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Topic: wire run suggestions (Read 418 times) previous topic - next topic

wire run suggestions

I am preparing to replace my old Coleman air conditioners with new Furrions. I will be using a single zone thermostat for each and not having thermostats previously, therefore no installed wiring, I'm looking for suggestions on running the thermostat cable from the units through the ceiling to a wall mounted thermostat. Getting through the ceiling over to a wall presents a problem my simple mind is having trouble grasping...how to do it?? One could always run a small surface channel of some kind but I prefer to "hide" it if possible.
I understand I will also need to run a 12V wire but believe I can tap one off a ceiling light, there being a light close by each unit.
Has anyone ever did a "ceiling wire run" like this?? Suggestions??

Re: wire run suggestions

Reply #1 –
Easier to run thermostat cable if ceiling is ducted.

How are you going to get 12v from a ceiling light that can be switched off.

Also ceiling light wiring may not have the capacity for A/C 12v needs.
 

Re: wire run suggestions

Reply #2 –
Ralph, call FT and see if you can get a roof plan for your coach.  I have attached mine.  There is a PEX conduit from the front of the front AC hole to the the space in front of the TV.  You can get a Furrion remote temperature connection kit that lets you move the temperature sensor to somewhere other than the AC itself. I used this conduit and then over across the front space, through the bottoms of the DR side overhead cabinets and down the column next to the driver's left shoulder.  I will add a picture.

If there is no route to the front or the side it gets more difficult.  Mine use 4 wires to get to the thermostat. I re-used the flat 6 wire cable from the Dometics.

Are you sure there is no 12V wiring up there now? 

The ceiling structure is (from the bottom) whatever covering there is, fiberglass sheet, 1/4" plywood and then foam.  If you have a better than average stud finder you can find aluminum structure in the ceiling.  If there is nothing in the way between the AC opening and the side of the coach you can drill through the aluminum AC hole frame and maybe push a fish tap or more likely a fiberglass wire pulling rod through the foam to the space above a side cabinet. You will have to use a hole saw to get through the fiberglass and plywood in the cabinet space ceiling to hunt for the rod.  when you find it pull the appropriate wires back into the AC space.  Protect the wire where it goes through the frame.  Once you are in the cabinet space you should be able to get to a place where you can mount a thermostat.  In my bathroom the closet is pretty close.

You have a bit of a challenge.

You will like the Furrions.  Send me a note if you have questions.  Glad to help.