Fisher Scientific Isotemp -86 C User manual

Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Installation and Operation
332851H06 • Revision A • July 2022

IMPORTANT Read this instruction manual. Failure to follow the instructions in this manual can result in
damage to the unit, injury to operating personnel, and poor equipment performance.
CAUTION All internal adjustments and maintenance must be performed by qualified service personnel.
Material in this manual is for informational purposes only. The contents and the product it describes are
subject to change without notice. The Fisher ScientificTM channel makes no representations or warranties with
respect to this manual. In no event shall the Fisher ScientificTM channel be held liable for any damages, direct
or incidental, arising from or related to the use of this manual.
© 2022 Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.

Contents
Models......................................................................... 1
Safety Considerations ................................................. 2
Symbols Glossary ................................................... 3
Unpacking .................................................................. 5
Packing List ............................................................ 5
General Recommendations ......................................... 6
Temperature Monitoring System ............................. 6
General Usage ........................................................ 6
Initial Loading .......................................................... 6
Grille Door Opening/Closing .................................... 6
Operating Standards ................................................... 7
Electrical Specifications ........................................... 7
Installation ................................................................... 8
Location .................................................................. 8
Protective Conductor current .................................. 8
Leveling ................................................................... 9
Backup System (Optional) ....................................... 9
Door Operation ....................................................... 9
Installing the Remote Alarm Connector .................... 9
Intended Use: .......................................................... 9
Operation .................................................................... 10
Initial Start Up .......................................................... 10
Operation Overview ................................................. 10
Display .................................................................... 10
Settings ................................................................... 11

Power Down ........................................................... 12
Backup System (Optional) ........................................... 13
CO2 and LN2 Precautions ...................................... 13
Installation ............................................................... 13
Start Up .................................................................. 14
Operation ................................................................ 14
Chart Recorders (Optional) .......................................... 15
Set Up and Operation ............................................. 15
Changing Chart Paper ............................................. 15
Calibration Adjustment ............................................ 15
Maintenance ............................................................... 16
Cleaning the Condenser .......................................... 16
Cleaning the Condenser Filter .................................. 16
Gasket Maintenance ............................................... 16
Defrosting the Freezer ............................................. 16
Battery Maintenance ............................................... 16
Maintenance Schedule ............................................ 17
Troubleshooting Guide ................................................ 18
Error Codes ................................................................ 22
Warranty ..................................................................... 23
Appendix A: Alarm Summary ...................................... 24
Appendix B: Modbus ASCII Parameter Table .............. 26
End of Life Care .......................................................... 34
WEEE Compliance ...................................................... 35
Contact Information .................................................... 36

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Models | 1
Models
Table 1. Applicable Models
Brand - Model Size (xxx) Voltage (*) Description
IUECxxx86F* 063/252/396 A/D/V General Purpose

2 | Safety Considerations Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Safety Considerations
In this manual, the following symbols and conventions are
used:
Below are symbols and safety warnings that may be used on
the product: (see list on pages 5 & 6)
Below are important safety precautions that apply to this
product:
This symbol used alone indicates important
operating instructions which reduce the risk of
injury or poor performance of the unit.
CAUTION: This symbol, in the context of a
CAUTION, indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which if not avoided could result in
minor to moderate injury or damage to the
equipment.
WARNING: This symbol indicates potentially
hazardous situations which, if not avoided, could
result in serious injury or death.
WARNING: This symbol indicates situations
where dangerous voltages exist and potential for
electrical shock is present.
The snowflake symbol indicates extreme low
temperatures and high risk of frostbite. Do not
touch bare metal or samples with unprotected
body parts.
This symbol indicates a need to use gloves during
the indicated procedures. If performing
decontamination procedures, use chemically
resistant gloves. Use insulated gloves for handling
samples and when using liquid nitrogen.
Before installing, using or maintaining this
product, please be sure to read this manual and
product warning labels carefully. Failure to follow
these instructions may cause this product to
malfunction, which could result in injury or
damage.
Use this product only in the way described in the
product literature and in this manual. Before using
it, verify that this product is suitable for its
intended use. If this equipment is used in a
manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
Do not modify system components, especially
the controller. Use OEM exact replacement
equipment or parts. Before use, confirm that the
product has not been altered in any way.
WARNING: Your unit must be properly grounded
in conformity with national and local electrical
codes. Never connect the unit to overloaded
power sources.
WARNING: Disconnect the unit from all power
sources before cleaning, troubleshooting, or
performing other maintenance on the product or
its controls.
WARNING: “Caution, risk of fire”. This unit is
charged with hydrocarbon refrigerants.
WARNING: Ensure all ventilation openings are
not obstructed.
WARNING: Do not use mechanical devices or
other means to accelerate the defrosting
process, other than those recommended by the
manufacturer.
WARNING: Do not damage the refrigerant
circuit.
WARNING: In order to reduce flammability
HAZARDS the installation of this equipment shall
only be carried out by a suitably qualified person.
CAUTION: Risk of fire or explosion due to
flammable refrigerant used. Follow handling
instructions carefully in compliance with U.S.
government regulations.
AVERTISSEMENT - Risque d'incendie ou
d'explosion. Réfrigérant inflammable utilisé.
Suivez attentivement les instructions de
manipulation conformément à la réglementation
gouvernementale américaine.

Safety Considerations | 3
EMC (where applicable)
EMC Registration is done on this equipment for professional
use only. It may cause interference when the product would
be used in home.
사용자 안내문 이 기기는 업무용 환경에서 사용할 목
적으로 적합성평가를 받은 기기로서 가정용 환경에서
사용하는 경우 전파간섭의 우려가 있습니다.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device. Class A covers devices for
usage in all establishments other than domestic and that are
not directly connected to a low voltage power supply
network, which supplies domestic environment.
Isotemp -86°C Freezers
FCC (where applicable) Note:
This device complies with Part 15 Subpart B of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation. Any
changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when theequipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential
area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Canadian ISED IC Notice
This ISM digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-001,
Class A.
Cet appareil ISM est conforme à la norme NMB-001 du
Canada, Classe A.
This unit is not intended for use in classified hazardous
locations, nor to be used for the storage of flammable
inventory.
Symbols Glossary
DANGER: Risk of fire or explosion. Flammable
refrigerant used. To be repaired only by trained
service personnel. Do not puncture refrigerant
tubing.
AVERTISSEMENT - Risque d'incendie ou
d'explosion. Réfrigérant inflammable utilisé. Pour
être réparé uniquement par du personnel de
service qualifié, Ne pas percer le tuyau de
réfrigérant.
CAUTION: This unit is intended for use in
laboratories in commercial, industrial or
institutional occupancies as defined in the safety
standard of refrigeration systems, ASHRAE 15.
AVERTISSEMENT - Cette unité est destinée à
être utillsée dans des laboratoires dans des
établissements commerciaux, industriels ou
institutionnels tels que définis dans la norme de
sécurité des systèmes de réfrigération,
ASHRAE 15.
CAUTION: Risk of fire or explosion. Dispose of
properly in accordance with federal or local
regulations. Flammable refrigerant used.
AVERTISSEMENT - Risque d'incendie ou
d'explosion. Éliminer correctement
conformément aux réglements fédéraux ou
locaux. Réfrigérant inflammable utilisé.
CAUTION: Risk of fire or explosion. Flammable
refrigerant used. Consult repair manual/owner's
guide before attempting to install or service this
product. All safety precautions must be followed.
AVERTISSEMENT -Risque d'incendie ou
d'explosion. Réfrigérant inflammable utilisé.
Consultez le manuel de réparation / guide du
propriétaire avant d'essayer d'installer ou de
réparer ce produit. Toutes les précautions de
sécurité doivent être suivies.
Environment Friendly Use Period
(EFUP): 25 years
UL Listed in United States and Canada

4 | Safety Considerations Isotemp -86°C Freezers
NOTICE / AVIS:
WE RECOMMEND THE USE OF A REDUNDANT AND
INDEPENDENT TEMPERATURE MONITORING SYSTEM
AND THAT FREEZER BE MONITORED 24/7 FOR
PERFORMANCE COMMENSURATE WITH THE VALUE OF
PRODUCT STORED.
NOUS RECOMMANDONS L'UTILISATION D'UN SYSTÈME
DE SURVEILLANCE DE LA TEMPÉRATURE INDÉPENDANT
ET DE SURVEILLER LE CONGÉLATEUR TOUS LES JOURS
24 HEURES SUR 24 AFIN QUE LE RENDEMENT
CORRESPONDE À LA VALEUR DU PRODUIT ENTREPOSÉ.
Refer to instruction manual/booklet
https://www.thermofisher.com/userman-
ual
Air Transport Prohibited
South Korea KC certification
Waste from Electrical and Electronic
Equipment
Conformitè¨ Europëenne Mark (CE Mark)
UK Conformity Assessed Marking
Warning: Low Temperature Hazard
Warning: Crushing of hands
General warning sign
Warning: Flammable material
Warning: Device susceptible to
electrostatic discharge
Internally Powered 4-20mA analog output
DO NOT APPLY EXTERNAL POWER.

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Unpacking | 5
Unpacking
At delivery, examine the exterior for physical damage while
the carrier’s representative is present. If exterior damage is
present, carefully unpack and inspect the unit and all
accessories for damage.
If there is no exterior damage, unpack and inspect the
equipment within five days of delivery. If you find any damage,
keep the packing materials and immediately report the
damage to the carrier. Do not return goods to the
manufacturer without written authorization. When submitting
a claim for shipping damage, request that the carrier inspect
the shipping container and equipment.
The packaging can be stored and re-used.
Packing List
Inside the freezer cabinet is a bag containing:
• A handle lock key
• Certificates of conformance and calibration.
• A remote alarm contact connector
• Posts for rear spacing
If you have ordered a chart recorder, the bag will also contain:
• Recorder installation instructions
• Extra paper
If you have ordered a backup system, the cabinet will also
contain:
• A hose assembly
• English and metric connectors
If specified on the order, the bag may also include:
• A QC temperature graph and test log
• Calibration information

6 | General Recommendations Isotemp -86°C Freezers
General Recommendations
Temperature Monitoring
System
General Usage
This refrigeration system is designed to maintain ultra-low
temperatures with safety in an ambient environment within
15°C to 32°C (59°F to 90°F), only when the freezer is used for
storage.
Avoid opening the door for extended time periods since
chamber temperature air will escape rapidly. Also, keep the
inner doors/sublids closed as much as possible. When room
air, which is higher in humidity, replaces chamber air, frost
may develop in the chamber more rapidly.
Initial Loading
Allow the freezer to operate at the desired temperature for a
minimum of 12 hours before loading.
Load the freezer one shelf at a time, beginning with the top
shelf. After loading each shelf, allow the freezer to recover to
the desired set point before loading the next shelf. Repeat this
process until the freezer is fully loaded.
Grille Door Opening/
Closing
To open the grille door, pull the door from the left as shown in
the figure below.
To close the grille door, push the door against frame to hold
latch in position.
Figure 1. Door Opening
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Fisher ScientificTM
channel recommends the use of a redundant and
independent temperature monitoring system so
that the freezer can be monitored continuously
for performance commensurate with the value of
product stored.
WARNING: This unit is not a “rapid-freeze”
device. Freezing large quantities of liquid, or
high-water content items, will temporarily
increase the chamber temperature and will cause
the compressors to operate for a prolonged time
period.
CAUTION: Failure to follow these procedures or
overloading the unit may cause undue stress on
the compressors or jeopardize user product
safety.

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Operating Standards | 7
Operating Standards
The freezers described in this manual are classified for use as
stationary equipment in a Pollution Degree 2 and Over voltage
Category II environment.
These units are designed to operate under the following
environmental conditions:
• Indoor use
• Altitude up to 2000 m
• Maximum relative humidity 60% for temperatures within
15°C to 32°C (59°F to 90°F)
• Main supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed ±10% of
the nominal voltage for 115 V/60 Hz & 230 V/50 Hz
• Main supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed -10% or
+6% of the nominal voltage for 208-230 V/60 Hz
Electrical Specifications
The last character in the model number listed on the
data-plate identifies the electrical specifications for your unit.
Specific unit current rating is listed on the data-plate.
The voltage types are A, D and V as specified in the following
table:
* Values subject to change
Table 2. Electrical Specifications by Size and
Voltage
Size/
Voltage Voltage Frequency Current*
063 A 115 V 60 Hz 10.7 A
063 V 230 V 50 Hz 5.6 A
252 A 115 V 60 Hz 11. 2 A
252 D 208-230 V 60 Hz 5.4 A
252 V 230 V 50 Hz 5.2 A
396 A 115 V 60 Hz 13.6 A
396 D 208-230 V 60 Hz 5.8 A
396 V 230 V 50 Hz 5.5 A

8 | Installation Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Installation
The safety of any system incorporating this equipment is the
responsibility of the assembler of the system.
Location
Install the unit in a level area free from vibration with a
minimum of 8" (20 cm) of space on the top and sides,
6" (15 cm) in back. Refer to Leveling for further instructions
on leveling cabinets. Allow enough clearance so that door/lid
can swing open at least 85°.
The rear spacing posts provided with the freezer can be used
to ensure proper clearance. To install the spacing posts,
screw them into the back side of the unit, in the rear deck
area.
Do not position the equipment in direct sunlight or near
heating diffusers, radiators, or other sources of heat. The
ambient temperature range at the location must be 15°C to
32°C (59°F to 90°F).
Protective Conductor
current
The maximum limit of 10mA shall not be exceeded when
tested according to clause 5.5 (Measurement of protective
conductor current) of EN 50678 or DIN VDE 0701-1 or DIN
EN 50678 VDE 0701
Wiring
Note: Any external electrical equipment connected to these
chest freezers must meet the insulation requirements of
IEC 61010-1.
WARNING: Do not exceed the electrical rating
printed on the data plate located on the lower
left side of the unit.
WARNING: Use care when closing the door/lid
so that fingers are not pinched between cabinet
and door/lid.
CAUTION: Connect the equipment to the
correct power source. Incorrect voltage can
result in severe damage to the equipment.
CAUTION: For personal safety and trouble-free
operation, this unit must be properly grounded
before it is used. Failure to ground the equipment
may cause personal injury or damage to the
equipment. Always conform to the National
Electrical Code and local codes. Do not connect
the unit to overloaded power lines.
CAUTION: Do not position the unit in a way that
impedes access to the disconnecting device or
circuit breaker in the back of the unit.
CAUTION: Always connect the freezer to a
dedicated (separate) circuit. Each freezer is
equipped with a service cord and plug designed
to connect it to a power outlet which delivers the
correct voltage. Supply voltage must be within
±10% of the freezer rated voltage for
115 V/60 Hz & 230 V/50 Hz. Supply voltage must
be within -10% to +6% of the freezer rated
voltage for 208-230 V/60 Hz. If cord becomes
damaged, replace with a properly rated power
supply cord.
Table 3. Power Cord Specifications
Model Power Cord Specification
A 3-G 12 AWG, NEMA 5-20P, 20 A/125 V
D 3-G 12 AWG, NEMA 6-15P, 15 A/250 V
V 3-G 1.5 mm², CEE 7/7, 16 A/250 V
CAUTION: Never remove or disable the
grounding prong from the service cord plug. If the
prong is removed, the warranty is invalidated.

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Installation | 9
Leveling
Make sure that the floor is level. The unit must be level both
front to back and side to side.
Ensure to lock the brakes for units equipped with casters.
Backup System (Optional)
If you are using a CO2 or LN2 backup system, refer to
Backup System (Optional) for installation and operation
instructions.
Door Operation
Chest freezer models are equipped with a lid and handle for
ultra-low temperature freezers.
Features include:
a. One-hand operation
b. A front-accessible lock
Installing the Remote
Alarm Connector
The remote alarm contacts are located on the back of the
freezer above and to the left of the power switch. After
installing the wiring from the remote alarm to the connector,
install the connector to the freezer micro-board.
The pin configuration is shown in Figure 2 below.
Figure 2. Remote Alarm Pin Configuration
For systems that alarm in closed state, connect to pins 5 & 6.
For systems that alarm in open state, connect to pins 6 & 7.
The contacts will trip in the event of a power outage, high
temperature alarm, low temperature alarm or door ajar alarm.
Intended Use:
These products are intended for use as cold storage in
research use and as General Purpose laboratory freezers,
storing samples or inventory at operating temperatures
between -50°C to -86°C.

10 | Operation Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Operation
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may
be impaired.
Initial Start Up
To start the freezer, complete the following steps:
1. Plug the freezer into the power outlet.
2. Turn the power switch ON. You can find the switch
behind the front grille, on the left side.
3. Once the freezer is turned ON, the user interface will
begin a start up procedure. Once ready for operation, the
temperature is displayed on the screen.
Operation Overview
Once you have successfully completed the initial start up
procedures, the freezer starts operating normally and the only
actions required are:
• Setting the operating and alarm set points.
• Activating the CO2 or LN2 backup system if installed. For
instructions on backup settings and activating the
system, refer to Backup System (Optional).
Display
The display screen below is the default screen.
Figure 3. Display
The control panel consists of the 5 touch-point buttons
located on the right side of the display.
•Warm Alarm value - The range of the warm alarm
temperature is –40°C to within 5°C of setpoint.
Note : The warm alarm will be disabled for 12 hours
from a warm start condition.
•Cold Alarm value - The range is –99°C to within
5°C of setpoint.
Note : A setpoint change may automatically change
the warm/cold alarm setpoints as well to maintain a
minimum 5°C separation from the control setpoint.
•Offset value - This is used for calibration. Range is
–10°C to +10°C. Default is 0.
Entering a positive offset value will yield a colder
cabinet temperature.
Entering a negative offset value will yield a warmer
cabinet temperature.
•Setpoint security code – This code is a 3-digit
numeric code. Refer to Setpoint Security.
•Backup system type (if backup system is installed)
– Set the type to either LN2 or CO2 corresponding to
the backup system that is installed.
•Backup system setpoint (if backup system is
installed) - This setpoint indicates the temperature at
which the backup system will begin cooling the
cabinet. It is recommended to set the backup system
setpoint at a minimum of 10°C warmer than the
control setpoint. For more information, refer to
Backup System (Optional).
1. Alarm Bell – This icon indicates visual and
audible alarm that accompanies various alarm
states. Pressing the alarm bell while in an alarm
state will snooze the audible alarm for 10
minutes.
2. Plus – Increases the value of the selected
setting.
3. Check Mark – Saves a change to the selected
value.
4. Minus – Decreases the value of the selected
setting.
5. Settings – The settings icon represents the
various settings including:

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Operation | 11
The message panel on the top indicates freezer health status
and the various alarm or warning states.
Settings
If setpoint security is enabled, you must first enter the security
code to make any setpoint changes. Refer to Setpoint
Security to adjust setpoint security.
Control Setpoint
To modify the control temperature setpoint:
• Press the plus or minus button while displaying unit
temperature (“Actual” is illuminated). The control setpoint
is displayed
• Adjust setpoint to desired temperature
• Select the checkmark button to save the new control
setpoint.
Other Setpoints and Settings
• Press the settings button to enter Settings menu
• Continue pressing the settings button until the desired
setting is illuminated on lower horizontal panel. (If backup
system is installed, CO2 or LN2 is displayed after pressing
the settings button 5 times.)
• Adjust the setting to desired temperature or value using
the plus or minus buttons
• Press the checkmark button to save the new
temperature or value
• After the value is saved, display will show the next option
in the settings menu.
To return to the unit temperature display:
• Press the settings button until unit temperature is
displayed (“Actual” is illuminated)
• If there is no activity after 5 minutes, the unit will
automatically return to the temperature display.
Warm Alarm Test
Press the plus and checkmark buttons at the same time to
initiate the warm alarm test. During the warm alarm test, the
actual cabinet temperature will not be displayed. The display
temperature will increase. Once the display temperature
reaches the warm alarm setpoint, the alarm is activated. After
5 seconds, the test will automatically end and the display will
return to the actual cabinet temperature.
Setpoint Security
• To adjust setpoint security in the settings menu, press the
settings button 4 times
• The setpoint security code consists of 3 digits, each of
which must be set in sequence from left to right
• Use the plus or minus button to adjust each value, and
the checkmark button to save each value of the 3-digit
security code
• If you forget the setpoint security code, contact customer
support.
1. Wrench – This is a generic service warning which
corresponds to an intermittent flashing error code
displayed on the screen. Refer to Error Codes
for a list of error codes.
2. Door – This icon will illuminate during a door ajar
alarm. A door open for more than 3 minutes will
result in an audible door ajar alarm.
3. Shield – The shield is the health status for the
freezer. A green shield indicates normal freezer
operation. In an alarm state, this icon is not
illuminated.
4. Thermometer – This indicates when the cabinet
temperature exceeds either warm alarm or cold
alarm setpoints and the audible alarm will occur.
5. Snooze Bell – This is only illuminated during an
active alarm that has been silenced by the user.

12 | Operation Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Power Down
To power down the ULT, first turn the breaker switch, located
behind the front grille, to the off position. Once the switch is in
the off position, the display will show “OFF” followed by “YES”
and then “NO” in 2 second intervals. The checkmark will also
be illuminated while “YES” and “NO” are showing. Press the
checkmark while “YES” is showing. With a flashing “YES”, you
are required to confirm by pressing the checkmark button a
second time. Power down will then be complete.
If the checkmark button is pressed while “NO” is illuminated
or if no action is taken for 5 minutes, this is interpreted as a
power failure. In this case, the user interface will stay on (using
battery power only) and an audible alarm will sound to
indicate power failure. If installed, the backup system will
remain active and inject per the backup system settings.

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Backup System (Optional) | 13
Backup System (Optional)
For all ultra-low temperature cold storage products, we
recommend the use of a backup system (BUS) for the
security of your samples.
When you purchase a built-in CO2 or LN2 optional backup
system for the freezer, backup control is integrated into the
main user interface.
Note: For stand-alone backup systems, refer to installation
instructions provided with the backup system kit.
CO2 and LN2 Precautions
The following are precautions for using liquid CO2 and LN2
backup systems.
Installation
Field installed systems are supplied with complete installation
and operating instructions. If your system is factory installed,
the freezer is shipped with a coiled length of hose to connect
the freezer to the bottles:
• 1/4" Flexible Hose with fittings for connection to the CO2
supply.
• 1/2" Flexible Hose with fittings for connection to the LN2
supply.
To install,
1. Straighten the coiled hose.
2. Connect one end to the labeled connection on the
freezer.
• Tighten the nut two flats past finger tight, approximately
120 degrees.
Note: For CO2, remove the threaded fitting from the nut on
the end of the copper tubing to access nut for connection to
the freezer. Discard the threaded fitting.
3. Attach the other end to the supply bottle or building
supply fitting.
• For CO2:
• Remove Nipple from adapter (NPT Connection).
Remove cable tie to release alternative nut and
CAUTION: Always purchase the cylinders which
are equipped with siphon tubes for withdrawing
liquid from the bottom of the cylinder. CO2
cylinders must be kept at room temperature to
function properly. LN2 bottles are functional at
any reasonable temperature.
WARNING: If a CO2 or LN2 cylinder falls and a
valve is knocked off, the cylinder becomes a
deadly and completely unguided missile.
Transport the cylinders in a hand-truck or cart
with secure chain ties for the cylinder. After
cylinders are connected to the equipment,
securely attach them with chains to a solid
stationary object such as a building column.
WARNING: CO2 and LN2 liquids are non-
poisonous but are very cold and will burn
unprotected skin. Always wear protective eye
wear and clothing when changing cylinders or
working on the piping systems attached to an
active source of liquid refrigerant.
WARNING: The gases produced by evaporation
of CO2 or LN2 are non-poisonous but displace
the oxygen in a confined space and can cause
asphyxiation. Do not store the cylinders in
subsurface or enclosed areas.
CAUTION: When closing the cylinder valve,
make sure that the injection solenoid is energized
to allow all the liquid to bleed off instead of being
trapped in the supply hose. Failure to do this
results in activation of the pressure relief device,
which could damage the freezer and requires
replacing if it is activated.
CAUTION: For models ordered with factory
installed built-in backup systems, the flow of
liquid CO2 or LN2 will be discontinued if the
door/lid is opened during operation of the
backup system. For units operated with free-
standing, field installed type backup system, the
flow of liquid CO2 or LN2 will be discontinued
upon door/lid opening only if the switch provided
with the free-standing package is installed on the
freezer.

14 | Backup System (Optional) Isotemp -86°C Freezers
washer. Ensure the correct nut fitting is supplied over
the nipple (US or European).
• Add 2 wraps of Teflon tape clockwise to the 1/4"
NPT fitting (on the nipple) when viewed from the
threads. Tighten the NPT fittings approximately 2
turns from finger tight (approximately 720°).
Note : The top of the nipple has a hex configuration,
allowing for use of a wrench when the nut is pulled
down.
• Add washer to nipple inside of nut (unless CO2
supply has a built in washer).
Note : Small raised area of washer fits into groove of
nipple. The washer will feel snug when trying to shift
side-to-side on nipple. The washers are designed for
a limited number of attachments/disconnections
from the supply and may wear over time. If washer
appears worn and causes CO2 leakage, replace
washer (Part Number 45705H03).
• Wrench tighten the supply nut to the supply.
• For LN2: Attach the fitting to the supply and wrench
tighten.
Note: Do not twist, torque, or subject the flexible hose to
sharp bends. Doing so may shorten the life of the hose.
Start Up
When the unit is started, it will recognize if a backup system is
installed.
1. Follow the instructions in Backup System (Optional) to
set the backup system type and setpoint.
2. It is recommended to test backup system operation prior
to sample storage.
Test BUS Operation
After the freezer has stabilized and both batteries are fully
charged, the BUS can be tested to verify proper operation.
1. Disconnect the AC power to the freezer by turning the
power switch off.
2. As the freezer warms up, verify the BUS injects at the
desired temperature. Displayed temperature may vary by
a few degrees from injection temperature due to the
differences in probe locations.
Note: On a monthly basis, it is recommended to test your
backup system, check the supply tank system levels, and
check the backup battery voltage.
Operation
The backup system can run for a minimum of 24 hours on
battery power.
On average, a backup system in operation uses 8 to 10 lbs.
per hour of CO2 (3.6 to 4.5 L/hr) or LN2 (4.5 to 5.6 L/hr) at an
ambient temperature of 25°C.
This rate will vary depending on set point, load, ambient
temperature and freezer size.

Isotemp -86°C Freezers Chart Recorders (Optional) | 15
Chart Recorders (Optional)
Panel-mounted six-inch seven-day recorders are available as
options for all freezer models except for the smaller (300 and
400 box capacity) models.
Set Up and Operation
To prepare the recorder to function properly, complete the
following steps:
1. Open the grille door to access the recorder.
2. Install clean chart paper (refer to Changing Chart
Paper).
3. Remove the plastic cap from the pen stylus or ink pen
and close the recorder door.
Recorder operation begins when the system is powered on.
The recorder may not respond until the system reaches
temperatures within the recorder’s range.
Figure 4. Chart Recorder
Figure 5. Chart Buttons
Changing Chart Paper
To change the chart paper, complete the following steps:
1. Locate the pressure sensitive buttons at the front, upper
left of the recorder panel.
2. Press and hold the Change Chart button (#3) for one
second. The pen will move off the scale.
3. Unscrew the center nut, remove the old chart paper, and
install new chart paper. Carefully align the day and time
with the reference mark (a small groove on the left side of
the recorder panel).
4. Replace the center nut and hand tighten. Press the
Change Chart button again to resume temperature
recording.
Calibration Adjustment
This recorder has been accurately calibrated at the factory
and retains calibration even during power interruptions. If
required, however, adjustments can be made as follows:
1. Run the unit continuously at the control set point
temperature. Continue steady operation for at least two
hours to provide adequate time for recorder response.
2. Measure cabinet center temperature with a calibrated
temperature monitor.
3. Compare the recorder temperature to the measured
cabinet temperature. If necessary, adjust recorder by
pressing the left (#1) and right (#2) chart buttons.
Note: The stylus does not begin to move until the top center
button (#3) is held for five seconds.
CAUTION: Do not use sharp or pointed objects
to depress the chart buttons. This may cause
permanent damage to the recorder.

16 | Maintenance Isotemp -86°C Freezers
Maintenance
Cleaning the Condenser
Clean the condenser at least every six months; more often if
the laboratory area is dusty.
To clean the condenser, complete the following steps:
1. Pull the grille door open.
2. Vacuum the condenser.
3. Inspect the filter cleanliness and clean as required.
4. Close the grille door.
Cleaning the Condenser
Filter
Clean the condenser filters every two or three months.
1. Pull the grille door open.
2. Remove the filter.
3. Shake the filter to remove loose dust, rinse the filters in
clean water, shake the excess water from the filter, and
replace the filter.
4. Close the grille door.
Gasket Maintenance
Periodically check the gaskets around the door/lid for
punctures or tears. Leaks are indicated by a streak of frost
which forms at the point of gasket failure. Make sure that the
cabinet is level (refer Leveling for leveling information).
Keep the door gaskets clean and frost free by wiping gently
with a soft cloth.
Defrosting the Freezer
Defrost the freezer once per year or whenever the ice buildup
exceeds 3/8". To defrost, complete the following steps:
1. Remove all products and place in another ULT freezer.
2. Turn off the freezer.
3. Open the outer door/lid and all inner doors/sublids.
4. Let the freezer stand with doors/lid open for at least 24
hours. This allows both the interior and foamed
refrigeration system to warm to room temperature.
5. Dispose of the ice and wipe out any water standing in the
bottom of the cabinet.
6. If there is freezer odor, wash the interior with a solution of
baking soda and warm water.
7. Clean the exterior with any common household cleaner.
8. Close the doors, restart the freezer and reload. Refer
Initial Loading to follow the instructions.
Battery Maintenance
The freezer monitors the voltage status of the battery daily
and indicates the battery’s voltage via visual and auditory
alarm. Replace the battery as indicated by system alarms or
as necessary per individual status evaluation. Check the
battery connections regularly. Although not required, annual
battery replacement is recommended to ensure proper
battery status in the event of power failure.
For safety, it is recommended to power off the unit and
disconnect it from the power source before replacing the
battery. Battery terminals are color coded in red and black.
Ensure the corresponding colored wires are connected to the
matching color terminals on the battery.
The unit must be turned off and disconnected from power
before removing the side panel. To install a new battery,
remove the side panel, remove the battery bracket, install the
new battery, then replace bracket and side panel.
Failure to properly connect the battery can damage electrical
components and potentially hinder normal operation of the
freezer. Consult a certified service technician if there are any
questions or concerns about battery maintenance.
Battery Specification:
Rechargeable sealed lead-acid battery, 12 V, 7.0 Amp Hr.
Replacement batteries can be purchased directly from the
Fisher Scientific channel.
WARNING: Unauthorized repair of your freezer
will invalidate your warranty. Contact Technical
Service. See Contact Information for phone
numbers.
CAUTION: Maintenance should only be
performed by trained personnel.