MARS VHP-UA Series Installation Manual

Table of Contents

Safety Instructions - Page 02

Product Overview - Page 09

Product Installation - Page 10

Refrigerant Piping Connection - Page 21

Wiring Precautions - Page 24

Air Evacuation - Page 27

Remark on Refrigerant Addition - Page 28

Test Execution - Page 29

Unit Packaging and Unpacking - Page 30

Safety Instructions

It is crucial to read the precautions before use and installation. Improper installation can lead to serious damage or injury. The severity of potential damage and injury is categorized as a WARNING or a CAUTION.

Symbol Meanings

• WARNING ⚠️: Indicates risk of bodily injury or loss of life.
• CAUTION ?: Indicates potential for material damage or serious consequences.

General Safety Warnings

This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised or instructed by a responsible person. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.

Electrical Warnings

• Use only the specified wire. If damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, service agent, or qualified person to avoid risk.
• The product must be properly grounded during installation to prevent electric shock.
• Follow all local and national wiring codes and the Installation Manual for electrical work. Connect cables firmly to prevent external forces from damaging terminals. Incorrect connections can cause overheating, fire, or electric shock. All electrical connections must follow the wiring diagram on the indoor and outdoor unit panels.
• Ensure all wiring is properly arranged so the control board cover closes correctly. An improperly closed cover can lead to corrosion, overheating of terminals, fire, or electric shock.
• Disconnecting means must be integrated into fixed wiring per regulations.
• Do not share the electrical outlet with other appliances. Incorrect or insufficient power can cause fire or electric shock.
• For fixed wiring, a disconnecting device with at least 3 mm pole separation, a residual current device (RCD) with a rated residual current not exceeding 30 mA, and disconnection must be integrated into the fixed wiring per regulations.

Product Installation Warnings

• Power the air conditioner and disconnect power before installation or repair. Failure to comply may result in electric shock.
• Installation must be performed by an authorized dealer or specialist. Improper installation can cause water leaks, electric shock, or fire. Contact an authorized service technician for repairs.
• Install according to installation instructions. Incorrect installation can cause water leaks, electric shock, or fire.
• Use only specified accessories, parts, and components. Non-standard parts may cause water leaks, electric shock, fire, or unit failure.
• Install the module on a solid location that can support its weight. Failure to do so may cause the unit to fall, resulting in serious injury or damage.
• Install the drain pipe according to instructions. Improper drainage can cause water damage to your home and property.
• For units with auxiliary electric heat, do not install within 1 meter (3 feet) of combustible materials.
• For units with wireless network function, USB peripheral access, replacement, and maintenance must be performed by professional technicians.
• Do not install in areas exposed to combustible gas, as this could cause a fire.
• Do not power on the module until installation is complete.
• For unit relocation, consult experienced technicians for disconnection and reinstallation.
• Refer to the "Indoor Unit Installation" and "Outdoor Unit Installation" chapters for detailed instructions on mounting the unit.

Fuse Specifications

The air conditioner's circuit board includes a fuse for overcurrent protection. Fuse ratings are printed on the board (e.g., T3.15AL/250VAC, T5AL/250VAC). REMARK: Only anti-explosion ceramic fuses may be used.

Refrigerant Use Warning

• Do not use tools to accelerate defrosting or cleaning, other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Store the unit in a well-ventilated area away from open flames, gas appliances, or electric heaters.
• Do not puncture or burn refrigerant.
• Be aware that refrigerants may be odorless.

Refrigerant Charge Quantity and Minimum Room Size for R454B

The unit may be one of the types indicated in the table below. Indoor and outdoor units are designed to be used together. Verify your purchased unit. The room height must not be less than 7.3 ft (2.2 m), and the minimum room size for operation or storage must be as specified in the table.

REMARK: This air conditioner can be installed on the wall or suspended from the ceiling.

Zone formula:

• Amin: Minimum required room area in ft²/m².
• mc: Actual refrigerant charge in the system in oz/kg.
• MREL: Releaseable refrigerant charge in oz/kg (for units with refrigerant sensors only).
• hinst: Height of the appliance bottom from the floor after installation.

WARNING: The minimum room area or conditioned room area is based on the releaseable charge and the total refrigerant charge of the system.

If the unit detects a refrigerant leak, the minimum airflow of the indoor unit is as follows:

Installation

1. Installation (When Refrigerant Piping is Permitted)

• Personnel working on or performing tasks on a refrigeration circuit must hold a valid certificate from an accredited assessment authority attesting their ability to safely handle refrigerants.
• Maintenance and repairs requiring assistance from other qualified persons must be supervised by someone proficient in handling flammable refrigerants.
• Minimize refrigerant piping runs.
• Protect piping from physical damage.
• Ensure refrigerant lines comply with national gas regulations.
• Mechanical connections must be accessible for maintenance.
• Prevent foreign substances (oil, water, etc.) from entering the piping. Seal openings securely when storing piping.
• Only competent persons should perform procedures affecting safety.
• Store the unit in a well-ventilated area corresponding to the required zone size for proper operation.
• Test joints with leak detection equipment (5 g/year sensitivity or better) while the unit is stopped and running, or under pressure. Detachable joints are not permitted on the interior side of the unit. Brazed and welded joints may be used.
• Ensure ventilation openings are clear of obstructions if mechanical ventilation is required.
• The unit has a leak detection system. The unit must be powered on unless maintenance is being performed. If a refrigerant leak is detected, the indoor unit will display an error code and beep. The outdoor compressor will stop, and the indoor fan will run. The refrigerant sensor has a 15-year lifespan. Error code "FHCC" indicates a malfunctioning sensor.
• The refrigerant sensor cannot be repaired and must be replaced only by the manufacturer or a specified sensor.

2. Requirements for Flammable Refrigerants

Installation space and ventilation requirements are determined by the refrigerant charge mass (M), installation location, and ventilation type.

• Piping material, routing, and installation must be protected from physical damage and comply with national/local codes (e.g., ASHRAE 15, IAPMO, ICC, CSA B52). Field joints must be accessible for inspection.
• Protective devices, piping, and fittings must be protected from environmental effects, such as water collection/freezing in drain lines or debris accumulation.
• Refrigeration system piping must be designed to minimize hydraulic shock.
• Steel pipes and components must be protected against corrosion with a rust-preventative coating before insulation.
• Take precautions to avoid excessive vibration or pulsations.
• Minimum room floor area must be stated as a single figure, not a formula.
• After field piping completion, the installation piping must undergo a pressure test with inert gas, followed by a vacuum test before refrigerant charging, per requirements.
• Minimum test pressure for the low side must be the lower base pressure. For the high side, it must be the higher base pressure, unless the high side cannot be isolated from the low side, in which case the entire system must be tested to the lower base pressure.
• The test pressure after removing the pressure source must be maintained for at least 1 hour without pressure drop, with a gauge resolution not exceeding 5% of the test pressure.
• During evacuation, after reaching the specified vacuum level or less, isolate the system from the vacuum pump. Pressure should not exceed 1500 microns within 10 minutes. The vacuum level must comply with codes and standards.
• Field-installed refrigerant joints must undergo a leak test with a sensitivity of 5 grams/year of refrigerant or better at a pressure of at least 0.25 times the maximum allowable pressure. No leaks should be detected.

3. Worker Qualification

Maintenance, service, and repair operations must be performed by qualified personnel. Safety-affecting procedures must be performed by competent persons who have received training and acquired skills, documented by a certificate. Training must comply with UL 60335-2-40, 4th Edition, ANNEX HH.

Examples of such procedures include:

• Interrupting the refrigeration circuit.
• Opening sealed components.
• Opening ventilated enclosures.

4. Ventilated Area

Ensure the area is open-air or sufficiently ventilated before performing work, especially hot work. Continuous ventilation is required throughout the operation to safely disperse any escaping refrigerant.

5. Wiring

Verify that wiring is not exposed to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure, vibration, sharp edges, or other harmful environmental factors. Consider cable aging and continuous vibrations from components.

6. Flammable Refrigerant Detection

Do not use potential ignition sources when searching for or detecting refrigerant leaks. A halide lamp or flame-based detector is prohibited.

Acceptable detection methods include electronic leak detectors. For flammable refrigerants, sensitivity may be insufficient or require recalibration. Ensure the detector is not a potential ignition source and is suitable for use with refrigerants. Set the detector to a percentage of the refrigerant's LII and calibrate it accordingly (25% maximum). Avoid chlorinated detection fluids, as chlorine can react with refrigerant and corrode copper tubing.

Refrigerant Piping Connection

Instructions for Refrigerant Piping

CAUTION:

• Branch piping must be installed horizontally. An angle greater than 10° can cause malfunction.
• DO NOT install connecting piping until the indoor and outdoor units are installed.
• Insulate gas and liquid lines to prevent condensation.

Step 1: Cutting the Pipes

Pay close attention to cutting and flaring refrigerant pipes correctly to ensure efficient operation and minimize future maintenance. Measure the distance between the indoor and outdoor modules. Cut the pipe slightly longer than the measured distance, ensuring a perfect 90° angle cut.

DO NOT DEFORM THE PIPE DURING CUTTING.

Step 2: Removing Burrs

Burrs can affect the hermetic seal of the refrigerant pipe connection and must be completely removed. Hold the pipe downwards to prevent burrs from falling in. Use a reamer or deburring tool.

Step 3: Flaring Pipe Ends

Proper flaring is essential for an airtight seal. After removing burrs, seal the ends with PVC tape to prevent foreign matter entry. Place insulating sleeves around the pipe. Place flared nuts on both pipe ends, ensuring correct orientation. Once flared, nuts cannot be installed or removed. Remove PVC tape before flaring.

Flare the pipe end, extending it beyond the flare form. Place the flaring tool on the model and turn the handle clockwise until the pipe is fully flared.

Pipe Extension Beyond Flare Form

Remove the flaring tool and inspect the pipe end for cracks or uneven flares.

Step 4: Connecting the Pipes

Connect copper pipes first to the indoor unit, then to the outdoor unit. Connect the low-pressure pipe first, then the high-pressure pipe.

• When connecting flared nuts, apply a thin layer of refrigerant oil to the flared ends.
• Align the centers of the two pipes to be connected.
• Tighten the flared nut by hand as much as possible.
• Use a wrench to tighten the nut onto the unit's piping.
• While tightening firmly, use a torque wrench to tighten the flared nut to the torque values specified in the table above.

CAUTION: Wrap piping with insulation. Direct contact with bare piping can cause burns or frostbite. Ensure the pipe is correctly connected. Overtightening can damage the flare; undertightening can cause leaks.

NOTICE: MINIMUM BENDING RADIUS

Gently bend the piping in the middle as shown in the diagram. DO NOT bend piping more than 90° or more than 3 times.

Use the appropriate tool. Minimum bending radius: 3.9in (10cm).

After connecting copper pipes to the indoor unit, bundle the power cable, signal cable, and piping together with adhesive tape.

NOTICE: Use a tubing cutter and torque wrench when connecting or disconnecting pipes to/from the unit.

NOTICE: DO NOT MIX signal cable with other cables. Bundle them together. DO NOT interchange or cross the signal cable with other wiring.

Wiring Precautions

WARNING: READ THE FOLLOWING WARNINGS BEFORE ANY ELECTRICAL MANIPULATION.

• All electrical installation must comply with national and local regulations and codes, and be performed by a licensed electrician.
• All electrical connections must follow the electrical connection diagram on the indoor and outdoor unit panels.
• If there is a serious safety problem related to the power supply, stop all work immediately. Explain the issue to the customer and refuse to install the unit until the problem is resolved.
• The supply voltage must be between 90 and 110% of the rated voltage. Insufficient power can cause malfunction, electric shock, or fire.
• Installation of an external surge suppressor at the outdoor disconnect switch is recommended.
• If connecting to fixed wiring, a switch or circuit breaker that disconnects all poles with at least 1/8 in (3 mm) contact separation must be integrated. Qualified technicians must use approved devices.
• Connect the module only to a dedicated circuit line. Do not connect other appliances to this line.
• Ensure the air conditioner is properly grounded.
• Each cable must be securely connected. Loose wiring can cause terminal overheating, leading to malfunction or fire.
• Do not let cables touch or rest on refrigerant piping, the compressor, or any removable parts of the unit.
• If the unit has auxiliary electric heating, it must be installed at least 1 meter (40 inches) away from combustible materials.

To avoid electric shock, never touch electrical components immediately after power is cut. Wait at least 10 minutes after power is cut before touching electrical components.

Do not cross electrical wiring with signal wiring, as this can cause distortion, interference, or damage to circuit boards.

No other equipment should be connected to the same power circuit.

Connect outdoor cables before indoor cables.

WARNING: CUT OFF THE MAIN POWER SUPPLY BEFORE PERFORMING ANY ELECTRICAL OR WIRING WORK.

Outdoor Unit Wiring

WARNING: Turn on the main power supply before performing electrical or wiring work.

1. Prepare the cable for connection:
   • Choose the correct cable size based on local electrical codes and regulations.
   • The required power cable size, signal cable, fuse, and switch are determined by the module's minimum circuit current. Refer to the nameplate on the module's side panel for the minimum circuit ampacity.
   • Using wire strippers, strip the rubber sheath from both ends of the signal cable to expose approximately 150 mm (5.9 in) of wire.
   • Strip the insulation from the wire ends.
   • Use a crimper to secure the ends.
2. Remove the electrical box cover of the outdoor module. If there is no cover, remove maintenance panel bolts and the protective cover.
3. Connect the terminals to the connectors. Match cable colors/labels with terminal block labels. Firmly screw each cable's terminal to the corresponding terminal.
4. Secure the cable with a cable clamp.
5. Insulate unused cables with electrical tape. Keep them away from any electrical or metallic components.
6. Reinstall the electrical control box cover.

REMARK: When connecting cables, strictly follow the wiring diagram inside the electrical box cover.

Indoor Unit Wiring Diagram

1. Prepare the cable for connection:
   • Using wire strippers, strip the rubber sheath from each end of the signal cable to expose approximately 150 mm (5.9 in) of cable.
   • Strip the insulation from the cable ends.
   • Using a crimping tool, crimp terminals onto the cable ends.
2. Open the front panel of the indoor module. Using a screwdriver, remove the electrical control box cover.
3. Pass the power cable and signal cable through the cable outlet.
4. Connect the terminals. Match cable colors/labels with the electrical connection block labels. Firmly screw each cable's terminal to the corresponding terminal. Refer to the serial number and wiring diagram on the electrical control box cover.

CAUTION: When connecting cables, strictly follow the wiring diagram. The refrigerant circuit can become very hot. Keep the interconnecting cable away from the copper tube.

5. Secure the cable with a cable tie. The cable should not be too loose or pull on the terminals.

6. Reattach the electrical box cover.

Air Evacuation

NOTICE: When opening valve stems, turn the hexagonal wrench to the stop point. Do not force the valve further open.

Preparation and Precautions

The presence of air and foreign matter in the refrigerant circuit can cause abnormal pressure increases, damaging the air conditioner, reducing its efficiency, and causing injury. Use a vacuum pump and gauge to evacuate the refrigerant circuit, removing non-condensable gases and moisture. Evacuation is required during initial installation and when moving the unit.

BEFORE PERFORMING EVACUATION

• Check ✔: Make sure the connective pipes between the indoor and outdoor units are connected properly.
• Check ✔: Make sure all wiring is connected properly.

Evacuation Instructions

1. Connect the manifold gauge hose to the low-pressure valve port of the outdoor module.
2. Connect another manifold gauge hose to the vacuum pump.
3. Open the low-pressure side of the manifold gauge. Keep the high-pressure side closed.
4. Turn on the vacuum pump to evacuate the system.
5. Run the vacuum pump for at least 15 minutes, or until the gauge indicates -76cmHG (-10 5Pa).
6. Close the low-pressure side of the manifold gauge and turn off the vacuum pump.
7. Wait 5 minutes, then check if the system pressure remains stable.
8. If the system pressure varies, refer to the "Gas Leak Tests" section for leak verification. If pressure is stable, unscrew the valve cap (high-pressure valve).
9. Insert the hexagonal wrench into the valve (high-pressure valve) and turn it a quarter turn counter-clockwise. Listen for gas escaping, then close the valve after 5 seconds.
10. Monitor the pressure gauge for one minute to verify stable pressure. The pressure should be slightly above atmospheric pressure.
11. Remove the hose from the port.
12. Using a hexagonal wrench, fully open the high and low-pressure valves.
13. Hand-tighten the caps on all three valves (service port, high pressure, low pressure). Further tightening with a torque wrench is possible if necessary.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows the outdoor unit with connections for the manifold gauge (low pressure, high pressure, service port) and the vacuum pump. It illustrates the components like the valve body, stem, cap, and flared nut.

Remark on Refrigerant Addition

CAUTION: DO NOT MIX refrigerant types.

Some systems may require additional refrigerant charge depending on pipe length. In North America, the standard pipe length is 25 ft (7.5 m). Refrigerant should be added via the service port on the outdoor unit's low-pressure valve. The additional refrigerant required can be calculated using the following formula:

Test Execution

CAUTION: Failure to perform the operational test may result in damage to the unit and property, or physical injury.

Before Operational Test

An operational test must be performed once the entire system is fully installed. Confirm the following points before testing:

• Indoor and outdoor modules are correctly installed.
• Piping and wiring are correctly connected.
• No obstructions near module inlets/outlets that could cause poor performance or malfunction.
• Refrigeration system is leak-free.
• Drainage system is unobstructed and drains to a safe location.
• Thermal insulation is correctly installed.
• Grounding cables are correctly connected.
• Pipe length and additional refrigerant capacity have been recorded.
• Supply voltage is correct for the air conditioner.

Operational Test Instructions

1. Open the liquid and gas shut-off valves.
2. Turn on the main switch and allow the module to preheat.
3. Set the air conditioner to COOL mode.
4. For the indoor module:
   • Verify the remote control and its buttons function correctly.
   • Verify that the louvers move correctly and can be changed using the remote control.
   • Double-check that the ambient temperature is registered correctly.
   • Ensure the remote control indicators and the indoor unit's display panel function correctly.
   • Ensure the indoor module's manual buttons function correctly.
5. For the outdoor module:
   • Verify that the refrigerant circuit is not leaking.
   • Check for abnormal vibrations or noises during operation.
   • Ensure that the wind, noise, and water generated by the module do not disturb neighbors or pose a safety hazard.
6. Drain Test:
   • Ensure the drain pipe flows smoothly. New installations should perform this test before finishing the ceiling.
   • Remove the test cover. Add 2000 ml of water into the reservoir through the attached tube.
   • Turn on the main switch and run the air conditioner in COOL mode.
   • Listen for unusual noises from the drain pump.
   • Verify that water is being drained. It may take up to a minute for the module to start draining, depending on the drain pipe.
   • Ensure there are no leaks in any of the pipes.
   • Turn off the air conditioner. Turn off the main power switch and reinstall the cover.

REMARK: If the module malfunctions or does not perform as expected, refer to the "Troubleshooting" section of the manual before contacting customer service.

Unit Packaging and Unpacking

Instructions for Packaging and Unpacking the Unit:

Unpacking:

Indoor Module:

1. Cut the packaging strap.
2. Unpack the carton.
3. Remove the cushion and packaging support.
4. Remove the packaging film.
5. Remove accessories.
6. Lift the machine and place it flat.

Outdoor Module:

1. Cut the packaging strap.
2. Remove the unit from the packaging.
3. Remove the foam from the carton.
4. Remove the unit's packaging film.

Packaging:

Indoor Module:

1. Place the indoor unit in the packaging film.
2. Add accessories.
3. Place the packaging cushion and support.
4. Place the indoor module in the package.
5. Close and seal the carton.
6. Use straps if necessary.

Outdoor Module:

1. Place the outdoor unit in the packaging film.
2. Place the bottom foam in the box.
3. Place the outdoor unit in the carton, then place the upper packaging foam on the unit.
4. Close and seal the carton.
5. Use straps if necessary.

REMARK: Please keep all packaging items if needed in the future.

Limited Express Warranty

Congratulations on purchasing your new CVCA equipment. It is designed for long life and reliable service, backed by one of the industry's strongest warranties. Your appliance is automatically covered by the warranty below, provided you retain proof of purchase (receipt) and comply with warranty conditions.

TEN (10) YEAR LIMITED EXPRESS WARRANTY

MARS warrants all parts, including the compressor of the VHP-SA series ductless mini-split, to be free from defects in workmanship and materials for normal use and service for ten (10) years from the original consumer purchase date for the original installation. This limited express warranty applies only when the ductless mini-split air conditioner is installed as a complete matched system (outdoor and indoor module), and only when the system is installed according to MARS installation guidelines and in compliance with local, state, and national codes for normal use.

EXCEPTIONS

The Limited Express Warranty does not cover normal maintenance. Mars recommends a regular inspection/maintenance at least once per season and retaining proof of service. Furthermore, labor costs, transportation costs for replacement parts, refrigerant or filter replacement, and any other service or repair are not covered by this limited warranty. It also does not cover any part or component of the system not supplied by MARS, regardless of the cause of failure.

WARRANTY APPLICATION CONDITIONS

• The unit must be used according to MARS operating instructions and must not have been subjected to accident, modification, improper repair, neglect, misuse, or act of God (e.g., flood).
• Installation must have been performed by a trained, authorized, or qualified HVAC dealer/contractor.
• The appliance's performance must not have been compromised by any unauthorized product, modification, or component adaptation.
• Serial numbers or nameplates must not be damaged or removed.
• Damage must not result from improper wiring or voltage conditions, or operation under low voltage or power outage conditions.
• Airflow around any part of the appliance must not have been obstructed.
• The unit remains in its original installation.
• The appliance was not purchased over the Internet.

WARRANTY PERIOD AND REGISTRATION

The warranty begins on the original consumer purchase date. The customer must retain a sales contract with a receipt as proof of the warranty period. Without this proof, the express warranty begins on the factory shipment date.

REMEDY PROVIDED BY LIMITED EXPRESS WARRANTY

The sole remedy under the limited warranty is the replacement of the defective part. If replacement parts are required during the warranty period, MARS replacement parts must be used. Any warranty on replacement parts does not extend the original applicable module warranty. Labor costs for diagnosing and replacing defective parts are not covered. If a replacement part or product is unavailable, MARS may issue a credit for the suggested retail price of the part or product instead of providing repair or replacement.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

1. No other express or implied warranties apply. MARS does not warrant merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, except as stated herein.
2. Any implied warranties are limited to seven years for parts. Your exclusive remedy is replacement of defective parts. MARS is not liable for consequential or incidental damages.
3. This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or exclusion of incidental/consequential damages.
4. No warranty is made for units sold outside the continental United States and Canada. Consult your dealer for warranty information on units sold elsewhere.
5. MARS is not liable for warranty performance delays due to events beyond its control (accidents, alterations, abuse, war, government restrictions, strikes, fire, flood, acts of God).

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE OR PARTS

For warranty claims, promptly notify your installer. If the installer does not respond, send a letter to MARS, 1900 Wellworth Ave., Jackson, MI 49203. Include an inspection report from your installer or maintenance technician, and provide the model number, serial number, and purchase date.

Owner responsibilities are detailed in the instruction manual. Read it carefully.

KEEP THIS INFORMATION AS PROOF OF YOUR PURCHASE

Outdoor Module: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Indoor Module 1: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Indoor Module 2: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Indoor Module 3: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Indoor Module 4: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Indoor Module 5: Model No. ___________ Serial No. ___________

Date of Purchase: ___________

Disclaimer

Due to continuous product improvements, technical specifications and dimensions are subject to change without prior notice. Determination of product application and suitability is the installer's responsibility. The installer is also responsible for verifying product dimensions before installation preparation. Incentive and rebate programs have specific performance and certification requirements. Products comply with regulations at the date of manufacture; however, certifications are not necessarily granted for the product's entire lifespan. Therefore, it is the applicant's responsibility to determine if a specific model is eligible for these rebate and incentive programs.

Comfort-Cire Century

1900 Wellworth Ave., Jackson, MI 49203 • Ph. 517-787-2100 • www.marsdelivers.com

MARS Delivering Confidence