True SPEC Series - User Manual

This document serves as an installation and operation manual for True Manufacturing Co., Inc.'s commercial refrigerators and freezers, specifically the SPEC SERIES®: STR, STA & STG, Roll-In and Roll-Through models. It provides comprehensive guidance for users to ensure efficient and trouble-free operation, emphasizing safety, proper installation, and maintenance.

Function Description

The devices covered by this manual are commercial refrigerators and freezers designed for professional use. Their primary function is to maintain specific internal temperatures to preserve food and other perishable products. These units are built with robust quality controls and materials to ensure longevity and reliable performance in demanding commercial environments. The manual details the operation of both mechanical and electronic temperature controls, allowing for precise temperature management tailored to refrigeration or freezing needs. Key operational aspects include compressor cycling, evaporator fan management, and defrost cycles, all designed to optimize cooling efficiency and prevent frost buildup. The units are equipped with various safety features and operational indicators to inform users of their status and potential issues.

Usage Features

The manual outlines several usage features to help users maximize the performance and lifespan of their True refrigeration units.

Installation and Setup:

Uncrating and Placement: Detailed steps are provided for uncrating the unit, including removing shipping bolts and installing castors or legs. It emphasizes inspecting for freight damage and filing claims if necessary. Proper placement is crucial, requiring adequate ventilation (1 inch at the rear for refrigerators, 3 inches for freezers) and a level surface to ensure efficient condensate removal and door operation.
Electrical Connection: Strict instructions are given for connecting the unit to electricity, highlighting the importance of proper grounding and never using extension cords. The manual includes a wire gauge chart to ensure appropriate electrical wiring based on amperage and distance to the load. It warns against removing the ground prong and stresses that the unit should be plugged into its own individual electrical circuit with a matching voltage rating.
Sealing Cabinet to Floor: For specific models, a procedure for sealing the cabinet to the floor is provided using NSF-approved sealants. This ensures a secure installation and prevents debris from accumulating underneath the unit.
Door Configuration and Adjustment: The manual explains how to adjust cabinet doors for alignment, including loosening and tightening Phillips screws on both cabinet and door hinges. It also covers the adjustment of lock latches to ensure smooth operation.
Ramp Installation (Roll-In/Roll-Through Models): For roll-in and roll-through models, instructions are given for installing the ramp using slotted holes and thumb screws. Adjusting the door sweep gasket is also covered to ensure proper contact with the ramp, preventing air leakage.

Operational Controls:

Startup: Users are advised to plug in the cooler and allow it to cool completely for several hours (2-3 days empty) before loading products. Factory-set temperatures are 35°F (1.6°C) for refrigerators and -10°F (-23.3°C) for freezers.
Temperature Control: The manual distinguishes between mechanical and electronic temperature controls.
- Mechanical Controls: These controls are typically located inside or behind the cabinet, or behind front/rear access grills. Adjustments are made by turning a calibration screw, with specific instructions for high-altitude applications to warm up set points. The manual provides a scale guide for measuring degrees of rotation and an altitude correction table.
- Electronic Controls (LAE): These controls feature a digital display that can show temperature in °C or °F. The manual explains how to switch between these units by removing a small plug. It details how to lock and unlock the controller to prevent unauthorized program changes, how to turn the control off (which deactivates electrical components but doesn't cut power to the cabinet), and how to adjust the "set point" temperature. Instructions are also provided for initiating a manual defrost and changing defrost intervals.
Light Switches: Location of light switches varies by model, often near the temperature control or as a rocker switch on the inside top right of the ceiling for glass door models. Solid door models typically have lights controlled by a door switch.
Energy-Saver Switch: This switch deactivates door/frame heaters when in the "ON" position (indicated by a "0" mark), saving energy.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficient operation of True refrigeration units. The manual outlines several key maintenance features:

Condenser Coil Cleaning: This is highlighted as the most critical maintenance task. Condensers accumulate dirt, lint, and grease, which can lead to compressor failure, product loss, and increased electrical costs. Users are instructed to disconnect power, remove the top screen, and clean the coil and fan with a stiff bristle brush and vacuum. For significant dirt buildup, compressed air can be used (with eye protection). The manual stresses that condenser cleaning is not covered by warranty and should be performed every 30 days or as needed.
Light Bulb Replacement: Instructions are provided for safely replacing interior light bulbs, emphasizing disconnecting power and proper disposal of old bulbs according to local ordinances.
Stainless Steel Equipment Care: The manual offers detailed advice on cleaning stainless steel surfaces to prevent rust and maintain appearance. It warns against using steel wool, abrasive, or chlorine-based products, which can damage the passive layer.
- Cleaning Tools: Use non-abrasive tools like soft cloths and plastic scouring pads.
- Cleaning Technique: Scrub parallel to the polishing lines or "grain" of the stainless steel.
- Cleaners: Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated, or non-chloride containing cleaners. Avoid cleaners with quaternary salts.
- Water Treatment: Soften hard water if possible to reduce deposits.
- Frequency: Clean frequently to avoid buildup of hard stains.
- Rinsing: Rinse and wipe dry immediately after using chlorinated cleaners. Allow to air dry to help maintain the passivity film.
- Prohibited Substances: Hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) should never be used.
- Restoration/Passivation: Regularly restore/passivate stainless steel.
- Recommended Cleaners: A list of specific cleaners is provided for routine cleaning, fingerprint removal, stubborn stains, grease, and restoration.

Warranty Information:

The manual includes a comprehensive warranty section, detailing a three-year parts and labor warranty and an additional two-year compressor warranty for units shipped after September 1, 2015. It specifies what is covered (defects in material and workmanship under normal use) and what is not (standard wear parts, improper installation, lack of preventative maintenance, consequential damages, improper usage, non-OEM parts, alterations, neglect, abuse, or improper electrical connections). Special conditions apply to hydrocarbon refrigeration systems, including strict adherence to lubricant specifications and drier replacement protocols. Warranty claims must be made directly through True and include specific unit information.