Amana 24 Cu. Ft. User manual

Service
This manual is to be used by qualified appliance technicians only.
Amana does not assume any responsibility for property damage or
personalinjuryforimproperserviceproceduresdonebyan
RS1300005
Revision 0
November 2001
22, 24, & 26 Cu. Ft.
Side by Side Refrigerators
This Base Manual covers 22, 24, and
26 Cu. Ft. Side by Side Refrigerators.
Refer to individual Technical Sheet
for specific information on models.

RS1300005 Rev. 0 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,testinginstrumentsandtheappropriateservicemanual. REVIEWALLSERVICEINFORMATION
IN THE APPROPRIATE SERVICE MANUAL BEFORE BEGINNING REPAIRS.
ImportantNoticesforConsumersandServicers
!WARNING
To avoid risk of serious injury or death, repairs should not be attempted by unauthorized personnel, 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, please consult your telephone book or the dealer from whom you purchased this
product. For further assistance, please contact:
CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPT. OR 1-319-622-5511 or (1-800-843-0304)
AMANA APPLIANCES CALL and ask for
AMANA, IOWA 52204 Consumer Affairs
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
!

3RS1300005 Rev. 0
Important Information................................................2
Product Design..........................................................4
Component Testing....................................................5
Service Procedures .................................................10
Service Equipment ..................................................10
Drier Replacement...................................................10
Refrigerant Precautions ........................................... 11
Line Piercing Valves................................................. 11
Open Lines ............................................................. 11
Compressor Operational Test ................................... 11
Dehydrating Sealed Refrigeration System..................12
Leak Testing............................................................12
Testing Systems Containing a
Refrigerant Charge ............................................ 12
Testing Systems Containing
No Refrigerant Charge .......................................12
Restrictions .............................................................13
Symptoms.........................................................13
Testing for Restrictions .......................................13
Evacuation and Charging .........................................14
Evacuation ........................................................14
Charging...........................................................15
Refrigerant Charge ............................................ 15
HFC134a Service Information................................... 16
Health, Safety, and Handling...............................16
Comparison of CFC12 and HFC134a Properties ..16
Replacement Service Compressor............................17
Compressor Testing Procedures .........................17
Brazing ...................................................................17
Refrigerant Flow 22, 24, 26 cu. ft ..............................18
Cabinet Air Flow 24, 26 cu. ft ....................................19
Cabinet Air Flow 22 cu. ft..........................................20
Ice and Water Dispenser Diagram ............................21
Water Valves Diagram..................................................22
Typical External Sweat Pattern ..................................23
TroubleshootingChart ................................................24
System Diagnosis....................................................27
Disassembly Procedures
Refrigerator Compartment ....................................30
Upper Light Socket & Lens .................................30
Freezer Cold Control..........................................30
DefrostTimer..........................................................30
Adaptive Defrost Control ....................................30
Damper Control.......................................................31
WaterFilterAssembly.............................................31
WaterTankAssembly..............................................31
Crisper Cover and Socket ..................................31
Freezer Compartment
Freezer Light Socket ..........................................31
Auger Motor Assembly .......................................31
Auger Motor ......................................................31
Auger Motor Capacitor............................................32
Evaporator Fan Motor Assembly .........................32
Evaporator Fan Motor and Fan Blade.....................32
Evaporator Removal...............................................32
Defrost Terminator (Thermostat).........................32
Defrost Heater...................................................32
IceMakerRemoval.................................................33
Machine Compartment
Water Valves .....................................................33
Condenser Fan motor and Blade ........................33
Compressor ......................................................33
Condensate Drain Tube .....................................33
Condensate Drain Pan.......................................33
Overload/Relay..................................................34
Condenser ........................................................34
Bottom of Cabinet
Front Leveling Rollers ........................................34
Rear Leveling Rollers .........................................34
Cabinet Doors
Door Gaskets ....................................................34
Dispenser Facade (Messenger Model) ................34
Dispenser Ice Chute Door ..................................35
Dispenser Light Socket ......................................35
Dispenser D/C Solenoid .....................................35
Dispenser Water Tube .......................................35
High Voltage Board (Messenger Model) ..............35
Ice ‘N Water Systems
Troubleshooting of 5 button Dispenser ................ 36
Troubleshooting of Messenger Dispenser............ 40
Troubleshooting of 3 button Dispenser ................ 45
Appendix A
Owner’s Manual ..... .............................................A-2
Table of Contents

RS1300005 Rev. 0 4
Product Design
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
!WARNING
Refrigeration System
Compressor forces high temperature vapor into fan
cooled tube and wire condenser where vapor is cooled
and condensed into high pressure liquid by circulation
of air across condenser coil. (See Refrigerant Flow
Diagram, page 18)
High pressure liquid passes into post-condenser loop
which helps to prevent condensation around freezer
compartment opening and through molecular sieve
drier and into capillary tube. Small inside diameter of
capillary offers resistance, decreasing pressure, and
temperature of liquid discharged into evaporator.
Capillary diameter and length is carefully sized for
each system.
Capillary enters evaporator at top back. Combined
liquid and saturated gas flows through back to bottom
of coil and into suction line. Aluminium tube evaporator
coil is located in freezer compartment where
circulating evaporator fan moves air through coil and
into fresh food compartment.
Large surface of evaporator allows heat to be
absorbed from both fresh food and freezer
compartments by airflow over evaporator coil causing
some of the liquid to evaporate. Temperature of
evaporator tubing near end of running cycle may vary
from -13° to -25°F.
Saturated gas is drawn off through suction line where
superheated gas enters compressor. To raise
temperature of gas, suction line is placed in heat
exchange with capillary.
Temperature Controls
Freezer compartment temperature is regulated by air
sensing thermostat at rear back of fresh food
compartment which actuates compressor. Control
capillary is inserted in well which routes capillary into
freezer. Control should be set to maintain freezer
temperature between 0° to -2°F.
Fresh food compartment temperature is regulated an
air damper control governing amount of refrigerated
air entering fresh food compartment from freezer.
Fresh food compartment temperature should be
between 38° and 40°F.
Defrost Timer System (some models)
Every 8 hours of compressor run time defrost timer
activates radiant electric defrost heater suspended
from evaporator. After 33 minutes of defrost cycle
time, timer restores circuit to compressor.
Defrost terminator (thermostat) is wired in series with
defrost heater. Terminator opens and breaks circuit
when preset high temperature is reached. After
defrost thermostat opens, thermostat remains open
until end of defrost cycle when cooling cycle starts and
terminator senses present low temperature and
closes.
Defrost heater is suspended on left side of evaporator
coil and across bottom to keep defrost drain free
flowing during defrost. Defrost water is caught in
trough under evaporator coil and flows through drain
hole in liner and drain tubing into drain pan. Air
circulated by condenser fan over pan evaporates
water.
Adaptive Defrost System (some models)
The ADC adapts the compressor run time between
defrosts to achieve optimum defrost intervals by
monitoring the cold control and length the defrost
heater is on.

Component Testing
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
RS1300005 Rev. 05
Component Description Test Procedures
Compressor When compressor electrical circuit is
energized, the start winding current
causes relay to heat. After an amount of
starting time, the start winding circuit
turns off. The relay will switch off the
start winding circuit even though
compressor has not started (for example,
when attempting to restart after
momentary power interruption).
With “open” relay, compressor will not
start because there is little or no current
to start windings. Overload protection will
open due to high locked rotor run winding
current.
With “shorted” relay or capacitor,
compressor will start and overload
protector will quickly open due to high
current of combined run and start
windings.
With open or weak capacitor,
compressor will start and run as normal
but will consume more energy.
Resistance test
1. Disconnect power to unit.
2. Discharge capacitor by shorting across terminals with a resistor for 1 minute.
NOTE: (Some compressors do not have a run capacitor.)
3. Remove leads from compressor terminals.
4. Set ohmmeter to lowest scale.
5. Check for resistance between
Terminals “S” and “C”, start winding
Terminals “R” and “C”, run winding
If either compressor winding reads open (infinite or very high resistance) or
dead short (0 ohms), replace compressor.
Ground test
1. Disconnect power to refrigerator.
2. Discharge capacitor, if present, by shorting terminals through a resistor.
3. Remove compressor leads and use an ohmmeter set on highest scale.
4. Touch one lead to compressor body (clean point of contact) and other probe
to each compressor terminal.
• If reading is obtained, compressor is grounded and must be replaced.
Operation test
If voltage, capacitor, overload, and motor winding tests do not show cause for
failure, perform the following test:
1. Disconnect power to refrigerator.
2. Discharge capacitor by shorting capacitor terminals through a resistor.
3. Remove leads from compressor terminals.
4. Wire a test cord to power switch.
5. Place time delayed fuse with UL rating equal to amp rating of motor in test
cord socket. (Refer to Technical Data Sheet)
6. Remove overload and relay.
7. Connect start, common and run leads of test cord on appropriate terminals of
compressor.
8. Attach capacitor leads of test cord together. If capacitor is used, attach
capacitor lead to a known good capacitor of same capacity.
Test configuration
9. Plug test cord into multimeter to determine start and run wattage and to check
for low voltage, which can also be a source of trouble indications.
10.With power to multimeter, press start cord switch and release.
• If compressor motor starts and draws normal wattage, compressor is
okay and trouble is in capacitor, relay/overload, freezer temperature
control, or elsewhere in system.
• If compressor does not start when direct wired, recover refrigerant at high
side. After refrigerant is recovered, repeat compressor direct wire test. If
compressor runs after recovery but would not run when direct wired
before recover, a restriction in sealed system is indicated.
• If compressor does not run when wired direct after recovery, replace faulty
compressor.
C
R
S
Fuses
Capacitor
Compressor
Switch
To AC supply

Component Testing
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
RS1300005 Rev. 0 6
Component Description Test Procedures
Capacitor Run capacitor connects to relay
terminal 3 and L side of line.
Some compressors do not require a run
capacitor; refer to the Technical Data
Sheet for the unit being serviced.
1.Disconnect power to refrigerator.
2.Remove capacitor cover and disconnect capacitor wires.
3.Discharge capacitor by shorting across terminals with a resistor for 1 minute.
4.Check resistance across capacitor terminals with ohmmeter set on “X1K”
scale.
• Good—needle swings to 0 ohms and slowly moves back to infinity.
• Open—needle does not move. Replace capacitor.
• Shorted—needle moves to zero and stays. Replace capacitor.
• High resistance leak—needle jumps toward 0 and then moves back to
constant high resistance (not infinity).
Condenser Condenser is a tube and wire
construction located in machine
compartment.
Condenser is on high pressure discharge
side of compressor. Condenser function
is to transfer heat absorbed by refrigerant
to ambient.
Higher pressure gas is routed to
condenser where, as gas temperature is
reduced, gas condenses into a high
pressure liquid state. Heat transfer takes
place because discharged gas is at a
higher temperature than air that is
passing over condenser. It is very
important that adequate air flow over
condenser is maintained.
Condenser is air cooled by condenser
fan motor. If efficiency of heat transfer
from condenser to surrounding air is
impaired, condensing temperature
becomes higher. High liquid temperature
means liquid will not remove as much
heat during boiling in evaporator as
under normal conditions. This would be
indicated by high than normal head
pressures, long run time, and high
wattage. Remove any lint or other
accumulation, that would restrict normal
air movement through condenser.
From condenser the refrigerant flows into
a post condenser loop which helps
control exterior condensation on flange,
center mullion, and around freezer door.
Refrigerant the flows through the drier to
evaporator and into compressor through
suction line.
Leaks in condenser can usually be detected by using an electronic leak detector
or soap solution. Look for signs of compressor oil when checking for leaks. A
certain amount of compressor oil is circulated with refrigerant.
Leaks in post condenser loop are rare because loop is a one-piece copper tube.
For minute leaks
1. Separate condenser from rest of refrigeration system and pressurize
condenser up to a maximum of 235 PSI with a refrigerant and dry nitrogen
combination.
2. Recheck for leaks.
WARNING
!
To avoid severe personal injury or death from sudden eruption of high
pressures gases, observe the following:
Protect against a sudden eruption if high pressures are required for leak
checking.
Do not use high pressure compressed gases in refrigeration systems
without a reliable pressure regulator and pressure relief valve in the
lines.
WARNING
!
To avoid electrical shock which can cause severe personal injury or death,
discharge capacitor through a resistor before handling.

Component Testing
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
RS1300005 Rev. 07
Component Description Test Procedures
Overload / Relay When voltage is connected and relay is
cool, current passes through relay to start
winding.
After a short time, current heats the
resistor in relay and resistance will rise
blocking current flow through relay.
Start winding remains in the circuit through
run capacitor.
Solid state relay plugs directly on
compressor start and run terminals. Relay
terminals 2 and 3 are connected within
relay. Run capacitor is connected to relay
terminal 3. L2 side of 120 VAC power is
connected to relay terminal 2.
1. Disconnect power to the refrigerator.
2. Remove relay cover and disconnect leads.
3. Check resistance across terminals 2 and 3 with an ohmmeter:
Normal = 3 to 12 ohms
Shorted = 0 ohms
Open = infinite ohms
Freezer temperature control is a capillary
tube operating a single pole, single throw
switch.
Freezer temperature control controls run
cycle through defrost timer.
Check for proper calibration with thermocouple capillary in air supply well by
recording cut-in and cut-out temperatures at middle setting. Refer to tech sheet
for model being serviced for expected temperatures.
Check control contacts are opening by disconnecting electrical leads to control
and turning control knob to coldest setting. Check for continuity across
terminals.
Altitude Counter in Feet
Feet Above
Sea Level
Turn Screw
Clockwise (Angular
Degrees)
Freezer
temperature control
Altitude Adjustment
When altitude adjustment is required on a
G.E. control, turn altitude adjustment
screw 1/7 turn counter clockwise for each
1,000 feet increase in altitude up to 10,000
feet. One full turn equals 10,000 feet
maximum.
In most cases the need for altitude
adjustments can be avoided by simply
turning temperature control knob to colder
setting.
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
30
81
129
174
216
Ice Maker Optional on some models.
See “Ice Maker” section for service
information.
ECM condenser
motor
Condenser fan moves cooling air across
condenser coil and compressor body.
Condenser fan motor is in parallel circuit
with compressor.
Check resistance across coil.
Evaporator fan
motor
Evaporator fan moves air across
evaporator coil and throughout refrigerator
cabinet.
1. Disconnect power to unit.
2. Disconnect fan motor leads.
3. Check resistance from ground connection solder. Trace to motor frame must
not exceed .05 ohms.
4. Check for voltage at connector to motor with unit in refrigeration mode and
compressor operating.
0
300
270
240
210
180 150
120
90
60
30
330

Component Testing
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
RS1300005 Rev. 0 8
Component Description Test Procedures
Refrigerator light
switch
Single pole, single throw switch
completes circuit for light when door is
open.
Check resistant across terminals.
Switch arm depressed
“NO” terminals Open
Switch arm up
“NO” terminals Closed
Freezer light /
Interlock switch
Single pole, Double throw switch
completes circuit for light when door is
open. Completes circuit for dispenser
when door is closed
Check resistant across terminals.
Switch arm depressed
“NO” terminals Open
”NC” terminals Closed
Switch arm not depressed
“NC” terminals Open
“NO” terminals Closed
Drier Drier is placed at post condenser loop
outlet and passes liquefied refrigerant to
capillary.
Desiccant (20) 8 x 12 4AXH - 7 M>S> -
Grams
Drier must be changed every time the system is opened for testing or
compressor replacement.
NOTE: Drier used in R12 sealed system is not interchangeable with
drier used in R134a sealed system. Always replace drier in R134a
system with Amana part number B2150504.
Before opening refrigeration system, recover HFC134a refrigerant for safe
disposal.
1. Cut drier out of system using the following procedure. Do not unbraze drier.
2. Applying heat to remove drier will drive moisture into the system.
3. Score capillary tube close to drier and break.
4. Reform inlet tube to drier allowing enough space for large tube cutter.
5. Cut circumference of drier 1 ¼" below condenser inlet tube joint to drier.
6. Remove drier.
7. Apply heat trap paste on post condenser tubes to protect grommets from high
heat.
8. Unbraze remaining part of drier. Remove drier from system.
9. Discard drier in safe place. Do not leave drier with customer. If refrigerator is
under warranty, old drier must accompany warranty claim.
Defrost timer Timer motor operates only when freezer
control is closed.
After specified amount of actual
operating time, inner cam in timer throws
the contacts from terminal 4, compressor
circuit, to terminal 2, defrost
thermostat/defrost heater circuit.
After specified defrost cycle time, timer
cam resets the circuitry through terminal
4 to compressor.
1. To check timer motor winding, check for continuity between terminals 1 and 3
of timer.
2. Depending on rotating position of the cam, terminal 1 of timer is common to
both terminal 2, the defrost mode, and terminal 4, the compressor mode.
There should never be continuity between terminals 2 and 4.
3. With continuity between terminals 1 and 4, rotate timer knob clockwise until
audible click is heard. When the click is heard, reading between terminals 1
and 4 should be infinite and there should be continuity between terminals 1
and 2.
4. Continuing to rotate time knob until a second click is heard should restore
circuit between terminals 1 and 4.
Adaptive defrost
control (ADC)
The ADC adapts the compressor run
time between defrosts to achieve
optimum defrost intervals by monitoring
the cold control and length the defrost
heater is on.
Refer to specific Technical Data Sheet with unit for troubleshooting procedure.
WARNING
!
To avoid death or severe personal injury, cut drier at correct location.
Cutting drier at incorrect location will allow desiccant beads to scatter. If
spilled, completely clean area of beads.

Component Testing
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a resistor before attempting to service.
Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
RS1300005 Rev. 09
Description Test Procedures
Water valve Controls water flow to the ice maker.
Controlled by thermostat in ice maker.
See Ice Maker Section for further
information.
Check resistance across coil windings.
Evaporator Inner volume of evaporator allows liquid
refrigerant discharged from capillary to
expand into refrigerant gas.
Expansion cools evaporator tube and fin
temperature to approximately -20
° F
transferring heat from freezer section to
refrigerant.
Passing through suction line to
compressor, the refrigerant picks up
superheat (a relationship between
pressure and temperature that assures
complete vaporization of liquid
refrigerant) as the result of capillary tube
soldered to suction line.
Refrigerant gas is pulled through suction
line by compressor, completing
refrigeration cycle.
Test for leaks in evaporator with electronic leak detector or with soap solution.
Compressor oil is circulated with refrigerant; check for oil when checking for
leaks.
For minute leaks
1. Separate evaporator from rest of refrigeration system and pressurize
evaporator up to a maximum of 140 PSI with a refrigerant and dry nitrogen
combination.
2. Recheck for leaks.
Evaporator defrost
heater
Activated when defrost thermostat,
defrost timer, and freezer control
complete circuit through heater.
Check resistance across heater.
To check defrost system :
1. Thermocouple defrost thermostat and plug refrigerator into wattmeter.
2. Turn into defrost mode. Wattmeter should read specified watts (according to
Technical Data Sheet).
3. When defrost thermostat reaches specified temperature
± 5 ° F (see Technical
Data Sheet), thermostat should interrupt power to heater.
Thermostat Thermostat is in a series circuit with
terminal 2 of defrost timer, and defrost
heater. Circuit is complete if evaporator
fan motor operates when cold.
Controls the circuit from freezer
thermostat through defrost terminator to
defrost heater. Opens and breaks circuit
when thermostat senses preset high
temperature.
Test continuity across terminals.
With power off and evaporator coil below freezing, thermostat should show
continuity when checked with ohmmeter. See “Heater, evaporator (defrost)”
section for additional tests.
After defrost thermostat opens, thermostat remains open until end of defrost
cycle and refrigerator starts cooling again. Defrost thermostat senses a preset
low temperature and resets (closes).
Damper Control Damper control balances the air delivery
between refrigerator and freezer
compartments providing temperature
control for refrigerator.
Internal capillary activates damper
control and door closes restricting flow of
air from freezer compartment to
refrigerator compartment.
Subject capillary to appropriate temperature (refer to Technical Data Sheet for
model being serviced).
Damper door should close to within ¼
" of completely shut.
If altitude adjustment is required, turn altitude adjustment screw 1/8 turn
clockwise for each 1,000 feet increase in altitude.
There are no electrical connections to damper control. See Technical Data Sheet
for damper specifications for unit being serviced.
WARNING
!
To avoid severe personal injury or death from sudden erruption of
high pressurres gases, observe the following:
•Protect against a sudden eruption if high pressures are required
for leak checking.
•Do not use high pressure compressed gases in refrigeration
systems without a reliable pressure regulator and pressure relief
valve in the lines.

RS1300005 Rev. 0 10
Drier Replacement
Before opening refrigeration system, recover
HFC134a refrigerant for safe disposal.
Every time sealed HFC134a system is repaired, drier
filter must be replaced with, part # B2150504.
Cut drier out of system by completing the following
steps. Do not unbraze drier filter. Applying heat to
remove drier will drive moisture into system.
To avoid risk of severe personal injury or death, cut
drier at correct location. Cutting drier at incorrect
location will allow desiccant beads to scatter.
Completely clean area of beads, if spilled.
1. Score capillary tube close to drier and break.
2. Reform inlet tube to drier allowing enough space
for large tube cutter.
3. Cut circumference of drier at 1-1/4", below
condenser inlet tube joint to drier.
4. Remove drier.
5. Apply heat trap paste on post condenser tubes to
protect grommets from high heat.
6. Unbraze remaining part of drier. Remove drier
from system.
7. Discard drier in safe place. Do not leave drier with
customer. If refrigerator is under warranty, old
drier must accompany warranty claim.
Service Procedures
Service Equipment
Listed below is equipment needed for proper servicing
of HFC134a systems. Verify equipment is confirmed
by manufacturer as being compatible with HFC134a
and ester oil system.
Equipment must be exclusively used for HFC134a.
Exclusive use of equipment only applies to italic items.
•Evacuation pump
Check with vacuum pump supplier to verify equipment
is compatible for HFC134a. Robinair, Model 15600
2 stage, 6 cubic feet per minute pump is
recommended.
•Four-way manifold gauge set, with low loss hoses
•Leak detector
•Charging cylinder
•Line piercing saddle valve
(Schroeder valves). Seals must be HFC134a and
ester oil compatible. Line piercing valves may be used
for diagnosis but are not suitable for evacuation or
charging, due to minute holes pierced in tubing. Do
not leave mechanical access valves on system.
Valves eventually will leak. Molecules of HFC134a are
smaller than other refrigerants and will leak where
other refrigerants would not.
•Swagging tools
•Flaring tools
•Tubing cutter
•Flux
•Sil-Fos
•Silver solder
•Oil for swagging and flaring
Use only part # R0157532
•Copper tubing
Use only part # R0174075 and # R0174076
•Dry nitrogen
99.5% minimum purity, with -40°F or lower dew point
•Crimp tool
•Tube bender
•Micron vacuum gauge
•Process tube adaptor kit
•Heat trap paste
•ICI appliance grade HFC134a
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
!WARNING
WARNING
!

11 RS1300005 Rev. 0
Refrigerant Precautions
WARNING!
To avoid risk of personal injury, do not allow
refrigerant to contact eyes or skin.
CAUTION!
To avoid risk of property damage, do not use
refrigerant other than that shown on unit serial
number identification plate.
NOTE:All precautionary measures recommended by
refrigerant manufacturers and suppliers apply
and should be observed.
Line Piercing Valves
Line piercing valves can be used for diagnosis, but
are not suitable for evacuating or charging due to
holes pierced in tubing by valves.
NOTE:Do not leave line piercing valves on system.
Connection between valve and tubing is not
hermetically sealed. Leaks will occur.
Open Lines
During any processing of refrigeration system, never
leave lines open to atmosphere. Open lines allow water
vapor to enter system, making proper evacuation more
difficult.
Compressor Operational Test
(short term testing only)
If compressor voltage, capacitor, overload, and motor
winding tests are successful (do not indicate a fault),
perform the following test:
1.Disconnect power to unit.
2.Discharge capacitor by shorting capacitor
terminals through a resistor.
NOTE: Not all units have run capacitor.
3.Remove leads from compressor terminals.
4.Attach test cord to compressor windings.
• Common lead on test cord attaches to C terminal
on compressor.
• Start lead on test cord attaches to S terminal on
compressor.
• Run lead on test cord attaches to M terminal on
compressor.
Service Procedures
C
R
S
Fuses
Capacitor
Compressor
Switch
To AC supply
Attaching Capacitor for Compressor Test
5. Connect a known good capacitor into circuit as shown
above. For proper capacitor size and rating, see
technical data sheet for unit under test.
NOTE: Ensure test cord cables and fuses meet
specifications for unit under test (see Technical
Sheet for unit under test).
6. Replace compressor protector cover securely.
7. Plug test cord into outlet, then press and release start
cord switch.
CAUTION!
To avoid risk of damage to compressor windings,
immediately disconnect (unplug) test cord from power
source if compressor does not start. Damage to
compressor windings occurs if windings remain
energized when compressor is not running.
If compressor runs when direct wired, it is working
properly. Malfunction is elsewhere in system.
If compressor does not start when direct wired, recover
system at high side. After the system is recovered,
repeat compressor direct wire test.
If compressor runs after system is recovered (but
would not operate when wired direct before recovery) a
restriction in sealed system is indicated.
If motor does not run when wired direct after recovery,
replace faulty compressor.
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
!WARNING

RS1300005 Rev. 0 12
Dehydrating Sealed Refrigeration System
Moisture in a refrigerator sealed system exposed to
heat generated by the compressor and motor reacts
chemically with refrigerant and oil in the system and
forms corrosive hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
These acids contribute to breakdown of motor winding
insulation and corrosion of compressor working parts,
causing compressor failure.
In addition, sludge, a residue of the chemical reaction,
coats all surfaces of sealed system, and will eventually
restrict refrigerant flow through capillary tube.
To dehydrate sealed system, evacuate system (see
paragraph Evacuation).
Leak Testing
DANGER!
To avoid risk of serious injury or death from violent
explosions, NEVER use oxygen or acetylene for
pressure testing or clean out of refrigeration
systems. Free oxygen will explode on contact with
oil. Acetylene will explode spontaneously when put
under pressure.
It is important to check sealed system for refrigerant
leaks. Undetected leaks can lead to repeated service
calls and eventually result in system contamination,
restrictions, and premature compressor failure.
Refrigerant leaks are best detected with halide or
electronic leak detectors.
Testing Systems Containing a Refrigerant Charge
1. Stop unit operation (turn refrigerator off).
2. Holding leak detector exploring tube as close to
system tubing as possible, check all piping, joints,
and fittings.
NOTE:Use soap suds on areas leak detector cannot
reach or reliably test.
Testing Systems Containing No Refrigerant Charge
1. Connect cylinder of nitrogen, through gauge
manifold, to process tube of compressor and liquid
line strainer.
2. Open valves on nitrogen cylinder and gauge manifold.
Allow pressure to build within sealed system.
3. Check for leaks using soap suds.
If a leak is detected in a joint, do not to attempt to repair
by applying additional brazing material. Joint must be
disassembled, cleaned and rebrazed. Capture refrigerant
charge (if system is charged), unbraze joint, clean all
parts, then rebraze.
If leak is detected in tubing, replace tubing. If leak is
detected in either coil, replace faulty coil.
Service Procedures
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.

13 RS1300005 Rev. 0
Service Procedures
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
Restrictions
Symptoms
Restrictions in sealed system most often occur at
capillary tube or filter drier, but can exist anywhere on
liquid side of system.
Restrictions reduce refrigerant flow rate and heat
removal rate. Wattage drops because compressor is
not circulating normal amount of refrigerants.
Common causes of total restrictions are moisture,
poorly soldered joints, or solid contaminants. Moisture
freezes at evaporator inlet end of capillary tube. Solid
contaminants collect in filter drier.
If restriction is on low side, suction pressure will be in a
vacuum and head pressure will be near normal.
If restriction is on high side, suction pressure will be in
a vacuum and head pressure will be higher than
normal during pump out cycle.
Refrigeration occurs on low pressure side of partial
restriction. There will be a temperature difference at
the point of restriction. Frost and/or condensation will
be present in most case at the point of restriction.
Also, system requires longer to equalize.
Slight or partial restriction can give the same
symptoms as refrigerant shortage including lower than
normal back pressure, head pressure, wattage, and
warmer temperatures.
Total restriction on the discharge side of compressor,
when restriction is between compressor and first half
of condenser, results in higher than normal head
pressure and wattage while low side is being pumped
out.
Testing for Restrictions
To determine if a restriction exists:
1. Attach gauge and manifold between suction and
discharge sides of sealed system.
2. Turn unit on and allow pressure on each side to
stabilize. Inspect condenser side of system. Tubing
on condenser should be warm and temperature
should be equal throughout (no sudden drops at any
point along tubing).
•If temperature of condenser tubing is consistent
throughout, go to step 4.
•If temperature of condenser tubing drops suddenly
at any point, tubing is restricted at point of
temperature drop (if restriction is severe, frost may
form at point of restriction and extend down in
direction of refrigerant flow in system). Go to step 5.
3. Visually check system for kinks in refrigeration line
which is causing restriction. Correct kink and repeat
step 2.
4.Turn unit off and time how long it takes high and low
pressure gauges to equalize:
•If pressure equalization takes longer than 10
minutes, a restriction exists in the capillary tube or
drier filter. Go to step 5.
•If pressure equalization takes less than 10 minutes,
system is not restricted. Check for other possible
causes of malfunction.
5.Recover refrigerant in sealed system.
NOTE:Before opening any refrigeration system,
capture refrigerant in system for safe disposal.
6. Remove power from unit.
CAUTION!
To avoid risk of personal injury or property damage,
take necessary precautions against high
temperatures required for brazing.
7. Remove and replace restricted device.
8. Evacuate sealed system.
9. Charge system to specification.
NOTE:Do not use captured or recycled refrigerant in
Amana units. Captured or recycled refrigerant
voids any Amana and/or compressor
manufacturer's warranty.
NOTE:Charge system with exact amount of refrigerant.
Refer to unit nameplate for correct refrigerant
charge. Inaccurately charged system will cause
future problems.

RS1300005 Rev. 0 14
Evacuation and Charging
CAUTION!
To avoid risk of fire, sealed refrigeration system
must be air free. To avoid risk of air contamination,
follow evacuation procedures exactly.
NOTE:Before opening any refrigeration system, EPA
regulations require refrigerant in system to be
captured for safe disposal.
Proper evacuation of sealed refrigeration system is an
important service procedure. Usable life and
operational efficiency greatly depends upon how
completely air, moisture and other non-condensables
are evacuated from sealed system.
Air in sealed system causes high condensing
temperature and pressure, resulting in increased
power requirements and reduced performance.
Moisture in sealed system chemically reacts with
refrigerant and oil to form corrosive hydrofluoric and
hydrochloric acids. These acids attack motor windings
and parts, causing premature breakdown.
Before opening system, evaporator coil must be at
ambient temperature to minimize moisture infiltration
into system.
Evacuation
To evacuate sealed refrigeration system:
1. Connect vacuum pump, vacuum tight manifold set
with high vacuum hoses, thermocouple vacuum
gauge and charging cylinder as shown in illustration.
Evacuation should be done through I.D. opening of
tubes not through line piercing valve.
2. Connect low side line to compressor process tube.
3. Connect high side line to drier/process tube.
4. Evacuate both simultaneously. With valve “C” and “F”
closed, open all other valves and start vacuum pump.
Vacuum Pump
.6 cm Copper
Tubing
Compressor Compressor
Process
Tube
Charging Hose
Thermistor
Vacuum Gauge Low Side Gauge
E
Valve
B
D
Valve
High Side Gauge
Charging Hose
Drier/Process Tube
F
Valve
Charging
Cylinder
C
A
Equipment Setup For Evacuation And Charging
5. After compound gauge (low side) drops to
approximately 29 inches gauge, open valve “C” to
vacuum thermocouple gauge and take micron
reading.
NOTE:A high vacuum pump can only produce a good
vacuum if oil in pump is not contaminated.
6. Continue evacuating system until vacuum gauge
registers 600 microns.
7. At 600 microns, close valve “A” to vacuum pump and
allow micron reading in system to balance. Micron
level will rise.
•If in 2 minutes, micron level stabilizes at 1000
microns or below, system is ready to be charged.
•If micron level rises above 1000 microns and
stabilizes, open valve “A” and continue evacuating.
•If micron reading rises rapidly and does not
stabilize, a leak still exists in system.
Close valve “A” to vacuum pump and valve “C” to
vacuum gauge. Invert charging cylinder and open
charging cylinder valve “F” to add partial charge for
leak checking. With leak detector, check manifold
connections and system for leaks. After locating
leak, capture refrigerant, repair leak, and begin at
step 1.
Service Procedures
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.

15 RS1300005 Rev. 0
Charging
NOTE:Do not use captured or recycled refrigerant in
Amana units. Captured or recycled refrigerant
voids any warranty.
NOTE:Charge system with exact amount of refrigerant.
Refer to unit serial plate for correct refrigerant
charge. Inaccurately charged system will cause
future problems.
To charge system:
1. Close valves “A” to vacuum pump and “C” to vacuum
gauge and “E” to low side manifold gauge.
2. Set scale on dial-a-charge cylinder for corresponding
HFC134a pressure reading.
3. Open valve “F” to charging cylinder and let exact
amount of refrigerant flow from cylinder into system.
Close valve.
Low side gauge pressure should rise shortly after
opening charging cylinder valve as system pressure
equalizes through capillary tube.
If pressure does not equalize, a restriction typically
exists at capillary/drier braze joint.
4. If pressure equalizes, open valve “E” to low side
manifold gauge and pinch off high side drier process
tube.
5. Start compressor and draw remaining refrigerant from
charging hoses and manifold into compressor
through compressor process tube.
6. To check high side pinch-off drier process tube. Close
valve “D” to high side gauge. If high side pressure
rises, repeat high side pinch-off and open valve “D”.
Repeat until high side pinch-off does not leak.
7. Pinch-off compressor process tube and remove
charging hose. Braze stub closed while compressor is
operating.
8. Disconnect power. Remove charging hose and braze
high side drier process tube closed.
9.Recheck for refrigerant leaks.
Service Procedures
!WARNING
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
Refrigerant Charge
Refrigerant charge in all capillary tube systems is
critical and exact amount is required for proper
performance. Factory charges are shown on serial
plate.
NOTE: Do not use refrigerant other than shown on
serial plate.

RS1300005 Rev. 0 16
To minimize contamination, exercise extreme care
when servicing HFC134A sealed systems.
•No trace of other refrigerants is allowed in HFC134a
systems. Chlorinated molecules in other refrigerants
such as CFC12, etc. will lead to capillary tube
plugging.
•Ester oil is used in HFC134a systems. Do not use
mineral oil. HFC134a and mineral oils cannot be
mixed. If mineral oils were used in HFC134a systems,
lubricant would not return to compressor and would
cause early compressor failure. If significant amount of
oil has been lost from compressor, replace oil rather
than adding oil.
•Ester oils used in HFC134a systems are so
hydroscopic that by the time an inadequate system
performance is detected, oil will be saturated with
moisture.
•CFC12 has much higher tolerance to system
processing materials, such as drawing compounds,
rust inhibitors, and cleaning compounds, than
HFC134a. Such materials are not soluble in HFC134a
systems. If materials were to be washed from system
surfaces by ester oils, they could accumulate and
eventually plug capillary tube.
•Care must be taken to minimize moisture entering
HFC134a system. Do not leave compressor or system
open to atmosphere for more than 10 minutes.
Excessive moisture in HFC134a system will react with
compressor oil and generate acid.
•Compressor must be replaced when performing low
side leak repair.
•Drier filter must always be replaced with service drier
filter, part #B2150504.
Important: Unbrazing drier filter from tubing will drive
moisture from desiccant and into system, causing
acids to form. Do not unbraze filter drier from tubing. If
CFC12 service drier was installed in HFC134A system,
drier could overload due to excessive moisture.
•HFC134a compatible copper tubing, part #R0174075
(1/4" O.D. X 18" length) and part #R0174076 (5/16"
O.D. X 24" length) must be used when replacing
tubing.
•Avoid system contamination by using Towerdraw E610
evaporating oil, part # R0157532, when flaring,
swagging, or cutting refrigeration tubing.
Service Procedures
HFC134a Service Information
HFC134a is alternative refrigerant for CFC12.
HFC134a has an ozone depletion potential (ODP)
factor of 0.0 and a global warming potential (GWP)
factor of 0.27. HFC134a is not flammable and has
acceptable toxicity levels. HFC134a is not
interchangeable with CFC12. There are significant
differences between HFC134a and CFC12 which must
be considered when handling and processing
refrigeration system.
Health, Safety, and Handling
Health, safety and handling considerations for
HFC134A are virtually no different than those for
CFC12.
Comparison of CFC12 and HFC134a Properties
Health, Safety, and
Handling CFC12 HFC134a
Allowable overall
exposure limit 1,000 ppm Same
Vapor exposure to skin No effect Same
Liquid exposure to skin Can cause frostbite Same
Vapor exposure to eye Very slight eye irritant Same
Liquid exposure to eye Can cause frostbite Same
Above minimum exposure
limit Can cause Asphyxiation, Tachycardia, and Cardia
Arrhythmias
Same
Safety and handling Wear appropriate skin
and eye protection. Use
with adequate
ventilation.
Same
Spill management Remove or extinguish
ignition or combustion
sources. Evacuate or
ventilate area.
Same
Fire explosion hazards May decompose if
contact with flames and
heating elements.
Container may explode
if heated due to resulting
pressure rise.
Combustion products
are toxic.
Same
Disposal procedures Recycle or reclaim. Same
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
!WARNING
CAUTION!
Properties/Characteristics CFC12 HFC134a
Ozone Depletion Potential
(ODP) 1.0* 0.0*
Global Warming Potential
(GPW) 3.2* 0.27*
Molecular weight 121 102
Boiling point at 1 atmosphere -22°F (-30°C) -15°F(-
126°C)
Vapor pressure at 77°F
(25°C) 80 psig 82 psig
Liquid density at 77°F (25°C) 82 lb/ft375 lb/ft3
Flammability No No
High-side system operating
Pressure at 65°F (18°C) HFC134a approximately 3 psig higher than CFC12
Low-side system operating
Pressure at 65°F (18°C) HFC134a approximately 2 psig lower than CFC12

17 RS1300005 Rev. 0
To avoid death or severe personal injury, never use
oxygen, air or acetylene for pressure testing or
clean out of refrigeration system. Use of oxygen,
air, or acetylene may result in violent explosion.
Oxygen may explode on contact with oil and
acetylene will spontaneously explode when under
pressure.
Replacement Service Compressor
HFC134a service compressors will be charged with
ester oil and pressurized with dry nitrogen. Before
replacement compressor is installed, pull out 1 rubber
plug. A pop from pressure release should be heard. If
a pop sound is not heard, do not use compressor.
Positive pressure in compressor is vital to keep
moisture out of ester oil. Do not leave compressor
open to atmosphere for more than 10 minutes.
Compressor Testing Procedures
Refer to Technical Data Sheet “Temperature
Relationship Chart” for operating watts, test points,
and temperature relationship test for unit being tested.
•Temperature testing is accomplished by using 3 lead
thermocouple temperature tester in specific locations.
Test point T-1 is outlet on evaporator coil and T-2 is
inlet. Test point T-3 is suction tube temperature
midway between where armaflex ends and suction
port of compressor (approximately 12 inches from
compressor).
•Thermocouple tips should be attached securely to
specified locations.
•Do not test during initial pull down. Allow one off cycle
or balanced temperature condition to occur before
proceeding with testing.
•Refrigerator must operate minimum of 20 minutes
after thermocouples are installed.
•Turn control to colder to obtain required on time.
•Wattage reading must be recorded in conjunction with
temperature test to confirm proper operation.
•Suction and head pressures are listed on
“Temperature and Relationship Chart”. Normally these
are not required for diagnosis but used for confirmation
on systems which have been opened.
Service Procedures
To avoid risk of electrical shock, personal injury, or death, disconnect electrical power source to unit, unless test
procedures require power to be connected. Discharge capacitor through a 10,000 ohm resistor before attempting
to service. Ensure all ground wires are connected before certifying unit as repaired and/or operational.
!WARNING
Brazing
CAUTION!
To avoid risk of personal injury or property damage,
take necessary precautions against high
temperatures required for brazing.
Satisfactory results require cleanliness, experience,
and use of proper materials and equipment.
Connections to be brazed must be properly sized, free
of rough edges, and clean.
Generally accepted brazing materials are:
•Copper to copper joints: SIL-FOS (alloy of 15
percent silver, 80 percent copper, and 5 percent
phosphorous). Use without flux. Recommended
brazing temperature is approximately 1400°F. Do not
use for copper to steel connection.
•Copper to steel joints: SILVER SOLDER (alloy of 30
percent silver, 38 percent copper, 32 percent zinc).
Use with fluoride based flux. Recommended brazing
temperature is approximately 1200°F.
•Steel to steel joints: SILVER SOLDER (see copper
to steel joints).
•Brass to copper joints: SILVER SOLDER (see
copper to steel joints).
•Brass to steel joints: SILVER SOLDER (see copper
to steel joints).
WARNING!

RS1300005 Rev. 0 18
Refrigerant Flow
22, 24, 26 cu. ft. Side by Side
Refrigerant Flow Diagram
EVAPORATOR
COMPRESSOR
PROCESS TUBE
CONDENSER
EVAPORATOR
INLET
FLANGE LOOP
EVAPORATOR OUTLET
SUCTION LINE
HIGH SIDE
DRIER
CAPILLARY TUBE
PROCESS TUBE
C
O
M
P
R
E
S
S
O
R
D
I
S
C
H
A
R
G
E
L
I
N
E

19 RS1300005 Rev. 0
Cabinet Air Flow
24, 26 cu. ft. Side by Side
Cabinet Air Flow Diagram
FREEZER BACK
(AIR BAFFLE)
AIR SUPPLY
(IN FOAM)
REFRIGERATOR AIR
RETURN TUNNEL
CONDENSER
COMPRESSOR
LARGE BEVERAGE CHILLER
AIR SUPPLY
EVAPORATOR
EVAPORATOR
FAN ASSEMBLY
REFRIGERATORAIR
SUPPLYTUNNEL
TOFRESHFOOD
COMPARTMENTCONTROLS
CONDENSERFAN
ASSEMBLY
DELI
AIRSUPPLY
SIDEBYSIDE
AIRFLOWDIAGRAM
SMALL BEVERAGE CHILLER
AIR SUPPLY
(SOME MODELS)
(SOME MODELS)

RS1300005 Rev. 0 20
Cabinet Air Flow
22 cu. ft. Side by Side
Cabinet Air Flow Diagram
FREEZER BACK
(AIR BAFFLE)
AIR SUPPLY
(IN FOAM)
REFRIGERATOR AIR
RETURN TUNNEL
CONDENSER FAN
ASSEMBLY
COMPRESSOR
CONDENSER
EVAPORATOR
LARGE BEVERAGE CHILLER
AIR SUPPLY
(SOME MODELS)
DELI
AIR SUPPLY
EVAPORATOR
FAN ASSEMBLY
REFRIGERATOR AIR
COMPARTMENT CONTROLS
SUPPLYTUNNEL
TOFRESHFOOD
SMALL BEVERAGE CHILLER
AIR SUPPLY
(SOME MODELS)