DURASTAR DRAF18F1A User manual

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INSTALLATION MANUAL
FLOOR/CEILING INDOOR UNIT
SPLIT-STYLE AIR CONDITIONER
DRAF18F1A, DRAF24F1A
Model Number:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Installing Contractor Company Name:
TIP
Capture relevant information about your Durastar mini-split equipment before it is installed
and write it above for future reference.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................................................................. 2
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................... 3
WARNINGS .................................................................................................................................................... 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .............................................................................................4
OPERATING TEMPERATURES.............................................................................................................7
ACCESSORIES.............................................................................................................................................. 8
PARTS IDENTIFICATION ........................................................................................................................ 10
INSTALLATION OVERVIEW - INDOOR UNIT...............................................................................11
INDOOR UNIT INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................... 12
STEP 1: SELECT INSTALLATION LOCATION ............................................................................. 12
STEP 2: MOUNT INDOOR UNIT.......................................................................................................... 13
STEP 3: DRILL WALL HOLE FOR CONNECTIVE PIPING..................................................... 16
STEP 4: CONNECT DRAIN PIPE......................................................................................................... 16
STEP 5: CONNECT SIGNAL CABLE .................................................................................................17
STEP 6: PREPARE REFRIGERANT PIPING.................................................................................. 19
STEP 7: WRAP PIPES AND CABLE ................................................................................................. 19
TROUBLESHOOTING.............................................................................................................................. 20

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WARNINGS
The warning symbol indicates cautionary information for the user. Extra care and
precautions should be taken to ensure the user's safety.
The pencil indicates any manufacturer notes relating to surrounding content. These may
include further clarifications or call-outs.
A light bulb symbol indicates suggested manufacturer tips for the user to get the most out of
the Durastar equipment and to accommodate the best user experience.
Symbols Used in This Manual
INTRODUCTION
To better serve you, please do the following before contacting customer service:
• If you received a damaged product, immediately contact the retailer or dealer that sold you the
product.
• Read and follow this owner's manual carefully to help you use and maintain your air conditioner.
• Read the troubleshooting section of this manual as it will help you diagnose and solve common
issues.
• Visit us on the web at www.durastar.com to download product guides and up-to-date information.
• If you need warranty service, our friendly customer service representatives are available via email
at [email protected] or by telephone at 1-888-320-0706.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Improper handling can cause serious damage or injury. Please read the following safety
information in its entirety.
Operation, Cleaning, and Maintenance Safety Precautions
• Children and people with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience
and knowledge, should only use this air conditioner if they are given supervision or instructions
concerning use of the air conditioner in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
• Children should not play with the air conditioner.
• Never stick fingers or any other body parts into the air conditioner openings. The internal fan may
be rotating at high speeds, and may result in injury.
• After removing the filter, do not touch the fins in order to avoid injury.
• Maintenance must be performed by qualified professionals. Otherwise, you may experience
personal injury or damage to the air conditioner and surrounding property.
• Do not repair the air conditioner by yourself. It may cause electric shock or damage. Please
contact a qualified service representative when you need to repair the air conditioner.
• Do not block the air outlet or air inlet. This could cause a malfunction.
• Do not spill water on the remote control as this can permanently damage the remote.
• If the below problems occur, please turn off the air conditioner and disconnect power at the circuit
breaker immediately. Then contact your dealer or a qualified professional for service.
• The power cord is overheating or damaged.
• There is an abnormal sound during operation.
• The circuit breaker trips frequently.
• The air conditioner gives off a burning smell.
• The indoor unit is leaking.
• If the air conditioner operates under abnormal conditions, it may cause malfunctions, electric
shock, or fire hazard.
• When turning the unit on or off via the emergency operation switch, press the switch with an
insulated object other than metal.
• Do not step on the top panel of the unit, or put heavy objects on the top panel. This could cause
damage or personal injury.
• Cleaning and user maintenance should not be performed by children without supervision.
• Do not spray water on the indoor unit. This could cause electric shock or a unit malfunction.
• Do not use flammable materials such as hair spray, lacquer, or paint near the air conditioner as
they may catch fire.
• Do not operate the air conditioner in places near combustible gases. Emitted gases may collect
around the air conditioner and cause an explosion.
• Do not use fire or a hair dryer to dry the filter. This could cause a deformation or fire hazard.
• Do not wash the air conditioner with water as this could cause an electric shock.
• Disconnect the power supply by turning it off at the circuit breaker when cleaning the air
conditioner. Otherwise, you could risk electric shock.

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Electrical Safety
• Only use the specified power cord. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the
manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.
• Keep the power plug clean. Remove any dust or grime that accumulates on or around the plug.
Dirty plugs can cause fire or electric shock.
• Do not pull the power cord to unplug unit. Hold the plug firmly and pull it from the outlet. Pulling
directly on the cord can damage it, which can lead to fire or electric shock.
• Do not connect the air conditioner to a multi-purpose socket. Doing so could cause a fire hazard.
• Do not modify the length of the power supply cord or use an extension cord to power the unit.
• If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, a service agent, or a
similarly qualified person in order to avoid a safety hazard.
• Do not share the electrical outlet with other appliances. Improper or insufficient power supply can
cause fire or electrical shock.
• The product must be properly grounded at the time of installation, or electrical shock may occur.
• For all electrical work, follow all local and national wiring standards and regulations. Connect
cables tightly, and clamp them securely to prevent external forces from damaging the terminal.
Improper electrical connections can overheat and cause fire, and may also cause shock. All
electrical connections must be made according to the Electrical Connection Diagram located on
the panels of the indoor and outdoor units.
• All wiring must be properly arranged to ensure that the control board cover can close properly. If
the control board cover is not closed properly, it can lead to corrosion and cause the connection
points on the terminal to heat up, catch fire, or cause electrical shock.
• The air conditioner’s circuit board (PCB) is designed with a fuse to provide overcurrent protection.
The specifications of the fuse are printed on the circuit board.

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Installation Safety
• Installation must be performed by an authorized dealer or specialist. Improper installation can
cause water leakage, electrical shock, or fire. (In North America, installation must be performed in
accordance with NEC and CEC requirements by authorized personnel only.)
• Installation must be performed according to the installation instructions. Improper installation can
cause water leakage, electrical shock, or fire.
• This air conditioner shall be installed in accordance with national and local wiring regulations.
• Contact an authorized service technician for repair or maintenance of this unit.
• Only use the included accessories, parts, and specified parts for installation. Using non-standard
parts can cause water leakage, electrical shock, fire, and can cause the unit to fail.
• Install the unit in a firm location that can support the unit’s weight. If the chosen location cannot
support the unit’s weight, or the installation is not done properly, the unit may fall and cause
serious injury and damage.
• Install drainage piping according to the instructions in the installation manual. Improper drainage
may cause water damage to your home and property.
• For units that have an auxiliary electric heater, do not install the unit within 3 feet (1 meter) of any
combustible materials.
• Do not install the unit in a location that may be exposed to combustible gas leaks. If combustible
gas accumulates around the unit, it may cause a fire.
• Do not turn on the power until all work has been completed.
• When moving or relocating the air conditioner, consult experienced service technicians for
disconnection and re-installation of the unit.
Additional Precautions
• Turn off the air conditioner and disconnect the power if you are not going to use it for a long time.
• Turn off and unplug the unit during storms.
• Make sure that water condensation can drain unhindered from the unit.
• Do not operate the air conditioner with wet hands. This may cause electric shock.
• Do not use this device for any other purpose than its intended use.
• Do not climb onto or place objects on top of the outdoor unit.
• Do not allow the air conditioner to operate for long periods of time with doors or windows open, or
if the humidity is very high.

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Your air conditioner is designed to operate in the following indoor and outdoor temperatures.
When your air conditioner is used outside of the following temperature ranges, certain safety
features may activate and turn off the unit to protect it from damage.
TEMPERATURE RANGES
COOL mode HEAT mode DRY mode
Indoor Air
Temperature
62°F - 90°F
(17°C - 32°C)
32°F - 86°F
(0°C - 30°C)
50°F - 90°F
(10°C - 32°C)
Outdoor Air
Temperature
-13°F - 122°F
(-25°C - 50°C)
-13°F - 86°F
(-25°C - 30°C)
32°F - 122°F
(0°C - 50°C)
To further optimize the performance of your unit, do the following:
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Limit energy usage by using TIMER ON and TIMER OFF features.
• Do not block air inlets or outlets.
• Regularly inspect and clean air filters.
OPERATING TEMPERATURES
NOTE
Keep the room's relative humidity below 80%. If the air conditioner operates in excess of this,
the surface of the air conditioner may attract condensation. To help prevent condensation
from forming and dripping, set the vertical airflow louver to its maximum angle (vertically to
the floor) and set the fan to HIGH.
NOTE
Your Durastar air conditioner's outdoor unit is equipped with a base pan heater, allowing it
to continue to operate at freezing temperatures as low as -13°F (-25°C). When outdoor air
temperatures are at or below 32°F (0°C), we strongly recommend keeping the unit plugged
in at all times to ensure smooth ongoing performance.

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INCLUDED INSTALLATION ACCESSORIES
The air conditioning system comes with the following accessories.
FIELD SUPPLIED INSTALLATION ACCESSORIES
The following installation accessories are required and must be purchased separately.
• Refrigerant piping (line set)
• Indoor and outdoor connection wire
• Outdoor power supply cord
• Drain pipe
• Pipe and cable wrapping tape
• Wall hole sleeve and cover
• Putty
• Wiring u-lugs
• Suspension bolts and necessary hardware to hang indoor unit (if ceiling mounted)
ACCESSORIES
Accessory Quantity Image Accessory Quantity Image
Manual 2 Remote Control 1
Drain Pipe
Insulation Sleeve
(Sheath)
1 Battery 2
Drain Pipe Worm
Clamp
2 Remote Control
Holder
1
Conduit
Installation Plate
1 Remote Control
Holder Mounting
Screw
2
Drain Joint 1 Copper Nut 2
Drain Joint Seal 1

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TOOLS NEEDED
The following tools are required for installation.
• Phillips screwdriver
• Drill with 2 1/2" or 3 1/2" (indoor unit model depending) core bit
• Vacuum pump
• HVAC manifold gauge set
• Refrigerant leak detector
• Copper pipe cutter
• Flaring tool
• Burr reamer
• Crescent or spanner wrench
• Hexagonal wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Multimeter
• Electroprobe
• Level
• Hammer
• Wire strippers
• Wire crimper

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PARTS IDENTIFICATION
NOTE
Illustrations in this manual are for explanatory purposes. The actual shape of your
mini-split equipment may vary slightly.
NOTE
The installation must be performed in accordance with the required local and national
standards. The installation may be slightly different in different markets.
Valve Cover
Signal Cable,
Refrigerant Pipes,
and Drain Pipe
Wiring Terminal
Air Outlet
Air Inlets
Indoor Unit
Outdoor Unit
Air Flow Louver (Air Outlet)
Remote Control
Air Inlet (with Filter)
Control Panel
Installation Hooks (on Rear)
Drain Pipe
Signal Cable and
Refrigerant Pipes

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INSTALLATION OVERVIEW - INDOOR UNIT
Install the outdoor unitInstall the drain pipe
L N
1
23
45
MC MC
6
7
Install the indoor unit
Evacuate and charge the
refrigeration system
Connect the wires
Connect the refrigerant
pipes
Perform a test run

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INDOOR UNIT INSTALLATION
STEP 1: SELECT INSTALLATION LOCATION
Before installing the indoor unit, you must choose an appropriate location. The following standards
should be met for an appropriate location for the unit:
• Good air circulation
• Convenient drainage
• Noise from the unit will not disturb other people
• Firm and solid - the location will not vibrate
• Strong enough to support the weight of the unit
• A location at least three feet (one meter) from all other electrical devices (e.g., TV, radio,
computer)
DO NOT install unit in the following locations:
• Near any source of heat, steam, or combustible gas
• Near flammable items such as curtains or clothing
• Near any obstacle that might block air circulation
• Near a doorway
• In a location subject to direct sunlight
Refer to the following diagrams to ensure proper distance from walls and ceiling:
NOTE
If there is no pre-existing refrigerant piping, when choosing a location, leave ample room
for a wall hole (see Step 3: Drill Wall Hole for Connective Piping) for the signal cable and
refrigerant piping that connect the indoor and outdoor units.
≥1 3/8” (35mm)
≥40” (1015mm) from front
≥1 3/8” (35mm)
≥1 3/8” (35mm)

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STEP 2: MOUNT INDOOR UNIT
Refer to the following diagrams for unit dimensions and locations of the mounting hooks. If the unit
will be ceiling mounted, four suspension bolts are required to hang the indoor unit. If the unit will be
wall mounted, be sure the unit can be securely anchored in place to prevent any movement after
installation.
Refrigerant pipe
connection (liquid)
Refrigerant pipe
connection (gas)
Drain port
A
C
D
E
B
Mounting
hook
A - inch (mm)
42 1/16” (1068mm) 26 9/16” (675mm) 9 1/4” (235mm) 38 11/16” (983mm) 8 11/16” (220mm)
B - inch (mm) C - inch (mm) D - inch (mm) E - inch (mm)

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CEILING MOUNTING
1. Before drilling the holes in the ceiling and mounting the unit, align the refrigerant pipes, drain pipe,
and signal cable connection points with the direction they will be drawn out and connected to the
outdoor unit through the wall hole (see Step 3: Drill Wall Hole For Connective Piping).
2. Drill four holes 4" deep in the internal ceiling for each of the required suspension bolt anchors (field
supplied). Make sure to hold the drill at a 90 angle to the ceiling.
3. Using a hammer, insert the suspension bolt anchors into the pre-drilled holes.
4. Install the four suspension bolts.
5. Remove the side boards and the grille to access the mounting hooks.
WARNING
Ensure that the drain slope has a gradient of 1/100 or greater. Improper installation
can cause the drain pipe to back up into the unit and water leaks.
Nuts
Washer
Hanging bolt
Installation hook
Shockproof cushion
Side board
Mounting hooks
Hanging
s
crew bolts
13/16” (20mm)
Gas pipe connection
Drain port
Downward slope ≥1/100
Liquid pipe connection
6. Mount the indoor unit. Using two people to lift and secure it, insert the suspension bolts into the
unit's mounting hook holes and secure in place with washers and nuts (see diagram below).
7. When mounting is completed, confirm the minimum drain slope has a gradient of 1/100 or greater.

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8. Mount the conduit installation plate to the chassis of the unit as shown below.
FLOOR MOUNTING
1. Before drilling the holes in the wall and mounting the unit, align the refrigerant pipes, drain pipe,
and signal cable connection points with the direction they will be drawn out and connected to the
outdoor unit through the wall hole (see Step 3: Drill Wall Hole For Connective Piping).
2. Drill four holes for the required wall anchors (field supplied).
3. Remove the side boards and the grille to access the mounting hooks.
Electrical box
Screws
Conduit
installation plate
Conduit
Side board
Mounting hooks
Hanging
s
crew bolts
Conduit
installation plate
Conduit
Conduit
installation plate
Screws
Chassis
4. Mount the indoor unit. Insert the wall bolts into the unit's mounting hook holes and secure in place.
The unit should not shift or wobble when completed.
5. Mount the conduit installation plate to the electrical box as shown below.

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STEP 3: DRILL WALL HOLE FOR CONNECTIVE PIPING
1. Determine the location of the wall hole based on the location of the outdoor unit.
2. Using a 2 1/2" (65mm) core drill for units with a gas side connective pipe less than 5/8" (16mm), or 3
1/2" (90mm) for units with a gas side pipe greater than or equal to 5/8" (16mm), drill a hole in the wall.
Make sure that the hole is drilled at a slight downward angle, so that the outdoor end of the hole is
lower than the indoor end by about 3/16 - 1/4" (5mm to 7mm). This will ensure proper water drainage.
Wall
Indoor Outdoor
3/16-1/4”
(5-7 mm)
STEP 4: CONNECT DRAIN PIPE
The drain pipe is used to drain condensate water away from the unit. Improper installation may cause
leaks and unit or property damage.
1. Connect the drain pipe (field supplied) to the unit's connecting port using a metal worm clamp.
Make sure it secured tightly and can not be easily pulled loose.
2. Insulate the connecting port and pipe with the accessory sheath provided.
Drain pipe
connecting port
Drain pipe
Pipe clamp Insulation
Downward slope
1/100
Ceiling
39-59”
(990mm-
1500mm)
≥4”
(101mm)
Downward slope
1/100
Model
DRAF18F1A 1” (25mm)
DRAF24F1A 1” (25mm)
Drain Pipe
Inner Diameter
3. Place the protective wall hole sleeve (field supplied) into the hole. This protects pipes and cables
from sharp edges and will help seal the opening when you finish the installation process. After the
sleeve is inserted through the wall, connect the wall hole sleeve cover to the wall sleeve on the
outside end. Make sure the cover is flush with the outside wall.
3. Install the drain pipe with a downward slope of at least a 1/100 gradient to prevent water from
flowing back into the unit. If connecting multiple units, install the pipes as illustrated. Wrap the
remaining indoor portion of drain pipe with foam pipe insulation to prevent condensation.

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STEP 5: CONNECT SIGNAL CABLE
BEFORE PERFORMING ANY ELECTRICAL WORK, READ THESE REGULATIONS
1. All wiring must comply with local and national electrical codes and regulations, and must be
installed by a licensed electrician.
2. All electrical connections must be made according to the Electrical Connection Diagram located
on the panels of the indoor and outdoor units.
3. If there is a serious safety issue with the power supply, stop work immediately and contact a
licensed electrician. Do not continue with the installation until the safety issue is properly resolved.
4. Power voltage should be within 90-110% of rated voltage. Insufficient power supply can cause
malfunction, electrical shock, or fire.
5. If connecting power to fixed wiring, install a surge protector and main power switch with a capacity
of 1.5 times the maximum current of the unit.
6. If connecting power to fixed wiring, a switch or circuit breaker that disconnects all poles and has
a contact separation of at least 1/8" (3mm) must be incorporated in the fixed wiring. A qualified
technician must use an approved circuit breaker or switch.
7. Only connect the unit to an individual branch circuit outlet. Do not connect another appliance to
that outlet.
8. Make sure to properly ground the air conditioner.
9. Every wire must be firmly connected. Loose wiring can cause the terminal to overheat, resulting in
product malfunction and possible fire.
10. Do not let wires touch or rest against refrigerant tubing, the compressor, or any moving parts
within the unit.
11. If the unit has an auxiliary electric heater, it must be installed at least 40" away from any
combustible materials.
12. To avoid getting an electric shock, never touch the electrical components soon after the power
supply has been turned off. After turning off the power, always wait 10 minutes or more before you
touch the electrical components.
4. Pass the drain pipe through the wall hole to the outside. The end of the pipe should be at least 2"
(50mm) above the ground. If it touches the ground, the pipe may become blocked. Make sure the
water drains to a safe location where it will not cause water damage or a slipping hazard.
WARNING
Ensure that the drain slope has a gradient of 1/100 or greater. Improper installation
can cause the drain pipe to back up into the unit and water leaks.
WARNING
Before performing any electrical or wiring work, turn off the main power to the system.

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WARNING
All wiring must be performed strictly in accordance with the wiring diagram located on
the inside of the control box lid.
The signal cable enables communication between the indoor and outdoor units. You must first
choose the right cable size before preparing it for connection.
USE THE RIGHT CABLE
• Outdoor Power Cable: H07RN-F
• Signal Cable: H07RN-F
CABLE SIZING
Use a minimum of 16 AWG for power and signal cables connected to and between the indoor and
outdoor units.
Choose the correct size of cable
The size of the outdoor power cable, signal cable, fuse, and switch needed is determined by the
maximum current of the unit. The maximum current is indicated on the nameplate located on the side
panel of the unit. Refer to this nameplate to choose the right cable, fuse, or switch.
Wiring the Indoor Unit
1. Prepare the cable for connection:
• Using wire strippers, strip the jacket from both ends of the cable to reveal about 6" of the
wires.
• Strip the insulation from the ends of the wires.
• Using a wire crimper, crimp u-lugs to the ends of the wires.
2. Open the front panel of the unit. Using a screwdriver, remove the cover of the electrical control
box.
3. Thread the signal cable through the wire outlet.
4. Unscrew the cable clamp below the terminal block and place it to the side.
5. Refer to the wiring diagram on the control box cover and connect the u-lugs to the terminal block.
Firmly screw the u-lug of each wire to its corresponding terminal.
6. After checking to make sure every connection is secure, use the cable clamp to fasten the signal
cable to the unit. Screw the cable clamp down tightly.
7. Replace the control box lid.
Wiring diagram
Control box
Wire outlet

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STEP 6: PREPARE REFRIGERANT PIPING
1. If pre-existing refrigerant piping is already embedded in the wall, begin the outdoor unit
installation. Refer to the Refrigerant Piping Connections section of the outdoor unit's installation
manual for detailed instructions.
2. If there is no pre-existing piping, connect the indoor unit’s refrigerant piping to the connective
piping that will join the indoor and outdoor units. Refer to the Refrigerant Piping Connections
section of the outdoor unit's installation manual for detailed instructions.
Refrigerant piping
Drain hose
Signal wire
Insulation tape
STEP 7: WRAP PIPES AND CABLE
Before passing the refrigerant piping, drain pipe, and the signal cable through the wall hole, you must
bundle them together to save space, protect them, and insulate them.
1. Bundle the drain hose, refrigerant pipes, and signal cable as shown below:
NOTE
The drain hose MUST be at the bottom of the bundle. Putting the drain hose at the top of
the bundle can cause the drain pan to overflow, which can lead to fire or water damage.
NOTE
DO NOT intertwine the signal cable with any of the other wires while bundling these items
together.
NOTE
When wrapping the bundle, keep the ends of the piping unwrapped. You need to access
them to test for leaks at the end of the installation process (refer to Electrical and Gas Leak
Checks section of your outdoor unit's installation manual).
2. Using adhesive vinyl tape, attach the drain hose to the underside of the refrigerant pipes.
3. Using insulation tape, wrap the signal wire, refrigerant pipes, and drain hose tightly together.
Double-check that all items are bundled.

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TROUBLESHOOTING
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
If ANY of the following conditions occurs, turn off your unit immediately!
• The power cord is damaged or abnormally warm
• You smell a burning odor
• The unit emits loud or abnormal sounds
• A power fuse blows or the circuit breaker frequently trips
• Water or other objects fall into or out of the unit
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FIX THESE YOURSELF! CONTACT AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDER
IMMEDIATELY!
COMMON ISSUES
The following problems are not a malfunction and in most situations will not require repairs.
ISSUE POSSIBLE CAUSES
Unit does not turn on
when pressing ON/OFF
button
The Unit has a 3-minute protection feature that prevents the unit from
overloading. The unit cannot be restarted within three minutes of being
turned off.
The unit changes from
COOL/HEAT mode to
FAN mode
The unit may change its setting to prevent frost from forming on the
unit. Once the temperature increases, the unit will start operating in the
previously selected mode again.
The set temperature has been reached, at which point the unit turns off
the compressor. The unit will continue operating when the temperature
fluctuates again.
The indoor unit emits
white mist
In humid regions, a large temperature difference between the room’s air
and the conditioned air can cause white mist.
Both the indoor and
outdoor units emit white
mist
When the unit restarts in HEAT mode after defrosting, white mist may be
emitted due to moisture generated during the defrosting process.
The indoor unit makes
noises
A rushing air sound may occur when the louver resets its position.
A squeaking sound may occur after running the unit in HEAT mode due
to expansion and contraction of the unit’s plastic parts.