White Rodgers 1F81-261 User Manual

Your new White Rodgers 5-Day/1-Day/1-Day Digital Thermostat uses the technology of a solid-state microcomputer to provide precise time/temperature control. This thermostat offers you the flexibility to design heating and cooling programs that fit your needs. Features separate 5-day (weekday), 1-day (Sat) and 1-day (Sun) programming with four separate time/temperature periods per day, simultaneous heat and cool program storage, preprogrammed temperature control, LCD continuously displays set point, and alternately displays time and room temperature. Compatible with heat/cool systems with up to two stages heat, two stages cool. Requires 2 AA batteries. Below are the key specifications, installation, operation, programming, and troubleshooting instructions.

1. Preparations 2. Thermostat Details 3. Removing Old Thermostat 4. Mounting and Wiring 4.1 Wiring Diagrams 5. Check Operation 5.1 Fan Operation 5.2 Heating System 5.3 Cooling System 6. Operating Features 7. Programming 8. Specifications 9. Troubleshooting

Preparations

Assemble tools required: hand or power drill with 3/16 inch drill bit (if needed), flat blade screwdriver, wire cutter/stripper.

WARNING: Failure to follow and read all instructions carefully before installing or operating this control could cause personal injury and/or property damage.

ATTENTION: This product does not contain mercury. However, this product may replace a unit which contains mercury. Do not open mercury cells. If a cell becomes damaged, do not touch any spilled mercury. Wearing non-absorbent gloves, take up the spilled mercury and place into a container which can be sealed. Mercury must not be discarded in household trash. Refer to www.white-rodgers.com for location to send product containing mercury.

ELECTRIC HEAT SYSTEMS: This thermostat is configured from the factory to operate a heat/cool, fossil fuel (gas, oil, etc.), forced air system. It is configured correctly for any system that DOES NOT require the thermostat to energize the fan on a call for heat. If your system is an electric or heat-pump system that REQUIRES the thermostat to turn on the fan on a call for heat, locate the GAS/ELECTRIC switch and switch it to the ELECTRIC position. This will allow the thermostat to energize the fan immediately on a call for heat. If you are unsure if the heating/cooling system requires the thermostat to control the fan, contact a qualified heating and air conditioning service person.

HYDRONIC (HOT WATER OR STEAM) HEATING SYSTEMS: This thermostat is set to operate properly with a forced-air heating system. If you have a hydronic heating system (a system that heats with hot water or steam), you must set the thermostat to operate properly with your system. The factory default setting is forced air heat. Change the second option in the configuration menu to SL.

BATTERY LOCATION: 2 “AA” alkaline batteries are included in the thermostat at the factory with a battery tag to prevent power drainage. You must remove the battery tag to engage the batteries. If BATT is displayed, the batteries are low and should be replaced with fresh “AA” Energizer® alkaline batteries. To replace batteries, install the batteries along the top of the base. The batteries must be installed with the positive (+) end to the left.

Thermostat Details

The thermostat consists of two parts: the thermostat cover and the base. To remove the cover, gently pull it straight out from the base. To replace the cover, line up the cover with the base and press gently until the cover snaps onto the base.

The Thermostat Buttons and Switches:

  1. Up arrow: Raises temperature setting.
  2. Down arrow: Lowers temperature setting.
  3. TIME button.
  4. PRGM (program) button.
  5. RUN (run program) button.
  6. HOLD temperature button.
  7. FAN switch (ON, AUTO).
  8. SYSTEM switch (COOL, OFF, HEAT).

The Display:

Removing Old Thermostat

  1. Shut off electricity at the main fuse box until installation is complete. Ensure that the electrical power is disconnected.
  2. Remove the front cover of the old thermostat. With wires still attached, remove wall plate from the wall. If the old thermostat has a wall mounting plate, remove the thermostat and the wall mounting plate as an assembly.
  3. Identify each wire attached to the old thermostat using the labels enclosed with the new thermostat.
  4. Disconnect the wires from the old thermostat one at a time. DO NOT LET WIRES FALL BACK INTO THE WALL.

Mounting and Wiring

  1. Remove the packing material from the thermostat. Gently pull the cover straight off the base. Forcing or prying on the thermostat will cause damage to the unit. If necessary, move the electric heat switch.
  2. Connect wires beneath terminal screws on base using appropriate wiring schematic.
  3. Place base over hole in wall and mark mounting hole locations on wall using base as a template.
  4. Move base out of the way. Drill mounting holes.
  5. Fasten base loosely to wall using two mounting screws. Adjust until level, and then tighten screws. If using existing mounting holes or holes are too large, use plastic screw anchors.
  6. Push excess wire into wall and plug hole with a fire-resistant material (such as fiberglass insulation) to prevent drafts from affecting thermostat operation.

Wiring Diagrams

NOTE: The following wiring diagrams show typical terminal identification and wiring. For proper installation, refer to the original manufacturer's instructions. * The 24 Volt neutral connection to terminal C on the thermostat is not required if you replace the batteries once a year with fresh “AA” Energizer® alkaline batteries. Relay contacts shown are thermostatically operated.

Figure 2. Typical wiring diagram for single transformer systems

Thermostat terminals: C*, R, B, O, Y, G, W. System: Energized in HEAT (Heating System), Energized in COOL (Cooling System), Fan Relay. Transformer: 24 VAC (Hot, Neutral), 120 VAC. Single transformer setup with connections to heating, cooling, and fan systems.

Figure 3. Typical wiring diagram for two-transformer systems with NO safety circuits

Thermostat terminals: B, C*, R, Y, G, O, W. System: Energized in COOL (Cooling System), Energized in HEAT (Heating System), Fan Relay. Transformers: 24 VAC (Hot, Neutral) for heating, 120 VAC (Hot, Neutral) for cooling. Note: CUT AND TAPE OFF! TWO COMMONS MUST BE JUMPERED TOGETHER!

Figure 4. Typical wiring diagram for two-transformer systems with safety circuits in BOTH systems

Thermostat terminals: B, C*, R, Y, G, O, W. System: Energized in COOL (Cooling System), Energized in HEAT (Heating System), Fan Relay, Accessory Relay N.O. Contact. Transformers: HEATING TRANSFORMER (24 VAC Hot, Common, Neutral), COOLING TRANSFORMER (24 VAC, 120 VAC Hot, Neutral). Safety: Limit or Safety Switches in both systems. Note: TWO COMMONS MUST BE JUMPERED TOGETHER!

Check Operation

NOTE: To prevent static discharge problems, touch side of thermostat to release static build-up before touching any keys. If at any time during testing your system does not operate properly, contact a qualified service person.

Fan Operation

If your system does not have a G terminal connection, skip to Heating System.

  1. Turn on the power to the system.
  2. Move the FAN switch to ON position. The blower should begin to operate.
  3. Move the FAN switch to the AUTO position. The blower should stop immediately.

Heating System

  1. Move the SYSTEM switch to the HEAT position. If the heating system has a standing pilot, be sure to light it.
  2. Press up arrow to adjust the thermostat setting above room temperature. The heating system should begin to operate.
  3. Both stages of the heating system should begin to operate when the setpoint is set greater than 3˚F above ambient.
  4. Press down arrow to adjust the temperature setting below room temperature. The heating system should stop operating.

Cooling System

CAUTION: To prevent compressor and/or property damage, if the outdoor temperature is below 50°F, DO NOT operate the cooling system.

  1. Move the SYSTEM switch to the COOL position.
  2. Press up arrow to adjust the thermostat setting below room temperature. The blower should come on immediately on high speed, followed by cold air circulation.
  3. Both stages of the cooling system should begin to operate when the setpoint is set greater than 3˚F below ambient.
  4. Press down arrow to adjust the temperature setting above room temperature. The cooling system should stop operating.

Operating Features

Programming

This section will help you plan your thermostat’s program to meet your needs. For maximum comfort and efficiency, keep the following guidelines in mind when planning your program. When heating (cooling) your building, program the temperatures to be cooler (warmer) when the building is vacant or during periods of low activity. During early morning hours, the need for cooling is usually minimal.

Look at the factory preprogrammed times and temperatures shown below. If this program will suit your needs, simply press the RUN button to begin running the factory preset program.

Set Current Time and Day

  1. Press TIME button once. The display will show the hour only.
  2. Press and hold either up or down until you reach the correct hour and AM/PM designation (AM begins at midnight; PM begins at noon).
  3. Press TIME once. The display will show the minutes only.
  4. Press and hold either up or down until you reach the correct minutes.
  5. Press TIME once. The display will show the day of the week.
  6. Press up or down until you reach the current day of the week.
  7. Press RUN once. The display will show the correct time and room temperature alternately.

Enter Heating Program

  1. Move the SYSTEM switch to HEAT.
  2. Press PRGM once. “MO TU WE TH FR” (indicating weekday program) will appear in the display. Also displayed are the currently programmed start time for the 1st heating period and the currently programmed temperature (flashing).
  3. Press up or down to change the displayed temperature to your selected temperature for the 1st heating program period.
  4. Press TIME once (the programmed time will flash). Press up or down until your selected time appears. The time will change in 15 minute increments. When your selected time is displayed, press TIME again to return to the change temperature mode.
  5. Press PRGM once. The currently programmed start time and setpoint temperature for the 2nd heating program period will appear.
  6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to select the start time and heating temperature for the 2nd heating program period.
  7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for the 3rd and 4th heating program periods. Weekday heating programs are now complete.
  8. Press PRGM once. “SA SU” (indicating weekend program) will appear in the display, along with the start time for the 1st heating period and the currently programmed temperature.
  9. Repeat steps 4 through 8 to complete weekend heating programming.
  10. When you have completed entering your heating program, press RUN.

Enter Cooling Temperatures

CAUTION: If the outside temperature is below 50°F, disconnect power to the cooling system before programming. Energizing the air conditioner compressor during cold weather may cause personal injury or property damage.

  1. Move SYSTEM switch to COOL position.
  2. Follow the procedure for entering your heating program, using your selected cooling times and temperature.

Check your programming

  1. Move the SYSTEM switch to HEAT position.
  2. Press PRGM to view the 1st weekday heating period time and temperature. Each time you press PRGM, the next heating period time and temperature will be displayed in sequence for weekday, then weekend program periods (you may change any time or temperature during this procedure).
  3. Press RUN.
  4. Move SYSTEM switch to COOL position.
  5. Repeat step 2 to check cooling temperatures.
  6. Press RUN to begin program operation.

SAMPLE Heating/Cooling Schedule Plan (Factory Program)

PeriodWEEKDAYS (5 Day) Start TimeWEEKDAYS TempSATURDAY (1 Day) Start TimeSATURDAY TempSUNDAY (1 Day) Start TimeSUNDAY Temp
1ST6:00 AM70 F6:00 AM70 F6:00 AM70 F
2ND8:00 AM62 F8:00 AM70 F8:00 AM70 F
3RD5:00 PM70 F5:00 PM62 F5:00 PM62 F
4TH10:00 PM62 F10:00 PM62 F10:00 PM62 F

Specifications

Troubleshooting

Reset Operation: If a voltage spike or static discharge blanks out the display or causes erratic thermostat operation you can reset the thermostat by pressing up, down and TIME at the same time. This also resets the factory defaults. If the thermostat has power, has been reset and still does not function correctly contact your heating/cooling service person or place of purchase.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No Heat/No Cool/No Fan (common problems)1. Blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.
2. Furnace power switch to OFF.
3. Furnace blower compartment door or panel loose or not properly installed.
Replace fuse or reset breaker.
Turn switch to ON.
Replace door panel in proper position to engage safety interlock or door switch.
No Heat1. Pilot light not lit.
2. System Switch not set to Heat.
3. Loose connection to thermostat or system.
4. Furnace Lock-Out Condition. Heat may also be intermittent.
Re-light pilot.
Set System Switch to Heat and raise temp above room temp.
Verify thermostat and system wires are securely attached.
Many furnaces have safety devices that shut down when a lock-out condition occurs. If the heat works intermittently contact the furnace manufacturer or local service person for assistance.
No Heat (continued)5. Heating system requires service or thermostat requires replacement.Diagnostic: Set System Switch to Heat and raise the setpoint above room temperature. Within a few seconds the thermostat should make a soft click sound. This sound usually indicates the thermostat is operating properly. If the thermostat does not click, try the reset operation listed above. If the thermostat does not click after being reset contact your heating and cooling service person or place of purchase for a replacement. If the thermostat clicks, contact the furnace manufacturer or a service person to verify the heating is operating correctly.
No Cool1. System Switch not set to Cool.
2. Loose connection to thermostat or system.
3. Cooling system requires service or thermostat requires replacement.
Set System Switch to Cool and lower temp below room temp.
Verify thermostat and system wires are securely attached.
Same procedure as diagnostic for No Heat condition except set the thermostat to Cool and lower the setpoint below the room temperature. There may be up to a five minute delay before the thermostat clicks in Cooling.
Heat, Cool or Fan Runs Constantly.1. Possible short in wiring.
2. Possible short in thermostat.
3. Possible short in heat/cool/fan system.
4. Fan Switch set to Fan On.
Check each wire connection to verify they are not shorted or touching together. No bare wire should stick out from under terminal screws. Try resetting the thermostat as described below. If the condition persists the manufacturer of your system or service person can instruct you on how to test the Heat/Cool system for correct operation. If the system operates correctly, replace the thermostat.
Furnace Cycles Too Fast or Too Slow (narrow or wide temperature swing)1. The location of the thermostat and/or the size of the Heating System may be influencing the cycle rate.Digital thermostats normally provide precise temperature control and may cycle faster than some older mechanical models. A faster cycle rate means the unit turns on and off more frequently but runs for a shorter time so there is no increase in energy use. If you would like to increase the cycle time, change the cycle rate to “SL” in the configuration menu. It is not possible to shorten the cycle time. If an acceptable cycle rate is not achieved as received or by changing the cycle rate. Contact a local service person for additional suggestions.
Cooling Cycles Too Fast or Too Slow (narrow or wide temperature swing)1. The location of the thermostat and the size of the Cooling System can influence the cycle rate.The cycle rate for cooling is fixed and can not be adjusted. Contact a local service person for suggestions.
Thermostat Setting and Thermostat Thermometer Disagree1. Thermostat thermometer setting requires adjustment.The thermometer can be adjusted +/- 4 degrees. See Temperature Display Adjustment in the Configuration menu.
Thermostat Does Not Follow Program1. AM or PM set incorrectly in program.
2. AM or PM set incorrectly on the clock.
3. Voltage spike or static discharge.
Check current clock and program settings including the AM or PM designations for each time period. If a voltage spike or a static discharge occurs use the Reset Operation listed above.
Blank Display and/or Keypad Not Responding1. Voltage spike or static discharge.
2. Loss of power to thermostat.
If a voltage spike occurs use the Reset Operation listed above.
See No Heat/No Cool/No Fan (common problems) above for items to check in the system.
Clock Loses or Gains TimeThe thermostat will maintain its program in memory even with no power but the clock time will be incorrect when power is restored.See No Heat/No Cool/No Fan (common problems) above for items to check in the system.
Heat or Cool Starts Early1. EMR activated.See Configuration Menu (Item 4).
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