MAINTENANCE
The design of the chamber is such that periodic maintenance is kept to a minimum. NO
lubrication or adjustments of components is needed. If the incubator is used frequently at
temperatures below ambient room temperature or in any manner that increases moisture
build-up within the chamber, a frequent defrosting schedule is recommended.
6.1
Defrosting:
Frost can appear inside the unit due to moisture accumulating and
condensing on the coldest surface. The unit should be defrosted and cleaned on a
regular basis. The unit can be defrosted either manually or automatically. The
water drains from the chamber into an
evaporation
pan. Make sure to completely
dry out the interior when defrosting is complete.
A.
Manual Defrost:
Turn the unit off, open the door and allow the frost to melt.
Then clean the chamber following the directions in 6.2.
B.
Automatic Defrost:
the automatic defrost switch is located on the back of the
unit. It is an ON/OFF switch. In the ON position, the frost sensor is
activated
once every twelve (12) hours. If the sensor detects frost, the compressor is
shut down until the frost has melted, and then the compressor is reactivated.
The amount of time the compressor is shut down is roughly one-half hour.
During this time, the temperature in the chamber will spike and the Main
temperature Controller will cycle off, shutting down the heating element. When
the compressor is activated, the temperature will stabilize at set point.
6.2
Cleaning:
Clean the incubator chamber on a regular basis. Remove all interior
parts and clean thoroughly with a disinfectant that is appropriate for your
application. Shelving should be cleaned with the same solution. Special care
should be taken when cleaning around sensing heads. DO NOT USE chlorine
based bleaches or abrasives as this can damage the interior. DO NOT USE spray
cleaners that might leak through openings and cracks and get on electrical parts or
that may contain solvents that will harm coatings.
WARNING:
Never clean the unit with alcohol or flammable cleaners with the unit
connected to the electrical supply. Always disconnect the unit from the electrical service
when cleaning and assure all volatile of flammable cleaners are evaporated and dry before
reattaching the unit to the power supply.
6.3
Compressor Compartment:
Located at the back bottom of the unit, the
compressor compartment can collect dust which will inhibit proper air flow. This
compartment should be vacuumed out at least once every six (6) months to ensure
maximum efficiency.
6.4
Electrical Components:
There is NO maintenance to electrical components. If
the incubator fails to operate as specified, please review Section 7.0
Troubleshooting, prior to calling for service.
Section
6
