EvaKool Platinum Upright Instruction Manual

Key Product Features

• Powered by 12 Volt DC Secop Compressor.
• Reliable electronics, high efficiency, low energy consumption.
• Lockable door for travel.
• Separate freezer compartment.
• Operates in ambient temperatures from 10°C to 43°C in the motor compartment.
• Vegetable crisper.
• Low ambient heater.

1. Safety Instructions

• Warning: Do not use your unit if any cabling is damaged, frayed, or exposed.
• Warning: Do not attempt or continue to operate your unit if it is wet.
• When using the unit, ensure the circuit being used has a fuse or circuit breaker located at the battery. The recommended size for DC 12 Volt is 15 Amp, and for DC 24 Volt is 7.5 Amp.
• Do not place any electrical devices inside the refrigerator as they may become damaged.

2. Notes On Using The Product

• Your unit requires good ventilation; allow a gap of at least 50mm around the refrigerator.
• Do not allow a large amount of frost to build up on the inside walls, as this may impair cooling. Defrost regularly by turning the unit off, allowing the frost to melt, and wiping out the water. This fridge is not frost-free; we recommend defrosting your fridge every one to six months, dependent on variable factors.
• The lower the ambient temperature, the lower the power usage. To maximize efficiency, keep the unit in a cool location out of direct sunlight.
• It is recommended to operate the unit on a flat surface, but it will operate at angles up to 30°.

3. Operation

Power: DC (12 and 24 Volt)

Cable Length Specification

The DC cables must have a suitable cross-section for their length (measured from the battery to the unit), according to the following table:

The refrigerator is fitted with an Anderson style plug connection. Ensure cabling to the fridge is also fitted with this style plug to guarantee the best connection and minimize voltage drop.

Control Panel

The control panel features an LED Light, a Fault Light, and a Dial. The Dial settings are: 1 = Warmer, 7 = Coldest, 0 = Off.

• Connect the fridge to 12 or 24V DC.

• Ensure the correct voltage is applied to run the fridge.
• Set the thermostat to the desired setting. Start at 3 and allow 24 hours for the cabinet to reach temperature.
• To make the fridge colder, turn the dial to a higher number; to make it warmer, turn to a lower number.
• 0 is the 'OFF' position.
• Note: Always allow 24 hours after any adjustment for temperatures to settle.

Low Ambient Heater

In low ambient temperatures (12°C and under), a heater is needed to assist the fridge cycle back on, as there isn't enough heat in the air. This operation draws as little as 0.42A/Hr. You do not need to do anything; the heater is controlled electronically and activates when needed during colder months.

4. Installation Guide

To ensure your refrigerator runs at peak efficiency and has a long life, please read this information before installing it in your car, caravan, or camper trailer.

• Unpack your new refrigerator and ensure there is no damage to the cabinet.
• If you purchased a mounting bracket, ensure the surface it is attached to is level and solid. Refer to page 7 for mounting kit instructions. If you require a mounting kit, visit www.evakool.com.au.
• Correct air flow and ventilation are crucial. Please read the Cross Flow Ventilation guide (page 8) for more information.

Important: The compressor and condensing coil function like a car's radiator and engine. They require cool air to remove heat. Insufficient cool air supply to the condensing coil will reduce performance and can cause serious damage to the compressor.

• Ensure the unit is easily accessible and removable for warranty repairs. It must be uninstalled and delivered to EvaKool or a recommended service agent.
• Electrical wiring and installation must comply with national regulations. Refer to page 4 for correct cable sizing. It is recommended that wiring be installed by a licensed installer.
• Installing the drain hose: Your refrigerator produces moisture, which needs to be drained away via the silicone hose at the back. This is normal as it is not a frost-free fridge. Drill a hole through the floor behind the fridge, install the silicone hose through the hole, and seal the hole with silicone to prevent dust and critters from entering your vehicle.
• Connect the power to your fridge.

Reversing the Door Opening

1. If installed, disconnect and uninstall the fridge.
2. Ensure the fridge is OFF and not connected to power. Lay the fridge on its back. Verify the fridge is square and level, and the door seal touches the fridge cabinet.
3. Undo the top plastic hinge caps.
4. Unscrew and remove the 4 screws holding the hinge.
5. Unscrew and remove the 2 screws holding the door locking mechanism.
6. Remove the plastic caps next to the locking mechanism.
7. Swap the door locking mechanism and hinge to the opposite side and screw them in place (do not fully tighten yet).
8. On the base, unscrew and remove the 4 screws holding the hinge.
9. Unscrew and remove the 4 screws holding the door guide.
10. Swap the door guide and hinge to the opposite side and screw them in place.
11. Tighten all screws.

Handy Tips:

• If there are gaps in the door seal, use a hairdryer to gently heat the seal to make it soft. This allows it to reshape and seal again. Leave the door closed for 30 minutes to cool and set.
• Once the fridge is upright and the door seal feels tight on the hinge side, spray it with a silicone-based spray or apply a thin layer of Vaseline to help the seal slide and prevent rolling.

Warning: Do not use a cordless screwdriver to reattach screws, as this may cause cross-threading and damage. Always start the thread with a handheld screwdriver.

Installing the Mounting Kit

*This product is not included and can be purchased separately via the website.

The mounting kit includes:

• 1 x top piece (allows left or right door opening)
• 2 x side pieces
• 4 x screws
• 4 x washers

Each mounting kit piece has pre-drilled holes. Attach the kit only using these holes; failure to do so may void the warranty. When drilling, use a drill-stop to prevent piercing the cabinet's outer skin. Fit within the first 50mm of the cabinet's front. Once attached, it adds 25mm to the height and 50mm to the width (25mm per side) of the cabinet.

5. Cross Flow Ventilation

Cross flow ventilation ensures sufficient fresh air enters the space where your refrigerator operates and stale hot air is extracted. Fresh air is supplied through openings or vents, preferably from outside, to reduce hot air recycling through the condenser. Used hot air is extracted via natural convection or an extraction fan.

Natural Convection

Warm air rises. If vents are equal size at the top and bottom of your space, warm air will rise and exit the top vent, drawing cooler air from outside through the bottom vent. This naturally replaces hot stale air with fresh cool air.

Extraction Fan

If your space is odd-sized or requires extraction through cupboards or voids, extraction fans are needed to create airflow from the intake vent to the exhaust vent.

Fan Selection

Fan selection is critical. Determine the volume of the area where the fridge is kept (measured in litres per minute or cubic feet per minute). The fan must be able to remove this volume. Static pressure is a fan's ability to push or pull air through resistance, such as vents or condenser fins.

As a general rule of thumb:

• 120mm DC fan (minimum).
• 7 blades with aggressive curves for good airflow and static pressure.
• If noise is a concern, a fan of 40dB-A and under is recommended.

Vent Sizing

Larger is better. For upright fridges, we recommend supply and exhaust vents of 480mm x 250mm for adequate ventilation.

Do Not:

• Have only one vent for hot air removal; you need air in and air out for cross-flow ventilation.
• Use a sealed compartment with a single opening and fan; this does not remove air effectively.
• Use different size vents, as this limits airflow to the smallest vent.
• Use different size fans for intake and exhaust; this limits performance to the smallest fan. If using a 120mm fan, the supply opening should be at least the same size or larger.
• Use supply and extraction fans with different specifications, as this can cause air cavitation.

With 'dust-free' caravans and campers, dust reduction filters and extraction fans can impact performance. Use hatches and vents to remove hot air and replace it with fresh cool air to ensure peak efficiency and a long fridge life.

Ventilation Diagrams:

External Venting: Shows two vents, VENT 1 (intake, blue arrow) at the bottom and VENT 2 (exhaust, red arrow) at the top, facilitating cross-flow.

Internal Venting: Similar to external venting, but within an enclosed space, indicating required 50mm clearances around the unit for airflow.

• We recommend 2 vents: 480mm x 250mm.
• One vent located level with the refrigerator motor.
• Second vent at the highest point of the fridge cavity to ensure all hot air escapes.
• Ensure 50mm clearance: under the fridge, up the back, and over the top.

Cabinetry Installation Diagrams:

DC95 A: Shows airflow (blue intake arrows labeled '1' at the bottom, red circulation arrows labeled '2' and '3' around the unit, red exhaust arrows labeled '4' at the top) with 50mm clearances indicated on the left, front, and top.

DC110 B: Shows similar airflow and 50mm clearances for the larger model.

6. Troubleshooting

The Unit is Not Turning On

• Check if the unit has been turned on.
• Check the power supply (try a different source/vehicle/socket).
• Check the plug and socket connection.
• Check if the circuit breaker (located in the compressor bay) has tripped.

Low Refrigeration Performance

• Too much product inside the unit.
• Too much warm product inside the unit.
• The door is unlatched or open.
• The seal is broken.
• Poor ventilation (ensure at least 50mm space around the fridge, see diagrams on pages 9 and 10).
• Ambient temperature is too high.
• Temperature setting is too high.

Yellow Fault Light Flashing (Control Panel)

1 Flash every 4 seconds: Low Voltage

• Try a different power source (vehicle or 240V AC). If this resolves the issue, the original power source may be faulty.
• Ensure cabling between the fridge and battery is at least 4mm². If the distance exceeds 2 metres, use at least 6mm² cable.

2 Flashes every 4 seconds: Fan Issue

• The fan is drawing too many amps (over 0.5 amps); replace the fan.

3 Flashes every 4 seconds: Compressor Start Issue

• Unplug the cable and allow the unit to rest for 10 minutes.
• Try a different power source (vehicle or 240V AC).
• Possible electronic box fault.
• Possible compressor fault.

4 Flashes every 4 seconds: Low Motor Speed

• Reduce the number of products/items inside the unit.
• Move the unit to a lower ambient temperature, clean vents, and ensure clear airflow over the compressor.
• Fan fault.

5 Flashes every 4 seconds: Over Temperature

• Ambient temperature is too high.
• Clean vents and ensure clear airflow over the compressor.
• Fan fault.

Can hear the sound of running water, gurgling, or swishing from inside the unit

This is normal due to the flow of refrigerant in the unit.

Unusual noise when refrigerator is working

The refrigerator is not placed on a level surface.

If issues persist, contact EvaKool on 1300 385 665 or visit www.evakool.com to find a service agent. Alternatively, email warranty@evakool.com with your purchase and contact details.

7. Preventative Maintenance & Care: Metal & Injection Moulded Products

To ensure a long life and reliable operation of your fridge/freezer, follow this preventative maintenance and care guide.

Cabinet Care

• Clean the cabinet interior and exterior after every use with a damp cloth and mild non-abrasive detergent. Dry thoroughly. Painted metal surfaces can be polished with car polish and a soft cloth.
• Do not use scourers, harsh cleaning products, solvents, or oil, as these will degrade plastic and damage painted surfaces.
• Do not leave the cabinet in direct sunlight, as this may cause discolouration of plastic and painted surfaces. (Note: Plastic components are UV stabilised).

Defrosting

• After use, defrost ice off the evaporator. Switch off the unit and disconnect from the power source. Leave the door open to naturally melt any ice buildup. Once melted, ensure the unit is completely dry by draining residue and wiping with a towel.
• Always ensure the cabinet is completely dry and the lid is left ajar when putting the unit into storage. This prevents corrosion, mold, or odor formation.
• Do not store electrical devices, such as the 12-volt adaptor, inside the refrigerator.

Refrigerator Maintenance

As a portable appliance, your EvaKool fridge is subject to various operating conditions. A general inspection and maintenance should be carried out every 12 months. It is recommended to have this done by an approved EvaKool agent. Service agents can be found via the website (https://www.evakool.com.au/stores?type=2).

Marine Use

Use in a marine environment is not recommended, as salt can cause corrosion in electronics and metal components. If unit failure is found to be caused by corrosion, the warranty will be void.

8. Warranty Statement/Terms & Conditions

Nexberg Pty Ltd trading as EvaKool undertakes that this product is sold free of defects in materials and/or workmanship under normal use for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase by the original purchaser from an authorised EvaKool dealer.

• The Secop compressor carries a 5-year warranty under normal use.
• EvaKool will honour this warranty upon presentation of proof of purchase to EvaKool or its approved service agent. The service agent must provide EvaKool with a photocopy of the proof before warranty is honoured.
• EvaKool is not responsible for any costs incurred in making a warranty claim.
• For an authorised service agent's name, telephone 1300 385 665 or refer to the list on the website (https://www.evakool.com.au/stores?type=2). The purchaser is responsible for freighting the unit to and from the service agent.
• EvaKool is not responsible for any damage, loss, or cost incurred while the fridge is in transit.
• Warranty repairs must be carried out by an authorised service agent. EvaKool will not reimburse claims made by unauthorised agents. Any unauthorised tampering will void the warranty.
• Service agents may charge a fee for viewing or testing the unit, which is not covered by EvaKool or this warranty and is payable at the service point unless authorised by EvaKool.
• Any EvaKool authorised service agent in Australia can service your unit. A warranty authorisation number must be obtained before work commences if a repair is covered by this warranty.
• This warranty does not cover products acquired for re-supply, use in production/manufacturing, or repair of other goods.
• This fridge is intended for recreational use only. For commercial use, a 12-month warranty applies.
• To the extent permitted by law, this warranty does not cover claims for damages, consequential damages, or loss of profit howsoever caused.

EvaKool will not accept a warranty claim if:

1. Modifications have been made to the unit without EvaKool's written authority.
2. Damage or failure is caused by incorrect, extreme, or unreasonable use (in EvaKool's opinion).
3. Damage or failure is caused by misuse, neglect, accident, impact, or similar causes (refer to preventative maintenance guidelines).

• EvaKool reserves the right to vary warranty terms.
• Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for major failure and compensation for other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have goods repaired or replaced if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.
• These warranty conditions are in addition to any other rights and remedies under applicable law.
• Failure to follow the guidelines/recommendations in this manual may void the warranty.
• This warranty cannot be varied by others.

Please retain your receipt or proof of purchase for warranty purposes. You can register your warranty online at www.evakool.com.au under 'Contact Us' and 'Register Product Warranty'.

9. Product Drawings

DC95 Dimensions:

Overall Height: Approx. 761mm (751mm cabinet)

Overall Width: Approx. 475mm (396mm cabinet)

Overall Depth: Approx. 517mm

Key internal dimensions indicated in diagrams include depths and widths for compartments and component placement.

DC110 Dimensions:

Overall Height: Approx. 826mm (720mm cabinet)

Overall Width: Approx. 525mm (430mm cabinet)

Overall Depth: Approx. 538mm

Key internal dimensions indicated in diagrams include depths and widths for compartments and component placement.