Santa Fe Compact70 Installation and Operation Instructions

Introduction

The Santa Fe Compact70 is designed for superior basement and crawl space dehumidification. Its compact size is ideal for tight spaces, offering powerful performance in low crawl spaces and small basements without sacrificing power and performance. The Compact70 provides multiple installation options for greater flexibility.

Contact: Santa-Fe-Products.com | 800.533.7533

Patent Information: thermastor.com/patents

Safety Instructions

WARNING! THIS SYMBOL MEANS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS. FAILURE TO HEED THEM CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

CAUTION! THIS SYMBOL MEANS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS. FAILURE TO HEED THEM CAN RESULT IN INJURY OR MATERIAL PROPERTY DAMAGE.

• Never operate the dehumidifier with a damaged power cord. If damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a similarly qualified person.
• Do not unplug by pulling the cord; grasp the plug firmly.
• Use a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) outlet when plugging in the dehumidifier.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, unless supervised. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
• Never operate electrical equipment near or in standing water.
• Do not insert fingers or other objects through the safety grill.
• The dehumidifier must be used in the upright position.
• When changing filters, ensure the unit is off and do not insert fingers or objects into the dehumidifier.
• Do not restrict airflow into or out of the dehumidifier, as this may cause overheating.
• Never service or clean the dehumidifier while it is plugged in.
• Do not sit or stand on the dehumidifier, or use it as a shelf or table.
• Before leaving the unit unattended, ensure children do not have access to it and do not allow them to play with or near the unit or its airflow.
• The dehumidifier is designed for indoor use only, in spaces protected from rain and flooding.
• Install the dehumidifier with sufficient space for access to back or side panels for maintenance and service. DO NOT INSTALL WITH SERVICE PANELS INACCESSIBLE.
• Avoid directing discharge air at people or over water in pool areas.
• If used near a pool, spa, or water, ensure there is no chance the dehumidifier could fall in, be splashed, and use a GFI protected circuit.
• DO NOT place the dehumidifier directly on structural members; use vibration isolation.
• A drain pan MUST be placed under the unit if installed above a living area where water leakage could cause damage.
• Make all electrical connections in accordance with the current edition of the NEC ANSI/NFPA 70 and any applicable national and local codes.
• Maintain a minimum 1ft. (0.3m) clearance to avoid obstructing air return and supply.
• Not intended for use at altitudes over 6500 ft (2000M).
• The minimum floor area of the storage room shall be 28 m² (square meters).
• Contact an installer or call 1-800-533-7533 for repair or warranty needs.

WARNING! Do not use means to accelerate the defrosting process or to clean, other than those recommended by the manufacturer. The appliance shall be stored in a room without continuously operating ignition sources (e.g., open flames, operating gas appliances, or electric heaters). Do not pierce or burn. Be aware that refrigerants may not contain an odor.

Refrigerant Safety Group: A2L

Intended Applications

The Santa Fe Compact70 is registered with the DOE as a portable dehumidifier with a capacity between 25 and 50 pints per day. It is intended for use within dehumidified spaces such as basements, but can be placed in almost any residential setting where dehumidification is desired.

The unit is designed to operate in temperatures between 49° and 95°F, most effectively between 56° and 95°F. For efficient humidity control, the operating area must be free of water intrusion or excessive fresh air infiltration. These issues should be addressed before installation.

Registrations and Certifications

The Santa Fe Compact70 conforms to unified standard UL 60335-2-40 and CSA standard C22.2.60335-2-40. It is certified as a “Portable Dehumidifier” per 10CFR430 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products.

Items Included in Box:

• Santa Fe Compact70 Dehumidifier
• Santa Fe Compact70 Installation & Operation Instructions
• Santa Fe Compact70 Leveling Feet
• 8' Drain Hose
• Drain Adapter
• MERV-13 Filter (Dimensions: 0.75" x 9.00" x 11.38") and Pre-Filter
• 2 Compressor Shipping Strap Plugs (Not used for the Compact70)

Dehumidifier Set Up

Location Considerations

A textual description of the diagram shows a top view of the dehumidifier with indicators for RETURN AIR (A) and SUPPLY AIR (B) ports, DRAIN ACCESS, ELECTRICAL SERVICE ACCESS, and minimum clearance zones (11" for filter/airflow, 24" for airflow). A 9' power cord is also depicted. The unit requires proximity to a suitable drain and a 115 VAC electrical outlet with a minimum 15 Amp circuit capacity.

• Locate near a suitable drain (8' drain hose included). Allow for proper drainage and routing of drain pipes.
• Ensure the 9' power cord can reach a 115 VAC, 15 Amp circuit capacity outlet.
• The unit must operate level. Refer to 'Installing Leveling Feet' if placed on an unlevel surface. Failure to level may result in leakage or improper drainage.
• If flooding is possible, suspend the unit with a hang kit from floor joists. Feet are installed as a securing measure after the hang kit. DO NOT hang from the cabinet.
• Allow sufficient clearance for the unit's dimensions and any optional return/supply ductwork.
• Allow sufficient clearance for filter removal and to prevent airflow obstruction.
• Ensure electrical service access is clear; this requires removing the outside shell.
• Keep ventilation openings clear of obstruction.
• Ducts connected to the dehumidifier must not contain a POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCE.
• Supply and return air should be directly ducted to the space; false ceilings should not be used as return air ducts.

Unventilated Areas

Unventilated areas must be constructed to prevent refrigerant leaks from stagnating and creating a fire or explosion hazard. Do not store or duct the dehumidifier into rooms with continuously operating open flames or other potential ignition sources (e.g., operating gas appliances, electric heaters, hot surfaces). A flame-producing device may be installed if it has an effective flame arrest.

Installing Leveling Feet

1. Lay down a protective pad (e.g., pillow, blanket).
2. Carefully turn the unit onto its side.
3. Install leveling feet and adjust to ensure the unit is level for proper drainage.
4. Carefully bring the unit to an upright position.
5. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes before operating.

Drain Installation

The Santa Fe Compact70 generates condensate. A secondary drain pan is recommended if the unit is suspended above a finished area where water leakage could cause damage.

A drain trap is required for proper operation. Install a 3/4" threaded male NPT adapter to the drain or drain pan. Use a 3/4" PVC pipe assembly for condensate transport, with a pitch of 1" per 10'.

An optional condensate pump kit is available for situations requiring lift to dispose of condensate. It automatically pumps condensate to a remote location when the water level in the pump's reservoir rises to close the float switch.

CAUTION! The Santa Fe Compact70 requires a drain trap. This allows a small amount of water to build up, preventing air from backflowing into the dehumidifier and causing water to exit the machine. Position the trap approximately 8"-10" from the dehumidifier, ensuring the highest point of the trap is at least 2" below the drain port adapter. If the trap's highest point is above the drain port, water will backflow. Check the hose regularly for proper drainage.

A textual description of the "Drain Installation" diagram (Front View) shows the dehumidifier with a "Drain Port" and an optional "Secondary Drain Pan". A "Drain Trap" is depicted in the drain hose. Images labeled "Floor Bend" and "PVC Trap" illustrate how to create a trap in the drain hose using PVC materials available from local hardware stores.

Ensure the drain hose is kept as flat to the floor as possible after the trap is in place, and is not kinked or restricted to allow free water passage. Improper installation may result in water leakage.

If the drain location is far, a 1/2" PVC rigid pipe can be inserted into the 3/4" hose to extend the drain line, ensuring a downward slope.

For ordering the optional condensate pump kit, contact your local dealer or visit www.santa-fe-products.com, or call (800) 533-7533.

CAUTION! CHECK DRAIN HOSE WHEN CHANGING FILTER TO ENSURE THERE IS NOT BUILD UP OF ALGAE OR SLUDGE.

Operation

Humidity Control Adjustment

The humidity control is an adjustable switch that turns the dehumidifier on and off. It activates when the relative humidity (RH) rises to the set point and turns off when RH is within ±5% of the set point.

Approximate Humidity Levels Per Setting:

• "Drier": 35% to 45% Relative Humidity
• "Normal": 45% to 55% Relative Humidity (Recommended for most applications)
• "Humid": 55% to 65% Relative Humidity

A diagram shows a control dial with settings like "OFF", "DRIER", "NORMAL", "HUMID". It also illustrates fan operation: "Fan runs continuously to circulate air" (ON) and "Fan only runs when dehumidifier is on (recommended)" (AUTO).

CAUTION! The dehumidifier will run continuously until the RH is reduced to the dial setting. Setting the humidity control to "dry" in rooms under 65°F may result in long periods of ineffective run time.

To turn the unit on: turn the humidity dial clockwise to "NORMAL" and set fan control to "FAN AUTO." To turn the unit off: turn the humidity dial counter-clockwise to "OFF" and set fan control to "FAN AUTO."

Defrost Cycle

This unit includes a defrost thermostat to prevent internal damage from excessive frost. When frost is detected, the system stops dehumidifying, and the fan runs until normal operating conditions return.

Fan Operation

"FAN ON": The internal blower runs continuously, regardless of dehumidification status. Useful for air circulation or filtration.

"FAN AUTO" (Recommended): The internal blower runs only while the unit is dehumidifying.

Air Filtration

The Santa Fe Compact70 uses a pre-filter and a MERV-13 air filter (89-90% ASHRAE dust spot). Optional MERV-8 or MERV-11 filters are available at www.thermastorfilters.com. Filters should be checked and replaced every three to six months. Operating with a dirty filter reduces capacity and efficiency.

DO NOT operate the unit without a MERV-8, MERV-11, or MERV-13 filter, as this voids the product warranty.

CAUTION! MAKE SURE UNIT IS OFF BEFORE CHANGING THE FILTER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW FILTER HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN IMPROPER FUNCTION OF THE DEHUMIDIFIER AND CAUSE PREMATURE FILTER WEAR OR UNIT DAMAGE.

Changing the Filter

For optimal filtration and efficiency, replace air filters every three to six months.

Step 1 - Removing the Filters:

Gently pull the 1/4" pre-filter from the bottom of its frame. Gently pull the MERV-13 filter from the bottom of its frame.

Diagrams illustrate the removal of the pre-filter and MERV-13 filter from the unit.

Step 2 - Installing the Filters:

Angle the top of the MERV-13 filter and slide it into the filter slot. Do not force; check alignment for obstructions if resistance is felt. Ensure arrows on the filter face into the dehumidifier.

Angle the top of the pre-filter and slide it into the filter slot (in front of the MERV-13 filter). Do not force; check alignment for obstructions if resistance is felt.

Diagrams illustrate the installation of the MERV-13 filter and pre-filter into the unit, showing correct orientation.

Ducting To Finished Area (Optional)

Attaching Duct Collars

Return Air Inlet: An 8" diameter duct collar and a front panel are attached to the unit.

Supply Air Outlet: The back panel can be rotated for horizontal or vertical supply air flow.

• Horizontal Flow Through: The unit ships configured for horizontal flow. An 8" diameter duct collar is attached.
• Vertical Flow Through: Remove the exhaust panel, rotate it so the exhaust collar is on top, align screw holes, and snap the panel onto the base. Secure with six screws.

Diagrams illustrate "Horizontal Flow Through (End Discharge)" and "Vertical Flow Through (Top Discharge)" configurations. These diagrams show air flow paths and label the 8" Return Air Inlet (A) and 8" Supply Air Outlet (B) from various views (Front, Rear, Top).

Recommended Installations

A diagram titled "Installation of a Santa Fe Compact70 With a Supply Kit Only" shows a basement layout with a "Finished Area" and "Unfinished Area". It illustrates the placement of key components:

• 1. Passive Return Vent: Placed on the wall separating finished and unfinished areas.
• 2. Optional Wall Mount Dehumidistat: Mounts on the opposite wall in the finished area.
• 3. Supply Grill: Located in the finished area.
• 4. Supply/Discharge Duct Work: Connects the dehumidifier to the supply grill.

• Place the Santa Fe Compact70 in the unfinished area of the basement, near a drain access (for gravity or optional pump drainage).
• Use the supply duct collar to direct dry air from the dehumidifier into a large, open room in the finished basement section.
• Place a return grill/passive vent on the other side of the wall separating the finished and unfinished areas to allow for circular airflow.
• The passive grill prevents negative pressure in the unfinished room and allows the dehumidifier to focus on drying that area.
• The onboard dehumidistat can be used, or a 120-volt dehumidistat can be placed in the finished basement (consult an electrician for wiring).

Service

WARNING! SERVICING THE DEHUMIDIFIER WITH ITS HIGH PRESSURE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM AND HIGH VOLTAGE CIRCUITRY PRESENTS A HEALTH HAZARD WHICH COULD RESULT IN DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. ONLY QUALIFIED SERVICE PEOPLE SHOULD SERVICE THIS UNIT.

Warranty

A warranty certificate is included. For warranty repair, call the factory first at 1-877-420-1330 for authorization and technical assistance.

Technical Description

The dehumidifier uses a refrigeration system similar to an air conditioner. Hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas from the compressor goes to the condenser coil where it is cooled and condensed. The liquid refrigerant then passes through a filter/drier and expansion device, reducing its pressure and temperature. It enters the evaporator coil, absorbing heat from incoming air and evaporating. The compressor then collects the cool refrigerant gas and compresses it to repeat the cycle.

Service Personnel

Only qualified HVAC or electrical contractors are permitted to perform maintenance, service, or repair operations, including breaking into the refrigerating circuit or opening sealed components.

• Perform safety checks to minimize ignition risk before starting work.
• For REFRIGERATING SYSTEM repairs, establish a controlled procedure to minimize flammable gas/vapor presence.
• Instruct all personnel on the work being performed. Avoid work in confined spaces.
• Check the area with an appropriate refrigerant detector for potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure leak detection equipment is suitable and non-sparking.
• Have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment (dry powder or CO2) readily available if hot work is conducted.
• Do not use sources of ignition when working on the refrigerating system. Keep ignition sources, including smoking, far from the work area. Survey the area for flammable hazards. Display "No Smoking" signs.
• Ensure the area is open or adequately ventilated before and during work to safely disperse any released refrigerant.

Checks for Installations Using FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANTS

• Electrical components must be fit for purpose and to specification. Follow Therma-Stor's maintenance and service guidelines. Consult Therma-Stor's technical department if in doubt.
• Refrigerant charge must be in accordance with room size.
• Ventilation machinery and outlets must be adequate and unobstructed.
• Equipment markings must be visible and legible.
• Install dehumidifiers where they are unlikely to be exposed to corrosive substances, unless components are inherently resistant or protected.

Checks to Electrical Devices

Repair and maintenance of electrical components require initial safety checks. If a safety-compromising fault exists, do not connect electrical supply until corrected. If operation must continue, use a temporary solution and report to the owner.

Initial safety checks include:

• Discharging capacitors safely to avoid sparking.
• Ensuring no live electrical components or wiring are exposed during charging, recovery, or purging.
• Checking continuity of earth bonding.

Sealed Electrical Components Shall Be Replaced

• Disconnect all electrical supplies before working on sealed components. If electrical supply is necessary during servicing, use permanently operating leak detection.
• Ensure working on electrical components does not alter the casing in a way that affects protection (e.g., cable damage, excessive connections, incorrect seals/glands).
• Ensure the equipment is mounted securely.
• Ensure seals or sealing materials have not degraded.
• Replacement parts must be Therma-Stor specified.

Intrinsically Safe Components Must Be Replaced

• Do not apply permanent inductive or capacitance loads that exceed permissible voltage and current.
• Intrinsically safe components can be worked on live in the presence of a flammable atmosphere; test apparatus must be correctly rated.
• Replace components only with Therma-Stor specified parts.

NOTE: Silicon sealant may inhibit leak detection equipment. Intrinsically safe components do not require isolation before working on them.

Check cabling for wear, corrosion, pressure, vibration, sharp edges, or other adverse environmental effects, including aging and vibration from compressors/fans.

Detection of Flammable Refrigerants

Do not use potential sources of ignition (e.g., halide torch) for leak detection. Acceptable methods include:

• Electronic leak detectors (ensure sensitivity is adequate for flammable refrigerants and calibrated). Set at 25% LFL, calibrated to 454B.
• Leak detection fluids (avoid chlorine-containing detergents). Examples: bubble method, fluorescent agents.
• If a leak is suspected, extinguish all open flames.

If a leak requiring brazing is found, recover all refrigerant or isolate the affected part of the system. Removal must follow Clause DD.9 of 60335-2-40.

Refrigerant Removal and Evacuation

When breaking into the refrigerant circuit, use conventional procedures. For FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANTS, follow best practices:

• Safely remove refrigerant per local and national regulations.
• Recover REFRIGERANT CHARGE into correct recovery cylinders if venting is not allowed.
• Purge the system with oxygen-free nitrogen to render it safe for flammable refrigerants. This may require repetition. Do not use compressed air or oxygen for purging.
• Vent the system to atmospheric pressure after the final nitrogen charge.
• Open the circuit by cutting or brazing.
• Ensure vacuum pump outlet is not near POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCES and ventilation is available.

Charging Procedures

In addition to conventional procedures:

• Ensure no contamination of refrigerants when using charging equipment. Use shortest possible hoses.
• Keep cylinders in an appropriate position.
• Ground the REFRIGERATING SYSTEM before charging.
• Label the system upon completion.
• Do not overfill the REFRIGERATING SYSTEM.
• Pressure-test the system with purging gas before recharging. Leak-test upon completion but prior to commissioning. A follow-up leak test is required before leaving the site.

Decommissioning

Technicians must be familiar with the equipment. Recover refrigerants safely. Take oil and refrigerant samples for analysis if needed. Ensure electrical power is available before starting.

• Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
• Isolate the system electrically.

Before attempting decommissioning, ensure:

• Mechanical handling equipment is available for refrigerant cylinders.
• All personal protective equipment is available and used correctly.
• Recovery process is supervised by a competent person.
• Recovery equipment and cylinders conform to standards.

• Pump down the refrigerant system if possible.
• If vacuum is not possible, use a manifold to remove refrigerant from various parts.
• Place cylinder on scales before recovery.
• Start recovery machine per instructions.
• Do not overfill cylinders (max 80% liquid charge).
• Do not exceed cylinder maximum working pressure.
• After filling, promptly remove cylinders and equipment, closing all isolation valves.
• Recovered refrigerant shall not be charged into another system unless cleaned and checked.

Labelling Decommission Machines

Equipment must be labelled as decommissioned and emptied of refrigerant, with date and signature. For appliances with FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANTS, labels must state this.

Refrigerant Recovery

• When removing refrigerant for servicing or decommissioning, recover it safely.
• Use appropriate recovery cylinders, ensuring enough capacity for the total system charge. Cylinders must be designated and labelled for the specific refrigerant, with a pressure-relief valve and shut-off valves. Empty cylinders should be evacuated and cooled if possible.
• Recovery equipment must be in good working order, with instructions, and suitable for all refrigerants. Calibrated weighing scales and leak-free disconnect couplings are required. Check equipment for satisfactory working order and proper maintenance. Ensure electrical components are sealed to prevent ignition from refrigerant release. Consult manufacturer if in doubt.
• Return recovered refrigerant to the supplier in the correct cylinder, with a waste transfer note. Do not mix refrigerants.
• If compressors or oils are removed, evacuate them to an acceptable level to ensure no FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT remains. Evacuation should occur before returning compressors to suppliers. Use only electric heating on the compressor body. Drain oil safely.

Service - Troubleshooting

CAUTION! TROUBLESHOOTING SHOULD BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED HVAC TECHNICIAN.

WARNING! SERVICING THE SANTA FE COMPACT70, WITH ITS HIGH PRESSURE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM AND HIGH VOLTAGE CIRCUITRY PRESENTS A HEALTH HAZARD WHICH COULD RESULT IN DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. ONLY QUALIFIED SERVICE PEOPLE SHOULD SERVICE THIS UNIT.

Refrigerant Charging

If refrigerant charge is lost, a new charge must be accurately weighed in. Recover any remaining old charge before weighing in the new. Refer to the unit nameplate for correct charge weight and refrigerant type.

Compressor/Capacitor Replacement

This compressor is equipped with a two-terminal external overload and a run capacitor, but no start capacitor or relay.

Electrical Requirements

The Santa Fe Compact70 plugs into a common grounded 115VAC outlet. The device draws 5.4 Amps at 104°F and 36% RH. Locate the dehumidifier where the 9' cord easily reaches a 115 VAC outlet with a minimum 15 Amp circuit capacity. A GFCI protected circuit is recommended for areas that may become wet. The unit should not be used in areas prone to flooding. Consult local electrical codes for further information.

CAUTION! ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Electrical power must be present to perform some tests. These tests should be performed by a qualified service person.

Wiring Schematic

A textual description of the wiring schematic shows connections between components including: COMPRESSOR RELAY, DEFROST SWITCH, DEHUMIDISTAT, REFRIGERANT PRESSURE SWITCH, FAN RELAY, COMPRESSOR, COMPRESSOR CAPACITOR, FAN, and FAN CAPACITOR. Wire labels such as BLK-5,6, WHT-3,4, BLU-21, YEL-12, RED-11, BLK-8, and BRN-13 are indicated, along with terminal designations like N.C., N.O., COM, R, and connections to GRN-1, GRN-7. The schematic is labeled "4043934 Rev A".

Warranty

Effective Date: January 1, 2024

Limited Warranty

Therma-Stor, LLC warrants Santa Fe dehumidifiers ("Product") to be free of material defects in workmanship or materials for a period of 5 years ("Five-Year Warranty") from the date of initial purchase by an original customer. Product components are warranted for a period of six (6) years from the date of initial purchase.

Limitation of Remedies

The sole and exclusive remedy is, at Therma-Stor's option, replacement or repair of the Product or its Components by Therma-Stor or its agents. Refrigerant, piping, supplies, transportation costs, and labor costs for repair/replacement are NOT included. This disclaimer applies even if the express warranty fails its essential purpose. No representative is authorized to make any representation or warranty on behalf of Therma-Stor not in this agreement.

Disclaimer of Warranties

Therma-Stor disclaims all express and implied warranties, including warranties of MERCHANTABILITY and FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, except for the Limited Warranty provided.

Warranty Limitations

The warranty extends only to the original Customer and is void upon assignment or transfer. "Defects" do not include problems arising from misuse, improper installation, design, abuse, lack of care, failure to follow instructions, tampering, improper repair, freezing, corrosion, acts of nature, or causes not related to Therma-Stor's workmanship. Replacement under warranty does not extend the original warranty period. Costs related to changes required by codes or regulations after purchase are not covered.

Customer Responsibilities

To obtain warranty coverage, a valid warranty claim must be sent to Therma-Stor before the warranty period expires. Proof of purchase (invoices) is required. If the purchase date is unclear, the product's manufacture date will be used. Warranty service must be performed by Therma-Stor or an authorized servicer. Call 1-800-533-7533 for warranty service. Service is performed during customary daytime working hours. If shipping is required, the Customer is responsible for packaging, freight charges, and risk of loss.

Limitation of Liability

Therma-Stor shall not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, collateral, or consequential damages. Liability shall not exceed the purchase price of the Product, Component, or Part.

Applicable Law and Venue

Any arbitration or litigation related to the Product will be brought exclusively in Dane County, Wisconsin. Customer consents to the jurisdiction of federal and state courts located there.

Miscellaneous

If any term is found invalid or unenforceable, it shall not affect the other terms. Any delay by Therma-Stor in enforcing rights is not a waiver.