Compact Refrigerators and Freezers Service and Installation Manual
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Maintenance
The thermostat must be turned to OFF and the unit
disconnected from the power source whenever
performing service, maintenance functions or
cleaning the refrigerated area.
Refrigerators and Freezers
The interior and exterior can be cleaned using soap and warm
water. If this isn’t sufficient, try ammonia and water or a
nonabrasive liquid cleaner. When cleaning the exterior, always
rub with the “grain” of the stainless steel to avoid marring the
finish.
Do not use an abrasive cleaner because it will scratch the
stainless steel and plastic and can damage the breaker strips
and gaskets.
Cleaning the Condenser Coil
The condenser coil requires regular cleaning, recommended is
every 90 days. In some instances though you may find that
there is a large amount of debris and dust or grease accumulated
prior to the 90 day time frame. In these cases the condenser coil
should be cleaned every 30 days.
If the build up on the coil consists of only light dust and debris
the condenser coil can be cleaned with a simple brush, heavier
dust build up may require a vacuum or even compressed air to
blow through the condenser coil.
If heavy grease is present there are de-greasing agents available
for refrigeration use and specifically for the condenser coils.
The condenser coil may require a spray with the de-greasing
agent and then blown through with compressed air.
Failure to maintain a clean condenser coil can initially cause high
temperatures and excessive run times, continuous operation
with dirty or clogged condenser coils can result in compressor
failures. Neglecting the condenser coil cleaning procedures will
void any warranties associated with the compressor or cost to
replace the compressor.
Never use a high pressure water wash for this
cleaning procedure as water can damage the
electrical components located near or at the
condenser coil.
In order to maintain proper refrigeration performance, the
condenser fins must be cleaned of dust, dirt and grease regularly.
It is recommended that this be done at least every three months.
If conditions are such that the condenser is totally blocked in
three months, the frequency of cleaning should be increased.
Clean the condenser with a vacuum cleaner or stiff brush. If
extremely dirty, a commercially available condenser cleaner may
be required.
Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning
To prevent discoloration or rust on stainless steel several
important steps need to be taken. First, we need to understand
the properties of stainless steel. Stainless steel contains 70-80%
iron which will rust. It also contains 12-30% chromium which
forms an invisible passive film over the steels surface which
acts as a shield against corrosion. As long as the protective
layer is intact, the metal is still stainless. If the film is broken
or contaminated, outside elements can begin to breakdown the
steel and begin to form rust of discoloration.
Proper cleaning of stainless steel requires soft cloths or plastic
scouring pads.
NEVER USE STEEL PADS, WIRE BRUSHES OR
SCRAPERS!
Cleaning solutions need to be alkaline based or non-chloride
cleaners. Any cleaner containing chlorides will damage
the protective film of the stainless steel. Chlorides are also
commonly found in hard water, salts, and household and
industrial cleaners. If cleaners containing chlorides are used be
sure to rinse repeatedly and dry thoroughly upon completion.
Routine cleaning of stainless steel can be done with soap and
water. Extreme stains or grease should be cleaned with a non-
abrasive cleaner and plastic scrub pad. It is always good to
rub with the grain of the steel. There are also stainless steel
cleaners available which can restore and preserve the finish of
the steels protective layer.
Early signs of stainless steel breakdown can consist of small
pits and cracks. If this has begun, clean thoroughly and start to
apply stainless steel cleaners in attempt to restore the passivity
of the steel.
Never use an acid based cleaning solution!
Many food products have an acidic content which
can deteriorate the finish. Be sure to clean the
stainless steel surfaces of ALL food products.
Common items include, tomatoes, peppers and
other vegetables.
If your freezer seems to vibrate excessively when the
compressor is running, loosen (but do not remove) the bolts
on the compressor. Semi hermetic models should be loosened
before operating.
Gasket Maintenance
Gaskets require regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew
build up and also to keep the elasticity of the gasket. Gasket
cleaning can be done with the use of warm soapy water. Avoid
full strength cleaning products on gaskets as this can cause
