American Standard Thermostat ACONT850 Manual

The American Standard ACONT850 is a programmable thermostat designed for residential heating and cooling systems. It features a backlit digital display, 7-day programming flexibility, automatic changeover between heating and cooling modes, temperature hold functions, filter change reminders, and system diagnostics. Compatible with most 24VAC HVAC systems including single-stage and multi-stage configurations. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, programming, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Wiring Configuration 7. Programming Schedule 8. System Diagnostics 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Backlit LCD display, Menu buttons, System switch, Fan switch, Hold button, Up/Down temperature arrows.

FeatureDescription
7-Day ProgrammingSeparate schedules for each day of the week
Automatic ChangeoverAutomatically switches between heating and cooling
Temperature HoldTemporary or permanent hold of set temperature
Filter Change ReminderProgrammable alert for filter maintenance
System DiagnosticsDisplays system status and error codes
Backlit DisplayEasy reading in low light conditions
Battery BackupMaintains program during power outages
CompatibilityWorks with most 24VAC heating/cooling systems
Energy Star CertifiedMeets energy efficiency guidelines
Multi-Stage SupportCompatible with 2-stage heating and cooling

Installation

Turn off power to HVAC system before installation. Remove old thermostat and prepare wall plate.

  1. Mount new wall plate: Use provided screws and level for proper alignment.
  2. Connect wires: Match wire labels to terminal designations (R, C, W, Y, G, etc.).
  3. Attach thermostat: Snap onto wall plate until it clicks into place.
  4. Restore power and configure settings.

WARNING! Electrical shock hazard. Always turn off power at circuit breaker before installation. If unsure, consult professional HVAC technician.

First-Time Setup

After installation, restore power and follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Set date and time: Use MENU button to access clock settings.
  2. Configure system type: Select heat only, cool only, or heat/cool system.
  3. Set temperature limits: Establish minimum and maximum temperature ranges.
  4. Program schedule: Set weekday and weekend temperature programs.
  5. Install batteries: Insert 2 AA alkaline batteries for backup power.

CAUTION! Ensure proper wire connections before restoring power. Incorrect wiring can damage thermostat or HVAC equipment.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel controls: MENU, SYSTEM (Heat/Off/Cool), FAN (Auto/On), HOLD, UP/DOWN arrows.

Menu Navigation: Press MENU to access programming, settings, and diagnostics.

System Settings: Heat/Cool/Auto selection, temperature limits, Fahrenheit/Celsius display. Programming: 4 time periods per day (Wake, Leave, Return, Sleep), separate schedules for each day. Advanced Settings: Filter change reminder interval (30-365 days), keypad lock, display brightness, system test mode.

Wiring Configuration

Standard terminal designations for HVAC system connections.

  1. R (Red): 24VAC power from transformer
  2. C (Blue/Black): Common/return 24VAC
  3. W (White): Heat stage 1
  4. W2 (Brown): Heat stage 2 (if applicable)
  5. Y (Yellow): Cool stage 1
  6. Y2 (Light Blue): Cool stage 2 (if applicable)
  7. G (Green): Fan relay
  8. O/B (Orange): Heat pump reversing valve
  9. L (Clear): System status indicator

Tip: Take photo of old thermostat wiring before removal for reference. Label wires with provided stickers.

Programming Schedule

Create custom temperature schedules for energy savings and comfort.

  1. Press MENU and select PROGRAM SCHEDULE
  2. Select day (MON-SUN) to program
  3. Set four periods: Wake (6:00 AM), Leave (8:00 AM), Return (6:00 PM), Sleep (10:00 PM)
  4. Adjust temperatures for each period using UP/DOWN arrows
  5. Copy schedule to other days if desired
  6. Press DONE to save and exit

Energy Saving Tips: Set temperatures 7-10°F lower when sleeping or away. Use automatic scheduling rather than constant HOLD function.

System Diagnostics

Access diagnostic information through MENU > SYSTEM STATUS.

Display shows: Current system mode, set temperature, room temperature, filter status, battery level, error codes. Common error codes: E1 - Temperature sensor fault, E2 - System communication error, E3 - Power loss detected, E4 - Configuration error.

Care & Maintenance

Clean display with soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquids or cleaners. Replace batteries annually or when low battery icon appears. Replace air filter when reminder appears or according to manufacturer recommendations.

CAUTION! Never spray cleaning solutions directly on thermostat. Turn off power before cleaning around unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. UL 873 certified for safety. Energy Star qualified. Copyright © American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning. For technical support, visit www.americanstandardair.com or contact 1-800-228-2962.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Blank displayPower loss or dead batteriesCheck circuit breaker; replace batteries; verify 24VAC at R & C terminals
System not respondingIncorrect wiring or settingsVerify wiring connections; check SYSTEM setting (Heat/Cool/Auto)
Temperature inaccurateLocation or calibrationRelocate away from heat sources; access calibration in advanced settings
Short cyclingTemperature differential too smallIncrease temperature differential in installer settings
Fan runs continuouslyFAN setting or relay issueSet FAN to AUTO; check G terminal connection; test fan relay

Reset: Press and hold MENU and DOWN arrow for 5 seconds to restore factory defaults.

Service: 1-800-228-2962; www.americanstandardair.com

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