American Standard HVAC 4TXM2118A12N0A Manual

The American Standard 4TXM2118A12N0A is a high-efficiency, single-stage, 18 SEER air conditioner condenser unit designed for residential use. It features a durable WeatherArmor™ Ultra protection system, Spine Fin™ coil technology for enhanced heat transfer, low sound operation, compatibility with American Standard communicating thermostats, and is engineered to work with matching indoor units for optimal performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Requirements 3. First-Time Startup & Commissioning 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Connecting to Indoor Unit & Thermostat 7. Maintenance Procedures 8. Safety Features 10. Care & Cleaning 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable outdoor cabinet with Spine Fin™ coil, Compressor with sound insulation, Electrical connection box, Service valves, and Fan assembly.

FeatureDescription
WeatherArmor™ Ultra CabinetGalvanized steel with baked-on powder paint for corrosion resistance
Spine Fin™ CoilAll-aluminum microchannel coil for efficient heat transfer and durability
Single-Stage Climatuff® CompressorReliable operation with sound-dampening insulation
Low Sound OperationDesigned for quiet outdoor performance
Communicating CapabilityCompatible with American Standard AccuLink™ communicating thermostats (when paired with compatible indoor unit)
Service ValvesFront-access for easier installation and service
High Static FanProvides consistent airflow in various conditions
18 SEER RatingHigh seasonal energy efficiency ratio for energy savings
R-410A RefrigerantEnvironmentally responsible refrigerant
Factory Installed Filter-DrierProtects system from moisture and contaminants

Installation Requirements

Unpack and inspect unit for shipping damage. Select a suitable location.

  1. Location: Place on a level, stable pad (concrete or composite) with adequate clearance (min 24" on all sides, 48" above). Ensure proper drainage.
  2. Electrical Connection: Disconnect all power. Connect field-supplied power wiring to unit disconnect and then to the unit's connection box per NEC and local codes. Unit requires 208/230V, 1-phase power.
  3. Refrigerant Lines: Connect clean, dehydrated, and correctly sized copper refrigerant linesets between outdoor unit and matched indoor coil. Brazing must be done with nitrogen purge.
  4. Condensate Drain: Ensure indoor unit condensate drain line is properly installed and unobstructed.
  5. Thermostat Wiring: Run low-voltage control wire (minimum 18 AWG) from indoor unit to outdoor unit and to thermostat location.

WARNING! Installation must be performed by a qualified HVAC technician in accordance with all local, state, and national codes. Incorrect installation can cause property damage, personal injury, or death. Handle refrigerant responsibly.

First-Time Startup & Commissioning

Do not energize unit until all installation steps are complete and verified.

  1. Pre-Start Check: Verify all electrical connections are tight. Ensure refrigerant lines are connected, leak-checked, and properly insulated. Confirm correct airflow at indoor unit.
  2. Power On: Restore power at disconnect and indoor unit.
  3. System Commissioning: Using a calibrated manifold gauge set, measure and adjust system refrigerant charge per the manufacturer's subcooling method specified in the installation instructions. Do not rely on nameplate charge alone.
  4. Thermostat Setup: Configure compatible thermostat (e.g., American Standard AccuLink) for system type and desired settings. For non-communicating thermostats, ensure wiring is correct for single-stage cooling.
  5. Test Operation: Set thermostat to cool mode below room temperature. Verify unit starts, runs quietly, cools effectively, and cycles off correctly. Check condensate drainage.

CAUTION! Never start the unit with service valves closed. Do not bypass safety devices. Record all commissioning data (voltages, amperages, pressures, temperatures) for future reference.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Primary control is via the indoor thermostat. Unit has an internal control board with LED status light.

Thermostat Operation: Set to COOL mode and desired temperature. Fan can be set to AUTO (cycles with compressor) or ON (continuous).

Unit Status LED: Located on control board inside service panel. Flash patterns indicate normal operation or fault conditions (see Troubleshooting section).

Safety Controls: Unit includes high-pressure switch, low-pressure switch, compressor overload, and anti-short cycle timer (typically 5 minutes).

Communicating Systems: If paired with an AccuLink indoor unit and thermostat, the system performs automatic configuration, diagnostics, and advanced staging for efficiency and comfort.

Connecting to Indoor Unit & Thermostat

This unit must be paired with an approved American Standard indoor coil or air handler.

  1. Turn off all power to indoor and outdoor units.
  2. Refrigerant Lines: Connect vapor and liquid lines. Ensure flares are properly made and leak-checked.
  3. Control Wiring: Connect low-voltage wires (typically Y, C, G, R/O) between outdoor unit terminal block and indoor unit terminal block. Follow wiring diagram on unit panels.
  4. Thermostat: Connect control wires from indoor unit to thermostat sub-base. For communicating systems, use specific 4-wire cable to AccuLink thermostat.
  5. Restore power and verify operation.

Tip: Always refer to the installation instructions for the specific indoor unit model for correct wiring and setup details.

Maintenance Procedures

Homeowner (Annual):

  1. Keep unit clear of debris, leaves, grass clippings, and snow (maintain 24” clearance).
  2. Gently rinse outdoor coil with a garden hose (from the inside out) to remove dirt and pollen. Turn power off first.
  3. Ensure shrubs or plants do not obstruct airflow.

Qualified Technician (Annual):

  1. Inspect electrical connections for tightness and corrosion.
  2. Check refrigerant charge via subcooling method.
  3. Measure voltage and amperage on compressor and fan motor.
  4. Inspect coil for damage and clean if necessary.
  5. Check fan motor and blades for proper operation and balance.
  6. Verify condensate drain on indoor unit is clear.
  7. Lubricate motors only if specified (most are permanently lubricated).

Safety Features

High & Low Pressure Switches: Protect compressor from abnormal system pressures.

Compressor Overload Protector: Internal protection against overheating.

Anti-Short Cycle Timer: Prevents compressor from restarting for approximately 5 minutes after shutdown to protect it.

Fused Disconnect Required: A field-supplied fused disconnect switch must be installed within sight of the unit per electrical code.

Care & Cleaning

Outdoor Coil: Turn OFF power at the disconnect. Remove large debris by hand. Use a soft brush or low-pressure water spray from the inside of the coil facing out to wash away dirt. Do not use a pressure washer as it can bend fins.

Cabinet: Wipe with a damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power before performing any cleaning or maintenance. Do not attempt to straighten coil fins with a sharp object. Keep the top grille (fan guard) in place at all times.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable U.S. safety and performance standards. The refrigerant, R-410A, is subject to EPA regulations (Section 608). Technicians must be certified to service this equipment. Proper recovery and recycling of refrigerant is required by law. This unit contains materials that may be recyclable. Check local ordinances for disposal. For technical support or warranty service, contact your installing American Standard dealer or visit www.americanstandardair.com.

Troubleshooting

NOTE: Most repairs should be performed by a qualified HVAC technician.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit does not startPower off, tripped breaker, blown fuse, thermostat setting, anti-short cycle delay.Check disconnect and breaker. Ensure thermostat is in COOL mode set below room temp. Wait 5 minutes. Check for clogged filter or dirty indoor coil restricting airflow.
Unit runs but does not coolDirty filter/coils, low refrigerant, faulty compressor.Replace air filter. Clean indoor and outdoor coils. Have technician check refrigerant charge and compressor operation.
Unit cycles on/off frequently (short cycles)Dirty filter/coil, low refrigerant, oversized unit, thermostat location.Clean or replace filter. Clean coils. Have technician check charge. Ensure thermostat is not in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Loud or unusual noiseLoose parts, debris in fan, failing motor or compressor.Turn unit off. Check for and remove debris. Tighten access panels. Contact technician if noise persists.
Ice on refrigerant lines or outdoor unitLow airflow (dirty filter/coil), low refrigerant charge.Turn system OFF (use FAN only to melt ice). Replace filter. Clean indoor coil. Have technician check for refrigerant leak and proper charge.
Status LED flashing a codeSystem fault (e.g., pressure switch open, communication error).Count flashes and refer to fault code chart on unit panel or installation manual. Contact a qualified technician for diagnosis.

Reset: Turning power off at the disconnect for 5 minutes may reset internal fault lockouts. If problem persists, call for service.

Service: Contact your local American Standard dealer. For product information: www.americanstandardair.com.

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