The Broan model 655 is a wall heater assembly designed for use in residential and commercial spaces where heating and ventilation are required. Installation of this unit requires adherence to strict safety and technical guidelines to ensure proper operation and user safety. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process, technical specifications, and important safety precautions based on the official documentation and product information provided by Broan-NuTone.
Overview of the Broan Model 655
The Broan model 655 is part of a series of heater fan lights manufactured by Broan-NuTone. This model is specifically designed for ceiling installation and is intended for use in spaces such as bathrooms, where heating, ventilation, and lighting are necessary. The device is equipped with a heating element, a fan, and a light, and it operates on a 120V power supply. The heater assembly includes a motor, a blower wheel, an electrical element, and a thermal fuse.
The heater is compatible with a range of Broan models, including the HFL695, 655, 656, 658, and 659 heater fan lights. It is designed to be installed in ceilings with a maximum pitch of 12/12 and is not suitable for wall installation. The unit must be connected to a dedicated 20 AMP circuit using 12-gauge power cable that meets code requirements.
Installation Requirements and Preparation
Installation of the Broan model 655 must be performed by a qualified individual who is familiar with electrical and building codes. The installation process involves several key steps, beginning with preparation and planning. Before beginning installation, it is important to review all instructions and ensure that the installation site is suitable.
Safety and Code Compliance
The following safety precautions and code compliance requirements must be observed during the installation process:
Electrical Safety: Before beginning any work, the power must be turned off at the main service panel. A qualified electrician should ensure that the circuit is properly disconnected and tagged to prevent accidental re-energization. A separate 20 AMP circuit must be provided, and the wiring must be done using 12-gauge cable that meets code requirements.
Structural and Code Compliance: Installation must be performed in accordance with all applicable fire-rated construction codes and standards. When cutting into walls or ceilings, care must be taken to avoid damaging electrical wiring or other hidden utilities.
Ventilation and Ductwork: The heater must be installed in a ceiling, with the ductwork pointing upward. The unit must not be mounted in a wall. It should be installed at least 6 inches from the floor or any adjacent wall to ensure proper airflow.
Heat and Fire Safety: The heater becomes hot during operation, so it must be installed in a location that is at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) from any combustible materials such as furniture, bedding, or curtains. The heater must not be used in areas where flammable vapors or liquids are stored or used.
Grounding: The unit must be properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.
Heater Operation: The heater must not be operated after it has malfunctioned. In the event of a malfunction, the power must be disconnected at the service panel, and the unit should be inspected by a qualified electrician before being used again.
Foreign Objects and Blockages: No foreign objects should be inserted into the ventilation or exhaust openings, as this can cause electric shock, fire, or damage to the heater. Air intakes and exhaust must not be blocked in any way.
Children and Unattended Operation: Extra caution must be taken when using the heater near children or invalids. The heater should not be left operating and unattended.
Outdoor Use: The heater is not designed for outdoor use and must not be installed in such locations.
Heating and Ventilation: The heater is designed to provide heat to a specific area, such as a tub or shower. It should not be directed toward walls or windows for optimal efficiency.
Lighting: The unit includes an incandescent light with a medium E-26 base. The light is part of the heater assembly and functions in conjunction with the heating and ventilation components.
Installation Procedure
The installation of the Broan model 655 involves the following steps:
Preparation and Disconnection: Before installation, ensure that the power is turned off at the main service panel. The heater assembly must be unplugged from the RED receptacle. If the unit is being replaced, the existing heater must be disconnected by removing the retaining screws and lifting the assembly out of the housing.
Mounting Brackets and Housing: The adjustable mounting brackets must be inserted into the bracket channels on the housing. Knockouts may need to be removed by inserting a screwdriver blade into the slots and bending it back and forth to break the tabs.
Fan Assembly and Motor: The fan assembly must be unplugged from the BLACK receptacle. The plastic bag should be removed and set aside. The mounting screw must be removed, and the fan assembly carefully lifted out of the housing.
Heater Assembly: The heater assembly must be disconnected by turning the controls to the off position and turning off the power to the heater circuit at the main disconnect panel. The hinge pins must be unhooked, and the heater assembly lifted out of the housing.
Electrical Connections: The wiring diagram must be consulted to ensure that the electrical connections are made correctly. The unit must be connected to a dedicated 20 AMP circuit using 12-gauge cable. The wiring must be done by a qualified electrician in accordance with all applicable codes and standards.
Mounting and Positioning: The unit must be mounted at least 6 inches from the floor or any adjacent wall. It must be installed in a ceiling with a maximum pitch of 12/12. The ductwork must point upward, and the unit must not be mounted in a wall.
Final Checks and Testing: After installation, the unit must be tested to ensure that it is functioning properly. The heater, fan, and light should be tested individually to verify that they are working as intended.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued performance and safety of the Broan model 655. The following guidelines should be followed:
Cleaning: The grille and cover should be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris. The SlideClip™ technology allows for easy cleaning and attachment of the grille/cover.
Inspection: The unit should be inspected periodically for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. If any issues are detected, the power must be disconnected, and the unit should be inspected by a qualified electrician.
Malfunction Handling: If the unit malfunctions, it must be disconnected from the power source immediately. The unit should not be used until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified electrician.
Replacement Parts: In the event of component failure, replacement parts such as the heater assembly (Part No. 352601) can be ordered from Broan-NuTone or authorized distributors. The replacement heater assembly includes the motor, blower wheel, element, thermal fuse, and scroll housing.
Performance and Specifications
The Broan model 655 is designed to provide efficient heating and ventilation in residential and commercial spaces. Key performance and technical specifications include:
- Power Supply: 120V
- Wattage: 1536 W
- Voltage: 120V
- Heating Capacity: Sufficient to provide heat to a tub or shower area
- Ventilation: Designed to remove moisture, odors, and pollutants from the air
- Lighting: Includes an incandescent light with a medium E-26 base
- Dimensions:
- Height: 7-7/8 in
- Length: 16-3/4 in
- Width: 10-5/8 in
- Material: Plastic and polymer construction
- Certifications: UL Listed, ENERGY STAR® certified (for certain models), and HVI certified
- Noise Level: 4.0 sones
- Installation Type: Ceiling mount only
- Vent Duct Shape: Round
The heater is manufactured in Mexico and is part of the Broan-NuTone product line. It is designed for installation in ceilings and is not suitable for wall installation.
Safety and Usage Guidelines
To ensure safe and effective operation of the Broan model 655, the following guidelines should be followed:
Proper Use: The heater should be used only in the manner intended by the manufacturer. It is not suitable for use in areas where flammable vapors or liquids are stored or used.
Unattended Operation: The heater should not be left operating and unattended, especially in the presence of children or invalids.
Foreign Objects: No foreign objects should be inserted into the ventilation or exhaust openings, as this can cause electric shock, fire, or damage to the heater.
Blocking Airflow: Air intakes and exhaust must not be blocked in any way to prevent the risk of fire or overheating.
Heater Placement: The heater must be installed at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) from any combustible materials and at least 6 inches from the floor or adjacent walls.
Grounding: The unit must be properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.
Circuit Requirements: A separate 20 AMP circuit must be provided, and the wiring must be done using 12-gauge cable that meets code requirements.
Installation Location: The heater must be installed in a ceiling and is not suitable for installation in a wall or outdoors.
Energy Efficiency: The heater is designed to be energy efficient and is part of an ENERGY STAR® certified product line in certain models.
Lighting Function: The incandescent light is part of the heater assembly and is designed to function in conjunction with the heating and ventilation components.
Conclusion
The Broan model 655 is a versatile and reliable heater fan light designed for use in residential and commercial spaces. It is intended for ceiling installation and provides heating, ventilation, and lighting in a single unit. Installation must be performed by a qualified individual in accordance with all applicable codes and standards. The unit must be connected to a dedicated 20 AMP circuit using 12-gauge cable and must be installed at least 6 inches from the floor or adjacent walls. The heater is designed to direct heat toward a tub or shower area for optimal efficiency and should not be directed toward walls or windows.
Safety is a critical consideration when installing and using the Broan model 655. The heater must be kept at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) from any combustible materials, and no foreign objects should be inserted into the ventilation or exhaust openings. The unit must be properly grounded and installed in a location that is free from flammable vapors or liquids. In the event of a malfunction, the power must be disconnected immediately, and the unit should be inspected by a qualified electrician before being used again.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued performance and safety of the unit. The grille and cover should be cleaned regularly, and the unit should be inspected for signs of wear or damage. In the event of component failure, replacement parts such as the heater assembly (Part No. 352601) can be ordered from Broan-NuTone or authorized distributors.
By following the installation and safety guidelines outlined in this article, users can ensure that the Broan model 655 operates efficiently and safely for years to come.