Climate Control

Cab Climate Control Panel

The standard cab climate control panel has a fan switch with a recirculation button, temperature control switch with an A/C button, and a mode control switch. See Fig. 8.1 . Sleeper cabs are also equipped with a bunk override button.
  • 1. Fan Switch
  • 2. Temperature Control Switch
  • 3. Mode Control Switch
Fig. 8.1, Cab Climate Control Panel

Fan Switch

The fan switch activates the fan, which forces fresh air or recirculated air through the air outlets. The fan switch has eight fan speed settings and an OFF position. See Fig. 8.2 .
  • 1. Recirculation Button
Fig. 8.2, Fan Switch
To operate the fan switch, turn the fan switch clockwise to increase airflow; turn the fan switch counterclockwise to decrease airflow.
There is a two-second delay between the time the engine is started and the blower is operational. It can take an additional four seconds for the blower to reach high speed. The blower motor performs a self-test immediately after the engine is started, which causes the delay. If the vehicle has Optimized Idle, the fan will not operate with the key in accessory mode. Optimized Idle may also turn the fan off to reduce stress on the batteries. Refer to Chapter 11 for more information.

Recirculation

Recirculation mode limits the amount of outside air entering the cab. Press the recirculation button to prevent dusty or smoky air from entering the cab. See Fig. 8.2 . Recirculation mode can also decrease the time required to cool or heat the cab interior during extreme outside temperature conditions. When the recirculation mode is turned on, the amber indicator on the recirculation button will illuminate.
The recirculation button will not work when the mode control switch is in either defog or defrost modes.
NOTE: To prevent the buildup of odors or oxygen depletion inside the cab, the system switches from full recirculation mode to partial recirculation mode after 20 minutes. In extremely dusty or smoky conditions, the partial recirculation mode can be overridden by pressing the recirculation button twice to obtain full recirculation mode. This resets the 20-minute timer.

Temperature Control Switch

The temperature control switch is used to select the desired temperature in the cab. Turn the switch counterclockwise for cool air, or clockwise for hot air. See Fig. 8.3 .
  • 1. Air Conditioning Button
Fig. 8.3, Temperature Control Switch

Air Conditioning Button

The air conditioner (A/C) cools and dehumidifies the air inside the cab. Press the A/C button, located in the center of the temperature control switch, to turn the air conditioner on and off. See Fig. 8.3 .
A/C will be automatically disabled when:
outside air temperature is low enough to make the A/C ineffective;
engine is running at extremely low rpm;
conditions exist that result in the climate control system going into protection mode.

Mode Control Switch

The mode control switch allows the driver to control the flow of air through the face outlets, the floor outlets, the defrost (windshield) outlets, or a combination of these outlets. See Fig. 8.4 .
Face Mode: Directs all airflow through the face or instrument panel outlets.
  • 1. Face Mode
  • 2. Selection Between Face Mode and Bi-Level Mode
  • 3. Bi-Level Mode
  • 4. Selection Between Bi-Level Mode and Floor Mode
  • 5. Floor Mode
  • 6. Selection Between Floor Mode and Defog Mode
  • 7. Defog Mode
  • 8. Selection Between Defog Mode and Defrost Mode
  • 9. Defrost Mode
  • 10. Bunk Override Button (on sleeper-cabs only)
Fig. 8.4, Mode Control Switch With Bunk Override Button
Bi-Level Mode: Directs the airflow equally to the face outlets and the floor outlets.
Floor Mode: Directs all airflow through the floor outlets.
Floor/Defrost Mode: Directs the airflow equally to the floor outlets and the defrost outlets.
Defrost Mode: Directs all airflow through the defrost outlets.

Bunk Override Button

The bunk override button, equipped on sleeper cabs only, allows the driver to control the sleeper heat and A/C settings from the cab. See Fig. 8.4 .
Press the bunk override button to turn the sleeper heat or A/C on. An amber indicator will illuminate when bunk override mode is activated.
Press the bunk override button again to turn bunk override mode off. Adjusting the sleeper climate controls at any time will also cause the bunk override mode to cancel.

Sleeper Climate Control Panel

The standard sleeper climate control panel has a fan switch and a temperature control switch with an A/C button.
If the bunk override button has been activated, the override mode can be canceled by changing the sleeper fan speed or temperature setting. The climate control system will then operate from the sleeper controls.

Fan Switch

The fan switch activates the fan, which forces air through the air outlets. The fan switch has eight fan speeds and an OFF position. See Fig. 8.5 .
To operate the fan switch, turn the switch clockwise to increase airflow; turn the fan switch counterclockwise to decrease airflow. If the vehicle has Optimized Idle, the fan will not operate with the key in accessory mode. Optimized Idle may also turn the fan off to reduce stress on the batteries. Refer to Chapter 11 for more information.
  • 1. Fan Switch
  • 2. Temperature Control Switch
  • 3. Air Conditioning Button
Fig. 8.5, Sleeper Climate Control Panel
When the cab air conditioner (A/C) is on, the sleeper fan will operate at low speed even if the sleeper fan switch is in the off position. This is necessary to protect the evaporator in the sleeper heater and air conditioner system from freezing. At lower fan speed settings, a slight increase in airflow levels may appear at times, as the control acts to regulate the evaporator temperature.
When the park brake is set, any temperature or blower speed setting changes on the bunk HVAC unit control panel will be mimicked by the front HVAC unit. For example, if you set bunk blower speed to HI and the temperature to COLD, the front unit will also operate on HI/COLD.
When the park brake is not set, the front and rear HVAC settings function independently, unless the bunk override button is pressed, or "minimum AC support" is required.
Minimum AC support is when the front unit is off and the bunk unit is set such that AC is requested (needs the AC compressor to run). In this case, the front unit will go into minimum AC support mode by operating the front blower at minimum speed to prevent the front unit evaporator from freezing up. This is also true, if the rear unit is off and the front unit is set such that AC is requested, in order to prevent the bunk evaporator from freezing up.

Temperature Control Switch

The temperature control switch is used to select the desired temperature in the sleeper. Turn the switch counterclockwise for cool air, or clockwise for hot air.

Air Conditioning Button

The A/C cools and dehumidifies the air inside the sleeper. Press the air conditioning button, located in the center of the temperature control switch, to turn the A/C on and off.

Smartway Certified Parked Heater Operation

All vehicles equipped with diesel operated coolant heaters are "Smartway Certified". The coolant heater will keep the engine coolant between approximately 150 and 180°F (65 and 82°C). Heated coolant is routed through the auxiliary HVAC heater core to allow heater-only function of the auxiliary HVAC system.

System Operation

1.
Turn the block heater on.
2.
Set the temperature dial to the desired heat setting.
3.
Turn the HVAC blower on.

ParkSmart™ HVAC System

There are two variations of the ParkSmart vehicle configuration. The standard configuration is the most common, and includes all vehicles without Detroit Diesel Optimized Idle (O/I). The second variation includes vehicles equipped with Detroit Diesel Optimized Idle (O/I). Both configurations are operated in the same way, the differences are in how the batteries and charging system are configured. Refer to "Standard Vehicle Configuration" or "Vehicles with Detroit Diesel Optimized Idle" below for more information on your vehicle.

Standard Vehicle Configuration

The ParkSmart™ climate control panel replaces the standard sleeper control panel in ParkSmart-equipped sleeper cabs. The ParkSmart HVAC system is designed to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the sleeper, and can operate in combination with the cab climate control system when the vehicle is running, or independently when the vehicle is parked. It uses a set of four dedicated batteries mounted aft of the starting batteries, either between the frame rails behind the cab or outside the frame rail.
The ParkSmart climate controls operate similarly to the standard sleeper climate controls. The temperature settings range from 60°F (15°C) to 85°F (29°C), with 74°F (23°C) at the very center of the range. The fan switch activates the fan. The fan switch has eight fan speeds. Zero (0) is the OFF position. See Fig. 8.6 . To operate the fan switch, turn the switch clockwise to increase airflow; turn the fan switch counterclockwise to decrease airflow.
  • 1. Fan Switch
  • 2. Temperature Control Switch
  • 3. PARK Mode Control Button
Fig. 8.6, ParkSmart Climate Control Panel
The ParkSmart HVAC system operates both when the engine is running and when the engine is off. When the engine is running, the air conditioning (A/C) is powered by the vehicle electrical system, while the auxiliary heater core is supplied with engine coolant. While the engine is running, the ParkSmart batteries are also being recharged by the vehicle electrical system.
When the engine is off with the key in the ACC or ON positions, A/C mode is powered by the ParkSmart batteries. The cab fan will also circulate air in the cab using power from the main vehicle batteries. The available power for other vehicle-supplied accessories (house loads) will be affected when running in this mode. If there is no Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) control on the main electrical system, the ability to start the vehicle could also be compromised if this mode is activated for an extended time period.
When the engine is off with the ignition switch in the OFF position, the ParkSmart system runs the battery-operated A/C or diesel-operated coolant heater, depending on the temperature requested, and power is drawn from the batteries. The main batteries and the ParkSmart batteries will both be used until the system voltage drops to 12.5 volts, then the system will switch to the ParkSmart batteries only. The ParkSmart system will run until the dedicated batteries reach 11.3 volts.
Before operating the ParkSmart system, bring the sleeper interior temperature to the desired temperature with the engine running and the bunk curtain open. The ParkSmart system is designed to maintain an established comfortable bunk temperature, in parked mode, for up to 12 hours with the bunk curtain closed. See Table 8.1 for recommended settings for comfort while the vehicle is parked. Table 8.2 shows the temperature knob setting for desired temperatures.
To use the ParkSmart control panel, select a fan speed (other than off) and push the PARK button. Adjust the temperature control knob to the desired temperature. Refer to Table 8.1 or Table 8.2 , depending what mode is being used.
Start the fuel-operated heater once per month and allow it to run for 15 minutes. Periodically running the heater will keep fresh fuel in the lines and ensure the heater is ready to perform when needed.
IMPORTANT: Wait three minutes after shutting down the ParkSmart system before turning the cab load disconnect switch (CLDS) to OFF.
NOTE: The Espar Hydronic 5 water heater can use biodiesel blends up to 10% (B-10). Consult the engine manufacturer's manual to confirm the lowest allowable blend (engine or heater) is not being exceeded.
IMPORTANT: The condition and charge of the auxiliary batteries will directly affect run time of the ParkSmart system. If the vehicle run-time between discharges is less than eight hours, or if additional loads are added to the auxiliary batteries, the ParkSmart run-time will be less than expected.
Parked HVAC Comfort Guide
Rest Hours Desired
Weather
Setting Guide
Outdoor Temperature Less Than or Equal to: °F (°C)
Sunshine Less Than or Equal to:
Maximum Blower Speed
Minimum Temperature Knob Setting
4
105 (40)
Light Sun
8
Full Cold
6
95 (35)
Full Sun
8
Mid
90 (32)
Light Sun
8
Full Cold
100 (38)
Night Time
8
Full Cold
110 (43)
Full Sun
6
3 O'clock
8
75 (24)
Night Time
6-8
Full Cold
95 (35)
Light Sun
6
10 O'clock
10
85 (30)
Light Sun
6
10 O'clock
100 (38)
Light Sun
6
Mid
95 (35)
Night Time
6
10 O'clock
105 (40)
Night Time
6
Mid
12
90 (32)
Night Time
6
10 O'clock
100 (38)
Night Time
6
Mid
Table 8.1, Parked HVAC Comfort Guide
Temperature Control Knob Position to Requested Output Temperature
Temperature Control Knob Position (Clicks)
Requested Sleeper Temperature: °F (°C)
1
60 (16)
2
60 (16)
3
62 (17)
4
64 (18)
5
66 (19)
6
68 (20)
7
70 (21)
8
71 (22)
9
72 (22)
10
73 (23)
11
74 (23)
12
75 (24)
13
76 (24)
14
77 (25)
15
78 (25)
16
79 (26)
17
80 (27)
18
82 (38)
19
84 (29)
20
85 (29)
21
Full Hot
Table 8.2, Temperature Control Knob Position to Requested Output Temperature

Vehicles with Detroit Diesel Optimized Idle

If a Cascadia vehicle is equipped with Detroit Diesel optimized idle (O/I), it will affect the way the ParkSmart operates. When the driver initiates the O/I, the ParkSmart will operate in O/I mode as follows.
The ParkSmart runs unless the ParkSmart fan speed control knob is turned to the "OFF" position. See Fig. 8.6 . The fan speed control knob must be set at "1" or higher.
The engine will periodically start and run for at least two hours to maintain battery voltage then shut off. The ParkSmart will continue to operate during this time.
If the O/I shuts down due to a fault in the O/I system, the ParkSmart will continue to operate until it is shut off by the driver or one of the automated failsafes.
The ParkSmart ON/OFF button and LED indicator on the parked HVAC control module do not function when the vehicle is in O/I mode. When the vehicle is not in O/I mode, the ParkSmart ON/OFF button and LED indicator operate normally.
All other functions are the same as the standard system.

Accessory Heaters

Optional accessary heaters are available from the factory in several configurations. Familiarize yourself with the equipment on your specific vehicle, and follow the manufacturer's operating and maintenance instructions.
WARNING
Do not operate fuel-operated heaters in an area where flammable vapors, including gasoline or diesel fumes, are present, such as at filling stations and tank farms. Turn off a fuel-operated heater and allow it shut down completely before entering an area where flammable gases or liquids are present. Heaters continue to operate for up to three minutes after being turned off.
Failure to observe these precautions could cause an explosion or fire, resulting in serious property damage, and personal injury or death.
NOTICE
Always ensure that air inlet and outlet grilles are not restricted. Restriction of any air inlet or outlet ports could result in damage to the auxiliary heater.
IMPORTANT: To maintain reliable performance, run the accessory heater for at least 15 minutes every month to prevent fuel from degrading.
Accessory heaters function when the ignition switch is in the off position and the cab load disconnect switch is on, if equipped.
IMPORTANT: Wait three minutes after shutting down an accessory heater before turning the cab load disconnect switch (CLDS) to OFF.
NOTE: The low voltage disconnect (LVD) control prevents a heater from draining the batteries below starting voltage.

Espar Heater

Refer to the Espar website,www.espar.com, for additional information.

Espar Mini-Controller

To turn the heat on, press the heat button. See Fig. 8.7 . The red indicator will illuminate when heat mode is activated. Adjust the desired temperature with the control knob; rotate the temperature control knob clockwise for warmer air, or counterclockwise for cooler air. To turn the heat off, press the off button.
  • 1. Temperature Control Knob
  • 2. Fan Button
  • 3. Fan Indicator (blue)
  • 4. Off Button
  • 5. Heat Indicator (red)
  • 6 Heat Button
Fig. 8.7, Espar Mini-Controller
To turn the fan on, press the fan button. The blue indicator will illuminate when ventilation mode is activated. To turn the fan off, press the off button.

Espar Digi-Controller

Vehicles built after December 8, 2011 with the Digi-Controller and D2 air heaters are equipped with an internal LVD in the Digi-Controller that prevents the heater from draining battery voltage below 12.0 volts.
To turn heat mode on, press the heat button and the heater will begin its start-up cycle. See Fig. 8.8 . ON will display briefly followed by the ambient temperature, and the green indicator will illuminate. Ambient display temperature range is 41°F to 90°F.
  • 1. Ambient Temperature Sensor
  • 2. Down Arrow Button
  • 3. Fan Button
  • 4. Fan Indicator (blue)
  • 5. Heat Indicator (green)
  • 6 Heat On/Off Button
  • 7. Up Arrow Button
  • 8. Ambient Temperature Display
Fig. 8.8, Espar Digi-Controller
To adjust the desired temperature, press the up or down arrow buttons. The desired temperature will display briefly, followed by the ambient temperature. The desired temperature will remain in the modulator memory when the heater is not in operation. Temperature adjustment range is from 41°F to 90°F.
To turn heat mode off, press the heat button again. The heater will initiate a 3-minute cooling cycle.
To turn the fan on, press and hold the fan button until the blue indicator illuminates and the display shows active rotating digits. To turn the fan off, press the fan button again.
NOTE: The Digi-Controller also has a programmable run timer that will automatically shut the heater off after the set time limit. The default time limit setting is 10 hours.

Webasto Heater

To turn the heater on, rotate the heater control knob clockwise until the indicator light illuminates. See Fig. 8.9 . The Webasto heater requires one to two minutes to warm up before warm air is delivered.
  • 1. Off Position
  • 2. Heater On Indicator Light
Fig. 8.9, Webasto Heater Control Knob
To set the desired temperature, rotate the heater control knob clockwise for warmer air, or counterclockwise for cooler air.
To turn the heater off, rotate the heater control counterclockwise until it clicks and the indicator light is extinguished. The heater will initiate a two-minute cooling cycle.
Refer to the Webasto website,techwebasto.com, for additional information.