My refrigerator and freezer run fine for several hours, then the units suddenly go into a mode where they will only run for a few seconds, accompanied by a clicking sound, and then stop. The units will then no longer run. After being shut off for 24 hours or so, they will then run fine for several hours, then the whole process starts over. Is this something easy to fix or can only a professional handle it?
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Refrig Research
You wrote: "Is this something easy to fix or can only a professional handle it?" Kind of depends on how much effort you are willing to put into it. Try the link Good luck.
You wrote: "Is this something easy to fix or can only a professional handle it?" Kind of depends on how much effort you are willing to put into it. Try the link Good luck.
Refrigeration repairs
Most boat refrigeration problems are easily corrected by the owner and do not require an experienced mechanic. When asking for assistance on the web or email always describe the problem as you have but you must identify your refrigeration system as to make model and its age. If your unit has a 12/24 volt Danfoss compressor always list its model BD 2.5, BD3, or the newer model BD35 or BD50.
Most boat refrigeration problems are easily corrected by the owner and do not require an experienced mechanic. When asking for assistance on the web or email always describe the problem as you have but you must identify your refrigeration system as to make model and its age. If your unit has a 12/24 volt Danfoss compressor always list its model BD 2.5, BD3, or the newer model BD35 or BD50.
reefer madness
Pam; Check the system voltage to be sure it is adequate, at the DC panel and at the power connections at the reefer unit. Many modules and or compressors won't start at voltages below 12.2 or so.
Pam; Check the system voltage to be sure it is adequate, at the DC panel and at the power connections at the reefer unit. Many modules and or compressors won't start at voltages below 12.2 or so.
Troubleshooting
There are over thirty different types and models of boat refrigeration systems so knowing which one you have when asking for help not only shortens the troubleshooting process but it could keep you from calling a service man. Larry is correct that if you have a model with a Danfoss compressor low voltage at the unit could cause the problem you describe but trying to verify this with a voltmeter may require Superman’s eyes as the drop in voltage is too quick to see in most cases. Danfoss compressors will shut down if the voltage is too low, the fan or the compressor is drawing too much current. The newer Danfoss compressors have a built in diagnostic circuit with an LED ( light emitting diode). If you have a newer Adler Barbour Super or Cold Machine the diagnostic chart is on the side of the machine. Some manufactures use a thermo or pressure switch to stop the compressor when the system is overheated. One normal maintenance item that is overlooked that can cause the problem you describe on any air cooled refrigerator to is a dirty condenser ( air-cooled radiator). Condensers are difficult to clean on units where the fan is mounted in front of the condenser like the Adler Barbour machines built since the early-nineties. By removing the four retaining fan screws and lifting the fan out to one side without disconnecting the wires these condenser can be cleaned. There are units that are enclosed in a closed box and regular cleaning is almost impossible. I encourage people to use the web to get answers to their questions and this is a good web site. Adler Barbour technical people have the best technical support in the business. I have no connection with them although I have recommended their units over all others for twenty years. Sense retiring I have spent the last two years putting together a 12/24 Volt Boat Refrigeration Manual. I believe it to be the most important problem solving tool to have aboard a boat. The manual contains 110 pages. There are sixteen sections covering subjects from: selection of the new efficient units, upgrades to systems, and how to improve and monitor DC power management and performance. There are 92 actual questions from boaters with answers, 27 electrical drawings and 118 pictures and charts to help you with your refrigeration problems. To view more of the contents of this manual go to: http://wwwKollmann-marine.com
There are over thirty different types and models of boat refrigeration systems so knowing which one you have when asking for help not only shortens the troubleshooting process but it could keep you from calling a service man. Larry is correct that if you have a model with a Danfoss compressor low voltage at the unit could cause the problem you describe but trying to verify this with a voltmeter may require Superman’s eyes as the drop in voltage is too quick to see in most cases. Danfoss compressors will shut down if the voltage is too low, the fan or the compressor is drawing too much current. The newer Danfoss compressors have a built in diagnostic circuit with an LED ( light emitting diode). If you have a newer Adler Barbour Super or Cold Machine the diagnostic chart is on the side of the machine. Some manufactures use a thermo or pressure switch to stop the compressor when the system is overheated. One normal maintenance item that is overlooked that can cause the problem you describe on any air cooled refrigerator to is a dirty condenser ( air-cooled radiator). Condensers are difficult to clean on units where the fan is mounted in front of the condenser like the Adler Barbour machines built since the early-nineties. By removing the four retaining fan screws and lifting the fan out to one side without disconnecting the wires these condenser can be cleaned. There are units that are enclosed in a closed box and regular cleaning is almost impossible. I encourage people to use the web to get answers to their questions and this is a good web site. Adler Barbour technical people have the best technical support in the business. I have no connection with them although I have recommended their units over all others for twenty years. Sense retiring I have spent the last two years putting together a 12/24 Volt Boat Refrigeration Manual. I believe it to be the most important problem solving tool to have aboard a boat. The manual contains 110 pages. There are sixteen sections covering subjects from: selection of the new efficient units, upgrades to systems, and how to improve and monitor DC power management and performance. There are 92 actual questions from boaters with answers, 27 electrical drawings and 118 pictures and charts to help you with your refrigeration problems. To view more of the contents of this manual go to: http://wwwKollmann-marine.com
Clicking?
This may be due to low voltage. The compressor needs a good shot to get going. Can the voltage be too low?
This may be due to low voltage. The compressor needs a good shot to get going. Can the voltage be too low?
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