Trane Sump Heater - http://www.hvacmechanic.com/ Forums

Original message

MarshSt

71.37.11.207

"Trane Sump Heater" , posted Tue 19 Aug 22:32

I have a Trane TTX036C100A0 AC unit that is about 15 years old. The sump heater burned out and I will be replacing it and the thermostat. From the schematic the heater is always hot and the spec says it operates from 73-105 degrees. There was a thread about this and it sounds like the heat keeps the refrigerant from migrating in the system. I am in the Pacific NW so AC is rarely used and the unit sits idle almost all of the time.I can't see the benefit of leaving this powered up all winter but I am concerned about what will happen if it is powered down for extended periods of time. Are outdoor AC units usually shut down during the "off" season? If so what is the process for start-up and shut-down?

Steve

Replies:

Banger

70.160.194.108

"Re(1):Trane Sump Heater" , posted Wed 20 Aug 07:49

You can power the whole unit off for extended periods when it won't be used (like all winter). In the spring, you just have to turn power on to the unit for 8 hours or so before using the AC, so the crankcase heater can heat the compressor up. The heater also keeps the oil in the compressor warm (low viscosity) for easier start-up.

MarshSt

71.37.11.207

"Re(2):Trane Sump Heater" , posted Wed 20 Aug 23:24

Thanks for the reply. I'll run it the rest of the summer as needed and then shut it down for the winter.

Steve