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Retrofitting Commercial DX Equipment
Verdant Retrofit Guide
Retrofitting Verdant thermostats on DX equipment
For PTAC applications without an existing thermostat, the preferred method is to use a wireless thermostat instead of the built-in controls on the unit or to retrofit the existing one.
In rooms conditioned by a PTAC or VTAC existing thermostats are often installed in an unsuitable position for reliable occupancy detection, like the entry hall wall.
In other retrofit scenarios, the previous location of the thermostat might not be ideal for occupancy detection and passing new wires may also not be feasible. In these cases, wireless Verdant thermostats allow for repositioning of the thermostat to an optimal location.
When installing an HVAC Controller, placement is also crucial. The HVAC controller must not be surrounded by metal. In the case of a PTAC, the HVAC controller must be installed towards the front of the unit, making sure the antenna of the HVAC controller is pointing forward. The HVAC controller can be taped to the plastic grill (from the inside) using double sided tape. Ensure the bond between the tape and the plastic surface is optimal. This will prevent the HVAC controller from falling into the drain pan.
For VTAC units, installing the HVAC controller out of the body of the VTAC is more difficult. A VTAC chassis is constructed mainly by sheet metal. Even if sticking the HVAC controller out of the thermostat terminal enclosure is possible, the HVAC controller will still be surrounded by sheet metal. In this scenario, the HVAC Controller should be mounted on the walls of the closet enclosing the unit. Verdant has longer wire-harnesses for HVAC controllers where required.
For water-source heat-pumps and split units (air handler), similar considerations must be observed.