findmanualpdf.com

User Manual for Temptress 12V DC Air Conditioner Kit

Comprehensive installation and operation guide for the Temptress 12V DC Air Conditioner Kit. Includes step-by-step instructions for plumbing, wiring, refrigerant charging, and thermostat configuration for marine and RV applications.

Table of contents

Manual images

Click an image to enlarge

Quick guide from the manual

This manual provides instructions for installing and operating the Temptress 12V DC Air Conditioner Kit, suitable for boats, RVs, and off-grid cabins. The system is designed to be battery-powered and requires specific plumbing and electrical connections. Key steps include preparing the air handler, installing the condenser (marine or air-cooled), connecting the refrigeration lines, wiring the compressor control board, and charging the system with R-134a refrigerant.

System Overview

The system consists of two main components connected by refrigeration tubing:

Component Overview diagram
Component Overview diagram
  • Compressor sled: Includes the compressor, condenser, and control circuitry.
  • Air handler: Contains the air blower, evaporator, expansion valve, and condensation collection assembly.

The kit includes the compressor, control board, thermal cut-off switch, potentiometer, condenser (seawater or air-cooled), filter/dryer, air handler, fan speed controller, thermostat/humidistat, 24V relay, and voltage converter (for 12V models).

Installation

The installation process varies slightly depending on whether you are using a marine (water-cooled) or RV/Tiny Home (air-cooled) setup.

Additional installation photo from page 4
Additional installation photo from page 4

Air Handler Preparation

The air handler requires an upgrade to the fan speed control system. Remove the existing temperature and speed controllers and the resistor pack. Connect the fan motor wires directly to the new speed controller.

Expansion Valve Replacement

The kit includes an upgraded expansion valve. Ensure the valve is installed vertically. Secure the temperature bulb in the exact location of the original and wrap it with the supplied insulating tape.

Condenser Installation

For RV/Tiny Home versions, prepare the air-cooled condenser by drilling pilot holes and installing the rubber gasket and fan adapter plate. Ensure the seal is airtight.

Plumbing

The refrigeration circuit consists of a high-pressure side and a low-pressure side.

Air Handler connections
Air Handler connections
Marine Condenser connections
Marine Condenser connections
  • High-pressure side: Runs from the compressor output to the condenser, through the filter/dryer, and to the expansion valve side of the air handler.
  • Low-pressure side: Returns low-pressure gas from the air handler to the compressor vacuum return port.

Use opposing wrenches when tightening flare nuts to avoid damaging the fittings. Ensure all copper tubing is flared correctly.

Wiring

The system requires careful wiring of the compressor control board, relay, and thermostat.

Potentiometer wiring
Potentiometer wiring
Compressor Control Board
Compressor Control Board
  • Voltage Converter: Used for 12V applications to provide 24V power to the control board.
  • Compressor Control: Connect the three-phase plug to the compressor. Match wire colors (Black, Red, White) to the pins on the control board.
  • Relay: Connect the 24V relay to activate the water pump and air handler fan.
  • Potentiometer: Used to adjust compressor speed. Wire to SPD, GND, and +5V terminals on the control board.

Charging

The system must be evacuated and charged with R-134a refrigerant.

  1. Vacuuming: Connect a vacuum pump to the high and low-pressure ports. Run until pressure is below -30 inches Hg for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Charging: Use the SuperCool app to guide the charging process. Monitor the high-pressure gauge and the temperature of the copper tube leaving the compressor. Aim for a subcool target of 10 degrees F.

Operation

The thermostat controls the air conditioner based on temperature and humidity settings. The top button sets the turn-on threshold, and the bottom button sets the turn-off threshold. Ensure the turn-on setting is higher than the turn-off setting for cooling mode (indicated by 'C' on the display). For dehumidification mode, the display will show 'd'.

Practical help

Common problems

Pressure rises after vacuuming

This indicates a leak or moisture in the system. Check connections for leaks or continue vacuuming to remove moisture.

Compressor overheating

Ensure the compressor is mounted with the base down in a well-ventilated area. Add a small fan if necessary.

Inefficient cooling

Ensure the air handler intake is not blocked. The system may need time to remove humidity from the air before the temperature drops significantly.

Before use

  • Verify all kit components are present (Compressor, Air handler, Condenser, etc.).
  • Ensure you have necessary tools: refrigeration gauges, vacuum pump, flare tool, and multimeter.
  • Obtain required additional parts: copper tubing, R-134a refrigerant, fuses, and electrical wire.
  • Confirm electrical wire gauges (10, 12, and 18 gauge) and thermostat wire.
  • Ensure proper fuses (30A, 15A, 1A) are available for circuit protection.

Specs in practice

Subcool target
10 degrees F; the target value to achieve during the charging process.
High-pressure side
The line handling output from the compressor to the condenser and filter/dryer.
Low-pressure side
The line handling return gas from the air handler to the compressor.

Images and diagrams

  • Component Overview: Illustrates the refrigeration circuit connections between the condenser, filter/dryer, evaporator, and compressor.
  • Compressor Control Board: Pinout diagram showing connections for the thermostat, potentiometer, and relay.

Model compatibility

  • Marine applications require a seawater condenser.
  • RV/Tiny Home applications require an air-cooled condenser and fan.
  • The system is 12V, but a voltage converter is included for 24V components.

Manual page author

Emily Carter

User documentation editor

Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.