Electrolux R134A User manual

SERVICE MANUAL
© Electrolux
Muggenhofer Straße 135
D-90429 Nürnberg
ermany
Fax [phone]
Spares Operation
Publ.-Nr.:
599 513 874
685
03.02
REFRIGERATOR
EN
Edition:
Side by Side

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599 513 874 EN
SAFETY PRECASAFETY PRECA
SAFETY PRECASAFETY PRECA
SAFETY PRECAUTIONSUTIONS
UTIONSUTIONS
UTIONS
THIS MANUTHIS MANU
THIS MANUTHIS MANU
THIS MANUAL IS TAL IS T
AL IS TAL IS T
AL IS TO BE USED ONLO BE USED ONL
O BE USED ONLO BE USED ONL
O BE USED ONLYBYB
YBYB
YB
YAMAYAMA
YAMAYAMA
YAMA
YTYT
YTYT
YTAA
AA
AGAGA
GAGA
GA
UTHORIZED SERVICE TECHNICIANUTHORIZED SERVICE TECHNICIAN
UTHORIZED SERVICE TECHNICIANUTHORIZED SERVICE TECHNICIAN
UTHORIZED SERVICE TECHNICIAN
FF
FF
FAMILIAR WITH AND KNOWLEDGEABLE OF PROPER SAFETY AND SERVICING PROCEAMILIAR WITH AND KNOWLEDGEABLE OF PROPER SAFETY AND SERVICING PROCE
AMILIAR WITH AND KNOWLEDGEABLE OF PROPER SAFETY AND SERVICING PROCEAMILIAR WITH AND KNOWLEDGEABLE OF PROPER SAFETY AND SERVICING PROCE
AMILIAR WITH AND KNOWLEDGEABLE OF PROPER SAFETY AND SERVICING PROCE--
--
-
DURES AND POSSESSING HIGH QUDURES AND POSSESSING HIGH QU
DURES AND POSSESSING HIGH QUDURES AND POSSESSING HIGH QU
DURES AND POSSESSING HIGH QUALITY TESTING EQUIPMENT ASSOCIAALITY TESTING EQUIPMENT ASSOCIA
ALITY TESTING EQUIPMENT ASSOCIAALITY TESTING EQUIPMENT ASSOCIA
ALITY TESTING EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATED WITHTED WITH
TED WITHTED WITH
TED WITH
MICROWMICROW
MICROWMICROW
MICROWAA
AA
AVEVE
VEVE
VE, GAS, GAS
, GAS, GAS
, GAS, AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REP, AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REP
, AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REP, AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REP
, AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE REPAIR.AIR.
AIR.AIR.
AIR.
ALL INDIVIDUALL INDIVIDU
ALL INDIVIDUALL INDIVIDU
ALL INDIVIDUALS WHO AALS WHO A
ALS WHO AALS WHO A
ALS WHO ATTEMPT REPTTEMPT REP
TTEMPT REPTTEMPT REP
TTEMPT REPAIRS BAIRS B
AIRS BAIRS B
AIRS BY IMPROPER MEANS OR ADJUSTMENTSY IMPROPER MEANS OR ADJUSTMENTS
Y IMPROPER MEANS OR ADJUSTMENTSY IMPROPER MEANS OR ADJUSTMENTS
Y IMPROPER MEANS OR ADJUSTMENTS,,
,,
,
SUBJECT THEMSELSUBJECT THEMSEL
SUBJECT THEMSELSUBJECT THEMSEL
SUBJECT THEMSELVES AND OVES AND O
VES AND OVES AND O
VES AND OTHERS TTHERS T
THERS TTHERS T
THERS TO THE RISK OF SERIOUS OR FO THE RISK OF SERIOUS OR F
O THE RISK OF SERIOUS OR FO THE RISK OF SERIOUS OR F
O THE RISK OF SERIOUS OR FAA
AA
ATT
TT
TAL INJURAL INJUR
AL INJURAL INJUR
AL INJURYY
YY
Y..
..
.
USE ONLUSE ONL
USE ONLUSE ONL
USE ONLY GENUINE MAY GENUINE MA
Y GENUINE MAY GENUINE MA
Y GENUINE MAYTYT
YTYT
YTAA
AA
AG APPROG APPRO
G APPROG APPRO
G APPROVED FVED F
VED FVED F
VED FAA
AA
ACTCT
CTCT
CTOROR
OROR
ORY REPLAY REPLA
Y REPLAY REPLA
Y REPLACEMENT COMPONENTSCEMENT COMPONENTS
CEMENT COMPONENTSCEMENT COMPONENTS
CEMENT COMPONENTS..
..
.

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599 513 874 EN
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
This refrigeration service manual provides the information necessary to service Side-by-
Side model refrigerators.
NOTE: ALL MODELS COVERED IN THIS SERVICE MANUAL USE R134A REFRIGER-NOTE: ALL MODELS COVERED IN THIS SERVICE MANUAL USE R134A REFRIGER-
NOTE: ALL MODELS COVERED IN THIS SERVICE MANUAL USE R134A REFRIGER-NOTE: ALL MODELS COVERED IN THIS SERVICE MANUAL USE R134A REFRIGER-
NOTE: ALL MODELS COVERED IN THIS SERVICE MANUAL USE R134A REFRIGER-
ANTANT
ANTANT
ANT..
..
.
The manual is printed in loose leaf format. Each part of this manual is divided into sec-
tions relating to a general group of components and each section is subdivided into
various parts describing a particular component or service procedure.
The subdividing of the subject matter, plus the loose leaf form, will facilitate the updating
of the manual as new models, and new or revised components of service procedures
are introduced.
Each page of this manual will be identified in the lower right hand corner. As new or
revised pages are published, it will be easy to keep the manual up to date.
This serivce manual is a valuable service tool and care should be taken to keep it up to
date by prompt and proper filing of subsequent pages as they are issued.
The following models are covered in this manual:The following models are covered in this manual:
The following models are covered in this manual:The following models are covered in this manual:
The following models are covered in this manual:
ALL "E" MODELS ARE ENERGALL "E" MODELS ARE ENERG
ALL "E" MODELS ARE ENERGALL "E" MODELS ARE ENERG
ALL "E" MODELS ARE ENERGY MODELSY MODELS
Y MODELSY MODELS
Y MODELS, AND HA, AND HA
, AND HA, AND HA
, AND HAVE A PREMIUM SOUND PVE A PREMIUM SOUND P
VE A PREMIUM SOUND PVE A PREMIUM SOUND P
VE A PREMIUM SOUND PAA
AA
ACKCK
CKCK
CKAA
AA
AGEGE
GEGE
GE..
..
.
NONO
NONO
NOTETE
TETE
TE: WHEN SERVICING "E" MODELS: WHEN SERVICING "E" MODELS
: WHEN SERVICING "E" MODELS: WHEN SERVICING "E" MODELS
: WHEN SERVICING "E" MODELS, USE ONL, USE ONL
, USE ONL, USE ONL
, USE ONLYPYP
YPYP
YP
ARTS SHOWN FOR THAARTS SHOWN FOR THA
ARTS SHOWN FOR THAARTS SHOWN FOR THA
ARTS SHOWN FOR THAT MODEL INT MODEL IN
T MODEL INT MODEL IN
T MODEL IN
THE PTHE P
THE PTHE P
THE PARTS LISTARTS LIST
ARTS LISTARTS LIST
ARTS LIST..
..
.
GATYAMGATYAMGATYAMGATYAMGATYAM FEHCCIGAMFEHCCIGAMFEHCCIGAM FEHCCIGAMFEHCCIGAM RIA-NNEJRIA-NNEJRIA-NNEJRIA-NNEJRIA-NNEJ

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599 513 874 EN

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599 513 874 EN
CONTENTSCONTENTS
CONTENTSCONTENTS
CONTENTS
GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONSGENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONSGENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ......................................................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................... ii
ii
i
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................ iiii
iiii
ii
CONTENTSCONTENTS
CONTENTSCONTENTS
CONTENTS ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................... iviv
iviv
iv
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMASECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMA
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMASECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMA
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMATIONTION
TIONTION
TION..................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................1-11-1
1-11-1
1-1
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................................1-1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ...........................................................................................................1-1
Grounding Instructions .......................................................................................................1-1
FORCED AIR SYSTEMS............................................................................................................1-2
AIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMS .......................................................................................1-2
CHECKING OPERATION ...........................................................................................................1-3
TOOLS NEEDED FOR R134A SEALED SYSTEM REPAIR.......................................................1-4
ADDITIONAL SYSTEM INFORMATION...................................................................................1-5
R134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURE ..................................................................1-7
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM .......................................................................................................1-8
REFRIGERATION CYCLE...........................................................................................................1-9
DIAGNOSIS..............................................................................................................................1-10
SEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS ..............................................................................................1-10
LEAK TESTING ........................................................................................................................ 1-12
COMPONENTS........................................................................................................................1-13
Drier ....................................................................................................................................1-13
Condenser........................................................................................................................... 1-13
Yoder Loop..........................................................................................................................1-14
Evaporator ..........................................................................................................................1-15
Heat Exchanger ..................................................................................................................1-15
Compressor ........................................................................................................................1-15
SYSTEM FLUSH ...................................................................................................................... 1-15
SEALED SYSTEM REPAIR SUMMARY .................................................................................1-16
SYSTEM FLUSH PROCEDURE ...............................................................................................1-16
SWEEP AND FINAL CHARGE................................................................................................ 1-19
SECTION 2. COMPONENTSSECTION 2. COMPONENTS
SECTION 2. COMPONENTSSECTION 2. COMPONENTS
SECTION 2. COMPONENTS ....................................................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................2-12-1
2-12-1
2-1
COMPRESSOR REPLACEMENT ..............................................................................................2-1
REPLACING THE COMPRESSOR.............................................................................................2-1
CONDENSER REPLACEMENT..................................................................................................2-2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ..............................................................................................................2-4
Testing the Compressor Direct ...........................................................................................2-4
Overload Protector ..............................................................................................................2-5
Testing the Overload Protector........................................................................................... 2-5
PTC STARTING DEVICE AND RUN CAPACITOR.....................................................................2-6
PTC Device Replacement.....................................................................................................2-7
RUN CAPACITOR.......................................................................................................................2-7
Testing the Capacitor ...........................................................................................................2-7
Alternate Method Using Ohmmeter...................................................................................2-7
TEMPERATURE CONTROL....................................................................................................... 2-8
Checking Operating Temperatures.....................................................................................2-8
Temperature Control Replacement ....................................................................................2-9

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599 513 874 EN
AUTO DAMPER CONTROL MODELS....................................................................................... 2-10
Checking the Auto Damper ................................................................................................ 2-11
Auto Damper Control Replacement................................................................................... 2-11
AUTO DAMPER CONTROL - Exploded View ..........................................................................2-12
DEFROST TIMER ...................................................................................................................... 2-13
Checking the Defrost Timer................................................................................................ 2-14
Timer Replacement............................................................................................................. 2-14
ADAPTIVE DEFROST CONTROL ............................................................................................. 2-14
Checking the Adaptive Defrost Control............................................................................. 2-15
AIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMS ....................................................................................... 2-15
DEFROST HEATER REPLACEMENT ........................................................................................ 2-17
DEFROST THERMOSTAT REPLACEMENT .............................................................................. 2-17
CONDENSERFAN MOTOR.......................................................................................................2-18
To Check Condenser Motor Direct ..................................................................................... 2-18
Condenser Fan Motor Replacement .................................................................................. 2-19
FREEZER FAN MOTOR ............................................................................................................. 2-19
Freezer Fan Motor Diagnosis ............................................................................................. 2-19
Freezer Fan Motor Replacement ........................................................................................ 2-20
SECTION 3. CABINET & RELASECTION 3. CABINET & RELA
SECTION 3. CABINET & RELASECTION 3. CABINET & RELA
SECTION 3. CABINET & RELATED COMPONENTSTED COMPONENTS
TED COMPONENTSTED COMPONENTS
TED COMPONENTS ..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
.....................................................3-13-1
3-13-1
3-1
ADJUSTABLE CANTILEVER SHELVES....................................................................................3-1
ADJUSTABLE CANTILEVER SHELF TRIMS ............................................................................3-1
CABINET DOORS AND ASSOCIATED PARTS .......................................................................3-1
Inner Door Liner Replacement............................................................................................3-1
Outer Door Panel Replacement ..........................................................................................3-2
FRONT WHEEL ASSEMBLY .....................................................................................................3-2
CABINET LEVELING ..................................................................................................................3-2
DOOR SEAL............................................................................................................................... 3-3
TOE-IN & TOE-OUT ADJUSTMENTS....................................................................................... 3-3
HINGE ADJUSTMENTS ............................................................................................................3-3
DOOR ALIGNMENT...................................................................................................................3-4
DOOR SWITCH..........................................................................................................................3-4
WATER/ICE DISPENSER FREEZER DOOR REMOVAL ...........................................................3-4
FOUNTAIN ASSEMBLY - Manual Slide Control .....................................................................3-6
Ice and Water Fountain Bracket Assembly Removal ........................................................3-6
Checking and Replacing the Crusher and Water/Cube Switch........................................3-6
Checking and Replacing the Actuaring Switch................................................................. 3-7
Fountain Heater .................................................................................................................... 3-7
PC BOARD CHECKS..................................................................................................................3-8
Fountain Door Delay ............................................................................................................3-7
Excessive Door Delay ..........................................................................................................3-7
Short Door Delay ................................................................................................................. 3-7
FOUNTAIN ASSEMBLY - Electronic Control ..........................................................................3-8
Ice and Water Fountain Bracket Removal ..........................................................................3-8
Fountain Bracket Assembly.................................................................................................3-9
Checking and Replacing the Actuator Switch...................................................................3-9
Electronic Control Board Troubleshooting ........................................................................3-9
ICE CRUSHER BIN AND SHELF ASSEMBLY......................................................................... 3-10
ICE/CRUSHER BIN SHELF ENCLOSURE ASSEMBLY...........................................................3-11

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SECTION 4. ICEMAKERSECTION 4. ICEMAKER
SECTION 4. ICEMAKERSECTION 4. ICEMAKER
SECTION 4. ICEMAKER....................................................................................................................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................4-14-1
4-14-1
4-1
SERVICING.................................................................................................................................4-1
TEST PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................4-1
SERVICE PROCEDURES ...........................................................................................................4-2
ACCESSING THE CONTROL BOX ...........................................................................................4-2
MODULE COMPONENTS.........................................................................................................4-3
WATER FILL ADJUSTMENT .....................................................................................................4-4
WATER PROBLEMS ..................................................................................................................4-5
TEMPERATURE PROBLEMS ....................................................................................................4-5
THERMOSTAT ...........................................................................................................................4-5
INSTALLATION ..........................................................................................................................4-6
HARNESS...................................................................................................................................4-6
LEVELING ICEMAKER ............................................................................................................... 4-7
REMOVING & REPLACING FILL CUP .......................................................................................4-7
OTHER INFORMATION .............................................................................................................4-8
SECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTINGSECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTING
SECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTINGSECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTING
SECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................5-15-1
5-15-1
5-1
SECTION 6. SPECIFICASECTION 6. SPECIFICA
SECTION 6. SPECIFICASECTION 6. SPECIFICA
SECTION 6. SPECIFICATIONSTIONS
TIONSTIONS
TIONS ............................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................6-16-1
6-16-1
6-1
INDEX.........................................................................................................................................6-1
21' DISPENSER/NON DISPENSER ........................................................................................... 6-2
23'/25' DISPENSER/NON DISPENSER......................................................................................6-3
21' NON DISPENSER (MAYTAG)..............................................................................................6-4
23'/25' DISPENSER/NON DISPENSER (MAYTAG)...................................................................6-5
23'/25' DISPENSER/NON DISPENSER (MAYTAG PREMIUM) ................................................6-6
SECTION 7. SCHEMASECTION 7. SCHEMA
SECTION 7. SCHEMASECTION 7. SCHEMA
SECTION 7. SCHEMATICSTICS
TICSTICS
TICS ........................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................7-17-1
7-17-1
7-1
INDEX.........................................................................................................................................7-1

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1-1
1-11-1
1-1
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMASECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMA
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMASECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMA
SECTION 1. GENERAL INFORMATIONTION
TIONTION
TION
INSTRUCTIONS -INSTRUCTIONS -
INSTRUCTIONS -INSTRUCTIONS -
INSTRUCTIONS - ELECTRICALELECTRICAL
ELECTRICALELECTRICAL
ELECTRICAL
REQUIREMENTSREQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTSREQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS
It is the personal responsibility and obliga-
tion of the appliance owner to provide ad-
equate electrical service for this appliance.
Observe all electrical and local codes and
ordinaces.
A 120 volt 60 Hz, 15 ampere fused electri-
cal supply is required. An individual branch
(or separate circuit serving only this appli-
ance) is recommended.
Do not use an extension cord.Do not use an extension cord.
Do not use an extension cord.Do not use an extension cord.
Do not use an extension cord.
Before plugging in power cord, operatingBefore plugging in power cord, operating
Before plugging in power cord, operatingBefore plugging in power cord, operating
Before plugging in power cord, operating
or testing, follow grounding instructionsor testing, follow grounding instructions
or testing, follow grounding instructionsor testing, follow grounding instructions
or testing, follow grounding instructions
in Grounding Section.in Grounding Section.
in Grounding Section.in Grounding Section.
in Grounding Section.
Electrical Service
Grounding: 120 VOLTS, 60Hz Only
IMPORTIMPORT
IMPORTIMPORT
IMPORTANT SAFETYANT SAFETY
ANT SAFETYANT SAFETY
ANT SAFETY
PRECAUTIONSPRECAUTIONS
PRECAUTIONSPRECAUTIONS
PRECAUTIONS
WW
WW
WARNINGARNING
ARNINGARNING
ARNING::
::
:
PP
PP
P
ersonal Injury Hazard -ersonal Injury Hazard -
ersonal Injury Hazard -ersonal Injury Hazard -
ersonal Injury Hazard -
TT
TT
To prevent unnecessary risk of fire, elec-o prevent unnecessary risk of fire, elec-
o prevent unnecessary risk of fire, elec-o prevent unnecessary risk of fire, elec-
o prevent unnecessary risk of fire, elec-
trical shock or personal injurytrical shock or personal injury
trical shock or personal injurytrical shock or personal injury
trical shock or personal injury, all wiring, all wiring
, all wiring, all wiring
, all wiring
and grounding must be done in accor-and grounding must be done in accor-
and grounding must be done in accor-and grounding must be done in accor-
and grounding must be done in accor-
dance with National Electrical Code anddance with National Electrical Code and
dance with National Electrical Code anddance with National Electrical Code and
dance with National Electrical Code and
local codes and ordinances.local codes and ordinances.
local codes and ordinances.local codes and ordinances.
local codes and ordinances.
WW
WW
Warningarning
arningarning
arning - Electrical- Electrical
- Electrical- Electrical
- Electrical
ground is required onground is required on
ground is required onground is required on
ground is required on
this appliance!this appliance!
this appliance!this appliance!
this appliance!
Grounding InstructionsGrounding Instructions
Grounding InstructionsGrounding Instructions
Grounding Instructions
This appliance is equipped with a power
supply cord having a 3-prong grounding
plug. For your safety, this cord must be
plugged into a mating 3-prong type wall re-
ceptacle which is properly wired,properly wired,
properly wired,properly wired,
properly wired, groundedgrounded
groundedgrounded
grounded
and polarized.and polarized.
and polarized.and polarized.
and polarized.
If a mating wall receptacle is not available
contact a qualified electrician to have the
wall receptacle replaced. Do not use an ACDo not use an AC
Do not use an ACDo not use an AC
Do not use an AC
adapter plug.adapter plug.
adapter plug.adapter plug.
adapter plug. If there is any question, local
building officials or electrical utility should
be consulted.
WW
WW
Warningarning
arningarning
arning - Do not under- Do not under
- Do not under- Do not under
- Do not under
any circumstances re-any circumstances re-
any circumstances re-any circumstances re-
any circumstances re-
move the groundingmove the grounding
move the groundingmove the grounding
move the grounding
prong from the powerprong from the power
prong from the powerprong from the power
prong from the power
supply cord.supply cord.
supply cord.supply cord.
supply cord.

1-2
1-21-2
1-2
FORCED AIR SYSTEMSFORCED AIR SYSTEMS
FORCED AIR SYSTEMSFORCED AIR SYSTEMS
FORCED AIR SYSTEMS
On all forced air models, an air circulating
fan draws air from across the evaporator and
directs it to the fresh food and freezer com-
partments. A carefully measured amount
of chilled air is directed into the fresh food
compartment through a baffle to maintain
the desired fresh food compartment tem-
perature. The greater part of chilled air is
directed into the freezer compartment to
maintain freezer temperature. Forced air
models use a fan cooled condenser. De-
pending on the model, the evaporator is
automatically defrosted every eight hours
of compressor run time. Defrosting is ac-
complished by a defrost heater activated by
a timer. The accumulated moisture is
drained into a defrost pan located in the
compressor area of the cabinet.
FRONT VIEWFRONT VIEW
FRONT VIEWFRONT VIEW
FRONT VIEW
FREEZER SIDE VIEWFREEZER SIDE VIEW
FREEZER SIDE VIEWFREEZER SIDE VIEW
FREEZER SIDE VIEW
AIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMSAIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMS
AIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMSAIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMS
AIR FLOW - FORCED AIR SYSTEMS
The airflow balance between the fresh food
and freezer compartments is an important
factor in maintaining proper compartment
temperatures in a forced air refrigeration
system. A baffle is used to regulate the
amount of chilled air directed into the fresh
food compartment. If a colder freezer com-
partment temperature is desired, the baffle
is adjusted so that less air is directed into
the fresh food compartment. This causes
the compressor to run longer since the ther-
mostat sensing element is located in the
fresh food compartment. Cold air is drawn
across the evaporator and into the fan. A
portion of the air is deflected into the fresh
food compartment where it absorbs heat
and returns to the fin and tube evaporator

1-3
1-31-3
1-3
The following general information explains
several methods for checking operation of
the refrigeration system. This information
applies to all systems covered in this
manual. The correct operation of a refrig-
eration system is dependent upon the
proper function of each of the parts com-
prising the system.
If the system does not operate properly
(long run periods, warmer than normal tem-
peratures), the trouble may be caused by
one of the following conditions:
(1) - R(1) - R
(1) - R(1) - R
(1) - Restricted Capillary Testricted Capillary T
estricted Capillary Testricted Capillary T
estricted Capillary Tubeube
ubeube
ube
The opening of a capillary tube is about the
same diameter as the period at the end of
this sentence. Because of this, it is easy to
restrict the tube. Extra precautions should
be taken when any service procedure in-
volves moving or touching the capillary
tube. The slightest kink can cause a com-
plete tube restriction.
Restrictions of the capillary tube may be
caused by: (1) moisture freeze-up, (2) for-
eign particles lodged in the tube, or (3) a
bend or kink.
If the capillary tube is restricted, there will
be a noticeable lack of frost on all cooling
surfaces; the compressor may operate for
a short period of time and cycle on the
CHECKING OPERACHECKING OPERA
CHECKING OPERACHECKING OPERA
CHECKING OPERATIONTION
TIONTION
TION
overload. Because some models can hold
the entire charge in the condenser, the com-
pressor may run continuously and a defi-
nite vacuum will be noticed in the low side.
When moisture freeze-up causes a restric-
tion, it usually occurs at the outlet end of
the capillary tube. Normally, frost buildup
can be detected in this area.
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE: When using a heat gun or hairWhen using a heat gun or hair
When using a heat gun or hairWhen using a heat gun or hair
When using a heat gun or hair
dryerdryer
dryerdryer
dryer, use low heat. Never use a torch., use low heat. Never use a torch.
, use low heat. Never use a torch., use low heat. Never use a torch.
, use low heat. Never use a torch.
At the discharge end of the capillary, apply
heat. If there is enough head pressure, and
if the restriction is caused by moisture
freeze-up, you will be able to hear a gurgling
noise as the heat releases the refrigerant
through the tubing.
It is possible that this moisture will be ab-
sorbed by the drier and remedy the trouble.
However, if the freeze-up reoccurs, you
must replace the drier.
A kink in the capillary tube will reveal the
same symptom as a moisture freeze-up,
except for the accumulation of frost. Where
possible, check the capillary tube and
straighten any kinks to relieve the restric-
tions. Check the unit operation. If the con-
dition persists, replace the defective part.
If the freeze-up condition does not exist and
there is not a kink, you can assume that a
foreign particle is causing the restrictions.
The only remedy in this case is to replace
the restricted part.
(2) - P(2) - P
(2) - P(2) - P
(2) - Partial Rartial R
artial Rartial R
artial Restriction In Low Sideestriction In Low Side
estriction In Low Sideestriction In Low Side
estriction In Low Side
TT
TT
T
ubingubing
ubingubing
ubing
Bent tubing, foreign matter, or moisture in
the system may cause a partial restriction
in the low side tubing. This is usually indi-
cated by frost-free tubing between the re-
through the return opening in the divider.
However, most of the air moving across the
evaporator is blown through the freezer air
tunnel and circulated throughout the freezer
compartment. It then circulates back across
the fin and tube evaporator where it begins
another cycle.

1-4
1-41-4
1-4
striction and the capillary tube and by frost-
covered tubing between the restriction and
the suction line. The restriction acts like a
second capillary tube, increasing the pres-
sure ahead of it (warming) and decreasing
the pressure beyond it (cooling). To con-
firm the existence of a restriction in the low
side tubing, perform operational pressure
checks.
(3) - Slow Leak In System(3) - Slow Leak In System
(3) - Slow Leak In System(3) - Slow Leak In System
(3) - Slow Leak In System
On forced air models, long run time will be
noticed during the early stages of a leak. As
the refrigerant continues to escape, both
compartments will gradually warm up and
the compressor will run continuously. The
freezer will probably warm up first.
4) - Incorrect Refrigerant Charge4) - Incorrect Refrigerant Charge
4) - Incorrect Refrigerant Charge4) - Incorrect Refrigerant Charge
4) - Incorrect Refrigerant Charge
The sealed unit may have too much refrig-
erant (overcharged system) or too little re-
frigerant (undercharged system). The para-
graphs below will inform you on how to
recognize a system with these defects.
An overcharged system may have a frost
back condition appearing on the suction
line. When the compressor stops, the frost
melts and drips on the floor. A heat ex-
changer separation will also cause this
symptom.
An undercharged system, depending on the
degree of undercharge, will operate with
temperatures above normal and the com-
pressor run time will be increased. The
greater the undercharge, the higher the tem-
perature will be and the longer the run time.
An undercharged system must be purged,
evacuated, and recharged with the proper
amount of refrigerant. Before recharging,
test for refrigerant leaks.
TOOLS NEEDED FOR R134ATOOLS NEEDED FOR R134A
TOOLS NEEDED FOR R134ATOOLS NEEDED FOR R134A
TOOLS NEEDED FOR R134A
SEALED SYSTEM REPSEALED SYSTEM REP
SEALED SYSTEM REPSEALED SYSTEM REP
SEALED SYSTEM REPAIRAIR
AIRAIR
AIR
The following list may help identify basic
refrigeration tools needed:
 ALL HOSES AND EQUIPMENT MUST
MEET STANDARDS FOR HANDLING R134A RE-
FRIGERANTS
 APPROVED AND CERTIFIED RECOVERY EQUIP-
MENT AND RECOVERY CYLINDER (see local sup-
plier for variety of equipment)
 MANIFOLD GAUGE SET / HOSES MUST HAVE
LOW LOSS FITTINGS
(Robinair 41365)
 HEATED CHARGING CYLINDER WITH R134A
SCALE (Robinair 43134B)
 TEMPORARY ACCESS VALVES (2)
(Robinair 40288)
 1/4" FLARE TEE - MFL X MFL X FFL
(Robinair 40399)
 1/4" QUICK COUPLER VALVE
(Robinair 40380)
 PROCESS TUBE ADAPTER SET
(Robinair 12458)
Other tools required, but not necessarilyOther tools required, but not necessarily
Other tools required, but not necessarilyOther tools required, but not necessarily
Other tools required, but not necessarily
dedicated to R134A Service:dedicated to R134A Service:
dedicated to R134A Service:dedicated to R134A Service:
dedicated to R134A Service:
 TUBING CUTTER
(Robinair 14987A)
 BRAZING TORCH
(Robinair 12587)
 SWAGGING TOOLS
(Robinair 14313)
 VOLT-WATT METER (MAYTAG CUSTOMER
SERVICE 20000019)
 LEAK DETECTION EQUIPMENT FOR CFC/HCFC
AND HFC OR EQUIVALENT
 PINCH-OFF TOOLS
(Robinair 12294 or 12396)

1-5
1-51-5
1-5
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE: Robinair equipment is listed as aRobinair equipment is listed as a
Robinair equipment is listed as aRobinair equipment is listed as a
Robinair equipment is listed as a
reference onlyreference only
reference onlyreference only
reference only, equivalent substitutes may, equivalent substitutes may
, equivalent substitutes may, equivalent substitutes may
, equivalent substitutes may
be used. Additional tools may be requiredbe used. Additional tools may be required
be used. Additional tools may be requiredbe used. Additional tools may be required
be used. Additional tools may be required
for special situations.for special situations.
for special situations.for special situations.
for special situations.
LEAK DETECTOR -LEAK DETECTOR -
LEAK DETECTOR -LEAK DETECTOR -
LEAK DETECTOR - Leak detectors compat-
ible with R134A should be used. Due to the
possibility of contaminating the sealed sys-
tem with moisture, using soap bubbles can
cause problems, especially if drawn into a
low side leak. To minimize the possibility
of moisture entering the system, the use of
wet rags or towels to cool a brazed joint
should be avoided.
DRIERS/FILDRIERS/FIL
DRIERS/FILDRIERS/FIL
DRIERS/FILTERS -TERS -
TERS -TERS -
TERS - Any time a sealed sys-
tem repair is made, the drier must be re-
placed. The drier on R134A systems is dif-
ferent, using a new desiccant which pro-
vides system compatibility and proper
moisture absorption. Use of the old type
drier on new R134A systems would result
in a repeat sealed system failure. Part num-
ber 13900-113900-1
13900-113900-1
13900-1 is the drier which must be used
on R134A systems. This drier may also be
used on R12 systems and will supersede
the 13900 drier, but be sure that the older
13900 is NOTNOT
NOTNOT
NOT used on the R134A system.
Additionally, "unsoldering" a joint, rather
than the score and break method, is not ac-
ceptable due to the possibility of chemical
and moisture contamination. Always cut the
drier out of the system-never apply heat.
LIMIT TIME OF EXPOSURE TO THELIMIT TIME OF EXPOSURE TO THE
LIMIT TIME OF EXPOSURE TO THELIMIT TIME OF EXPOSURE TO THE
LIMIT TIME OF EXPOSURE TO THE
AA
AA
ATMOSPHERE -TMOSPHERE -
TMOSPHERE -TMOSPHERE -
TMOSPHERE - Whenever a sealed sys-
tem is repaired, do not expose an open line
to the atmosphere for more than 15 min-
utes. Replacement components will come
sealed by either brazing (drier) or plugs
(compressor). Do not open the new drier
to the atmosphere until you are ready to
braze it into place. Before installing a new
compressor, pull a plug to be sure the unit
is still pressurized. If no pressure exists, do
not use the compressor. If pressure exists,
reinstall the plug to ensure non-contamina-
tion during the service procedure.
LOW SIDE LEAKSLOW SIDE LEAKS
LOW SIDE LEAKSLOW SIDE LEAKS
LOW SIDE LEAKS --
--
- In the event of a low
side leak, moisture has probably been
drawn into the system. The compressorcompressor
compressorcompressor
compressor
must be replacedmust be replaced
must be replacedmust be replaced
must be replaced in addition to the normal
repair. Also, a system flush must be made
before proceeding with the sweep charge
and final charge.
PLUGGED CAPILLARY TUBE -PLUGGED CAPILLARY TUBE -
PLUGGED CAPILLARY TUBE -PLUGGED CAPILLARY TUBE -
PLUGGED CAPILLARY TUBE - Moisture or
other contaminants in the R134A system can
cause the formation of gel-like or salt-type
deposits within the system. This causes
capillary tube restrictions which may not be
removed by the flush procedure detailed
later. If the restriction cannot be removed
from the capillary tube, the heat exchanger,
evaporator and compressor must be
replaced.
ADDITIONAL SYSTEMADDITIONAL SYSTEM
ADDITIONAL SYSTEMADDITIONAL SYSTEM
ADDITIONAL SYSTEM
INFORMAINFORMA
INFORMAINFORMA
INFORMATIONTION
TIONTION
TION
CAUTIONCAUTION
CAUTIONCAUTION
CAUTION
Always wear eye protection andAlways wear eye protection and
Always wear eye protection andAlways wear eye protection and
Always wear eye protection and
protective clothing when handlingprotective clothing when handling
protective clothing when handlingprotective clothing when handling
protective clothing when handling
any refrigerants.any refrigerants.
any refrigerants.any refrigerants.
any refrigerants.

1-6
1-61-6
1-6
SYSTEM FLUSH -SYSTEM FLUSH -
SYSTEM FLUSH -SYSTEM FLUSH -
SYSTEM FLUSH - Flushing of the system
is required whenever there has been a low
side leak, plugged capillary tube or com-
pressor replacement. This is a procedure
in which R134A refrigerant is flushed
through the system and into the recovery
system to remove moisture and non-
condensables which may have entered the
open system. The compressor must be
isolated during the flush procedure, in or-
der to prevent contaminants from being ab-
sorbed into the ester oil, resulting in a con-
taminated system.
The system flush procedure will be done
in two parts. First, the condenser, including
the yoder loop, will be isolated by means
of process tube adapters and flushed with
4 ounces of R134A. After the drier has been
replaced, the entire sealed system, minus
the compressor, will also be flushed with 4
ounces of the refrigerant. This second step
can take about 15 minutes in order to circu-
late the refrigerant through the condenser,
the drier, the capillary tube, the evaporator
and out the suction line into the recovery
equipment. During this 15 minutes, the old
compressor can be removed and the re-
placement set into place, mounted and pre-
pared electrically. The compressor is to-
tally installed except for the final brazing of
the suction and discharge lines.

1-7
1-71-7
1-7
Leaks at joints 1 or 2 will requireLeaks at joints 1 or 2 will require
Leaks at joints 1 or 2 will requireLeaks at joints 1 or 2 will require
Leaks at joints 1 or 2 will require
the replacement of the compressorthe replacement of the compressor
the replacement of the compressorthe replacement of the compressor
the replacement of the compressor
and drierand drier
and drierand drier
and drier. P. P
. P. P
. Perform system flush,erform system flush,
erform system flush,erform system flush,
erform system flush,
sweep and final charge.sweep and final charge.
sweep and final charge.sweep and final charge.
sweep and final charge.
R134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURER134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
R134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURER134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
R134A SEALED SYSTEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Any sealed system failure in the upper area indicated below requires the replacement of
the evaporator, heat exchanger, drier and compressor. P. P
. P. P
. Perform system flush, sweep anderform system flush, sweep and
erform system flush, sweep anderform system flush, sweep and
erform system flush, sweep and
add final charge according to procedure shown.add final charge according to procedure shown.
add final charge according to procedure shown.add final charge according to procedure shown.
add final charge according to procedure shown.
Suction LineSuction Line
Suction LineSuction Line
Suction Line
Connection atConnection at
Connection atConnection at
Connection at
the compressorthe compressor
the compressorthe compressor
the compressor
Leaks or repairs to joints or components in theLeaks or repairs to joints or components in the
Leaks or repairs to joints or components in theLeaks or repairs to joints or components in the
Leaks or repairs to joints or components in the lowerlower
lowerlower
lower area require repair or replace-area require repair or replace-
area require repair or replace-area require repair or replace-
area require repair or replace-
ment of the component and drierment of the component and drier
ment of the component and drierment of the component and drier
ment of the component and drier. P. P
. P. P
. Perform system sweep and add final charge accord-erform system sweep and add final charge accord-
erform system sweep and add final charge accord-erform system sweep and add final charge accord-
erform system sweep and add final charge accord-
ing to normal procedure.ing to normal procedure.
ing to normal procedure.ing to normal procedure.
ing to normal procedure.
ProcessProcess
ProcessProcess
Process
StubStub
StubStub
Stub
Evaporator
Suction Line
Capillary
Heat Exchanger
22
22
2
11
11
1
Condenser
Yoder Heater Loop
Drier

1-8
1-81-8
1-8
All refrigerators cool by removing heat
from the cabinet rather than pumping in cool
air. In a conventional refrigerator, liquid re-
frigerant enters the evaporator and vapor-
izes (boils) due to the low pressure, creat-
ing a very cold surface which removes heat
from inside the cabinet. This causes the re-
frigerant to boil (evaporate) into a vapor
state and be drawn into the compressor.
The compressor pressurizes the vapor and
pumps it into the condenser. The hot va-
por in the condenser gives off the heat into
the room. As the vapor cools, it condenses
back into a liquid and returns to the evapo-
rator to start the process over again. The
system continually soaks up the heat inside
the refrigerator and deposits the heat back
into the room.
 The compressorcompressor
compressorcompressor
compressor of the refrigeration sys-
tem serves two purposes: it ensures
movement of the refrigerant throughout
the system and it increases the pressure
and temperature of the vapor received
from the suction line and pumps the re-
frigerant into the discharge line. The
condenser receives this high tempera-
ture, high pressure refrigerant and al-
lows the heat to be released into the
cooler surroundings. This heat removal
"condenses" the refrigerant vapor into a
liquid.
 The yoder loopyoder loop
yoder loopyoder loop
yoder loop is the last pass of the
condenser routed around the cabinet of
the freezer to help prevent moisture for-
mation.
 The drierdrier
drierdrier
drier is installed at the end of the
condenser or yoder loop to capture
moisture which may be present in the
system.
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERATION SYSTEMTION SYSTEM
TION SYSTEMTION SYSTEM
TION SYSTEM The
capillary tubecapillary tube
capillary tubecapillary tube
capillary tube meters the flow of
refrigerant and creates a pressure drop.
Size and length of the capillary is critical
to the efficiency of the system.
 As the refrigerant leaves the capillary
tube and enters the larger tubing of the
evaporatorevaporator
evaporatorevaporator
evaporator, the sudden increase in tub-
ing diameter, and the pumping action of
the compressor, form a low pressure
area. The temperature of the refriger-
ant drops rapidly as it changes to a mix-
ture of liquid and vapor. In the process
of passing through the evaporator, the
refrigerant absorbs heat from the stor-
age area and is gradually changed from
a liquid and vapor mixture (saturated
refrigerant) into a vapor.
 The suction linesuction line
suction linesuction line
suction line returns this low pres-
sure vapor from the evaporator back to
the compressor, and the cycle starts
again.
 Part of the capillary tube is soldered to
the suction line which forms a heatheat
heatheat
heat
exchangerexchanger
exchangerexchanger
exchanger..
..
. Heat from the capillary tube
is thus transferred to the suction line to
superheat the refrigerant there and at the
same time this further cools the liquid
in the capillary tube. This cools the re-
frigerant before it enters the evaporator
and also heats the refrigerant before it
enters the compressor to ensure a va-
por state.

1-9
1-91-9
1-9
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERATION SYSTEMTION SYSTEM
TION SYSTEMTION SYSTEM
TION SYSTEM

1-10
1-101-10
1-10
Sealed system diagnosis of R134A refriger-
ant systems is to be performed identically
to that of R12 systems. In fact, as shown in
the following flow chart, the service proce-
dures are virtually the same, except for low
side leaks, plugged capillary tube or com-
pressor failure which results in a system
flush.
IDENTIFY REFRIGERANTIDENTIFY REFRIGERANT
IDENTIFY REFRIGERANTIDENTIFY REFRIGERANT
IDENTIFY REFRIGERANT
R12R12
R12R12
R12 R134aR134a
R134aR134a
R134a
RECOVERRECOVER
RECOVERRECOVER
RECOVER RECOVERRECOVER
RECOVERRECOVER
RECOVER
REPREP
REPREP
REPAIRAIR
AIRAIR
AIR
REPREP
REPREP
REPAIRAIR
AIRAIR
AIR
SWEEPSWEEP
SWEEPSWEEP
SWEEP LOW SIDE LEAK,LOW SIDE LEAK,
LOW SIDE LEAK,LOW SIDE LEAK,
LOW SIDE LEAK,
PLUGGED CAPILLARYPLUGGED CAPILLARY
PLUGGED CAPILLARYPLUGGED CAPILLARY
PLUGGED CAPILLARY
TUBE, COMPRESSORTUBE, COMPRESSOR
TUBE, COMPRESSORTUBE, COMPRESSOR
TUBE, COMPRESSOR
REPLACEMENT?REPLACEMENT?
REPLACEMENT?REPLACEMENT?
REPLACEMENT?
FINAL CHARGEFINAL CHARGE
FINAL CHARGEFINAL CHARGE
FINAL CHARGE
NONO
NONO
NO YESYES
YESYES
YES
FLUSH*FLUSH*
FLUSH*FLUSH*
FLUSH*
FINAL CHARGEFINAL CHARGE
FINAL CHARGEFINAL CHARGE
FINAL CHARGE
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERAREFRIGERA
REFRIGERATT
TT
TOR DIAGNOSISOR DIAGNOSIS
OR DIAGNOSISOR DIAGNOSIS
OR DIAGNOSIS
SWEEPSWEEP
SWEEPSWEEP
SWEEP
SEALED SYSTEMSEALED SYSTEM
SEALED SYSTEMSEALED SYSTEM
SEALED SYSTEM
* FLUSH INCLUDES COMPRESSOR
REPLACEMENT
Remember, before entering the sealed sys-
tem, all other systems must be tested and
properly repaired. These include the elec-
trical system, defrost system, control op-
eration, and air flow systems: evaporator
and condenser motors. Before "turning aBefore "turning a
Before "turning aBefore "turning a
Before "turning a
screwdriver", many checks can be madescrewdriver", many checks can be made
screwdriver", many checks can be madescrewdriver", many checks can be made
screwdriver", many checks can be made
simply by using your senses:simply by using your senses:
simply by using your senses:simply by using your senses:
simply by using your senses:
DIAGNOSISDIAGNOSIS
DIAGNOSISDIAGNOSIS
DIAGNOSIS LISTEN:LISTEN:
LISTEN:LISTEN:
LISTEN:
 What is the customer complaint?
 Are the fans operating?
 Is the compressor operating?
LOOK:LOOK:
LOOK:LOOK:
LOOK:
 Are ice cubes present?
 Is the light on/off when the switch is
operated?
 Are the controls set properly?
 Do door gaskets seal properly?
 Is there an ice buildup on the
evaporator cover?
 Are the return air ducts free of ice?
TOUCH:TOUCH:
TOUCH:TOUCH:
TOUCH:
 Is the evaporator cover warm?
 Is air felt exhausting from the kick
plate?
 Is air circulating in the freezer and
fresh food compartments?
 Is the quarter inch discharge line
from the compressor hot?
 Is the condenser warm?
SEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSISSEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
SEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSISSEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
SEALED SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
Once it has been determined that the other
refrigerator systems are working properly,
a probable sealed system problem can be
confirmed through the use of a wattmeter
and checks of low and high side pressures.
Access valves are not to be left on a sealedAccess valves are not to be left on a sealed
Access valves are not to be left on a sealedAccess valves are not to be left on a sealed
Access valves are not to be left on a sealed
system after service.system after service.
system after service.system after service.
system after service. To measure low side
pressure, a temporary access valve can be
installed on the compressor process tube.
To remove the valve after repair, a pinch off
tool may be used to seal the tube while the
valve is removed and the hole brazed shut.
To check high side pressure, a temporary
access valve should be installed on the dis-
charge line. When the high side valve is in-

1-11
1-111-11
1-11
stalled, the technician is committed to re-
placement of the drier and a sealed system
repair. Once again, this valve must be re-
moved upon completion of repair. Make
sure the gauges which are used to check the
operating pressures are accurately cali-
brated. When not connected to a system,
the gauge pointer should indicate zero pres-
sure. If necessary, turn the calibrating screw
until the pointer is at "0."
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE:NOTE:
NOTE: The following situations are typi-The following situations are typi-
The following situations are typi-The following situations are typi-
The following situations are typi-
cal, however other factors such as gaugecal, however other factors such as gauge
cal, however other factors such as gaugecal, however other factors such as gauge
cal, however other factors such as gauge
placement, line voltage and ambient tem-placement, line voltage and ambient tem-
placement, line voltage and ambient tem-placement, line voltage and ambient tem-
placement, line voltage and ambient tem-
perature must also be considered.perature must also be considered.
perature must also be considered.perature must also be considered.
perature must also be considered.
The following symptoms use high and low
side pressures plus wattage measurements
to diagnose sealed system problems. Nor-
mal low side pressure will range from be-
low zero to about six pounds of pressure,
depending on several factors such as refrig-
erator model, ambient temperature, load
and customer usage. Normal high side
pressure is also dependent on external fac-
tors but will range in the 100 to 125 p.s.i.g.
range. Wattage and pressure figures will
vary based on the model and age of the re-
frigerator. Refer to the performance data
table(s) at the end of the manual.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High Side -High Side -
High Side -High Side -
High Side - Near normal pressureNear normal pressure
Near normal pressureNear normal pressure
Near normal pressure
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Slightly lower pressureSlightly lower pressure
Slightly lower pressureSlightly lower pressure
Slightly lower pressure
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - Low side restriction. The
evaporator, suction line or other low side
tubing is probably restricted (kinked or
blocked with a foreign article such as mois-
ture or contaminant). This condition is usu-
ally accompanied with a frost build up on
the low side of the restriction. High side
pressure will take longer to balance with the
low side pressure when the compressor is
stopped.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High Side -High Side -
High Side -High Side -
High Side - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Slightly lower than normalSlightly lower than normal
Slightly lower than normalSlightly lower than normal
Slightly lower than normal
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - High side leak. Both high and
low side pressures will drop as more refrig-
erant escapes.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High SideHigh Side
High SideHigh Side
High Side - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Slightly lower thanSlightly lower than
Slightly lower thanSlightly lower than
Slightly lower than normalnormal
normalnormal
normal
WW
WW
W
attage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - Low side leak. High side pres-
sure will continually increase since air is
being drawn into the system through the
leak and becomes trapped in the high side
tubing. The low side may show a slight in-
crease in pressure because of the air being
drawn in through the leak.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High Side -High Side -
High Side -High Side -
High Side - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - In a vacuumIn a vacuum
In a vacuumIn a vacuum
In a vacuum
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - Capillary tube restriction. High
side pressure will take much longer (or not
at all) to equalize with the low side pressure
when the compressor is stopped.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High Side -High Side -
High Side -High Side -
High Side - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - Overcharged system. The
extent of the pressure increase depends on
the amount of overcharge and ambient tem-
perature. An overcharge may also cause the
suction line to be frosted during the run
cycle, resulting in water on the floor after
cycling off.

1-12
1-121-12
1-12
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High SideHigh Side
High SideHigh Side
High Side --
--
- Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normalHigher than normal
Higher than normal
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normalLower than normal
Lower than normal
DiagnosisDiagnosis
DiagnosisDiagnosis
Diagnosis - Inefficient compressor. Cool-
ing surfaces may be covered with a thin film
of frost, but the temperature will not de-
scend to cut off temperature of the control,
even with continuous running. Also, the
condenser will be noticeably cooler to the
touch than normal. Once the confirmation
that an inefficient compressor is made, the
compressor should be replaced.
SymptomsSymptoms
SymptomsSymptoms
Symptoms::
::
:
High Side -High Side -
High Side -High Side -
High Side - NormalNormal
NormalNormal
Normal
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side -Low Side -
Low Side - Normal to slightlyNormal to slightly
Normal to slightlyNormal to slightly
Normal to slightly
higher than normal -higher than normal -
higher than normal -higher than normal -
higher than normal -
suction line possiblysuction line possibly
suction line possiblysuction line possibly
suction line possibly
sweatssweats
sweatssweats
sweats
WW
WW
Wattage -attage -
attage -attage -
attage - NormalNormal
NormalNormal
Normal
DD
DD
Diagnosisiagnosis
iagnosisiagnosis
iagnosis - Separated capillary tube. The
capillary tube must be connected to the suc-
tion line to provide proper heat transfer.
Without this transfer, liquid refrigerant in the
capillary tube enters the evaporator at a
slightly higher temperature thereby lessen-
ing the ability to remove heat from inside
the refrigerator. The customer complaint
would be long run time, slow ice produc-
tion, warmer fresh food temperature, in
general, poor overall performance. Another
symptom of a separated capillary tube
could be moisture on the floor behind the
refrigerator. The heat from the capillary tube
is utilized by the suction line to ensure that
vapor rather than liquid refrigerant is re-
turned to the compressor. If liquid is
present in the suction line, frost or moisture
forms on the outside of the line and even-
tually drips to the floor.
Once it has been determined through
proper diagnosis that a leak is present in the
sealed system, attempt to find the leak be-
fore opening the system if possible. To
check the high side for leaks, be sure that
the compressor is running. During run time
the high side pressure is greater. To increase
the pressure slightly, stop the condenser
fan blade or block the air flow through the
condenser. To check the low side for leaks,
stop the compressor. During off times, the
low side pressure will increase to equalize
with the high side. By warming the evapo-
rator, this pressure will increase. If too much
refrigerant has leaked out to create enough
pressure to locate the leak, add 4 ounces of
the proper refrigerant to the system and
proceed with the test procedure.
The presence of oil around a tubing joint
usually indicates a leak. Care must still be
taken to pinpoint the exact location. Re-
member that a leak detector compatible
with R134A refrigerant must be used. A
sealed system component, such as the
evaporator or yoder loop, should not be
condemned unless a non-repairable leak is
confirmed. This should be determined by
either locating the actual leak or by isolat-
ing the component from the rest of the sys-
tem and determining if it holds pressuriza-
tion or a vacuum - whichever method is
chosen.
LEAK TESTINGLEAK TESTING
LEAK TESTINGLEAK TESTING
LEAK TESTING