Avantco Refrigeration User Manual

Product Overview

This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of Avantco Horizontal Open Air Merchandisers. It covers models including:

• 224BHAC36, 224BHAC51, 224BHAC63, 224BHAC75
• 224WHAC36, 224WHAC51, 224WHAC63, 224WHAC75
• 224BHAC28, 224WHAC28

Important: Please read this manual thoroughly prior to equipment set-up, operation, and maintenance.

Image Description: A dark grey, commercial open-air merchandiser refrigerator with a curved glass front, multiple shelves, and a base unit containing ventilation grilles.

Important Safety Warnings

DANGER - RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION: Flammable refrigerant is used. This unit must be repaired only by trained service personnel. Do not puncture refrigerant tubing.

CAUTION - RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION: Consult the repair manual/owner's guide before attempting to service this product. All safety precautions must be followed.

Follow handling instructions carefully, especially regarding refrigerant tubing puncture and compliance with local government regulations.

Installation

This unit is intended for use in a temperature-controlled environment with ambient temperatures below 75°F (24°C) and relative humidity below 55%. Malfunction due to improper conditions is not covered under warranty.

Before Installation

• If the unit was transported on its side, allow it to stand upright for a minimum of 24 hours before plugging it in.
• Ensure the unit has reached its desired temperature before loading products. This unit is designed to keep cold products cold, not to chill warm products.
• Make sure all accessories (shelves, shelf clips, etc.) are installed before plugging in the unit.
• Do not attempt to remove or repair any component yourself. Consult an authorized service technician for servicing or repair.
• Do not stand inside the unit.
• Read this entire manual before proceeding.

Cabinet Location Guides

• Surface: Install the unit on a strong and leveled surface. An uneven surface may cause noise or malfunction.
• Environment: Install in an indoor, well-ventilated area, away from doors, air ducts, and fans that could disrupt airflow. Maintain at least 6 inches (15 cm) of clearance at the back of the unit for optimal performance. Do not use outdoors; this unit is for indoor use only. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Humidity and Dust: Avoid installation in high humidity or dusty areas. High humidity can cause rust and reduce efficiency. Dust accumulation on the condenser coil can lead to unit malfunction. Malfunctions caused by high ambient temperatures, humidity, or improperly maintained condenser coils will void the warranty.
• Heat Sources: Select a location away from heat and moisture-generating equipment. High ambient temperatures can cause compressor malfunction and void the warranty.

Electrical Requirements

• Ensure the correct voltage is supplied at all times.
• Plug the unit into a grounded and properly-sized electrical outlet with appropriate over-current protection. Refer to the unit's nameplate for specific electrical requirements.
• The unit should have its own dedicated outlet.
• Do not use extension cords.
• Ensure the electrical cord is not resting on or against the unit.
• If the unit will not be used for an extended period, unplug it from the outlet.
• To prevent shock and fire hazards, do not plug in or unplug the unit with wet hands.
• After unplugging the unit, wait at least 10 minutes before plugging it back in to avoid potential compressor damage.

Adjusting the Temperature

Your refrigerator is factory-set to run at optimum temperatures for food safety (typically cycling between 33°F and 40°F). Adjusting the temperature changes the minimum set point.

Digital Control Units

Follow these instructions to change the minimum temperature:

• Hold the "SET" button for 1 second. The display will flash the current minimum temperature.
• Use the arrow buttons [up arrow] and [down arrow] to adjust the minimum temperature.
• Press "SET" again to save your settings.

Note: Cabinet temperature can fluctuate up to +5.4°F over the set minimum temperature as the compressor cycles. Setting the temperature too high can result in unsafe maximum temperatures and potential health code violations.

Operation and Maintenance

Recommendation: Any servicing should be performed by an authorized service technician.

Refrigerator Control

The unit features a digital control panel for temperature management.

Running a Manual Defrost Cycle

The unit is pre-programmed for automatic defrost cycles. To initiate a manual defrost:

• For Refrigerators: Press the defrost button (symbolized by a snowflake ❄️ and down arrow) for approximately 3 seconds. Press again to stop the cycle.

Defrost System

Refrigerator coils are maintained below freezing (32°F). During compressor downtime, the evaporator fan circulates air over the coils, raising their temperature above freezing to melt accumulated frost. Run-off water is collected and evaporated. Automatic defrost timers manage these cycles at preset intervals.

Loading Product

• Do not block the air duct or fan at the top of the unit. Maintain a minimum of 4 inches (10 cm) clearance between products and the fan.
• Do not block return air flow in the front of the unit.
• Ensure all shelves are level and properly secured before loading products.
• Do not store flammable or explosive gases or liquids inside the unit.

Cleaning the Condenser Coil

For efficient operation, keep the condenser surface free of dust, dirt, and lint. Cleaning at least once per month is recommended. Use a commercial condenser coil cleaner, available from kitchen equipment retailers.

Cleaning the Fan Blades and Motor

• If necessary, clean fan blades and motor with a soft cloth.
• If washing fan blades, cover the fan motor to prevent moisture damage.

Cleaning the Interior of Unit

• Use a solution of warm water and mild soap for cleaning the cabinet interior.
• Do not use steel wool, caustic soap, abrasive cleaners, or bleach, as these can damage the interior finish.
• Periodically remove shelves and shelf brackets and clean them with mild soap and warm water.

Trouble Shooting