EasyManua.ls Logo

Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL - User Manual

Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL
56 pages
Print Icon
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Loading...
Howe Corporation
Phone: 1-773-235-0200
Fax: 1-773-235-0269
1650 North Elston Avenue
Website: www.howecorp.com
Chicago, IL 60642-1585
Email: howeinfo@howecorp.com
Rapid Freeze
®
Ice Flaker
In
stallation & Service Manual
For Use with Remote Single Condensing Unit
4000-RL
6000-RL

Questions and Answers

  • S
    Susan BoydAug 25, 2025
    What to do if my Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL is not meeting rated capacity?
    • J
      javiermarshallAug 25, 2025
      If your Howe Ice Maker isn't producing the expected amount of ice, here are a few things to check: * Ensure the Evaporator Temperature is correct by adjusting the refrigeration. * Verify that the supply water temperature is within the recommended range of 45°F to 90°F. For temperatures below this range, contact Howe about a Low Temperature Mixing Valve. * Confirm that the ambient temperature is between 50°F and 100°F. If you can't adjust the temperature, consider relocating the Ice Flaker. For temperatures below range, contact Howe about a Low Ambient Kit.
  • L
    leah28Sep 1, 2025
    What causes a Howe Ice Maker water pump to stop running?
    • J
      Jocelyn DanielSep 1, 2025
      If the water pump on your Howe Ice Maker isn't running, here are a few potential reasons: * A defective Control Module (CM) could be the cause. Verify 24 VAC is present across Term 1 (purple) and Term 3 (red) at the Control Module (CM). Also, check the voltage between Term 1 and Term 6 (blue). If there's no voltage, the Control Module (CM) may need to be replaced. * Blown fuses might be the issue. Check for control voltage across the FU1 fuses and replace them if necessary. * The Water Pump itself could be defective. Verify control voltage at terminals T1 Pump and T2 Pump in the Control Panel. If voltage is present, the Water Pump may need to be replaced. * Loose wiring can also prevent the pump from running. Check all wire terminals and tighten them as necessary.
  • J
    jennifermasonSep 3, 2025
    What causes a Howe Ice Maker Condensing Unit to be off on High Discharge Pressure Failure?
    • J
      Jessica OrtizSep 3, 2025
      If your Howe Ice Maker's Condensing Unit is off due to a High Discharge Pressure Failure, consider these possible causes: * The system may have non-condensables, which should be removed. * The system might be overcharged with refrigerant, so remove any excess. * The fan may not be running. Check the Fan Cycling Control and adjust it as necessary.
  • D
    Dr. Kevin HubbardSep 5, 2025
    What to do if my Howe Ice Maker's ice blade is frozen in place?
    • J
      Jonathan SaundersSep 5, 2025
      If the ice blade in your Howe Ice Maker is frozen in place, here's what you can check: * The Motor Overload setting might be too high. Adjust the Motor Overload setting at the Control Module (CM). * The ice might be freezing too thick or too hard. Adjust the refrigeration to the Ice Flaker. * The Drive Motor may have stopped. See “Drive Motor will not start” above. * The Flex Coupling could be broken. Check and replace the Flex Coupling as necessary.
  • F
    fschroederSep 8, 2025
    What causes a Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL Condensing Unit to be off on Low Oil Pressure Failure?
    • C
      Corey PowellSep 8, 2025
      If your Howe Ice Maker's Condensing Unit is off due to a Low Oil Pressure Failure, here are potential causes: * There may be a lack of refrigerant. Check for leaks and repair them, then add refrigerant. * Refrigerant flood back could be occurring. Adjust the refrigeration to the Ice Flaker. * Improper piping or traps may be present. Correct the piping.
  • C
    Corey WilliamsSep 10, 2025
    Why is my Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL's condensing unit in low suction pressure pump down?
    • A
      Abigail LopezSep 10, 2025
      If the condensing unit in your Howe Ice Maker is experiencing a low suction pressure pump down, consider the following: * There might be a lack of refrigerant. Check for leaks, repair them, and add refrigerant as needed. * An insufficient water supply could be the issue. Replace the Water Filter and check for clogged tubes or valves. * A refrigeration line blockage may be present. Check the filter drier, TXV, and EPR, replacing them if necessary.
  • L
    Lindsay MendozaSep 12, 2025
    What causes ice to not harvest at the bottom of the evaporator in a Howe Ice Maker?
    • C
      Collin SheaSep 12, 2025
      If ice isn't harvesting at the bottom of the evaporator in your Howe Ice Maker, here are a few possible reasons: * The TXV might be underfeeding. Adjust the refrigeration to the Ice Flaker. * The system may be short of refrigerant. Check for bubbles in the Sight Glass and charge the system as needed. * The TXV sensing bulb might be improperly located. Relocate the bulb to the 4:30 clock position as originally set by the factory.
  • S
    Sandra CastilloSep 14, 2025
    What causes ice to not harvest on one side of the evaporator in a Howe Ice Maker?
    • A
      Andrea DyerSep 14, 2025
      If ice isn't harvesting on one side or an angular section of the evaporator in your Howe Ice Maker, consider these potential causes: * The Sleeve Bearings might be worn. Remove the Speed Reducer or Gear Motor and check for "play" in the Sleeve Bearings. Replace them if worn. * The Ice Blade clearance could be too high. Adjust the Ice Blade clearance to the proper setting.
  • J
    Jennifer SampsonSep 16, 2025
    What causes ice to accumulate on the ribs of the bottom casting in a Howe Ice Maker?
    • T
      Tiffany MillerSep 16, 2025
      If ice is accumulating on the ribs of the bottom casting in your Howe Ice Maker, it could be due to a low ambient temperature. If the ambient temperature is below 50°F, relocate the Ice Flaker to a warmer area. You can also contact Howe about a Low Ambient Kit.
  • A
    Andre StarkNov 18, 2025
    What to do if my Howe Ice Maker will not run?
    • C
      Caroline DonaldsonNov 18, 2025
      If your Howe Ice Maker doesn't start, here's what you can check: * Ensure the Photo Eyes are securely connected. You can test them by placing a wire jumper between the "Blue" and "Black" terminals in the Control Panel. If it starts, the Photo Eyes might be faulty and need replacement. * Try placing a wire jumper between terminals #5 (red) and #6 (red) at the Level Control Relay (LC1). If the Ice Maker starts, the Level Control Relay (LC1) may be defective and should be replaced. * Check for 24 VAC voltage across Term 1 (purple) and Term 2 (yellow/orange) at the Control Module (CM). If there's no voltage, the Transformer (T1) might be defective and needs replacing. * Place a wire jumper between Term 2 (yellow/orange) and Term 3 (red) at the Control Module (CM). If the Ice Maker sta...

Summary

Engineering Guidelines

Location Requirements

Specifies ambient room temperature range for operation and warranty void conditions.

Water Supply Requirements

Details required water temperature, pressure, and disallows RO water.

Drain Water Piping Requirements

Outlines recommended piping for drain water to a sanitary sewer.

Electrical Requirements

Specifies power supply needs for Ice Flaker and Remote Condensing Unit.

Refrigeration Requirements

Details BTU/hr requirements and optimum evaporator temperature for models.

Howe Furnished Condensing Units

Describes factory-equipped accessories and sizing for Howe units.

Field Furnished Condensing Units

Advises on sizing and equipping field-provided condensing units.

Refrigerant Pipework

Recommends installation practices for refrigerant piping, including materials and connections.

Refrigerant Pipework Insulation Requirements

Specifies insulation type and thickness for refrigerant piping.

Field Installation

Safety Information and Guidelines

Emphasizes qualified technicians, power disconnection, and adherence to codes.

Inspection

Details checks upon receipt, reporting damages, and careful uncrating.

Condensing Unit Rigging and Mounting

Provides guidance on rigging, mounting, and base level for condensing units.

Ground Mounting

Outlines suitability of concrete slabs and clearance requirements for ground mounting.

Roof Mounting

Advises on structural analysis and level installation for roof-mounted units.

Access

Recommends providing adequate space for compressor and component servicing.

Piping

Covers cleaning, installation practices, and pipe sizing for refrigeration lines.

Leak Testing

Details the procedure for leak testing the entire system with pressure and duration.

Field Wiring

Explains wiring compliance, control panel installation, and connections.

Evacuation

Details the process of evacuating the system using a vacuum pump to remove moisture.

Refrigerant Charging Instructions

Provides guidance on system evacuation and initial refrigerant charging.

Installation Checklist

A comprehensive checklist to verify all installation steps have been completed correctly.

Start Up and Operation

Water Operation

Describes the water system components and their functions.

Water Inlet

Details the connection for water supply and pressure requirements.

Float Valve

Explains how the float valve regulates water level in the sump.

Water Pump

Describes the function of the water pump in circulating water.

Overflow Drain

Identifies the overflow drain and conditions for its use.

Sump Drain

Explains the sump drain's purpose for flushing the sump.

Stop Valve

Advises on the proper state of the stop valve during operation and cleaning.

Water Distribution Pan

Describes how the pan circulates water and the role of spouts.

Water Regulating Valve

Explains how to adjust the water level using the regulating valve.

Drain Outlet

Details the connection for the drain outlet and ensuring it's clear.

Refrigeration Operation

Evaporator Pressure Regulator (EPR)

Identifies the EPR and its function in maintaining suction temperature.

Solenoid Valve

Identifies the solenoid valve controlling liquid refrigerant flow.

Sight Glass

Explains the use of the sight glass for checking refrigerant and moisture.

Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV)

Identifies the TXV for regulating refrigerant feed.

TXV Sensing Bulb

Details the correct placement of the TXV sensing bulb.

Pressure Tap

Identifies the pressure tap for setting the EPR.

Evaporator Pressure Setting

Provides pressure settings for EPR based on model and refrigerant type.

Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV) Adjustment

Guides on adjusting the TXV after the EPR.

Adjusting Refrigeration to the Ice Flaker

Details visual inspection of frost pattern for TXV adjustment.

TXV Underfeeding

Describes visual indicators of TXV underfeeding.

Solenoid Valve Operation

Explains the solenoid valve's role in controlling refrigerant flow.

Sight Glass Interpretation

Discusses checking refrigerant and moisture using the sight glass.

Fan Cycling Control

Details fan control for dual and single fan condensing units.

Low Pressure Control

Explains the low pressure control for continuous pump down.

Electrical Operation

Control Panel Overview

Identifies key components of the electrical control panel.

Motor Contactor (M1)

Explains the motor contactor's function and override button.

Transformer (T1)

Describes the transformer providing control power.

Water Pump Relay (R1)

Details the relay controlling the solenoid valve during power loss.

Fuses (FU1 & FU2)

Explains the function of fuses for water pump and heaters.

Ice Flaker Run Indicator Light

Describes the green indicator for normal operation.

Motor Overload Indicator Light

Describes the amber indicator for overload conditions.

Level Control Relay (LC1)

Explains how the LC1 uses photo eyes to shut off the Ice Flaker.

Control Module (CM)

Describes the control module's modes: Normal, Off-Delay, Overload.

Normal Operation

Details conditions for entering and operating in Normal Operation mode.

Off-Delay Cycle

Explains the off-delay cycle and its duration setting.

Off-Delay Setting

Guides on adjusting the off-delay timer for proper operation.

Overload Condition

Describes what constitutes an overload and its indicators.

Motor Overload Setting

Details how to correctly set the motor overload protection.

Photo Eyes (Level Control)

Explains the photoelectric sensor system for ice level detection.

Photo Eye Wiring

Provides a diagram and details for wiring the photo eye system.

Correct Wiring Arrangement

Specifies the correct wire connections for the emitter and receiver.

Correct Voltage

Outlines how to verify the correct voltage for the photo eye system.

Sequence of Operation

Describes the operational sequence involving photo eyes and the control module.

Mechanical Operation

Ice Deflector

Explains the function and proper positioning of the ice deflector.

Ice Blade

Describes the ice blade's role and clearance requirements.

Squeegee

Details the squeegee's function in wiping excess water and contact requirements.

Drive Motor and Speed Reducer

Explains the attachment and orientation of the drive motor and speed reducer.

Sleeve Bearings

Discusses the function, wear, and maintenance of sleeve bearings.

Maintenance

Preventative Maintenance Schedule

A schedule outlining maintenance tasks and their frequencies.

Cleaning Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for cleaning the Ice Flaker evaporator.

Sanitizing Procedure

Provides steps for sanitizing the Ice Flaker using bleach or approved sanitizer.

Lubrication

Details lubrication requirements for speed reducers and sleeve bearings.

Water Filtration

Explains the importance of water filtration and common contaminants.

Howe Water Filters

Describes Howe's water treatment systems and their benefits.

Water Filter Cartridge Replacement

Provides instructions for replacing water filter cartridges.

Troubleshooting

Ice Flaker Will Not Run

Lists causes and solutions for the Ice Flaker failing to start.

Ice Flaker Does Not Shut Down

Addresses issues with the Ice Flaker not stopping when the ice bin is full.

Solenoid Valve Will Not Open

Covers troubleshooting steps for a solenoid valve that fails to open.

Drive Motor Will Not Run or Overload Condition

Diagnoses problems with the drive motor not running or tripping overload.

Water Pump Will Not Run

Provides solutions for the water pump failing to operate.

Ice Does Not Harvest at Bottom of Evaporator

Troubleshoots issues related to ice formation at the evaporator's bottom.

Ice Does Not Harvest on One Side

Addresses uneven ice harvesting or formation on specific sections.

Ice Accumulates on Ribs of Bottom Casting

Explains why ice might accumulate on the bottom casting ribs.

Ice Blade is Frozen In-Place

Discusses causes and solutions when the ice blade is frozen.

Ice Flaker Not Meeting Rated Capacity

Identifies reasons for the Ice Flaker not producing ice at its rated capacity.

Ice Freezes Together in the Ice Bin

Addresses issues where ice clumps together in the ice bin.

Condensing Unit in Low Suction Pump Down

Troubleshoots the condensing unit entering a low suction pump down state.

Condensing Unit Off on Low Oil Pressure Failure

Explains causes and solutions for the unit shutting off due to low oil pressure.

Condensing Unit Off on High Discharge Pressure Failure

Covers reasons for the unit shutting off due to high discharge pressure.

Appendix

Cut View

Provides a cross-section view of the flake ice machine with labeled components.

Wiring Diagram

Illustrates the electrical wiring for the Ice Flaker and its control panel.

Wiring Diagram - Bohn 230;3;60 Air-Cooled Condensing Unit

Details the wiring for a Bohn condensing unit supplied by Howe.

Wiring Diagram - Keep Rite 230;3;60 Air-Cooled Condensing Unit

Provides wiring details for a Keep Rite condensing unit supplied by Howe.

Condensing Unit Wiring Diagram

General diagram for condensing unit wiring, referencing nameplate for requirements.

Wiring for Photoeye Ice Level Control

Diagram and notes for wiring the photoeye system for ice level control.

Flake Ice Machine Cross-Section

A detailed cross-section illustration of the ice machine's internal components.

Control Panel Parts

Lists replacement parts for control panels on RLE and RL models.

Neon Indicating Lights

Details the colors and meanings of neon indicating lights on control panels.

Replacement Water Filters Systems, Cartridges & Miscellaneous Parts

Lists water filter systems, cartridges, and related parts.

Miscellaneous

Lists various miscellaneous parts and supplies for the Ice Flaker.

Howe Rapid Freeze 4000-RL Specifications

General IconGeneral
Model Number4000-RL
Refrigerant TypeR404A
Ice TypeRapid Freeze Cube
Power Requirements208-230V/60Hz/3Ph
Ice Production Capacity4000 lbs per day

Related product manuals