This document serves as the user manual for Avantco Back Bar Refrigerators, providing essential information for setup, operation, and maintenance.
Function Description:
Avantco Back Bar Refrigerators are designed to keep cold products at optimum temperatures for food safety in a temperature-controlled environment. These units are intended for indoor use only and are not suitable for chilling warm products. They feature a refrigeration system that cycles between a minimum temperature of 33 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The units are pre-programmed for automatic defrost cycles, which can also be initiated manually.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual specifies that the units are intended for use in environments with temperatures less than 75 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% relative humidity. Malfunctions due to improper environmental conditions are not covered under warranty. Electrical requirements dictate that the unit must be plugged into a grounded and properly-sized electrical outlet with appropriate over-current protection, and it should have its own dedicated outlet. Extension cords and adapter plugs are explicitly prohibited. After unplugging, a 10-minute wait is required before plugging the unit back in to prevent compressor damage. The refrigeration system uses flammable refrigerant, and servicing should only be performed by trained personnel. Puncturing the refrigerant tubing is strictly prohibited due to the risk of fire or explosion.
Base Models and Variations:
The manual lists several base models and their variations, primarily differing in top material (SS Top or Galvanized).
- 178UBB36HC: Variations include 178UBB36GHCS, 178UBB36HCS, 178UBB36GH, 178UBB36GHC.
- 178UBB48HC: Variations include 178UBB48GHC, 178UBB48GHCS, 178UBB48HCS, 178UBB48SHC, 178UBB48SHCS (SS Top) and 178UBB48GT, 178UBB48GTS, 178UBB48GTG, 178UBB48GTGS, 178UBB48SGT, 178UBB48SGTS (Galvanized).
- 178UBB60HC: Variations include 178UBB60GHC, 178UBB60GHCS, 178UBB60HCS, 178UBB60SHC, 178UBB60SHCS (SS Top) and 178UBB60GT, 178UBB60GTS, 178UBB60GTG, 178UBB60GTGS, 178UBB60SGT, 178UBB60SGTS (Galvanized).
- 178UBB72HC: Variations include 178UBB72GHC, 178UBB72GHCS, 178UBB72HCS, 178UBB72SHC, 178UBB72SHCS (SS Top) and 178UBB72GT, 178UBB72GTS, 178UBB72GTG, 178UBB72GTGS, 178UBB72SGT, 178UBB72SGTS (Galvanized).
- 178UBB1HC: Variations include 178UBB1GHC, 178UBB1GHCS, 178UBB1HCS.
- 178UBB2HC: Variations include 178UBB2GHC, 178UBB2GHCS, 178UBB2HCS.
- 178UBB3HC: Variations include 178UBB3GHC, 178UBB3GHCS, 178UBB3HCS.
- 178UBB4HC: Variations include 178UBB4GHC, 178UBB4GHCS, 178UBB4HCS.
- 178UBB378: Variations include 178UBB378G, 178UBB378GS, 178UBB378S.
Usage Features:
- Installation: Units should be placed on strong, leveled surfaces in a well-ventilated indoor area, away from direct sunlight and heat/moisture-generating equipment. A minimum 4-inch clearance is recommended at the back of the unit for optimal performance. Shelves with a raised lip must be installed facing up towards the rear to promote proper airflow. After transport on its side, the unit must stand still for at least 24 hours before plugging in.
- Temperature Adjustment: The refrigerator is factory-set for optimal food safety. While adjustments are generally not needed, users can change the minimum temperature setting using the digital control unit. This involves holding the "SET" button for 1 second, using arrow buttons to adjust, and pressing "SET" again to save. Users must account for a potential +7 degree Fahrenheit fluctuation above the set minimum temperature.
- Loading Product: Products should not block the air duct/fan at the top of the unit; a minimum 4-inch clearance must be maintained. Shelves must be level and properly secured. Flammable or explosive gases/liquids should not be stored inside.
- Manual Defrost Cycle: Although automatic defrost cycles are pre-programmed, a manual defrost can be initiated by pressing the defrost button (snowflake symbol and down arrow) for approximately 3 seconds. Repeating this action stops the cycle. The defrost system works by circulating air through the evaporator coil during compressor downtime, melting accumulated frost which then drains into an evaporator pan.
Maintenance Features:
- Condenser Coil Cleaning: For efficient operation, the condenser surface must be kept free of dust, dirt, and lint. Monthly cleaning is recommended. To clean, disconnect power, remove the front and base covers, use a soft brush/vacuum to remove debris from the finned coil, and then clean with a commercial condenser coil cleaner. Bent fins should be straightened with a fin comb. Reinstall covers and reconnect power after cleaning.
- Fan Blades and Motor Cleaning: Fan blades and motor should be cleaned with a soft cloth if necessary. If washing the fan blades, the motor must be covered to prevent moisture damage.
- Interior Cleaning: The cabinet interior should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Abrasive cleaners, steel wool, caustic soap, or bleach should not be used as they can damage the interior finish.
- Door Gasket Maintenance: Door gaskets should be washed regularly, preferably weekly. They can be removed from the frame, soaked in warm water and soap for 30 minutes, dried with a soft cloth, and then replaced. After replacement, ensure a proper seal.
- Shelf and Pilaster Cleaning: Shelves and pilasters should be periodically removed and cleaned with mild soap and warm water. To remove pilasters, first remove shelves and shelf brackets, then lift the pilaster up and out.
Safety Warnings:
- Flammable Refrigerant: The unit uses flammable refrigerant. Only trained service personnel should perform repairs. Do not puncture refrigerant tubing.
- Electrical Safety: Do not overload outlets, use extension cords, or plug/unplug with wet hands. Ensure the unit is properly grounded and not resting on the electrical cord. Wait 10 minutes after unplugging before reconnecting power.
- General Safety: Do not attempt to remove or repair components unless factory-instructed. Do not hang on doors or sit inside the unit. Do not store flammable/explosive gases or liquids inside. Do not tamper with the electrical cord. Disconnect power before cleaning any parts.