Carrier 52C and 52P Series Owner's Manual

General

Thank you for choosing Carrier. This manual provides information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the 52C and 52P units. These units offer high standards of quality in performance, workmanship, durability, and appearance for year-round heating and cooling.

The following units are covered:

• 52CE 60 Hz cooling with electric heat
• 52CQ 60 Hz cooling, electric heat, and heat pump
• 52PE 60 Hz cooling with electric heat
• 52PQ 60 Hz cooling, electric heat, and heat pump
• 52PC 60 Hz cooling only

All models are designed for through-the-wall installation. Separate installation instructions are included with accessory components.

Unit Inspection

Examine the unit for damage incurred during shipment and file a claim with the transit company if damage is found. The data information plate, typically found on the front panel, lists important electrical and model information.

Front Panel

To remove the front panel, grasp it firmly at the center top and bottom and pull upward at the bottom and forward at the top to release magnetic latches. Note that screws may be located behind the indoor air inlet filters, requiring filter removal first. The front panel must be removed for installation procedures and checks.

Figure 1: Sample Data Information Plate - This plate displays the model number, voltage ranges, and other critical electrical data for the unit.

Figure 2: Removing Front Panel - Illustrates the method for detaching the front panel, showing how to disengage magnetic latches and partition hooks.

Model Number Nomenclature

Figure 3: Model Number Nomenclature - This diagram breaks down the model number structure, indicating Series Designation (PTAC), Comfort Series (CE, CQ), Premier Series (PC, PE, PQ), Latest Revision, Electric Heater Size (kW), Cooling Capacity (Btuh), Chassis Options (Standard, Corrosion Protection, Thermostat Control), Packaging, Non-Performance Changes, and Electrical Data (Voltage, Hz).

To install the front panel:

1. Hold the front panel at a 5-10 degree angle from vertical, engaging the top posts into the unit slots.
2. Lower the panel flat against the unit, ensuring the power cord is routed through the notch. Magnetic latches will secure it.

To install the locking feature:

1. Remove indoor air inlet filters to expose engagement holes.
2. Secure the front panel with two field-supplied screws into the engagement holes.
3. Replace the filters.

Figure 4: Front Panel Installation with Locking Feature - Depicts the process of securing the front panel using screws into designated engagement holes.

Electrical Data

WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD Do not alter the cord or plug, and do not use an extension cord, as this may result in personal injury or unit damage.

Ensure your outlet matches the plug's blade configuration and is within reach of the service cord. A hardwire kit is available as an accessory.

IMPORTANT: All standard cord-connected 265-v units require a field-installed electrical sub-base accessory.

All Units

Wire Size

Use the recommended wire size from Table 1 and install a single branch circuit. All wiring must comply with local and national codes. Copper conductors are required.

Grounding

The unit is grounded through the service cord plug or a separate ground wire. Ensure the branch circuit or outlet is grounded.

LEGEND: AWG - American Wire Gage; *Single circuit from main box; †Based on copper wire at 60 C temperature rating.

Voltage Supply

Verify the voltage supply at the outlet is within the ranges specified on the unit's data information plate.

Cord-Connected Units

The 250-v outlet must match the plug for 208/230-v units. For 265-v units, an accessory electrical subbase is required. Refer to Table 2 for proper receptacle and fuse types.

Power Cord Protection

The power cord for 230/208-v units includes shock and fire prevention. It automatically disconnects under unsafe conditions and can be reset via the button on the plug head. Perform an operational check using the TEST/RESET buttons after installation.

NOTE: 265-v models do not have this feature and require the electrical subbase accessory.

LEGEND: HACR - Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration; *May be used for 15-amp applications if fused for 15 amp.

Installation

Chassis Installation

Units are shipped without a sleeve. For replacement installations, using a Carrier sleeve and grille is recommended. The 52C and 52P units can retrofit sleeves/grilles from General Electric, Amana, Trane, and Friedrich. Carrier Corporation approval is required for other retrofit applications.

For competitive retrofits, ensure factory-installed foam seals on tube sheets create a good seal between the outdoor grille and outdoor coil tube sheets to prevent air recirculation.

CAUTION: For retrofit applications, foam seals on outdoor coil tube sheets must make a seal between the coil and the grille to prevent performance loss and premature component damage.

*FR-SLEEVE-EXT accessory is required for retrofit into Friedrich (T-Series) wall sleeves.

Figure 5: Unit Components - Diagram labeling key parts: Indoor-Air Inlet Filters, Discharge Grille, Wire Screen, Outdoor Orifice, Coil Tube Sheets, Front Panel, Indoor Coil, Plug Test/Reset Buttons, Basepan, Outdoor Grille, Wall Sleeve, Vent Door, Shipping Tape, Vent Door Cable.

Competitive Sleeve Preparation

IMPORTANT: Inspect the wall sleeve thoroughly before installation. The manufacturer is not responsible for costs or damages due to sleeve defects or improper installation.

WARNING: Disconnect all power to the unit to avoid electrical shock during installation.

Remove any existing foam baffles from the outdoor grille if present.

• GE Sleeves Only: Remove the metal clip on the mounting rail of metal sleeves (Figure 7) and the bottom seal from plastic sleeves (Figure 8).

Installation of a Carrier Wall Sleeve Using a Non-Carrier Grille: This scenario requires an Accessory Baffle Kit (Figure 9) to ensure a proper seal and prevent air recirculation, which degrades performance.

Figure 6: Remove Existing Baffles on Competitive Outdoor Grilles - Shows baffles to be removed from competitive outdoor grilles.

Figure 7: Remove Metal Clip on GE Metal Sleeve - Illustrates removing a metal clip from a GE metal sleeve.

Figure 8: Remove Bottom Seal from GE Plastic Sleeve - Shows removing the bottom seal from a GE plastic sleeve.

Figure 9: Accessory Baffle Kit - Image of the accessory baffle kit.

Figure 10: Installation Complete - Visual representation of a completed installation.

Install Chassis in Sleeve

Inspect foam gaskets on the chassis and replace if torn or missing. These gaskets create a weather barrier with the sleeve face.

WARNING: The chassis weighs up to 150 lb. Seek assistance when lifting the unit.

If retrofitting into GE, Amana, Trane, or Friedrich sleeves, remove any existing foam seals from the manufacturer's grille before installing the unit.

Remove shipping tape from the vent door (Figure 11). Failure to do so may prevent the door from opening and cause damage.

Carefully remove and discard power cord packing material.

Lift the chassis level with the wall sleeve and slide it in until the foam gaskets rest firmly against the front of the wall sleeve (Figure 12).

Secure the chassis to the wall sleeve using four 1¾-in. screws taped to the control box. Align screw holes on the chassis with those in the sleeves. For Carrier sleeves, use the top-most and bottom-most holes. For competitive sleeves, align the correct attachment holes.

Figure 11: Location of Shipping Tape on Vent Door - Pinpoints the location of shipping tape on the unit's vent door.

Figure 12: Unit Gaskets and Tube Sheets - Diagram showing the unit's gaskets and tube sheets.

Figure 13: Chassis Mounting - Illustrates the chassis mounting points, including specific holes for Carrier sleeves and general attachment holes for competitive sleeves.

Wall Thermostat Installation

These instructions apply to RC and RP units only. Carrier thermostats are recommended.

IMPORTANT: Only trained, qualified personnel should install electrical accessories.

Thermostat Wire Routing

Use 18 to 20 gage solid thermostat wire. Route the wire around or under the wall sleeve, not through it. Then, route it behind the front panel to the terminal connector.

Install Thermostat

1. Ensure power to the unit is disconnected.
2. Pull the terminal connector to remove it for easier wiring.
3. Connect thermostat wires to the chassis terminal board connector.
4. Reinstall the terminal connector.
5. Restore power to the unit.

Refer to the thermostat's installation instructions for specific details.

Figure 14: Control Box Terminal Connector for Wall Thermostat Models - Shows the terminal connector on the control box.

Figure 15: Terminal Connector Removal and Replacement - Illustrates the process of removing and replacing the terminal connector.

Figure 16: Wiring Connections - Details the terminal designations (R, G, Y, W, O, C) and their functions, with notes for heat pump connections and digital thermostats.

Operation

IMPORTANT: During initial startup, high humidity may cause condensation on the discharge grille. Keep doors and windows closed.

Comfort Controls

Adjust Airflow Direction

The discharge air grille directs air forward. For upward discharge, remove the grille from the front panel, rotate it 180 degrees, and reinstall it.

Adjust Vent

The vent handle, located on the left side, opens or closes the vent. The vent stays in the last position set until the handle is turned again. A magnet ensures positive closure.

Figure 17: Vent Door - Shows the unit's vent door, vent filter, and vent handle, with a magnet indicated for closure.

Setting Temperature Limits

Setting temperature limits restricts the user's temperature control range. This adjustment is optional and not applicable to remote control units.

Factory settings are 60 F to 90 F. To restrict the temperature control knob's rotation:

1. Remove the front panel.
2. Remove the temperature control knob to access the temperature limiter.
3. Remove standoff pins from the 60 F and 90 F indicator holes.
4. Replace standoff pins in the desired minimum and maximum temperature holes.
5. Reinstall the temperature control knob and front panel.

NOTE: Temperature indicators are approximate.

Figure 18: Operating Controls - Diagram showing the unit's operating controls, including temperature control, fan cycle switch, and outdoor thermostat (for heat pump units).

Operating Controls

Controls are located on the front of the control box door, under the front panel.

Fan Cycle Switch

This switch, often on a wall thermostat for RC/RP units, offers two fan modes:

• CON (Continuous): Fan runs continuously for consistent temperature.
• CYC (Cycle): Fan cycles on/off with the compressor, leading to wider temperature/humidity variations.

Outdoor Thermostat (52CQ and 52PQ Heat Pump Units Only)

The setscrew position determines operation. If set to heat pump mode, the unit uses reverse cycle heating. When outdoor coil temperature drops, the electric heater engages. If set to electric heat mode only, the compressor is disabled for heating and cooling (or just heating if a wall thermostat is used).

Operating Modes

• Outside Air: Turn the vent handle fully open to bring in outside air.
• OFF: Terminates unit operation.
• FAN: Circulates air at high speed.
• HIGH HEAT OR HIGH COOL: Select mode and rotate knob for maximum heating/cooling to quickly adjust room temperature.
• LOW HEAT OR LOW COOL: Select mode and rotate knob for minimum heating/cooling, providing quiet operation and dehumidification.

Fan Speed Control for 52P and 52C Wall Thermostat Models

Fan speed is user-selectable at the unit for maximum comfort.

Figure 19: 52P Unit Controls Shown - Illustrates the controls on the 52P unit.

Figure 20: 52P Unit with Wall Thermostat Control Shown - Shows the 52P unit with a wall thermostat control interface.

Care and Maintenance

Regular cleaning is essential for proper performance, efficiency, and longevity. Clean the fan, outdoor coil, blower wheel, blower scroll, electric heater, and drain passages at least annually. Air inlet filters should be cleaned monthly.

More frequent cleaning may be needed in dusty environments or those prone to fungus growth.

CAUTION: Fungus growth inside the unit can be a fire hazard. Clean the unit according to instructions.

Indoor-Air Inlet Filters

Indoor-Air Inlet Filters

Clean indoor-air inlet filters once each month. Clogged filters restrict airflow, potentially causing severe component damage and efficiency loss.

Cleaning Indoor-Air Inlet Filter

Two filters are located on the backside of the front panel. To clean:

1. Grasp each filter with both hands.
2. Gently pull the filter up and away from the unit (Figure 21).
3. Clean using a vacuum or a soft bristle brush with mild detergent. Rinse with clean water if detergent is used.
4. Allow filters to air dry completely.
5. Re-insert dry filters into the front panel.

Additional filters are available.

Figure 21: Indoor-Air Inlet Filter Removal - Shows how to grasp and pull out an indoor air inlet filter.

External Parts

External parts, including the polymer sleeve and grilles, should be cleaned with household detergent and water.

Internal Parts

Internal parts should be cleaned at least once a year. The outdoor vent filter should be cleaned at least once per cooling or heating season.

Internal parts to clean include:

• Outdoor vent filter
• Basepan
• Outdoor orifice and fan
• Indoor and outdoor refrigeration coils
• Indoor blower wheel
• Wire screen
• Scroll
• Wall sleeve internal surfaces
• Outdoor grille

Figure 22: Outdoor Vent Filter (Left Side of Chassis) - Shows the location of the outdoor vent filter.

Figure 23: Blower Wheel and Scroll - Diagram illustrating the blower wheel and scroll.

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance ensures proper unit operation, efficiency, and longevity. Check and verify equipment operation several times a year.

During regular inspection and maintenance, follow these guidelines:

• Wash both sides of the outdoor coil.
• Wash the basepan and outdoor vent filter.
• Wash the indoor coil.
• Clean the blower wheel and front panel.
• Clean or install new indoor-air inlet filters.
• Ensure knobs are secure and operable.
• Inspect cord and receptacle.
• Secure electrical connections.
• Ensure the front panel is properly mounted and not damaged.
• Ensure the wall sleeve is installed properly.
• Ensure heat and cool cycles operate properly.
• Check the power cord protective device by pressing the TEST button, then the RESET button.

Troubleshooting

NOTES:

1. If a circuit breaker is tripped, fuse is blown or RESET button on cord or plug is tripped more than once, contact a qualified electrician.
2. If unit is installed where condensation drainage could drip in an undesirable location, an accessory drain kit should be installed and connected to the drain system.

Accessories

*Custom colors are also available.

Carrier Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner Warranty

This warranty provides coverage for the Carrier Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner.

Full One-Year Warranty

Carrier will repair or replace defective parts free of charge during the first year after purchase.

Full Extended Four-Year Warranty on Sealed Refrigeration System Only

During the second through fifth years after original purchase, Carrier will repair or replace the compressor, condenser, evaporator, or connecting tubing if defective.

Limited Extended Four-Year Warranty on Non-Sealed Refrigeration System Only

During the second through fifth years after original purchase, Carrier will repair or replace non-sealed system parts (motor, solenoid, etc.) if defective. This warranty excludes labor costs.

Limitation of Warranties

Implied warranties are limited to the duration of the express warranties. Express warranties are exclusive and cannot be altered by distributors or dealers.

Carrier Will Not Be Responsible For:

• Cleaning required prior to warranty repair.
• Standard maintenance failures.
• Instruction on control and use after installation.
• Faulty installation or application.
• Failure to start due to electrical service issues.
• Misapplication, abuse, unauthorized alteration, or improper servicing.
• Damage from floods, winds, fires, lightning, accidents, or corrosive environments (except for units with corrosion protection, identified by a 'CP' suffix).
• Replacement parts or repair services not supplied or designated by Carrier.
• Products installed outside the continental U.S.A., Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada.
• Shipping damage or damage during transport.
• Special, indirect, or consequential damages.
• Warranty coverage of accessory items (thermostats, sleeves, etc.).

NOTE: Service and maintenance items may be covered by a separate service agreement.

*Authorized independent dealers or service stations are registered with Carrier Air Conditioning.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state.

If Your Air Conditioner Does Not Work

Follow these steps in order:

1. Check things you can do yourself: Ensure the unit is plugged in, check fuses/breakers, and reread the manual. This can save money by avoiding unnecessary service calls.
2. Contact your dealer or recommended Carrier Authorized Service Center: They are equipped to handle most service problems.
3. Contact the Carrier Distributor serving your area: Your dealer can provide contact information.
4. Contact Carrier if a satisfactory solution is not reached: Carrier Air Conditioning, Consumer Relations Department, Carrier Parkway, P.O. Box 4808, Syracuse, New York 13221. Telephone: 1-800-894-6449.