GENERAL OPERATION
The Steffes Comfort Plus heating system stores off-peak electricity in the form
of heat. Off-peak electricity is available during times of day or night when
electricity is plentiful and the power company can supply it at a lower cost.
Operation of the Comfort Plus heating system is automatic. When off-peak
hours are available, the system converts electricity to heat which is then stored
in its ceramic brick core. The amount of heat stored in the brick core varies in
relation to outdoor temperature, owner preference, utility peak conditions, and
the heating requirements.
A heat call from the room thermostat energizes the blowers in the Comfort Plus system. The variable speed core
blower(s) automatically adjust its speed to circulate room air through the brick core. The supply air blower then
delivers this heated air into the desired area through the duct system to maintain a constant, comfortable room
temperature.
The versatility of this system allows it to fit many applications. The Comfort Plus is designed for use as either the
sole heating source (stand alone furnace) or as a supplement to ducted heating systems such as heat pumps.
SYSTEM USE DURING CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Like most heating equipment manufacturers, Steffes strongly recommends that Construction Heating Units be
used instead of the permanent heating system during the construction phase of a new home. Use of the permanent
heating system during this phase may contaminate the duct system and/or internal areas of the heating system.
This may cause poor indoor air quality issues, systems reliability problems, and/or improper system operation once
the home is completed.
SYSTEM START-UP
On start-up of the Comfort Plus system, odors relating to first time operation of the heating components may be
experienced. Also, if not used for an extended period of time, dust may accumulate in the system. Allow the
Comfort Plus heating system to charge to its maximum brick core charge level to expel odors in a timely manner.
As with most heating systems, air borne particles and odors in the room may be drawn into the Comfort Plus and
oxidized.
Odors can be amplified; thus, it is not recommended to operate the system if odors such as those
from paints, varnishes, or chemicals are present in the air.
Air borne particles, which have been oxidized, are
expelled back into the room and may accumulate on air vents or other surfaces. Over time, these particles may
appear as a black residue, commonly referred to as soot. High concentrations of air borne particles from aerosols,
dust, candles, incense, pet hair, smoke, or cooking can contribute to poor indoor air quality and accelerate the
sooting process.
During operation, the Comfort Plus heating system may produce minor expansion noises. These noises are the
result of the internal components reacting to temperature changes.
TURNING SYSTEM "OFF" AND "ON"
The Comfort Plus element (charging) circuits may be turned OFF by switching ALL of the 60 AMP breakers
located on the front of the electrical panel to the DOWN position. To turn the element circuits ON, switch ALL
of the 60 AMP breakers to the UP position.
The 15 AMP breaker MUST remain ON to operate controls in the system if:
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using the Comfort Plus in conjunction with a heat pump or air conditioner.
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using the Comfort Plus to control other loads.
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using the optional Steffes Time Clock Module.
Comfort Plus
Operation
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Operation
Operation
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