Fan Coil Wiring

Fan-coil conditioner fans are driven by small motors, generally shaded pole or capacitor start with inherent overload protection. Operating wattage of even the largest sizes rarely exceeds 300 W at the high speed setting. Running current rarely exceeds 2.5 A. Almost all motors on units in the United States are 120 V, single phase, 60 Hz current, and they provide multiple (usually three) fan speeds and an off position. Other voltages and power characteristics may be encountered, depending on location, and should be investigated before determining the fan motor characteristics.

In planning the wiring circuit, required codes must be followed. Wiring methods generally provide separate electrical circuits for fan-coil units and do not connect them into the lighting circuit.

Separate electrical circuits connected to a central panel allow the building operator to turn off unit fans from a central point during unoccupied hours. While this panel costs more initially, it can lower operating costs in buildings that do not have 24 hour occupancy. In hot and humid climates care must be taken to avoid excess humidity when units are off to avoid formation of mildew. Use of separate electrical circuits allows a single remote thermostat to be mounted in a well-exposed perimeter space to operate unit fans.