The Coleman Mach series of air conditioners is designed for use in recreational vehicles (RVs) and under-bunk or cabinet installations. These units offer a combination of efficiency, ease of maintenance, and compatibility with standard RV electrical systems. Installing a Coleman Mach air conditioner requires attention to detail, proper preparation, and, in some cases, the involvement of qualified technicians. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide based on official installation instructions and technical specifications.
Understanding the Coleman Mach Series
The Coleman Mach series includes various models, such as the 4661X, 47000, and models compatible with the KoolRV® A/C Connect system. Each model is designed for specific installation environments and cooling capacities. The 4661X series, for instance, is built for under-bunk or cabinet installations and operates on a standard 115 VAC power supply. The thermostat is powered by 12 VDC, which is typical for RV electrical systems.
The installation process for these units varies slightly depending on the model and the installation location—whether on the roof of an RV or inside a cabinet under a bunk. The general steps, however, include preparing the installation site, mounting the unit, connecting electrical components, and ensuring proper sealing to prevent air leaks.
Installation for Under-Bunk/Cabinet Units (4661X Series)
Preparation and Precautions
The installation of a Coleman Mach 4661X under-bunk or cabinet air conditioner must be performed by qualified individuals who have experience with HVAC systems. The manufacturer emphasizes that improper installation can lead to performance issues or system damage. Before beginning, ensure that all necessary components are available, including the unit itself, mounting hardware, ducting, and sealing materials.
Cabinet Preparation
Begin by preparing the cabinet and ensuring that the opening aligns with the unit’s dimensions. This step includes cutting or modifying the cabinet wall to accommodate the unit’s dimensions, which are outlined in the installation manual. The condenser duct flange should be attached to the unit using the provided screws before the unit is slid into the cabinet. The unit is then secured to the cabinet floor using mounting clips if desired.
Sealant tape is applied around the condenser grille to prevent air leaks and improve efficiency. The indoor grille is attached to the interior side of the cabinet, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the airflow direction. For ducted installations, flexible ducting is cut and installed over the collars and louvers. The ducts are then sealed using HVAC foil tape to prevent air leakage.
Electrical Connections
The thermostat system switch should be set to the "OFF" position before any electrical connections are made. It is essential to verify the wiring against the diagram provided in the manual to ensure correct connections. Once the wiring is verified, power can be engaged to begin the checkout procedure.
Installation for Roof-Mounted RV Units (47000 Series)
Selecting the Installation Location
For roof-mounted units in RVs, the first step is to select an appropriate location on the roof. The installation site should be structurally sound and free from obstructions that could interfere with airflow or the unit’s operation. The unit is then installed and secured to the roof using the provided hardware. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for securing the unit to ensure stability and prevent vibration or damage during travel.
Electrical and Ducting Setup
After the unit is mounted, the electrical wiring is connected according to the wiring diagram provided in the manual. Optional heaters can be installed if additional heating functionality is required. Ceiling assemblies are then installed to complete the interior setup. The installation instructions also cover sizing the air conditioner based on heat gain factors to ensure optimal performance.
It is important to maintain a temperature difference of 15–20 degrees Fahrenheit between the return and supply air to ensure efficient operation. This can be verified using the thermostat and monitoring system.
KoolRV A/C Connect System Installation
The KoolRV A/C Connect system is an add-on designed to enhance the efficiency and performance of certain Coleman Mach models. The installation process involves several key steps:
Removing Existing Components
To install the KoolRV A/C Connect system, begin by removing the filter covers and filters from the air conditioner. Carefully remove the four screws holding the cover in place, supporting the cover as you do so to prevent damage. Once the cover is removed, locate and remove the "chute" and foam divider, which are not required for the A/C Connect system. These components should be set aside for potential future use.
Installing the A/C Connect System
The A/C Connect adapter is inserted into the square opening at the bottom of the Coleman Mach unit. It should fit snugly and snap into place. The silicone seal on the adapter helps create an airtight seal and prevents rattling. The vent adapters, which are shipped with the unit in a flat position, need to be rotated 90 degrees to align with the ventilation openings in the plenum. These adapters are inserted into the ventilation openings and secured using HVAC foil tape.
In some cases, the vent openings may not align perfectly with the vent adapters. In such situations, the user is advised to refer to specific instructions provided by the manufacturer to adjust the installation. The foil tape is used to seal any gaps between the vent adapters and the plenum to prevent air leaks.
Testing the System
Once the A/C Connect system is installed, the air conditioner should be turned on to test for any leaks. Users should inspect the system for cold air escaping from unintended areas. If leaks are detected, additional foil tape can be applied to seal them. After ensuring that the system is airtight, the A/C cover, filters, and filter covers should be reinstalled.
It is important to note that the "chute" and foam divider should be kept in case the A/C Connect system is ever removed. The Coleman Mach unit will not function correctly without either the A/C Connect system or the original components in place.
Maintenance and Operation
Regular Maintenance
One of the key advantages of the Coleman Mach air conditioner is its minimal maintenance requirements. The primary maintenance task involves regularly cleaning or replacing the return air filter. Filters should be checked on a weekly basis, as they can accumulate dust and dirt more quickly than in ceiling-mounted systems. A clogged filter can lead to reduced airflow and potential equipment damage.
The condensate drain should also be checked regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent mold or mildew buildup. The manufacturer recommends using a soft brush or vacuum to clean the filter and surrounding areas.
Thermostat Operation
The thermostat plays a crucial role in controlling the unit’s performance. Users should follow the guidance provided with the wall thermostat to ensure that the air conditioner operates correctly. Each thermostat setting should be verified to confirm that it functions as intended.
Warranty and Support
Coleman Mach air conditioners come with a limited two-year warranty, which covers parts and labor. An optional three-year extended parts-only warranty is available for an additional cost of $89.95. To qualify for the extended warranty, the application must be submitted within 90 days of the original purchase. Applications should be completed and mailed to the manufacturer along with the required payment.
Users can contact Airxcel, Inc. for support via email at [email protected] or by mail. Inquiries should include the model and serial numbers along with the date of purchase. These details can be found on the air conditioner’s rating plate.
Conclusion
The Coleman Mach series of air conditioners offers a reliable and efficient cooling solution for both RVs and under-bunk or cabinet installations. Proper installation is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Whether installing the 4661X under-bunk unit, the 47000 series for RVs, or the KoolRV A/C Connect system, following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial. Regular maintenance, including filter cleaning and condensate drain checks, helps keep the system operating at peak efficiency. With the right tools, preparation, and attention to detail, users can successfully install and maintain their Coleman Mach air conditioners for years of dependable performance.