Freezer meltdown

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The operator should perform routine cleaning and maintenance. For maximum performance and efficiency, it is recommended that the unit be checked and calibrated periodically by a qualified service technician.

The following is a condensed list of suggested preventive maintenance requirements. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific details for each piece of equipment. Cleaning and calibration adjustment intervals are dependent on use, environmental conditions, and accuracy required.

Fill an upright by starting at the bottom near the probe and add racks to one shelf at a time
Allow freezer to recover to set point between shelves
Fill chest freezer by starting at the left side near the probe
- Filling with room temperature racks will result in long pull-down time
Fill the unit with frozen product (frozen water jugs, for example) to help overall performance
Always make certain the vacuum relief port is free of frost and ice to allow for timely re-entry into the freezer after a door opening
Unit needs space to breathe
- 6" is a good general rule, could be less per the owner’s manual
Unit must be connected to properly sized and dedicated breaker
- Inspect all probe ports, make sure they are sealed during and after use. Do not drill/screw the case in any way without consulting the manufacturer

Action	Monthly	6 Months	Yearly
Verify that ambient temperature is < 90°F.	√
Check and clean probe cover gaskets, hinges, and lid(s) of ice and snow. More frequent cleaning may be required, depending on use and environmental conditions.	√
Check air filter. Clean or replace as needed.			√ 4X
Vacuum condenser coils as needed. (Use caution - SHARP)		√
Clean unit with mild detergent, use baking soda and water to treat odors.	√
Verify the unit alarms are active and limits are properly set for the content.		√
Check alarm back-up battery, replace as necessary. (Dispose of batteries properly through Risk Management & Safety)	√
Check chart recorder backup battery (9V), replace as necessary. (Dispose of batteries properly through Risk Management & Safety)	√
Inspect gaskets for tears and replace if compromised. Clean with mild detergent, check seal with dollar/paper test. (Dollar/paper test: Close freezer door on dollar bill or piece of paper. If door seals properly, you should have difficulty removing the dollar or paper. If it is easy to remove paper, the gasket may need to be replaced.)		√
Vacuum condenser condensate pan. Use CAUTION as most pans have a heater for evaporation - may be HOT.		√
Defrost freezer at 3/8" frost thickness. (Must be turned off for 24 hours before restarting)			√ (as required)

To minimize ice build-up inside of freezer:
- Locate the freezer away from drafts and heating/cooling units
- Keep the number of door openings to a minimum
- Minimize the length of time door is open
- Make sure the door latches securely after opening
If you have valuable and/or irreplaceable materials that rely on the mechanical equipment to maintain appropriate temperature, then you should install a monitor or alarm
Minus80: Minus80 monitoring is a system used in several institutions around the country. They provide monitoring and alert services that are customized to each lab's need. These systems report temperature fluctuations over time as well as alerts for temperatures that exceed a given range. Minus80 personnel monitor alerts along with lab personnel. These systems communicate using Minus80 telecommunications equipment. Labs pay an initial purchase cost as well as monthly service charges. Contact Minus80 for more information or to set up this service.

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Freezer meltdown

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