Maintenance
Door Gasket Maintenance
Door gaskets require regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew build up and also to retain 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 them to become brittle and crack. Never use sharp tools or knives to scrape or clean the gasket. Gaskets can be easily replaced and do not require the use of tools or an authorized service person. The gaskets are “Dart” style and can be pulled out of the groove in the door and new gaskets can be “pressed” back into place.
Drain Maintenance - Base
Each unit has a drain located inside the unit that removes the condensation from the evaporator coil and routes it to an external condensate evaporator pan. Each drain can become loose or disconnected during normal use. If you notice water accumulation on the inside of the unit be sure the drain tube is connected to the evaporator drain pan. If water is collecting underneath the unit make sure the end of the drain tube is in the condensate evaporator in the machine compartment. The leveling of the unit is important as the units are designed to drain properly when level. Be sure all drain lines are free of obstructions.
Caster Maintenance
Wipe casters with a damp cloth monthly to prevent corrosion.
The power switch 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 can damage the breaker strips and gaskets.
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 steel’s 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 discoloration or rust. 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. 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. Always rub with the grain of the steel. There are stainless steel cleaners available which can restore and preserve the finish of the steels protective layer. Early signs of stainless steel breakdown are 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.
Cleaning 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.
Failure to maintain a clean condenser coil can initially cause high temperatures and excessive run times. Continuous operation with a dirty or clogged condenser coil can result in compressor failure. Neglecting the condenser coil cleaning procedures will void any warranties associated with the compressor and 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.
Doors/Hinges
Over time and with heavy use doors the hinges may become loose. If this happens tighten the screws that mount the hinge brackets to the frame of the unit. Loose or sagging doors can cause the hinges to pull out of the frame, which may damage both the doors and the hinges. In some cases this may require qualified service agents or maintenance personnel to perform repairs.