Product Overview
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 is a built-in dehumidification solution designed for convenient installation inside standard wall framing. It offers benefits in Comfort, Health, and Property Protection.
Serial Number: [Not Specified]
Install Date: [Not Specified]
Sold By: [Not Specified]
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 was previously known as the Ultra Aire MD33.
Patent information can be found at thermastor.com/patents.
Table of Contents
- Safety Instructions
- Dehumidifier Set Up
- Drain Installation Considerations
- Electrical Requirements
- Dehumidifier Installation
- Maintenance
- Air Flow
- Controls
- Service
- Warranty
Safety Instructions
[Caution!] This symbol means important instructions. Failure to heed them can result in injury or material property damage.
[Warning!] This symbol means important instructions. Failure to heed them can result in serious injury or death.
Registrations: The Santa Fe UltraMD33 conforms to unified standard UL 60335-2-40 and CSA Standard C22.2.60335-2-40.
[Warning!] 120 VOLTS MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK. TURN OFF CIRCUIT BREAKER BEFORE STARTING INSTALLATION OR SERVICING, AND LEAVE CIRCUIT BREAKER OFF UNTIL INSTALLATION OR SERVICE IS COMPLETED.
[Caution!] Read all instructions before beginning installation. Always use caution and wear cut resistant gloves when handling sheet metal. All state and national electrical and plumbing codes must be adhered to for proper unit operation and warranty compliance. Improper installation may cause property damage or injury. Installation, service, and maintenance must be performed by a qualified service technician. The dehumidifier is heavy. Handle with care and follow installation instructions. This appliance is intended for use at elevations below 4000 M (13,000 FT). This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
Dehumidifier Set Up
Important Precautions
- If used near a water source, ensure the unit cannot get splashed. Connecting the unit to a dedicated circuit with Ground Fault Circuit Protection is recommended. Electrical wires must be properly grounded and capable of being disconnected for service.
- The device is designed for indoor installation in a space protected from rain and flooding.
- Tamper-proof fasteners provide access to the front of the device for operation, maintenance, and service.
- Avoid directing discharge air at occupants.
- Do not place sides, top, or bottom of the cabinet in direct contact with structural building members, as unwanted noise may result. The unit is designed to be suspended by side mounting flanges only.
- The drain hose must be routed with a downward slope from the unit drain connection to an appropriate location. Consult local building codes for acceptable condensate drain connections.
Location Considerations
- Install the unit on or inside an interior wall with direct connection to building electrical service. A 15 Amp circuit must be provided. Install the unit near a power supply.
- Electrical and plumbing rough-in must be provided at the installation location, adhering to any applicable local codes.
- Install the unit in a central location to maximize air circulation and efficiency. Avoid locating it inside a closet or mechanical room with the diffuser cover facing inward, as this will limit supply and return air.
- Install the unit so that discharge air is directed away from thermostats and not inside a wall cavity containing a thermostat.
- The unit generates condensate. Install with nearby access to a drain or determine if a condensate pump is needed.
- The unit fits within 16" O.C. stud walls. If walls are more or less than 16", additional support may be necessary.
- The rough opening must be a minimum of 2" off the floor, 6" from the ceiling, and 10" from an inside corner.
- Check for hidden wires or pipes inside the wall before installation. Contact a certified electrician or plumber before removing any wires or pipes inside the wall.
Drain Installation Considerations
Consult local building codes for condensate drain restrictions and requirements. The Santa Fe UltraMD33 is provided with 10' of 3/4" I.D. drain hose. Verify the drain hose length is appropriate for the application.
The hose must be connected to the drain port and routed down the wall cavity into the air conditioning condensate drain or other acceptable drainage.
- For gravity drainage, the bottom of the unit must be at or above the drain height.
- Avoid any entrapment of stagnant water within the hose.
- Consider a 1/4" drop for every foot of drain hose.
- Codes may dictate that a drain trap is necessary before or near the main building drain.
Ensure the metal cover is installed over the top of the hose to prevent air from entering the unit through the wall cavity.
Electrical Requirements
A 10' power cord is included for installations where a plug-in connection is permitted by the National Electrical Code and local codes. A dedicated 15A circuit and GFCI receptacle are recommended. Electrical connections inside the device use included wire nuts. Route the cord through the appropriate knockout and secure with the non-metallic cable clamp.
If not using the included 10' power cord, ensure the electrical connection and wire size are adequate and conform to the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70 (latest edition), and all local codes and ordinances. Use flexible, armored, or non-metallic sheathed copper wire with a grounding conductor. Use the included non-metallic cable clamp as required.
- The Santa Fe UltraMD33 requires a 120-volt, 60 Hz, AC-only, 15 amp, fused, and grounded electrical supply.
- A visible circuit breaker or disconnect switch near the unit is required for maintenance and service.
- A dedicated circuit is recommended.
- Use of a UL listed or CSA approved strain relief is required.
Dehumidifier Installation
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 can be installed in various applications:
- 2x6 16" O.C. Stud Wall Installation
- 2x4 16" O.C. Stud Wall Installation
- If penetrating both walls and the opposite side is a mechanical room, no additional accessories are needed.
- If the back wall is functional space, installation requires the 2x4 Wall Mount Bezel Kit (PN 4037767).
- If the other side of the wall goes into an unconditioned space, the 2x4 Rear Panel Kit (PN 4037768) may be required for added insulation to prevent condensation.
- Surface Mount Installation
- Surface Mount Kit (PN 4037766) is required.
Surface Mount, Bezel Kit, and Rear Panel installations can be viewed at www.inwalldehumidifier.com/accessories.
Items Included in Box:
- Santa Fe UltraMD33 Dehumidifier
- Diffuser Cover with Filter
- Santa Fe UltraMD33 Installation Instructions
- Drain Hose (10')
- Power Cord (10')
- Hose Clamp
- Grommet for Drain Hose
- Non-Metallic Cable Clamp
- Bag A: #10 Wood Screws (5)
- Bag B: #8 Sheet Metal Screws (5)
- Bag C: Tamper Resistant Screws for Diffuser Cover (5) and 1/4" Hex T-15 Torx Security Bit
- Bag D: Phillips Screws for Diffuser Cover (5)
Tools Required:
- Phillips Screwdriver
- 1/4" Hex Nut Screwdriver
- Level
- Square or Ruler
- Stud Finder
- Wire Stripper
- Drywall Saw
- Side Cutters or Carpenters Knife
- Tape Measure
- Pen or Pencil
Other Materials To Consider:
- Electrical wire (depends on installation and distance of wiring requirements)
- Additional hose length or PVC pipe (depends on drain location)
- Materials to repair drywall (depends on installation)
- Condensate Pump Kit (depends on drain location)
- GFCI Outlet (if using supplied power cord)
[Warning!] SHUT OFF BREAKER / POWER BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION.
Installation Steps:
- Remove the shipping bracket by carefully cutting the two zip ties with side cutters or shears. Remove the four screws from the shipping bracket using a 1/4" hex nut screwdriver. Diagram: Shows the shipping bracket attached to the unit with screw locations indicated.
- Remove the electrical box cover from the unit by removing the two screws on the cover using a 1/4" hex nut screwdriver. Diagram: Shows the electrical box cover being removed from the unit.
- There are three electrical knock-outs: one on the back and two on the bottom. Remove the appropriate knock-out and install a non-metallic cable clamp with clamp screws inside the unit, oriented for accessibility. If using the included power cord, insert it through the non-metallic cable clamp, ensuring at least 1/2" of insulation jacket is inside the cabinet before tightening. Make electrical connections using included wire nuts. Diagram: Illustrates the internal view of the unit with electrical knockouts and the installation of a non-metallic cable clamp.
- The drain hose can exit through the back, side, or bottom of the unit. Once the location is determined, remove the appropriate knock-out. If exiting through the bottom, remove the access cover to facilitate routing the drain line. Save the access cover for reinstallation after the drain line is routed. Diagram: Shows the drain hose exiting through different locations (back, side, bottom) and the access cover for bottom routing.
- After the installation location is determined, use a stud finder to locate and mark stud walls.
- Using a measuring tape and pencil, measure 14 1/2" across and 30 1/4" down and draw a line.
- Using a square or ruler, score the lines and cut with a drywall saw. Depending on the installation, both walls may need to be cut through. Diagram for Steps 5-8: Shows a wall opening with dimensions: 14 1/2 inches across and 30 1/4 inches down. It indicates the location for electrical wiring and the drain hose.
[Warning!] SHUT OFF BREAKER / POWER BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION.
- If not using the included power cord, route the electrical wire from the circuit breaker or disconnect switch through the wall cavity and extend it out of the opening by 14" to 20". Use the provided 10' drain hose or an appropriate length to come through the wall cavity or back of the unit and extend out of the opening by 14". If cutting through both walls, electrical wiring and drain hose may be routed differently. Use appropriate routing for your installation.
- Lift the unit and place it near the wall opening to route electrical wires and drain hose through appropriate knock-outs. If the access cover was not removed, insert the grommet into the knock-out hole and snap it into place before routing the drain hose. Diagram for Steps 9-10: A side view illustrating the unit being placed into the wall opening, with electrical wires and drain hose routed through.
- Once electrical and drain hose are routed through the unit, set the unit into the wall.
[Caution!] THE UNIT IS NOT SECURED YET.
Before securing the unit into place, ensure it is level. Level or slightly forward is acceptable, but never backwards.
- Insert the dehumidifier into the center of the opening, allowing for a minimum of 1/8" clearance from framing on both sides. Additional insulation or sound dampening material may be required if the dehumidifier cabinet contacts the studs. Fasten the unit to the framing by inserting four of the #10 (wood) or #8 (sheet metal) screws into the slotted holes. Top and bottom blocking is not necessary. Any existing blocking, headers, or framing should not intrude into the rough opening and should be a minimum of 1/2" away from the cabinet. The cabinet is designed to create 1/2" clearance to the back wall when installed in a standard 2x6 stud space with 1/2" minimum drywall sheathing. For alternate installations, maintain 1/2" clearance to the back of the wall of the dehumidifier cabinet.
- If the drain access cover was removed, reinstall it by routing the drain hose through the appropriate knock-out and reattaching the screw. Route the grommet over the drain hose and snap it into place at the knock-out. Use a 1/4" hex nut screwdriver to apply the hose clamp to the drain hose and secure it onto the drain port hose barb. Diagram: Shows the drain hose being secured with a hose clamp and the grommet being placed.
- Complete electrical connections: white to white, green to green, black to black. Screw wire nuts back onto each electrical connection. Then tighten clamp screws on the non-metallic cable clamp. Diagram: Illustrates the electrical connections being made with wire nuts (white to white, green to green, black to black).
- Tuck the electrical wires in and reinstall the electrical cover with its two screws using a 1/4" hex nut screwdriver. Ensure none of the electrical wires are pinched. Make sure the drain hose is routed to the appropriate location before turning on the unit. Diagram: Depicts the electrical wires being tucked into the unit and the cover being reinstalled.
- Turn breaker / power back on.
- Set the digital controller to the desired RH. Refer to the Controls Section on page 12.
- Install the diffuser cover by aligning the lower tabs first, then setting the cover back against the wall. Insert the included four tamper-resistant or Phillips screws to secure the diffuser cover. Diagram: Shows the diffuser cover being aligned and attached with screws.
Maintenance
[Warning!] Be sure the unit is powered off and unplugged or the circuit breaker is turned off before removing the front cover to service the unit. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid a hazard.
Filter Maintenance
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 comes with a washable filter. Check the filter every two months. Clean or replace the filter as necessary.
Removing the Filter:
Remove the screws on the front cover, then push the front cover up gently to free the cover hooks from the chassis. The filter is located on the back side of the front cover. Gently remove the filter by lifting the bottom side corners first to prevent bending it.
Filter Cleaning:
The filter can be vacuumed with a wet/dry vac or washed with warm water.
Reinstalling the Filter:
Insert the filter into the tabs on top of the mount and flex the filter to insert it into the bottom tabs. Reinstall the cover by lining up the tabs, sliding it down into place, and securing it with the included tamper-resistant or Phillips screws.
Diffuser Maintenance
It is recommended to use a mild detergent to clean the surface of the diffuser, especially around the edges where the return air flows into the unit. This is where air is drawn into the filter and may collect dust. Do not use harsh solvents on the diffuser.
The diffuser can be painted to blend with interior aesthetics. Use only paint recommended for polycarbonate surfaces and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for surface preparation and application.
Air Flow
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 functions by drawing moist air in through the bottom portion of the diffuser and returning dried air to the space out the top portion of the diffuser.
Note: Avoid blocking the return and supply air flow to maximize unit performance and prevent heat build-up. Furniture must be at least 6" away from the diffuser.
Controls
The Santa Fe UltraMD33 features an illuminated display, user-selectable setpoint, and a power ON/OFF button located behind the diffuser. The diffuser is fastened with tamper-resistant screws to limit access to the control, but can also be fastened with included Phillips screws if limiting access is not needed.
Upon first power-on, the setpoint defaults to 55% RH. In case of a power outage, the dehumidifier restarts at the previous setpoint.
- Pressing the power button toggles the unit ON or OFF. When ON, pressing the button turns the compressor and fan off, causing the DISPLAY and LED to go off. When OFF, pressing the button turns the fan on, and the DISPLAY and LED will illuminate.
- If an error occurs, the unit will shut down, the indicator LED will turn red, and the display will show an error code (see page 13 for error codes).
Sequence of Operation
- Press the ON/OFF button to turn the control on. The display shows "00" briefly, then displays the room RH level. The dehumidifier blower starts sampling air for one minute. The indicator LED (above the display) will be green, indicating normal operation.
- Pressing either arrow key makes the DISPLAY flash the current setpoint. The RH setpoint can be adjusted from 35% to 99% in 1% increments. The recommended initial setting is 55%. Pressing the DOWN arrow below 35% sets the unit to run continuously (display reads "00"); after 10 seconds, it reverts to showing room RH. After any adjustment, the display returns to showing room RH after ten seconds.
- If the sensed humidity is above the setpoint, the fan runs for one minute to sample return air. If the sampled humidity is above the setting, the compressor turns on. The compressor stays on until the measured humidity drops 3% below the RH setting. If sampled humidity is below the setting, the compressor and blower turn off. The display reverts to the RH setting. The dehumidifier samples again every 15 minutes.
Service
Troubleshooting
[Caution!] Troubleshooting should be performed by a qualified HVAC technician.
| Symptom | Possible Reason | Troubleshooting Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Neither blower nor compressor is running and display is off. | 1. No power to unit, circuit breaker tripped 2. Power board wiring or connector loose 3. Control board wiring or connector loose 4. Circuit board failure | • Locate circuit breaker and reset if necessary. • Check all circuit board connections for loose plugs or wires. • Replace control board and power board. |
| Neither blower nor compressor is running and display is on. | 1. No call for dehumidification 2. Wiring or connectors loose | • Press down arrow until setpoint reads "00", wait 1 minute, fan and compressor should run. • Check wiring and connectors for damage or loose connections. |
| Blower is running and compressor is cycling on and off while ambient humidity is high. | 1. Unit is defrosting 2. Ambient temperature is too low 3. Defrost sensor malfunction 4. Poor airflow 5. Failing compressor relay 6. Compressor or sealed system failure | • Check setpoint; if setting is "00", increase setpoint to 55%. • Cold ambient conditions cause unit to go in and out of defrost (normal). • Press and hold both arrow buttons for >5 seconds to display defrost sensor temperature; replace sensor if reading is in error. • Verify airflow over coils is not blocked or restricted; clean filter and/or coils as required. • Replace power board. • Note: Sealed system is not generally field serviceable. |
| Blower is not spinning humidity is high and compressor is running. | 1. Wiring or connectors loose 2. Blower relay failure 3. Blower capacitor failure 4. Blower failure | • Check wiring and connectors for damage or loose connections. • Check power to blower circuit; replace power board if no power is detected. • Replace blower capacitor if failed. • Replace blower (requires unit removal from installation). |
| Blower is running and compressor is off while ambient humidity is high (evaporator coil is warm). | 1. Wiring or connectors loose 2. Compressor relay failure 3. Compressor capacitor failure 4. Compressor failure | • Check wiring and connectors for damage or loose connections. • Check power to compressor circuit; replace power board if no power is detected. • Replace compressor capacitor if failed. • Note: Sealed system is not generally field serviceable. |
| Poor dehumidification performance and evaporator coil is covered in ice or frost. | 1. Defrost sensor or connection is defective 2. Poor airflow 3. Low refrigerant charge | • Check circuit board connection for loose plug or wires. • Press and hold both arrow buttons for >5 seconds to display defrost sensor temperature; replace sensor if reading is an error (See diagnostic - Error code "1"). • Verify airflow over coils is not blocked or restricted; clean filter and/or coils as required. • Note: Sealed system is not generally field serviceable. |
| Poor dehumidification performance, compressor is running and evaporator coil is not cooling. | 1. Failed compressor or low refrigerant charge | • See diagnostic - Error code "3". • Note: Sealed system is not generally field serviceable. |
| Leak or standing water in drain pan. | 1. Kink in drain line 2. Drain line clogged 3. Clog in small vinyl tubing that connects the drain pan to drain port | • Verify there are no kinks in the drain line. • Verify there are no clogs in drain line. If clogged, pour a mixture of household vinegar (diluted 1:3) with water directly into the front edge of the drain pan. • Verify no clogs in small vinyl tubing that connects the drain pan to the drain port by pouring a small amount of water into the front edge of the drain pan to ensure it flows through the drain port. If water does not come through, verify the MD33 is plumb and not leaning forward or out of level. |
Warranty
Therma-Stor, LLC ("Therma-Stor") warrants the Santa Fe UltraMD33 dehumidifier ("Product") to be free of material defects in workmanship or materials for a period of one (1) year ("One-Year Warranty") from the date of initial purchase by the original customer. Product components are warranted for a period of four (4) years from the date of initial purchase.
Limitation of Remedies: The sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty is, at Therma-Stor's option, the replacement or repair of the Product or its components. Refrigerant, piping, supplies, transportation costs, and labor costs for repair or replacement are not included. This disclaimer applies even if the express warranty fails of its essential purpose. No representative of Therma-Stor or its affiliates/resellers is authorized to make any representation or warranty not contained in this agreement.
Disclaimer of Warranties: Except for the above limited warranty, Therma-Stor disclaims all express and implied warranties, including, without limitation, implied warranties of MERCHANTABILITY and FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Warranty Limitations: The limited warranty extends only to the original Customer and is void upon attempted assignment or transfer. "Defect" does not include problems arising from misuse, improper installation, improper system design, abuse, lack of normal care, failure to follow written instructions, tampering, improper repair, freezing, corrosion, acts of nature, or causes not arising from Therma-Stor's workmanship or material. If a Product or Component is replaced under warranty, the warranty period is not extended beyond the original term. The limited warranty does not cover costs related to changes required by codes, laws, or regulations enacted after the initial purchase.
Customer Responsibilities: To obtain warranty coverage, the Customer must send a valid warranty claim to Therma-Stor before the applicable warranty period ends. Therma-Stor has no obligation for claims received after the warranty period expires. Customers must provide proof of purchase. If invoices do not clearly indicate the date of initial purchase, the product's date of manufacture will be used. Warranty service must be performed by Therma-Stor or an authorized servicer. For warranty service, contact Therma-Stor at 1-800-533-7533. Service will be performed during customary daytime working hours. If the Product must be shipped for service, the Customer is responsible for proper packaging, all freight charges, and risk of loss.
Limitation of Liability: Therma-Stor shall not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, collateral, or consequential damages of any kind related to the design, sale, installation, use, repair, replacement, or performance of the Product. Therma-Stor's total liability, regardless of the claim's nature, shall not exceed the purchase price of the Product, component, or part.
Applicable Law and Venue: Any arbitration, enforcement of arbitration, or litigation related to the Product will be exclusively in Dane County, Wisconsin. Customer consents to the jurisdiction of federal and state courts located there and waives the right to change venue.
Miscellaneous: If any term of this Limited Warranty is found invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining terms remain in effect. Any delay or failure by Therma-Stor to exercise a right or remedy does not constitute a waiver.
