Argo THOR PLUS

Important Safety Information

• ? Appliance is filled with flammable gas R290.
• ? Before installing and using the appliance, read the owner manual.
• ℹ️ 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 R290 refrigerant, a special 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 it can only be ignited by fire.

Compared to other common refrigerants, R290 is non-polluting, does not harm the ozonosphere, and has no effect on the greenhouse effect. It offers excellent thermodynamic features, leading to high energy efficiency and requiring less refrigerant filling.

Warning:

• Do not attempt to accelerate the defrosting process or clean the appliance using methods other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Should repair be necessary, contact your nearest authorized Service Centre. Repairs by unqualified personnel can be dangerous.
• The appliance must be stored in a room without continuously operating ignition sources (e.g., open flames, operating gas or electric heaters).
• Do not pierce or burn the appliance.
• The appliance must be installed, used, and stored in a room with a floor area larger than 12 m².
• The appliance contains flammable R290 gas.
• Attention: Refrigerants have no smell.

General Operating and Safety Instructions

• This appliance is a local air conditioner designed for domestic use.
• Only use this air-conditioner as described in this manual.
• Ensure the required voltage and frequency (220-240V~/50 Hz) match your power source.
• The fuse is style 5ET or SMT 250V, rated at 3.15A.
• Children aged 8 years and above, and persons 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 hazards.
• Children must not play with the appliance.
• Cleaning and user maintenance must not be done by children without supervision.
• Ensure your electricity system can deliver the operating current required by the air conditioner, in addition to 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.
• Make sure the plug is fully inserted. Do not use multiple adapters. Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Ensure the plug is clean.
• 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 where it may receive water splashes (e.g., laundry rooms).

Safety Precautions and Warnings

• Before moving or cleaning, unplug the device.
• Do not move the air conditioner while operating; turn it off, check for condensate, and empty if necessary.
• To turn off, set the remote control to OFF and remove the plug from the socket. Pull the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use if the cord or plug are damaged. If damaged, contact the manufacturer, dealer, or a qualified person for replacement to avoid safety risks.
• Keep the unit away from fire, fire sources, 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, as this can cause water leakage.
• Do not splash or pour water on the air conditioner.

PRECAUTION!

• Do not insert objects into the air conditioner; the fan operates at high speed.
• Ensure air circulates freely around the unit. Do not cover air intake and delivery grilles.

WARNING!

• Position the air conditioner at least 50 cm from walls or obstacles, on a flat and stable surface to prevent water leaks.
• The air conditioner has compressor overload protection, meaning the compressor starts approximately 3 minutes after its previous stoppage.
• Wait at least 3 minutes before starting the unit to prevent compressor damage.

WARNING!

• In case of anomaly, switch off and unplug the appliance. Do not dismantle or attempt to repair. Contact the service centre directly for malfunctions.
• Do not expose the air conditioner to direct sunlight, as colors may change and the appliance may overheat, triggering the protection mechanism.
• Do not use insecticides, oils, detergents, or spray paints near the appliance. Do not use aggressive chemical detergents to clean the casing, as this 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

The appliance consists of the following parts:

• 1. Air outlet
• 2. Front panel
• 3. Control panel
• 4. Handle
• 5. Hole for condensate drainage (in dehumidification mode)
• 6. Air outlet hose
• 7. Plug socket
• 8. Upper air filter
• 9. Upper air inlet
• 10. Lower air filter (not removable)
• 11. Lower air inlet
• 12. Power cord buckle
• 13. Hole for condensate drainage (in cooling mode)

Min/max operating limits (internal temperature):

• Cooling: 16 °C B.S./35 °C B.S.
• Dehumidification: 16 °C B.S./35 °C B.S.
• Heating: 5 °C B.S./35 °C B.S.
• Cooling mode room temperature adjustment range: 16 °C B.S./32 °C B.S.

Pre-Operating Checks and Operations

Ensure the following space is maintained for efficient operation:

A minimum clearance of 50 cm from walls and other obstacles is required on all sides.

Appliance Start Up

Open the packaging and remove the product and other supplied elements:

• Remote controller
• Battery for remote controller: type AAA – LR03 – 1.5 V
• Fitting to apply on the unit: to which connect the exhaust pipe of the air
• Hose of expulsion of the air
• Terminal flat fitting: to be placed between window knockers
• Condensate drainage pipe: to be used to empty the internal tank
• Circular fitting for kit porthole: to be positioned between the final part of the tube and the porthole
• Porthole kit with cap

Use with End Fitting for Window

1. Stretch the flexible hose sufficiently so that it reaches outside (max 1.5 m) and hook it to the rear part of the air conditioner (Fig. 1).
2. Open the window and lock one of the two leaves with the handle. Rest the terminal connection on the fixed leaf, and bring the other leaf of the window close (Fig. 2).

Use with Window Unit Kit

1. To make the hole in the glass, it is advisable to take the porthole kit accessory to a glazier (Fig. 1).
2. Insert the porthole into the window (Fig. 2).
3. Insert the circular connector for the porthole kit into the retractable hose and insert the retractable hose with the circular connector into the porthole without the cap (Fig. 3).
4. When not in use, disconnect the hose and close the porthole with the cap (Fig. 4).

Avoid tight bends or folds 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, Heating, Dehumidification, and Fan modes. Before using, leave it in an upright position for at least two hours. Plug the power cord into an appropriate power outlet (220-240V~). Insert the supplied battery into the remote controller, observing polarities. Select the desired operating mode from the remote controller.

The air conditioner has a protection system that delays activation of the compressor in Cooling, Heating, Dehumidification, and Heating modes by approximately 3 minutes after selection. The fan continues to operate, but the compressor stops and restarts after 3 minutes to prevent overload.

The appliance features an automatic defrosting system that activates when ice forms on the coil. During defrosting, the Power LED flashes, and the compressor stops for 10 minutes before normal operation resumes.

Note: The discharge tube MUST ALWAYS BE CONNECTED to the appliance, except when used solely for dehumidification, where direct discharge into the environment is recommended for maximum efficiency.

Regularly clean the air filter to maintain efficient operation.

Operating Modes

1. COOLING MODE (COOL):
   • Press the MODE button to select cooling mode. The control panel LED will turn on.
   • Temperature can be adjusted between 16 °C and 32 °C.
   • The unit saves settings when switched off and on again.
   • Fan speed, Timer, and SLEEP functions can be set.
   • For quieter operation, use low fan speed.
2. HEATING MODE (HEAT):
   • Press the MODE button to select heating mode. The control panel LED will turn on.
   • Temperature can be adjusted between 16 °C and 32 °C.
   • Fan speed can be adjusted.
3. DEHUMIDIFICATION MODE (DRY):
   • Press the MODE button to select dehumidification mode. The control panel LED will turn on.
   • Temperature is controlled by the electronic board and cannot be adjusted.
   • The unit saves settings when switched off and on again.
   • Fan speed is fixed at low and cannot be adjusted.
4. FAN MODE:
   • Press the MODE button to select Fan mode. The control panel LED will turn on.
   • Fan speed can be adjusted.
   • Temperature cannot be adjusted.
5. AUTO MODE:
   • Press the MODE button to select Auto mode. The AUTO LED on the control panel lights up.
   • This mode automatically selects Cooling or Ventilation based on the room temperature.

How to Eliminate Condensate

This appliance automatically vaporizes condensation in Cooling mode. Continuous condensate drainage is usually not necessary, except in very humid conditions where water may accumulate internally.

In Heating mode, condensate is not vaporized automatically and requires periodic emptying of the internal tank. Alternatively, drainage can be arranged from the intermediate hole at the back of the unit for intermittent or continuous drainage.

Cooling and Heating:

Ensure drain hole caps are correctly positioned. When the tank is full, the display shows "P1", blocking operation. To empty the tank: turn off, unplug, remove the rear drain cap, connect the supplied drain tube, place the other end above a drain, ensuring the tube has no twists/bends and a descending trend. Close the drain with the cap before resuming operation.

Dehumidification:

For maximum efficiency in dehumidification mode, continuous drainage is advisable. Connect one end of the provided PVC tubing to the top drain hole and the other end above a drain.

Function Control

By Remote Controller

1. Insert batteries (type AAA 1.5V) respecting polarities.
2. Remove batteries if the remote is not used for a month or longer.
3. Do not attempt to recharge batteries; replace all at the same time.
4. Do not throw batteries into fire.

Warnings for Batteries:

• Do not expose batteries to heat sources.
• Install batteries correctly.
• Dispose of batteries according to national regulations.
• In case of battery fluid leak, remove all batteries carefully and wash affected skin immediately. Clean the battery compartment before inserting new batteries.
• Use only batteries of the same size and type.
• Caution: Danger of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
• Improper use can cause leaks, overheating, or explosions. Battery fluid is corrosive, toxic, and harmful if ingested.
• To reduce injury risk: Keep batteries out of reach of children. Do not heat, open, puncture, cut, or throw batteries into fire. Do not mix old/new or different battery types. Keep metal objects away from battery terminals.

Battery Disposal Information (European Directive 2006/66/EC):

Dispose of batteries separately from unsorted waste at designated recycling centers or retailers. This prevents negative environmental and health effects and allows for material recovery and recycling. The crossed-out dustbin symbol indicates separate disposal is required.

By Control Panel

The control panel includes buttons for WIFI, ON/OFF, FILTER RESET, FAN SPEED, UP/DOWN (+/-), MODE, SLEEP, and SWING.

• WIFI Button: Turns Wifi operation on/off.
• ON/OFF Button: Turns the unit on or off. The appliance operates based on the last settings.
• FILTER RESET Button: An LED indicates when the air filter needs cleaning (every 250 hours). Press this button after cleaning to reset the counter.
• FAN SPEED Button: Adjusts fan speed in Cooling mode (AUTO, High, Medium, Low). Fan speed is fixed at low in DRY mode.
• UP/DOWN (+/-) Buttons: Adjust temperature (1°C steps) and set timer (0.5h to 9h, then 1h steps up to 24h). Temperature range: 16°C to 32°C. Timer range: 0.5h to 24h.
• MODE Button: Selects operating modes in sequence: Heating -> Auto -> Cooling -> Dehumidification -> Ventilation.
• SLEEP Button: Activates an intelligent sleep mode for 10 hours. Exits after 10 hours or manually. Not available in ventilation mode.
• SWING Button: Activates/deactivates the automatic swing of horizontal air louvers.
• TIMER Button (Remote Controller): Sets a time to turn the unit on (when off) or off (when on).

Temperature Display and Errors:

Except for "P1" (full tank), error codes (E1, E3, E4, E8) indicate malfunctions. Contact an Argoclima Assistance Centre for repairs. For "P1", connect the PVC pipe to the condensate drain hole.

WIFI Guide

Information on the "Smart Life" App:

The "Smart Life" App is available for Android and iOS. Scan the QR code to download it.

Information on Using the App:

• The integrated Wi-Fi module allows management via the home network.
• Prerequisites: Permanent Wi-Fi connection and the free "Smart Life" app.
• Download and install the app, create an account, and log in.
• Activate the Wi-Fi function on the device.
• Place the device approximately 5 meters from the router.
• Long-press the Timer button to start network setup; the WIFI indicator will flash.

WIFI Connection Methods:

• Method 1: Connect via Bluetooth: Activate Bluetooth on your device. When the WIFI indicator flashes, open the "Smart Life" APP; the unit will connect automatically via Bluetooth.
• Method 2: Connection via App: When the WIFI indicator flashes, select "Add device / Large appliances / Portable air conditioners" and follow on-screen instructions. Check the WIFI indicator status for connection. Flashing quickly means direct connection; flashing slowly requires pressing "Go to connection" to connect to "SmartLife-XXXX".

Remarks: The WIFI indicator lights up when connected. Press and hold the Timer button for about 5 seconds to disconnect; the WIFI indicator will turn off.

Care and Maintenance

WARNING! Unplug the appliance before carrying out any cleaning or maintenance.

1. Cleaning the air filter:

   Check the air filter at least every two weeks. A dirty filter reduces efficiency and can cause problems. To remove the filter, unhook the rear grille and gently pull the filter upwards. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. If necessary, wash the filter with warm water and mild detergent, rinse with cold water, and let it dry naturally before reinserting. The lower air filter is screwed on and cannot be removed.

2. Cleaning of casing:

   Use a damp, soft cloth. Do not use hot water, solvents, petrol, aggressive chemicals, talcum powder, or brushes, as they may damage the surface or color. For stains, use lukewarm water with a little neutral detergent. Do not pour water onto the air conditioner.

3. Storage:

   Clean filters before storing for long periods. Keep the appliance vertical. Do not place heavy objects on top. Protect with a plastic sheet.

4. Transport:

   Transport the air conditioner vertically. If not possible, transport on its right-hand side. After reaching its destination, place it vertically and wait at least 4 hours before operating in cooling mode.

5. Power cord:

   Regularly check the power cord condition. Contact the Service Centre for replacement if damaged.

Tips for Maximizing Comfort and Minimizing Consumption

CHECK that:

• The unit's intake and delivery grilles are always free.
• The air filters are always clean.
• All doors and windows are closed to prevent infiltration of unconditioned air.
• The flexible pipe is correctly positioned without tight bends or curves.
• The room temperature is above 16 °C for cooling and 10 °C for dehumidifying.

REGULATION (EU) No. 517/2014 – F-GAS

The unit contains R290, a natural greenhouse gas with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3. The charge is 0.265 Kg, equivalent to 0.000795 Tons CO₂. Do not release R290 into the atmosphere.

Information for Correct Disposal of the Product (European Directive 2012/19/EU):

At the end of its working life, this equipment must not be disposed of as household waste. It must be taken to special local community waste collection centers or to a dealer providing this service. Separate disposal prevents negative effects on the environment and human health and allows for component recovery and recycling. The product is marked with a crossed-out dustbin symbol (?️) to indicate separate disposal.

Specialist's Manual

Aptitude Requirement for Maintenance Personnel:

• Personnel working on refrigerant circuits must hold a current, valid certificate from an industry-accredited assessment authority.
• Servicing must be performed as recommended by the manufacturer. Maintenance and repair requiring skilled personnel must be carried out under supervision by a person competent in handling flammable refrigerants.

Safety Preparation Work:

The maximum refrigerant charge amount depends on the room size (refer to table a on the nameplate for specific charging quantity of R290).

Security Checks:

Before working on systems with flammable refrigerants, conduct safety checks to minimize ignition risk. Follow precautions for refrigerating system repair.

Work Procedure:

Work must be performed under a controlled procedure to minimize the risk of flammable gas or vapor presence.

General Work Area:

Instruct all personnel on the work being performed. Avoid confined spaces. Section off the workspace. Ensure the area is made safe by controlling flammable materials.

Checking for Presence of Refrigerant:

Use an appropriate refrigerant detector before and during work to identify potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure leak detection equipment is non-sparking, sealed, or intrinsically safe.

Presence of Fire Extinguisher:

Have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment (dry powder or CO2) readily available for hot work.

No Ignition Sources:

Do not use ignition sources when exposing pipe work. Keep all possible ignition sources (including smoking) far from the work area. Survey the area for flammable hazards and display "No Smoking" signs.

Ventilated Area:

Ensure the area is open or adequately ventilated before and during work. Ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant.

Checks to the Refrigeration Equipment:

Use parts fit for purpose and correct specifications. Follow manufacturer's maintenance and service guidelines. Consult the manufacturer's technical department if in doubt.

Checks for Installations Using Flammable Refrigerants:

• Ensure refrigerant charge is in accordance with room size.
• Verify ventilation machinery and outlets are operating and unobstructed.
• Check secondary circuits for refrigerant presence if an indirect circuit is used.
• Ensure equipment markings are visible and legible; correct if illegible.
• Install refrigeration pipes/components to avoid corrosion from substances, unless components are inherently resistant or protected.

Checks to Electrical Devices:

Perform initial safety checks and component inspection. If a fault compromises safety, disconnect the electrical supply until it's satisfactorily dealt with. Report temporary solutions to the owner.

• Initial safety checks include: discharging capacitors safely, ensuring no live electrical components/wiring are exposed, and verifying earth bonding continuity.

Repairs to Sealed Components:

Disconnect electrical supplies before working on sealed components. Use permanent leak detection if power is necessary. Ensure casing protection is not affected by modifications (cables, connections, seals, glands). Mount apparatus securely. Ensure seals prevent flammable atmosphere ingress. Use manufacturer-specified replacement parts.

Repair to Intrinsically Safe Components:

Do not apply loads that exceed permissible voltage/current. Intrinsically safe components can be worked on live in flammable atmospheres. Use correct test apparatus and manufacturer-specified parts.

Cabling:

Check cabling for wear, corrosion, pressure, vibration, sharp edges, or adverse environmental effects, including aging and vibration.

Detection of Flammable Refrigerants:

Do not use ignition sources for leak detection. Halide torches are not permitted.

Leak Detection Methods:

Electronic leak detectors are acceptable but require calibration for flammable refrigerants. Ensure detectors are not ignition sources and are suitable for the refrigerant used. Calibrate detectors to the refrigerant's LFL (25% maximum). Leak detection fluids are suitable, but avoid chlorine-containing detergents.

If a leak is suspected, extinguish all naked flames. If brazing is required, recover refrigerant or isolate the leak area. Use oxygen-free nitrogen (OFN) for purging before and during brazing.

Removal and Evacuation:

Follow conventional procedures for refrigerant circuit work, with emphasis on flammability safety. Procedure: remove refrigerant, purge with inert gas, evacuate, purge again, open circuit by cutting or brazing. Recover refrigerant into correct cylinders. Flush the system with OFN to render it safe, repeating as necessary. Do not use compressed air or oxygen for purging. Flush with OFN until vacuum is achieved, then vent. Repeat until no refrigerant remains. Vent to atmospheric pressure for brazing. Ensure vacuum pump outlet is not near ignition sources and ventilation is available.

Charging Procedures:

• Prevent refrigerant contamination. Use short hoses.
• Keep cylinders upright.
• Earth the refrigeration system before charging.
• Label the system upon completion.
• Do not overfill the system.
• Pressure-test with purging gas and leak-test after charging.

Decommissioning:

Technicians must be fully familiar with the equipment. Recover refrigerants safely. Take oil and refrigerant samples if analysis is required. Ensure electrical power is available.

1. Familiarize with equipment operation.
2. Isolate system electrically.
3. Ensure handling equipment, PPE, and supervised recovery are available and conform to standards.
4. Pump down the refrigerant system if possible.
5. Use a manifold if vacuum is not possible to remove refrigerant.
6. Place cylinder on scales before recovery.
7. Start recovery machine as per instructions.
8. Do not overfill cylinders (max 80% volume liquid charge).
9. Do not exceed cylinder working pressure.
10. Promptly remove filled cylinders and close isolation valves.
11. Recovered refrigerant must be cleaned and checked before reuse in another system.

Labelling:

Label equipment as de-commissioned and emptied of refrigerant, including date and signature. For appliances with flammable refrigerants, label to indicate this.

Recovery:

Remove refrigerants safely for servicing or decommissioning. Use appropriate, labelled recovery cylinders. Ensure cylinders have pressure-relief valves. Evacuate and cool empty cylinders before use. Recovery equipment must be in good working order with instructions and suitable for all refrigerants. Use calibrated weighing scales. Hoses must have leak-free couplings. Check recovery machine maintenance and sealed electrical components. Consult manufacturer if in doubt. Return recovered refrigerant to supplier in the correct cylinder. Do not mix refrigerants. Evacuate compressors and oils to an acceptable level before removal. Use electric heating for compressor bodies to accelerate this process. Drain oil safely.