The Cadet CSC151TW Com-Pak Electric Wall Heater is a compact, wall-mounted heating solution designed for small spaces such as bathrooms, garages, or room additions. With a 1500-watt output and a 120-volt power requirement, it is intended for localized heating and must be installed in a wall can as specified by the manufacturer. This article provides a detailed walkthrough of the installation process, troubleshooting guidance, and operational instructions based on the official documentation provided by the manufacturer.
Specifications and Features
The Cadet CSC151TW is a corded electric heater that uses a forced air heating method to distribute warmth efficiently. The device is designed for wall mounting and can be installed in horizontal, vertical, or ceiling configurations depending on the model. It has a heat output of 1500 watts and is capable of heating up to 200 square feet. The product dimensions are 4 inches in depth, 9 inches in width, and 12 inches in height, making it suitable for compact spaces.
Key features of the Cadet CSC151TW include:
- Wall Can Compatibility: The heater must be installed in a wall can. For model CS, the wall can models CC or CCSM are recommended. For model CST, the wall can model CTC (WC1) is required.
- High-Temperature Safety Shutoff: A built-in safety mechanism to prevent overheating.
- Powder-Coated Finish: For durability and safety, the heater is finished with a powder coat that eliminates sharp edges.
- Warranty: The product comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Assembled in the U.S.A.: Reflecting a commitment to domestic manufacturing.
Installation Requirements and Safety Precautions
Before beginning the installation of the Cadet CSC151TW, it is essential to comply with all relevant electrical codes and safety guidelines. The following requirements must be observed:
- Electrical Compliance: All electrical work must adhere to the National Electric Code (NEC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). In Canada, compliance with Codes Canada and provincial regulations is required.
- Copper Conductors: Only copper wiring should be used for installation.
- Location Restrictions:
- The heater must not be installed directly above a bathtub, sink, or within a shower stall.
- A minimum distance of 2 feet (61 cm) should be maintained from water sources to avoid contact.
- The heater must not be mounted in low-density fiberboard or false ceilings.
- Clearance must be maintained: 10 inches (25.4 cm) from the ceiling and 4 feet (1.2 m) from sprinkler heads.
- Grounding: The grounding lead must be connected to the grounding screw provided.
- Clearance from Combustibles: Electrical cords, drapery, and other combustible materials should be kept at least 3 feet (0.9 m) away from the heater’s front, sides, and rear to reduce fire risk.
Installation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Wall Can
The heater must be installed in a wall can. For model CS, use wall can models CC or CCSM. For model CST, use wall can model CTC (WC1). Ensure the wall can is properly mounted and secured to the wall or ceiling, depending on the model.
- For ceiling mounting (Model CS only), fasten the wall can to ceiling rafters using a minimum of four screws. Additional rafters may be necessary to support the installation.
- The front edge of the wall can must extend beyond the ceiling rafter to match the drywall depth.
Step 2: Route Supply Wires
- Connect the neutral (white) supply wire to the white heater wire.
- Connect the remaining supply wire to the remaining heater wire using a wire connector (not included).
- For heater #1, connect each heater wire to one of the supply wires going to the thermostat and one of the supply wires going to heater #2. Both wires from heater #1 must have a 3-wire connection.
- For heater #2, make the connections in the wall can as shown in the installation diagram.
- A small piece of copper wire (not included) must be added to make a 3-wire connection with the ground screw.
Step 3: Mount the Heater Assembly
- Turn the heater back around and insert the bottom edge of the heater assembly into the D-shaped tabs at the bottom of the wall can.
- Push all wires back into the bottom of the wall can, ensuring that the connections are tight and that no wires are caught between the motor and the wall can.
- Attach the heater assembly to the top of the wall can using the provided screw.
Step 4: Install the Grill
- Attach the grill using the provided screws.
- If the heater has a built-in thermostat, slide the thermostat knob onto the shaft.
- If the model does not have a thermostat, snap in the provided grill plug.
- Turn the power back on at the main disconnect panel.
Step 5: Ceiling Mount (Model CS Only)
- Follow the same steps as for wall mounting, with the heater mounted in the ceiling.
- Ensure the heater is mounted with the element facing up.
- Avoid using models with built-in thermostats for ceiling installation.
Operating Instructions
After installation, the heater must be operated according to the following guidelines:
- Pre-Operation Check: Ensure all wires are properly connected and the installation is complete before turning on the heater.
- Do Not Operate Without Grill: The grill is a critical component for safety and must always be in place.
- Do Not Tamper with the High-Temperature Safety Shutoff: This feature is designed to prevent overheating and should not be bypassed or modified.
Operating the Thermostat
The room temperature is controlled via a thermostat, which may be either built-in or wall-mounted. If the heater has a wall or built-in thermostat with a knob:
- Turn the thermostat knob all the way to the right.
- Once the room reaches the desired temperature, turn the knob to the left until it clicks and the heater turns off. The heater will automatically maintain the set temperature.
- To adjust the temperature, turn the knob to the left to reduce the temperature or to the right to increase it.
For heaters with an electronic wall thermostat, follow the programming and operating guide included with the thermostat.
Post-Installation Testing
After installation, the heater should be turned on to the highest setting and allowed to run for 30 minutes. During this time, some smoking may occur as the heating element burns off residue from the manufacturing process. This is a normal occurrence and typically resolves within several hours.
If the heater shows signs of overheating—such as glowing red elements or repeated shutdowns—immediately turn off the circuit breaker and review the voltage settings or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Maintenance and Cleaning
To ensure the heater operates efficiently and safely, it should be cleaned at least every six months or as needed. The following steps should be followed during maintenance:
- Turn Off Power: Before removing the grill, turn off the power at the main disconnect panel and wait for the heater to cool.
- Remove Components: If applicable, remove the thermostat knob and grill.
- Clean the Grill: Wash the grill with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
- Clean the Heating Element: Use a hair dryer or shop vacuum on the blow setting to remove dust from the heating element.
- Clean the Fan: Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the fan.
- Reassemble: Replace the grill and thermostat knob (if applicable), and restore power at the main disconnect panel.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The manufacturer has provided troubleshooting guidance for common issues that may occur during installation or operation:
1. Heater Smells After Installation or Not Being Used
- Causes:
- Odor from the element manufacturing process.
- Dust or lint inside the heater.
- Loose supply connections.
- Solutions:
- Some smoking is normal during initial operation as the element burns off residue. This usually resolves within several hours.
- Clean the heater according to the maintenance instructions.
- Turn off the power and inspect all wire connectors inside the heater and at the thermostat junction box. Tighten as needed.
2. Fan or Motor Doesn’t Spin or Spins Slowly
- Causes:
- The circuit breaker is 120 volts, but the heater is rated for 240 volts.
- A defective motor or misalignment.
- Solutions:
- Verify the voltage rating of the heater matches the circuit. If not, replace the heater with a 120-volt model.
- Replace the motor.
3. Heater Doesn’t Turn Off
- Causes:
- A defective thermostat.
- No thermostat connected to control the heater.
- Incorrect wattage for the room size.
- Solutions:
- Replace the thermostat.
- A thermostat is required for all fan heaters. Install a built-in or wall thermostat.
- If the current model is insufficient for the room, install a higher wattage model or additional heaters, provided the circuit allows.
Additional Notes and Recommendations
- Voltage Compliance: The heater must be used with a 120-volt circuit. Using it with a 240-volt circuit will result in improper operation or damage.
- ADA Compliance: The heater can be installed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Check local and state regulations for specific compliance details.
- Room Suitability: The heater is intended for small spaces such as bathrooms, garages, or room additions. It is not designed to heat large areas like a 27-foot RV.
- Thermostat Requirements: A thermostat is required for all fan heaters. Some models have a built-in thermostat, while others require a separate wall thermostat.
- Painting the Grille: The manufacturer does not recommend painting the grille. The powder-coated finish is designed for durability and warranty compliance.
Conclusion
The Cadet CSC151TW Electric Wall Heater is a versatile and efficient heating solution for small, enclosed spaces. Its installation requires adherence to electrical codes and manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe and effective operation. By following the detailed installation steps, troubleshooting common issues, and performing regular maintenance, users can ensure optimal performance and longevity of the heater. Whether installed on a wall, ceiling, or in a bathroom setting, the CSC151TW provides reliable warmth with a built-in safety system for added peace of mind.