American Standard HVAC Odyssey TWA1204 A Manual

The American Standard HVAC Odyssey TWA1204 A is a high-efficiency, single-stage, 4-ton air conditioning unit designed for residential use. It features a durable WeatherGuard™ top, Spine Fin™ coil technology for enhanced heat transfer, a sound-reducing compressor blanket, and a factory-installed filter drier. Compatible with American Standard furnaces and air handlers, it operates on 208/230V, 1-phase power. 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. Unit Controls & Operation 6. System Wiring & Connections 7. Maintenance Procedures 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Seasonal Preparation 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable outdoor condensing unit, Spine Fin™ coil, Copeland scroll compressor with sound blanket, WeatherGuard™ louvered top, liquid and suction line service valves.

FeatureDescription
WeatherGuard™ TopProtects unit from falling debris and weather elements
Spine Fin™ CoilAll-aluminum coil for superior corrosion resistance and heat transfer
Sound-Reducing Compressor BlanketMinimizes operational noise
Factory-Installed Filter DrierProtects system from moisture and contaminants
Single-Stage OperationProvides consistent, reliable cooling
High-Efficiency RatingMeets or exceeds ENERGY STAR® requirements (SEER up to 16)
Service ValvesLiquid and suction line valves for easy servicing and charging
Durable CabinetGalvanized steel with powder-coat paint for longevity
CompatibilityDesigned to match American Standard furnaces and air handlers
RefrigerantUses R-410A, an environmentally sound refrigerant

Installation Requirements

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

  1. Site Preparation: Place on a level, stable pad (concrete or composite) with adequate clearance (min 24" on sides, 48" above, 60" front).
  2. Electrical Connection: Disconnect all power. Connect 208/230V, 1-phase power to the disconnect box per local codes and unit wiring diagram.
  3. Refrigerant Lines: Connect pre-charged, insulated copper lineset from indoor unit. Braze connections using nitrogen purge to prevent oxidation.
  4. Condensate Drain: Ensure indoor evaporator coil drain line is properly connected and routed to drain.
  5. Final Check: Verify all connections are tight, lines are insulated, and the area is clear of debris.

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

First-Time Startup & Commissioning

After installation, perform these steps to commission the unit.

  1. Power On: Restore power at the disconnect and indoor thermostat.
  2. Thermostat Setup: Set thermostat to COOL mode and a temperature below room temp to initiate a call for cooling.
  3. System Check: Listen for compressor and fan start-up. Verify airflow from indoor vents is cool and strong.
  4. Measurements: Technician must measure superheat/subcooling, system pressures, voltage, and amperage to ensure correct charge and operation.
  5. Final Inspection: Confirm no refrigerant leaks, all access panels are secure, and the thermostat cycles the system properly.

CAUTION! Do not operate the system without correct refrigerant charge. Overcharge or undercharge can severely damage the compressor.

Specifications

Unit Controls & Operation

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

Thermostat Operation: Set to COOL, AUTO fan, and desired temperature. System will cycle automatically.

Outdoor Unit LED: A single LED on the control board indicates status:
- Steady ON: Normal operation.
- Flashing: Error/Lockout condition (see Troubleshooting).

Safety Controls: Unit includes high-pressure switch, low-pressure switch, compressor overload protection, and anti-short cycle timer.

System Wiring & Connections

Low-voltage (24V) control wiring connects the thermostat to the indoor unit and outdoor unit.

  1. Turn OFF all power at the disconnect and indoor furnace/air handler.
  2. Run a minimum 18 AWG, 5-conductor thermostat cable between indoor and outdoor units.
  3. Connect wires per the provided wiring diagram: R (24V Power), C (Common), Y (Compressor), G (Fan), O/B (Reversing Valve - for heat pump models; not used for straight cool).
  4. Ensure all connections are tight and wire nuts are secure.

Tip: Label all wires before disconnecting any existing system for easier reconnection.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures efficiency, longevity, and reliable operation.

  1. Annual Professional Service: Schedule a tune-up with a qualified technician before each cooling season.
  2. Clean Outdoor Coil: Gently rinse coil with a garden hose (from the inside out) to remove dirt, pollen, and debris. Ensure power is OFF.
  3. Clear Area: Maintain at least 2 feet of clear space around the outdoor unit. Trim back any vegetation.
  4. Inspect Refrigerant Lines: Check insulation on suction line for damage and replace if necessary.
  5. Check Electrical: Technician should inspect contactors, capacitors, and wiring for signs of wear or corrosion.
  6. Indoor Unit: Replace or clean air filter monthly during peak season. Ensure evaporator coil and drain pan are clean.

WARNING! Do not attempt to open the refrigerant system. Only EPA-certified technicians may handle refrigerant.

Safety Features

High-Pressure Cut-Out: Shuts off compressor if discharge pressure is excessive. Low-Pressure Cut-Out: Shuts off compressor if suction pressure is too low, indicating potential loss of charge. Compressor Overload Protector: Internal thermal protection. Anti-Short Cycle Timer: Prevents compressor from restarting for at least 5 minutes after shutdown to protect it.

Care & Seasonal Preparation

End of Season: Consider covering the top of the unit with a breathable, waterproof cover to keep out leaves and debris. Do not wrap the entire unit tightly, as this can trap moisture and cause corrosion.

Start of Season: Remove cover. Clean area and coil. Turn power on and test system operation.

CAUTION! Never use a pressure washer to clean the coil, as it can bend the delicate fins. Always disconnect power before any cleaning or maintenance.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable U.S. safety and performance standards. The refrigerant used (R-410A) is regulated by the EPA under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Proper recovery and recycling are required by law. This unit contains materials that may be recyclable. Check with local authorities for disposal guidelines. For technical support or warranty service, contact your installing American Standard dealer or visit www.americanstandardair.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit does not startPower off, tripped breaker, thermostat settingCheck disconnect and breakers. Ensure thermostat is in COOL mode and set below room temp.
Outdoor fan runs, compressor does notCapacitor failure, low refrigerant charge, internal overloadCall a technician to check capacitor, system pressures, and compressor.
Compressor and fan do not run (LED flashing)Lockout due to high/low pressure, power issueReset by turning power OFF for 5 minutes. If problem persists, call for service.
Insufficient coolingDirty filter, dirty coils, low refrigerantReplace air filter. Clean outdoor coil. If problem continues, technician must check charge.
Unit cycles on/off frequently (short cycling)Dirty filter/coil, oversized unit, faulty sensorClean filter and coil. Ensure unit is properly sized. May require technician diagnosis.
Ice on refrigerant lines or indoor coilLow airflow (dirty filter/coil), low refrigerant chargeTurn system OFF. Replace filter. Allow ice to melt completely. Call technician if ice returns.
Unusual noiseLoose parts, debris in fan, failing motorTurn power OFF. Check for and remove debris. Tighten access panels. Grinding or screeching noises require service.

Reset Procedure: Turn OFF power at the disconnect for 5 minutes, then restore.

Service: Contact your authorized American Standard dealer. For warranty and product information: www.americanstandardair.com.

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