Dixell/Copeland AL29

What does Dixell/Copeland AL29 mean?

The AL29 alarm on the Dixell IC100CX iChill controller (firmware 1.8 GRU) is associated with the condenser water flow switch input state. It activates the digital input for the AL30 flow alarm chain and is displayed as a code on screen. When the unit is in standby or OFF, the alarm icon is suppressed but the underlying condition is tracked. The alarm behavior follows the AL29 activation timer before escalating to AL30.

Symptoms

• AL29 displayed on the IC100CX FW1.8 GRU controller.
• Alarm code visible on display; icon suppressed when unit is in standby or OFF.
• Condenser water flow switch digital input reads inactive.
• AL30 alarm may follow if the flow condition persists beyond the AL29 time threshold.

Common causes

• Condenser water flow reduced below the flow switch threshold.
• Condenser pump not running or operating at reduced speed.
• Flow switch contact failed open or wiring disconnected.
• Strainer blocked on the condenser water circuit.
• AL29 time threshold set too short for normal system transients.

Diagnostic steps

1. 01

   Confirm condenser pump status

   Verify the condenser water pump is running at the correct speed and drawing normal current. Check the pump starter or VFD for fault codes.

2. 02

   Test the condenser flow switch

   With the pump running, check continuity across the condenser flow switch contacts. Contacts should be closed — an open reading indicates a failed or incorrectly adjusted switch.

3. 03

   Clean the condenser strainer

   Shut down the condenser pump and clean the strainer basket. A partially blocked strainer reduces flow below the switch activation point and triggers AL29.

4. 04

   Inspect flow switch wiring

   Trace the wiring from the condenser flow switch to the IC100CX digital input terminal. Check for loose connections, broken conductors, or corroded terminals.

5. 05

   Reset the alarm

   After restoring condenser water flow, navigate to AlrM on the IC100CX FW1.8, select AL29, and execute a manual reset to clear the code from the display.

When to call a professional

Engage a licensed HVAC/R technician if the condenser pump requires mechanical repair, if the condenser water system requires isolation and draining for flow switch replacement, or if AL29 triggers AL30 lockout repeatedly — indicating a system-level flow problem beyond routine maintenance.