refer to separate booklet.
Wiring Connection
- Loosen screws, remove E-parts cover.
- Connect cables to outdoor unit terminal board as per wiring diagram. Connect signals to plug if applicable.
- Ground wire: Remove grounding screw, attach wire end, and screw into grounding hole.
- Secure cables with fasteners.
- Replace and fasten E-parts cover.
Wiring diagram: Diagrams for constant speed and variable speed units show connections to indoor units and power.
Vacuuming
[Warning] Exclusive R32 refrigerant pump required. Remove stop valve covers and retighten. Prevent air leakage. Connect stop valve, charge hose, manifold valve, and vacuum pump. Open Lo handle, apply vacuum for at least 15 minutes until gauge reads -0.1MPa (-76cmHg). Fully open stop valve with hex wrench. Check for air leaks.
Note: Units with quick connectors do not require vacuum pumping.
Outdoor condensation drainage (Heat pump type only)
Install outdoor drain elbow in a Ø25 hole on the base plate and attach the drain hose to drain condensate and defrost water.
Check after installation and test operation
Check after installation
- Electrical Safety Check: Verify supply voltage, connections of power/signal/grounding wires, and secure grounding.
- Installation Safety Check: Ensure installation is secure, water drain is smooth, wiring/piping are correct, no foreign matter is left inside, and refrigerant pipeline is protected.
- Leak test of the refrigerant: Use bubble method (soap water) or instrument method to check for leaks at connections and valves. Ensure good ventilation.
Test Operation
Preparation: Verify piping/cables are connected, gas/liquid side valves are open, power cable is connected, and remote batteries are installed. Ensure good ventilation.
Method: Turn on power and use the remote controller's ON/OFF switch. Select COOL, HEAT, SWING, and other modes to check operation.
Maintenance Notice
Attention
For maintenance or scrap, contact authorized service centers. Maintenance by unqualified persons is dangerous. Maintain strictly per manufacturer's requirements.
Qualification requirements of maintenance personnel
- Special training is required for equipment with flammable refrigerants.
- Maintenance and repair must follow manufacturer's recommendations, or be supervised by qualified individuals.
Inspection of the Site
Perform safety inspection before maintenance to minimize fire risk. Check ventilation, anti-static, and fire prevention equipment. Observe precautions for refrigeration systems:
- General work area: Instruct staff, avoid confined spaces, section off area, control flammable materials.
- Checking for presence of refrigerant: Use appropriate leak detection instruments (non-sparking) and ensure technician is aware of atmospheres.
- Presence of fire extinguisher: Have dry powder or CO2 extinguisher available for hot work.
- No ignition sources: Keep ignition sources (including smoking) away from work areas. Display "No Smoking" signs.
- Ventilated Area: Ensure adequate ventilation during work to disperse refrigerant.
- Checks to the refrigeration equipment: Ensure electrical components are correct. Follow manufacturer's guidelines. Check charge size, ventilation, and secondary circuits for refrigerant presence. Ensure components are corrosion-resistant.
- Checks to electrical devices: Perform initial safety checks. Do not connect power if a fault compromises safety. Use temporary solutions if necessary and report to owner. Ensure capacitors are discharged, no live components are exposed, and earthing continuity is maintained.
Inspection of Cable
Check cables for wear, corrosion, overvoltage, vibration, sharp edges, aging, and compressor/fan vibration impact.
Leakage check of R32 refrigerant
Note: Perform in an environment with no ignition sources. Use electronic leak detection instruments. Ensure detector is not a source of ignition and is suitable for R32. Set detector for minimum ignitable fuel concentration. Do not use chloride solvents. If a leak is suspected, remove ignition sources or extinguish fire. Recover refrigerant before welding, using OFN to purify the system.
Removal and Vacuum Pumping
- Ensure no ignition sources near vacuum pump outlet and good ventilation.
- Follow procedures: Remove refrigerant, decontaminate pipeline with inert gases, evacuate, decontaminate again, cut/weld pipeline.
- Return refrigerant to storage tank. Blow system with oxygen-free nitrogen for safety. Repeat as needed. Do not use compressed air or oxygen.
- Through blowing process, charge with anaerobic nitrogen to working pressure, then vent oxygen-free nitrogen. Repeat until refrigerants are cleared.
Procedures of Charging Refrigerants
Ensure no contamination between refrigerants. Keep charging pipelines short. Store tanks vertically. Ensure grounding. Label system after charging. Do not overcharge.
Scrap and Recovery
Scrap: Familiarize with equipment. Analyze refrigerant/oil samples. Ensure power. Disconnect power. Ensure mechanical equipment facilitates tank operation, PPE is effective, recovery is guided by qualified personnel, and equipment/tanks comply with standards. Vacuum system if possible. Extract refrigerant from multiple places if vacuum cannot be reached. Ensure storage tank capacity. Operate recovery equipment per instructions.
Recovery:
- Clear refrigerants when repairing/scrapping.
- Use special refrigerant tank for loading refrigerant. Ensure tank capacity is appropriate. Tanks need identification (refrigerant recovery tank), pressure relief valves, and globe valves. Empty tanks should be evacuated and maintained at room temperature.
- Keep recovery equipment in good working condition with instructions. Ensure it's suitable for R32 and has a qualified weighting apparatus. Hose should be leak-free. Check equipment condition and maintenance. Check electrical components are sealed.
- Load recovered refrigerant into appropriate storage tanks with transporting instructions. Do not mix refrigerants.
- Transport R32 refrigeration in non-enclosed space, taking anti-electrostatic measures. Use protective measures during transport/loading/unloading.
- When removing compressor or clearing oil, ensure compressor is pumped to appropriate level for residual R32 in oil. Vacuum pump before returning compressor. Ensure safety when discharging oil.
Remote controller instructions & WIFI instructions
Users can scan QR codes to obtain detailed instructions for remote controllers and WIFI operation. Note: Some models may not have WIFI function.
Costway Limited Warranty
Warranty Period
- Standard Five (5) Year Parts Warranty.
- Additional Three (3) Year Compressor Part Warranty (total eight years).
- Warranty is void if the unit is moved from original installation location.
- Valid only in the United States and Canada (except non-delivery areas). Not transferable.
Warranty Details
- Provided by Costway Manufacture.
- Coverage begins on original order date or 18 months from manufacture date (whichever is shorter).
- Manufacture date is on the unit name-plate.
- Labor and refrigerant charges are the responsibility of others.
- Proof of purchase (original receipt) is required for warranty repairs.
Warranty Exclusions
This warranty does not cover: labor costs for diagnosis/repair/installation/shipping, refrigerant replacement/refill/disposal, electricity/fuel costs, consequential damages (rust, brownouts, corrosion, water, freezing), failures due to environmental influences, accident, misuse, abuse, faulty installation, unauthorized adjustments, normal maintenance (filter, fuses), incorrect refrigerants or additives, temporary heating/cooling units, parts not supplied by Costway, unauthorized modifications, or operation in incomplete building envelopes during construction.
Warranty Conditions
- Equipment must be installed by a licensed dealer/contractor according to instructions and local codes. Improper installation endangers occupants.
- Operate according to company instructions; do not misuse the product.
- Do not remove or deface the equipment's rating plate.
- If original order date cannot be verified, warranty starts 18 months from manufacture date.
- Warranty applies only to units in their original installation location.
- Correct consumer contact information (order number, name, address, phone) is required for claims. No other express warranties exist.
Implied warranties may terminate with express warranties. Limitations on implied warranty duration or exclusion of incidental/consequential damages may not apply in all states. This limited warranty grants specific legal rights.
Instructions to the Owner for Service
- To obtain warranty service, show proof of purchase (bill of sale or evidence of purchase) to establish original date and ownership. Contact installer first; if unsuccessful, contact Costway or a Costway Distributor.
- Claims must be made within 30 days after the problem occurs.
- For more information, email service@costway.com (USA) or cs.ca@costway.com (Canada).