Amana ESU12JW User manual

Service
This manual is to be used by qualified
appliance technicians only. Amana does not
assume any responsibility for property damage
or personal injury for improper service
procedures done by an unqualified person.
RS1500000
Revision 2
November 1999
Upright Freezers
Models and manufacturing
numbers in this manual
ESU12JW P1311101W
ESU15JW P1311102W
ESU17JW P1311103W
ESU20JW P1311104W
ESUF15JW P1311105W
ESUF17JW P1311106W
ESUF20JW P1311107W
ESU12JW P1179615W
ESU15JW P1179616W
ESU17JW P1179617W
ESU20JW P1179618W
ESUF15JW P1179619W
ESUF17JW P1179620W
ESUF20JW P1179621W
AU120KW P1317701WW
AU120KW P1317714WW
AU150KW P1317702WW
AU150KW P1317715WW
AU170KW P1317703WW
AU170KW P1317716WW
AU200KW P1317704WW
AU200KW P1317717WW
AUF150KW P1317705WW
AUF150KW P1317718WW
AUF170KW P1317706WW
AUF170KW P1317719WW
AUF200KW P1317707WW
AUF200KW P1317720WW

RS1500000 Rev 2 2
Important Information
Pride and workmanship go into every product to provide our customers with quality products. It is possible,
however, that during its lifetime a product may require service. Products should be serviced only by a qualified
service technician who is familiar with the safety procedures required in the repair and who is equipped with
the proper tools, parts, testing instruments and the appropriate service manual. REVIEW ALL SERVICE
INFORMATION IN THE APPROPRIATE SERVICE MANUAL BEFORE BEGINNING REPAIRS.
Important Notices for Consumers and Servicers
!WARNING
To avoid risk of serious injury or death, repairs should not be attempted by an unauthorized personal, dangerous
conditions (such as exposure to electrical shock) may result.
Amana will not be responsible for any injury or property damage from improper service procedures. If performing
service on your own product, assume responsibility for any personal injury or property damage which may result.
To locate an authorized servicer, consult your telephone book or the dealer from whom you purchased this product.
For further assistance, contact: 1 [phone] first, if no answer call number listed below.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPT. OR 1 [phone]
AMANA APPLIANCES CALL
AMANA, IOWA 52204
If outside the United States contact:
AMANA
ATTN: CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPT
AMANA, IOWA 52204, USA
Telephone: [phone]
Facsimile: [phone]
TELEX: 4330076 AMANA
CABLE: "AMANA", AMANA, IOWA, USA
Recognize Safety Symbols, Words, and Labels
DANGER
!
DANGER - Immediate hazards which WILL result in severe personal injury or death.
WARNING
!
WARNING - Hazards or unsafe practices which COULD result in severe personal injury or death.
CAUTION
!
CAUTION - Hazards or unsafe practices which COULD result in minor personal injury or product or property
damage.
Important Information
CAUTION
!

3 RS1500000 Rev. 2
Important Information ................................................. 2
Model Identification .................................................... 4
Installation Instructions
Unpacking ............................................................... 5
General ................................................................... 5
Location................................................................... 5
Electrical Connection ............................................... 5
Door Handle ............................................................ 6
Leveling ................................................................... 6
Test After Installation ............................................... 6
General Instructions
Electrical Requirements .......................................... 7
Asure Extended Service Plan .............................. 7
Proper Disposal of your Freezer .............................. 7
Model Identification ................................................. 7
Operating Instructions
Setting Controls ....................................................... 8
Temperature Control ............................................... 8
Audible Alarm (Some models) ................................. 8
Features .................................................................. 9
Reversible Rack (some models) ............................. 9
Freezing Guide ........................................................ 9
Care and Cleaning
General ................................................................. 10
Adhesives.............................................................. 10
Door Gaskets ........................................................ 10
Odor Removal ....................................................... 10
Defrosting .............................................................. 11
Light Bulb (some models) ...................................... 11
General Tips
Energy Tips ........................................................... 12
Vacation Tips ......................................................... 12
Normal Operating Sounds ..................................... 12
Before Calling For Service..................................... 12
Operating Sounds ................................................. 13
Component Testing
Refrigeration System Test Procedures .................. 14
Testing Main Condenser ........................................ 15
Testing for Leaks ................................................... 16
Electrical System ................................................... 16
Compressor Electrical Tests .................................. 16
Testing Compressor Direct .................................... 16
Capacitor ............................................................... 17
Overload Protector ................................................ 17
Testing Overload Protector .................................... 17
PTC Relay ............................................................. 18
Testing PTC Relay................................................. 18
Interior Light and Switch ........................................ 18
Checking Control Operation .................................. 18
Temperature Control ............................................. 19
Defrost Timer ........................................................ 19
Checking Timer ..................................................... 20
Defrost Heater and Thermostat
No Defrosting Models ............................................ 20
Freezer Fan No-Defrosting Models ....................... 21
Testing Freezer Fan Motor .................................... 21
Troubleshooting ................................................... 23-25
Disassembly Procedures
Replacing Dryer..................................................... 26
Replacing Compressor .......................................... 26
Replacing Heat Exchanger
Refrigerated Shelf Model ....................................... 27
Replacing Heat Exchanger
No-Defrosting Models............................................ 28
Replacing Freezer Shelving
Refrigerated Shelf Models ..................................... 29
Replacing Freezer Coil No-Defrosting Models ....... 30
Replacing Light Switch .......................................... 31
Replacing Control .................................................. 31
Replacing Heater................................................... 32
Replacing Freezer Fan Motor ................................ 32
Cabinet Door Assembly ......................................... 33
Door Handle .......................................................... 34
Door Lock Assembly ............................................. 34
Removing Door Lock Assembly ............................ 35
Cabinet Door Alignment ........................................ 35
Checking Gasket Seal ........................................... 35
Improving Gasket Seal .......................................... 35
Hinge Adjustments ................................................ 35
Cabinet Assembly ................................................. 36
Service Information
System Operation.................................................. 37
Checking Operational Pressures ........................... 38
Operational Testing ............................................... 39
Service Hints ......................................................... 39
Refrigeration System Complaints .......................... 40
Refrigerant Leaks .................................................. 41
Evacuation and Charging Procedures ................... 42
HFC134a Service Information ............................... 43
Health, Safety, and Handling ................................. 44
Drier Replacement ................................................ 44
Replacement HFC134a Service Compressor........ 45
Refrigerant Charge ................................................ 45
Leak Testing .......................................................... 45
Evacuation and Charging ...................................... 45
Dehydrating Sealed Refrigeration System ............. 47
Brazing .................................................................. 47
Refrigerant Precautions ......................................... 47
Open Lines ............................................................ 47
Line Piercing Valves .............................................. 48
Altitude Adjustment ............................................... 48
Cabinet Shell ......................................................... 49
Cabinet Liner (Food) ............................................. 49
Drain System ......................................................... 49
Wiring Diagram and Schematic ........................... 50-52
Table of Contents

RS1500000 Rev. 2 4
Model Identification
Upright freezer models vary in trim and accessories,
but all models have the same basic construction.
"Operating Instructions" and "Service Instructions"
apply to all cabinets unless stated otherwise.
For positive identifications of individual units, state
complete serial number, model, and type. This
information is found on the serial plate located on front
upper right hand corner of foodliner or on some
models, exterior back of the outer casing.
An explanation of coding contained in Type position is
shown below.
ESU F 15 J W
Color
W White
Series
H
J
Storage Capacity
12 Cubic Foot
15 Cubic Foot
17 Cubic Foot
20 Cubic Foot
Defrost Type
Blank Manual
F Free-O-Frost
Product
ESU Energy Saving Upright Freezer
1997 Model Identification 1998 and 1999 Model Identification
A U F 7 0 K W
Color
W White
Series
K 
Feature Level
0 Good
Storage Capacity
7 Cubic Foot
10 Cubic Foot
15 Cubic Foot
22 Cubic Foot
Defrost Type
Blank Manual
F Free-O-Frost
Product
U Upright Freezer
Amana

5 RS1500000 Rev. 2
Unpacking
Remove all protective packaging. Cardboard shipping
braces and/or protective tape used to prevent damage to
baskets, shelves, speciality racks, and compartment
dividers during shipment. Use soapy water to remove
any adhesive residue. Do not use alcohol or nail polish
remover.
Door/Lid, handles, and hinges:
 Support and secure door lid before transporting or
moving the freezer.
 Install freezer handle if applicable
 Do not use door or handle for leverage to lift or push
unit.
Defrost drain plug and drain pan:
 Verify drain plug is installed on non-frost-free
freezers
 Before operating frost-free freezer verify frost drain
pan is installed behind toe grille located at bottom
front of freezer with drain hose placed in the pan.
Toe grille:
 Toe grille at bottom front of freezer can be removed
to locate drain tube and levelling gliders.
 Remove toe grille by grasping both ends and pulling
straight outward. Replace by pressing ends of toe
grille into slots on cabinet and snapping into place.
Toe grille
General
 Secure door before moving freezer. Do not use door
or handle to lift or push freezer. If hinges must be
removed, check instruction label on rear of freezer
cabinet.
 Amana freezers are currently rated for domestic use,
not designed for commercial application.
 Confirm the following items are installed.
Free-O-FrostUpright Freezer Models
Defrost drain pan behind toe grille.
Standard Upright Freezer Models
Drain plug in bottom front of freezer liner.
(some models)
Location
These recommendations and explanations may help
customer receive maximum efficiency from freezer and
avoid service calls.
CAUTION
!
To avoid personal injury, wear gloves when installing
freezer.
To avoid property damage, protect soft vinyl or other
flooring with cardboard, rugs or other protective
material during installation or servicing.
If freezer is to be placed in basement, back porch, etc.,
place freezer on wooden slats up off floor.
1. Freezer is designed for installation as a
"freestanding" (not "built-in") unit.
2. Locate freezer with at least 3 inches of clearance on
both ends and back to provide adequate air
circulation to dissipate condenser heat.
3. Avoid locations near stoves, radiators, hot air ducts,
or where sun may cause excessive heat.
4. Do not locate where surrounding temperature could
drop below 32°F (0°C). Temperatures below 32°F
(0°C) cause compressor oil to thicken delaying
lubrication of sensitive components at compressor
start-up.
5. Avoid placing freezer on plush carpet which may
retard air flow over bottom, causing bottom sweating.
Electrical Connection
1. Electrical supply should be checked for proper
voltage and ground.
WARNING
!
Do not, under any circumstances, cut or remove the
round grounding prong from the plug. Freezer must
be grounded at all times. Do not remove warning tag
from power cord.
2. Avoid extension cords. If absolutely necessary, use
an Appliance Extension cord (at least
16 AWG) of less than 10 feet. If possible, have
freezer on separate circuit.
Installation Instructions

RS1500000 Rev. 2 6
Door Handle
1. If handle trim has not been factory installed,
slide right edge of handle trim under right edge
of trim retainer. Verify rib on right inside edge of
handle trim fits into trim retainer notch. Snap outside
edge of handle trim over outside edge of trim
retainer.
2. Install handle on freezer door as shown. Verify
freezer handle is angled inward towards opposite
side of freezer. Secure handle to freezer door with
screws provided. Verify screws are secure.
3. Slide end caps over ends of handle until end
caps snap in place. End cap marked L goes on
top end of handle. End cap marked Rgoes on
bottom end of handle.
Trim retainer
notch
Trim
retainer
Handle trim
End
caps
Handle
Installation Instructions
Leveling
1. Install leveling legs under front corners behind toe
grille.
2. Level freezer side to side and tilt freezer 1/4" from
front to back. Turn legs clockwise to raise freezer and
counterclockwise to lower freezer. If freezer cannot
be level due to flooring, use shims under rear of
freezer cabinet to level freezer.
Leveling
foot
3. Check freezer 2 or 3 weeks after loading with food
and confirm freezer is level.
Test After Installation
1. For proper compressor operation, voltage must be
measured at the compressor terminals at the
moment of starting. Voltage must be in the range
shown on Freezer Wiring Diagram.
2. Check freezer is reasonably level.
3. Check lid gasket seal.
4. Be sure light(s) work.
5. Check lock.
6. Wipe off any dirt and smudges.
6 RS1500000 Rev. 0

7 RS1500000 Rev. 2
Electrical Requirements
WARNING
!
Electrical Grounding InstructionsThis freezer is
equipped with a three-prong (grounding) plug for
protection against possible shock hazards. If a two-
prong wall receptacle is encountered, contact a
qualified electrician and have the two-prong wall
receptacle replaced with a properly grounded
three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the
National Electrical Code.
Freezers are designed to operate on a separate
103 to 126 VAC, @ 15 A., with a 60 Hz cycle.
Do not under any circumstances cut or remove the
round grounding prong from the plug. Freezers must
be grounded at all times. Do not remove warning tag
from power cord.
Do not use a two-prong adapter. Do not use an
extension cord.
AsureExtended Service Plan
Amana offers long-term service protection for this new
freezer. Asure Extended Service Plan is specially
designed to supplement Amanas strong warranty. This
plan covers parts, labor, and travel charges.
Call 1-800-528-2682 for information.
Proper Disposal of your Freezer
NOTE: Child entrapment and suffocation are not
problems of the past. Junked or abandoned
freezers are still dangerouseven if they sit for
"just a few days". When you get rid of your old
freezer, please follow the instructions below to
help prevent accidents.
Before Throwing Away Old Freezers:
 Take off the doors.
 Leave the shelves in place to prevent children from
easily climbing inside unit.
Model Identification
Read the Owner's Manual thoroughly. This manual
provides proper maintenance information for consumers.
Any questions, call the Consumer Affairs Department at
1-800-843-0304 inside U.S.A. and 1-319-622-5511
outside U.S.A.
Complete enclosed registration card provided in
owners manual and promptly return. If registration card is
missing, call the Consumer Affairs Department.
When contacting Amana, provide product information.
Locate product information on the serial plate. Chest
freezer serial plate is located on upper right wall. Record
the following information:
Model Number:
Manufacturing Number:
S/N or Serial Number:
Date of purchase:
Dealers name and address:
Keep a copy of sales receipt for future reference.
Locate an authorized servicer by calling
1-800-NATLSVC (628-5782) inside U.S.A. and
319-622-5511 outside U.S.A. Warranty service must be
performed by an authorized servicer. Amana also
recommends contacting an authorized servicer if service
is required after warranty expires.
Amana offers a complete line of appliances,
refrigerators, freezers, ranges, cooktops, wall ovens,
microwave ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers.
Amana also manufactures a complete selection of high
efficiency gas furnaces plus both central and room air
conditioners.
Enjoy this new Amana freezer.
General Instructions

RS1500000 Rev. 2 8
Setting Controls
This freezer operates most efficiently in normal
household temperatures of 65° to 90°F.
Temperature Control
1
7
Locate temperature control on right side of interior
freezer cabinet wall.
OFF
WARMEST
COLDEST
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
When control is set to OFF, freezer will not cool. Initially,
set control to 4. Wait 3 hours after connecting power for
freezer to reach desired temperatures, then add food.
After 24 hours, adjust control as desired. 1 is warmest
setting and 7 is coldest.
Set temperatures precisely using a household
thermometer that includes temperatures between -5° to
50°F. Put thermometer snugly between frozen packages
in freezer. Wait 58 hours. If freezer temperature is not
0° to 2°F, adjust control, one number at a time. Check
again after 58 hours.
Audible Alarm (Some models)
Locate audible alarm on right side of freezer cabinet near
bottom right corner.
Alarm sounds if temperature in freezer rises 10°F or
more above normal for selected setting. Alarm may
sound if temperature control dial is turned to a much
lower/colder setting or if a large amount of unfrozen food
is added at one time.
Alarm is controlled by a three-position switch.
0prevents alarm from sounding when freezer is
warm, such as during initial start-up or defrosting.
Ösounds alarm regardless of temperature. Alarm
system should be tested at least once a month.
1is proper setting for normal freezer use. Return
switch to 1after defrosting.
1
0
Operating Instructions

9 RS1500000 Rev. 2
Operating Instructions
Features
Door Lock
Lock freezer door by completing the following:
1. Insert key into lock approximately 1/4".
2. Turn key clockwise to lock door and counterclockwise
to unlock door.
WARNING
!
To help prevent child entrapment keep key out of
reach of children and away from cabinet.
Reversible Rack (some models)
Racks separates food for more storage space.
Remove rack by releasing rack from shelf wires. Pull
down if located under shelf or lift up if located above
shelf.
Replace rack by positioning on top or underneath shelf
wires. Slide rack until rack locks in place.
Freezing Guide
Wrapping
 Use moisture-vapor-proof materials and seal tightly.
When lids are furnished, follow manufacturer's
directions for best results.
 Choose materials which are labeled for freezer use.
Ordinary waxed paper or butcher paper does not
provide proper protection for frozen food. Materials not
designed for freezer use may give off odors.
Freezing Guidelines
Item Recommended storage
times at 0°F. (Months)
Meat
Beef roast or steak
(fresh) 9–12
Meat casserole
(cooked) 3–6
Hamburger 3–4
Pork (cured) 1–3
Pork chop or roast
(fresh) 4–8
Roast (fresh) 4–8
Sausage 1–3
Veal 8–9
Lamb 9–12
Poultry
Chicken (fresh) 9–12
Chicken (cooked) 1–3
Duck 6
Goose 6
Turkey (fresh) 6–12
Turkey (cooked) 1–3
Fish 3–6
Vegetables 8
Fruits 12
Bread and Pastries
Bread 1–3
Yeast Rolls 1–3
Layer Cake 2–4
Fruit Pie (unbaked) 8
Ice Cream, Sherbert 1–2

RS1500000 Rev. 2 10
WARNING
!
To avoid electrical shock which can cause severe
personal injury or death, disconnect power to freezer
before cleaning. After cleaning, restore power.
CAUTION
!
To avoid personal injury or property damage, read and
follow all cleaning product manufacturer's directions.
General
1. Wash surfaces with four tablespoons baking soda
dissolved in one quart warm water and a soft, clean
cloth.
2. Rinse surfaces with warm water. Dry surfaces
with a soft, clean cloth.
NOTE:
 Do not use the following items:
 abrasive or harsh cleaners, ammonia,
chlorine bleach, etc.
 concentrated detergents or solvents
 metal scouring pads
These items can scratch, crack and discolor
surfaces.
 Do not place shelves or accessories in dish-
washer.
Adhesives
Remove glue residue by dabbing toothpaste over
adhesive. Rub toothpaste into adhesive with fingers until
adhesive loosens. Rinse surface with warm water. Dry
surface with a soft, clean cloth.
Door Gaskets
1. Clean door gaskets every three months or more
frequently if necessary.
2. Rinse and dry gaskets thoroughly.
3. Apply a light film of petroleum jelly on cabinet hinge
side to keep gaskets pliable.
Care and Cleaning
Odor Removal
1. Remove all food.
2. Wash all interior surfaces including door, floor and
walls according to "General" instructions. Pay special
attention to corners, crevices and grooves. Include all
accessories, shelves and gaskets.
3. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
4. Wrap foods in tightly sealed wrap or containers to
prevent further odor. After 24 hours, check if odor
was eliminated.
If odor was not eliminated, do the following:
1. Complete procedures in steps 13 above.
2. Pack freezer with crumpled sheets of black and white
newspaper.
3. Place charcoal briquettes randomly throughout
newspaper.
4. Close door and let stand 2448 hours.
5. Remove charcoal briquettes and newspapers.
Wash all interior surfaces including door, floor and
walls according to "General" instructions. Pay special
attention to corners, crevices and grooves. Include all
accessories, shelves and gaskets.
6. Wrap foods in tightly sealed wrap or containers to
prevent further odor. After 24 hours, check if odor
was eliminated.
If odor was still not eliminated, contact Consumer Affairs
Department at 1-800-843-0304.