Troubleshooting
refrigeration system. When a compressor is replaced it is important that the refrigeration charge be weighed
in and the system checked for proper operation to prevent a repeat failure. An inefficient compressor will
usually have a higher than normal suction pressure at the end of the cycle. The freeze cycle will be longer
than normal and/or the harvest cycle may be excessively long. Check the compressor's amps 5 minutes into
the freeze cycle. If the amps is less than 70% of rated full amount, the compressor may be inefficient. These
symptoms may also be caused by other problems, therefore it is important to use the troubleshooting charts
when diagnosing a problem. The air condenser is located in the back of the cabinet. Air is pulled through the
condenser by a fan motor and released through the right hand side panel. Under the counter models intake
and discharge air through the front panel. Do not block airflow as it will cause premature failure of the machine
and will void the warranty.
Compressor and Start Components
The compressor should run during the entire cycle. If the machine is in the ON position but the compressor is
not running, check the compressor contactor to see if it is connected properly. If the contactor is not connected,
the problem is not with the compressor or the compressor start components. If the contactor is engaged and
there is correct voltage through the contactor, there could be a problem with one of the starting components or
the compressor. It is recommended that the compressor starting components be replaced when replacing the
compressor.
DISCONNECT POWER BEFORE SERVICING!
If the compressor uses an internal overload, be certain that the compressor has cooled and the overload
has reset before diagnosing the compressor. If the compressor is cool and is still not running, check the
compressor motor windings by first removing the wires at the compressor terminals. With an ohmmeter, check
for continuity between all three terminals, if an open circuit exists between any of the terminals, the compressor
may need to be replaced. Check for continuity from each terminal to the compressor body, if continuity is found
from any terminal to the compressor body, the compressor windings are shorted to ground and the compressor
will need to be replaced. If the compressor appears to be good at this point, it is advisable to use a compressor
analyzer to isolate the compressor from the start components while checking for a locked rotor. If it is not
available, the compressor starting components must be checked. If all starting components are working, check
the amp rating from the terminal of the compressor, making sure proper voltage is supplied to the compressor
and all wiring is properly connected. If the compressor does not start and there is excessive amp rating, (see
locked rotor amps on compressor tag) the compressor has a locked rotor and should be replaced.
Overload (External)
If there is no amperage draw check the compressor overload. The compressor overload can be checked for
continuity after removing it from the compressor and letting it cool to room temperature. If there is no continuity
between the two terminals, replace the overload. If the overload is suspected of opening prematurely, it should
be replaced with an overload.
Capacitors
The start capacitor is an electrical storage device used to provide starting torque to the compressor. If a start
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