Honeywell F50E User manual

OWNER’SGUIDE
F50E
ELECTRONIC
AIR CLEANER
® U.S. Registered Trademark
Copyright © 1998 Honeywell Inc.
All Rights Reserved
69-0376-4

69-0376—4

169-0376—4
PAGE
THE SOLID STATE PERFORMANCE INDICATOR 2
OPERATING YOUR ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANER 3
GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANER 5
CLEANING THE ELECTRONIC CELL(S) AND PREFILTER(S) 7
HOW ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANING WORKS 14
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANING 19
BEFORE YOU CALL FOR SERVICE 20
CLEAN COIL GUARANTEE 22
WARRANTY 25
CONTENTS

THE SOLID STATE PERFORMANCE INDICATOR
This electronic air cleaner is equipped
with a special solid state circuit that
operates the optional W8600E Solid
State Performance Indicator (see
photo). The W8600E Indicator must be
ordered separately.
The W8600E Indicator is designed to
mount next to your thermostat, or in any
convenient visible area (such as a utility
room) where it can be seen as it
monitors the air cleaner's performance.
The three light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
on the W8600E are labeled ON, WASH
and CHECK.
•The ON LED is lit during normal air cleaning operation. The
system fan is also on when the air cleaner is running.
•If excessive dirt has accumulated on the air cleaner cell(s),
the WASH LED will light to alert you that a cell and prefilter
wash is past due.
• Extreme dirt loading (beyond that required to activate the
WASH LED), electronic malfunction, or other equipment
problems will cause the CHECK LED to light.
69-0376—4 2

You may hear a snapping (electrical arcing)
sound occasionally as the air cleaner operates.
This usually is caused by a larger dust particle
causing a high voltage discharge. The snapping
sound means that your air cleaner is working as it
should. To hear the snapping sound, momentarily
press the test button near the bottom of the door.
Use the test button any time you want to prove
air cleaner operation.
If your air cleaner is equipped with a wall-
mounted W8600E Solid State Performance
Indicator (see page 2), the ON LED will be on
whenever the air cleaner is in operation . Of
course, the system fan will also be running.
Set the ON-OFF switch in the power box to ON.
The air cleaner will now operate whenever your
furnace/air conditioning system fan operates. For
maximum air cleaning benefit and cleaner air
conditioner coils, leave the air cleaner switch ON
at all times and the fan switch on your thermostat
ON. Of course, continuous fan operation will add
to your electric bill each month.
When the fan and air cleaner come on, the neon
light in the ON-OFF switch lights.
OPERATING YOUR ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANER
369-0376—4
When the fan and air cleaner stops, the neon
light goes out, and the ON LED on the W8600E
Indicator also goes out. The air cleaner is off until
the heating or air conditioning and fan start again.
M3262
ON
OFF
M3263
ON
OFF
ON WASH CHECK
M7739
ON WASH CHECK
M7738
M7740
ON
OFF
M9624

If you don’t want the air cleaner to run, set the
ON-OFF switch to OFF to turn off the air cleaner.
Your furnace and air conditioner will still operate
normally but without the added benefit of air
cleaning. Normally, this switch should be ON at
all times.
69-0376—4 4
M3261
ON
OFF

For greatest efficiency, the air cleaner should
run all the time. To do this, set the fan switch on
your thermostat to ON, and make sure the air
cleaner is switched ON. The fan and air cleaner
will run even when the furnace or air conditioner
is off.
NOTE: A manual fan switch may be built into
the furnace or furnace fan controller.
The air cleaner uses less power than a 40 watt
light bulb (two-cell model—33 watts; single cell
model—22 watts), and the cost of running the
system fan is also quite low. The small added
cost is more than offset by the added benefits of
full time air cleaning and full time air circulation.
Some people feel that room temperatures stay
more even when the fan is always on.
Even if your thermostat doesn’t have a fan ON
position, you can obtain maximum available air
cleaning benefit by making sure the air cleaner
is always switched ON so it operates whenever
the furnace or air conditioner is on.
Although the air cleaner is designed to be
efficient over a wide range of cell dirt loading
conditions, regular cleaning is your best
assurance of consistent performance. Also, a
very dirty cell and prefilter reduces air flow and,
in turn, this reduces the efficiency of the furnace
or air conditioner. The cell wash reminder
schedule should be used to maintain a regular
wash schedule.
An activated carbon (charcoal) filter is some-
times installed downstream of the air cleaner to
help control odors. This filter should be changed
at least annually, or as recommended by the
filter manufacturer.
GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANER
Run the electronic
air cleaner as
much as possible
Replace any
activated carbon
filters in the
ductwork
regularly
Keep the cell(s)
and prefilter(s)
clean
569-0376—4

If your system includes an atomizing humidifier,
you may want to install a standard furnace filter
between the humidifier and the air cleaner. This
filter would keep the humidifier spray mineral
deposits from collecting on the air cleaner. This
filter should be checked regularly and changed
when it shows signs of mineral or dirt buildup. If
you do not install a filter, you will probably need
to wash the cell(s) and prefilter(s) more often to
remove the mineral buildup.
If an ultrasonic room humidifier is used often,
especially when filled with tap (undistilled)
water, the cell(s) and prefilter(s) will require
more frequent washing. A white residue will
accumulate on the cell(s) from the minerals in
the water. This residue may also contribute to
"white dust" (see p. 18).
If you have a
humidifier
69-0376—4 6

CAUTION
Sharp edges.
Can cause personal injury.
Handle the cell(s) carefully or wear protective
gloves to avoid cuts from the sharp metal
edges.
To ensure optimum performance from the air
cleaner, the cell(s) and prefilter(s) must be
cleaned regularly—every one to six months.
Washing frequency will vary depending on the
number of family members, pets, activities
(such as cooking or woodworking) and smoking
habits. Use the wash reminder schedule
mounted on top of the air cleaner or furnace to
help establish and maintain a regular cleaning
schedule.
CLEANING THE CELL(S) AND PREFILTER(S)
Setting a
regular cleaning
schedule
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ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANER WASH REMINDER SCHEDULE
INSTALLATION DATE
JANFEBMARAPRMAY JUNJULAUGSEP OCTNOVDEC
M7737
If your air cleaner has a W8600E Indicator (shown on page 2), the
WASH LED will light to remind you that a cell and prefilter washing is
past due. When the WASH LED comes on, it means that the cell(s) are
loaded with dirt to the point that air cleaning efficiency is diminished.
You should plan to wash the cell(s) and prefilter(s) as soon as possible.
But by using the wash reminder schedule, a washing schedule can be
established that keeps the cell(s) clean enough so the WASH LED does
not come on.

If you find that the WASH LED is coming on more frequently than the
established schedule on the wash reminder schedule, you may have a
buildup of residue on the ionizer wires. If the collector plates on the
cell(s) look clean, you can try wiping the ionizer wires with a clean cloth
instead of washing the entire cell.
You might also consider whether some activity in your home has
changed, causing the cell(s) to become dirty faster. Have the windows
been open more often? Has someone been smoking more often? Has
someone taken up woodworking or some other hobby that creates
dust?
NOTE: You may let the heating or air conditioning system operate
normally while the cell(s) are being washed. Simply turn off the air
cleaner switch.
The prefilter(s) should be vacuumed, brushed,
sprayed with a garden hose, or washed at the
same time as the electronic cell(s).
Cleaning the
prefilter(s)
69-0376—4 8

CAUTION
Burn hazard.
Can cause personal injury.
Allow the cell(s) to cool completely in the
dishwasher at the end of the wash cycle or
wear protective gloves to avoid burns. Hot
water may accumulate in the tubes supporting
the collector plates. Tip the cell(s) so these
tubes drain.
IMPORTANT
•Check your dishwasher owner’s manual. Some manufacturers do not
recommend washing electronic cell(s) in their dishwashers.
•If the dishwasher has upper and lower arms, position the cell(s)
carefully to allow good water circulation.
• Use care to avoid damaging the cell(s) when placing them in the
dishwasher. Broken ionizer wires or bent collector plates are not
covered under the warranty.
•Very dirty cell(s), especially from tobacco or cooking smoke, may
discolor the plastic parts and the lining of some dishwashers. This
discoloration is not harmful. To minimize it, wash the cell(s) more
frequently or try a different brand of detergent.
•Do not allow the dishwasher to run through the dry cycle. This
will “bake on” any contaminants not removed during the wash cycle
and reduce air cleaner efficiency.
969-0376—4
Washing the cell(s)
in your automatic
dishwasher

STEP 1
Put the cell(s) on the lower rack of the dishwasher with the airflow arrow
pointing up. It may be necessary to remove the upper rack. Don’t block
water flow to the upper arm, if provided on your dishwasher. If you are
washing the prefilter(s) with the cell(s), place them where they won’t
block the water flow to the electronic cell(s).
HINT: Lay a few large water tumblers between the “spikes” on the lower
rack, and rest the cell(s) on them so the “spikes” don’t damage the
aluminum collector blades.
STEP 2
Using the detergent that works best for normal dishwashing, allow the
dishwasher to run through the complete wash and rinse cycle. Do not
use the dry cycle. To avoid burns, let the cell(s) cool completely before
removing, or wear protective gloves when removing the cell(s). Remem-
ber that water may be trapped inside the cell(s) plates. Tip the cell(s) to
drain.
STEP 3
Wipe the ionizer wires and red contact board on end of cell with a clean
cloth.
STEP 4
Inspect the dishwasher. You may wish to rerun the wash and/or rinse
cycle with the dishwasher empty if you see dirt or residue from washing
the cell(s). If dirt or residue seems excessive, wash the cell(s) more
often or try a different detergent.
69-0376—4 10

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Washing the
cell(s) in a tub
NOTE: Always wash the cell(s) first, then the prefilter(s) to keep heavy
lint on the prefilter from getting caught in the cell(s).
STEP 1
Use a large enough container such as a laundry tub or trash container,
to hold one or both cell(s).
NOTE: Sharp corners on the cell(s) can scratch the surface of a
bathtub.
STEP 2
Dissolve about 3/4 cup of automatic dishwasher detergent per cell in
enough hot water to cover the cell(s). If the detergent doesn’t dissolve
readily, or forms a scum on the water, try another brand, or use sof-
tened water.
STEP 3
After the detergent is completely dissolved, place the cell(s) in the
container and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Agitate cells up and down
a few times and remove.
STEP 4
Next, wash the prefilter(s) the same way. Empty and rinse the wash
container.
STEP 5
Rinse the cell(s) and prefilter(s) with a hard spray of very hot water;
rinse the tub clean, then fill the tub with clean hot water and soak for 5
to 15 minutes. Rinse until the water draining from the cell(s) and
prefilter(s) no longer feels slippery.
STEP 6
Wipe the ionizer wires and red contact board on the end of the cell with
a clean cloth.
CAUTION
Hazardous chemical.
Can cause personal injury.
•Do not splash the detergent solution in eyes.
Wear rubber gloves to avoid prolonged de-
tergent contact with skin.
•Keep detergent and solution out of reach of
children.

Use the hand sprayer at a coin-operated do-it-
yourself car wash to wash the cell(s) and
prefilter(s). Hold the nozzle at least two feet
away from the unit to avoid damage from the
high pressure stream of water. Follow the same
sequence of wash and rinse as recommended
for cars. However, do not wax the cell(s) or the
prefilter(s). Be sure to rinse until the water
draining from the cell(s) and prefilter(s) no
longer feels slippery.
Washing the cell(s)
at a car wash
Replacing electronic
air cleaner components
STEP 1
Inspect the cell(s) for broken ionizer wires and bent collector plates.
Repair as necessary or take to a Honeywell Authorized Air Cleaner
Repair Station.
STEP 2
Slide the prefilter(s) into the upstream prefilter guides.
STEP 3
Slide the air cleaner cell(s) in so the air flow arrow points downstream
and the handle(s) face outward.
STEP 4
Firmly close the access door.
69-0376—4 12
M6507
ON
OFF
XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

STEP 5
Turn on the air cleaner. If the cell(s) and prefilter(s) are wet, the neon
light may not come on and you may hear arcing. If the arcing is annoy-
ing, simply turn off the air cleaner for 2 to 3 hours or until the cell(s) are
dry.
If your air cleaner has a Solid State Performance Indicator, the CHECK
LED may come on if you install wet cell(s) and prefilter(s). Again, if the
neon light or the CHECK LED annoys you, simply turn off the air cleaner
for 2 to 3 hours or until the cell(s) and prefilter(s) are dry.
13 69-0376—4

The particles removed by the electronic air
cleaner tend to be very small—less than 10
microns. But what is a 10 micron particle? The
eye of an average size sewing needle is about
750 microns across, and the dot in the iin the
word micron is about 400 microns. Generally,
particles smaller than 10 microns can be seen
only with a microscope, except in very large
concentrations, such as a puff of smoke. Your
electronic air cleaner can remove even smaller
particles that can be seen only with an electron
microscope.
Although particles one micron and smaller make
up only about 20 percent of the total
weight of
particles in unfiltered air, they account for more
than 99 percent of the
number of particles.
Because they are so tiny, these particles remain
suspended in the air unless they collide with a
solid surface. Then they attach by molecular
adhesion and stick like glue, staining walls and
furniture and coating your air conditioning coils.
And some of these particles can cause allergic
reactions or simply make the environment less
pleasant.
A word about
particle size
HOW ELECTRONIC AIR CLEANING WORKS
69-0376—4 14
25,400
749
i
M6031
Postage
397

CELL
PREFILTER
IONIZER WIRES
(CHARGING
SECTION) COLLECTOR PLATES
(COLLECTOR SECTION)
CLEANER
AIR
OUT
DIRTY
AIR
IN
M6030A
First, large particles (lint, hair) are caught by the
prefilter(s). As the dirty air passes through the
intense high voltage electric field surrounding
the ionizer wires, all particles, even the smallest
are given an electric charge. The air passes into
the collector where the alternate parallel plates
have positive and negative charges, creating a
uniform electrostatic field. Since opposites
attract, the charged particles stick to the
collector plates, having an opposite electric
charge. Consequently, the air leaving the air
cleaner contains very few particles.
How the electronic
air cleaner works
15 69-0376—4
Each time the air circulates through the heating/
air conditioning system and air cleaner, more
particles are removed. These particles are
generated by normal household activities, and
also enter the house from the outside. That’s
why we recommend that you use the air cleaner
as much as possible.

The electronic air
cleaner vs. the
standard
furnace filter
Use a carbon
filter to remove
odors
Air ionizers have been marketed with claims
about purifying the air and promising medical
benefits. It should be noted that supporting
tests, if available, are controversial and incom-
plete.
Air ionizers can generate a bit of ozone, and of
course some ions (air molecules with an electric
charge). This is what your electronic air cleaner
ionizer does, but with greater intensity. How-
ever, air ionizers do not have good collectors, if
any. With air ionizers, the charged dirt particles
are "collected" by walls, floor and furniture,
requiring frequent cleaning of the entire building
to remove the effects of collected contamina-
tion. By comparison, an electronic air cleaner
deposits contamination on the cell(s) and
prefilter(s) for easy cleaning.
The electronic
air cleaner
vs. the air
ionizer
The regular furnace filter collects mainly large,
visible particles that reach the filter. Its main
purpose is to protect the furnace and air
conditioner blower. The electronic air cleaner
collects these large particles, plus many of the
smaller, mostly invisible particles. Its purpose is
to reduce indoor air pollution and to protect the
blower, air conditioning coils and heat ex-
changer.
Odors are gases, not particles. They cannot be
removed by the air cleaner or by any other filter
designed to remove particles. However, some
gases can be trapped by an activated carbon
filter or diluted with outdoor air. If odors are a
concern, talk to your heating and air condition-
ing dealer about installing a carbon filter
downstream of the air cleaner or providing an
outdoor air inlet.
69-0376—4 16

Ozone and the
electronic
air cleaner
17 69-0376—4
Electronic air cleaners generate a very small
amount of ozone, about 0.005 to 0.010 parts
per million (ppm). The amount is highest when
the air cleaner is new.
The average person can detect the odor of
ozone in concentrations as low as 0.003 to
0.010 ppm. The U.S. Food and Drug Admini-
stration and Health and Welfare Canada
recommend that indoor ozone concentration
should not exceed 0.050 ppm. As a compari-
son, the outdoor ozone level in major cities is
sometimes higher than 0.100 ppm.
If desired, the ozone generated by the air
cleaner can be reduced by asking your dealer
to:
•Install an activated carbon filter downstream
of the air cleaner, or
•Adjust the air cleaner power supply to
reduce ozone production. This adjustment
will reduce ozone production about 20 to 25
percent, but will also reduce air cleaning
efficiency about 7 to 10 percent.

White dust is made up of particles that settle out
of the air before they get to the return air duct.
You can help prevent this “white dust” from
settling by running your fan constantly. Also,
•Be sure the return registers are not blocked
with furniture.
•Be sure the discharge ducts are clean (best
done before installing the air cleaner).
•Be sure your clothes dryer is vented to the
outside and is not plugged.
•If you have new rugs or drapes or new
woolen blankets, be aware that the lint from
these items reduces with age.
•In new or remodeled homes, plaster dust or
paint pigment may contribute to “white dust”,
but reduces with time.
•Use of a humidifier may contribute to "white
dust", especially if filled with undistilled
water.
69-0376—4 18
About lint or
"white dust"