Operation Section 3
3-2
Part Number 11325 03/08
Start-up Procedure
Operate the system for at least two hours at normal
conditions. If there is no indication of malfunction,
operate the system overnight on automatic controls.
Perform a thorough re-check of the entire system:
1. Check compressor discharge and suction
pressures. If not within system design limits,
determine the cause and take corrective action.
2. Check liquid line sight glass and expansion valve
operation. If there are indications that more
refrigerant is required, leak-test all connections and
system components and repair any leaks before
adding refrigerant.
3. For semi-hermetics, observe the oil level in the
compressor crankcase sight glass. Add oil as
necessary to bring the level to 3/4 of the sight glass
while idle, or 1/2 of the sight glass when running.
4. Check the thermostatic expansion valve(s) for the
proper superheat setting. Verify that the sensing
bulb is insulated, properly located and in positive
contact with the suction line.
NOTE: High superheat causes low refrigeration
capacity. Low superheat promotes liquid slugging and
compressor bearing washout.
5. Check the line voltage and amperage carefully at the
compressor terminals. Use suitable instruments.
- Voltage must be within + 10% or – 5% of the
voltage rating indicated on the condensing unit
nameplate. If high or low voltage is indicated,
notify the Power Company.
- If amperage draw is excessive, immediately
determine the cause and take corrective action.
- On three-phase motor compressors verify there is
a balanced load.
6. Check the defrost control initiation and termination
settings, and set the length of defrost period. Set the
fail safe at the length of the defrost + 25%.
Example:
24 min. defrost + 25% (6 min.) = 30 min. fail safe
7. Check crankcase heater operation (if applicable).
Sequence of Operation
DEFROST TIME CLOCK
The timer starts the defrost cycle automatically at
predetermined times. A setting of two to four defrost
cycles per day is typical. For heavier frost loads,
additional cycles may be required.
When the defrost cycle begins:
1. Switch 2 to 4 opens in the time clock, breaking the
circuit to the room thermostat, liquid line solenoid,
and evaporator fan motors. This allows the
compressor to pump down and shut off.
Simultaneously, switch 1 to 3 closes in the timer,
energizing the defrost heaters.
2. The heaters increase the coil temperature above
32°F, melting the frost off the coil.
3. When the coil warms to 45-55°F, the defrost
termination thermostat closes and energizes the
switching solenoid in the timer. At this time, switch 1
to 3 in the timer opens, terminating the defrost
heaters. Simultaneously, switch 2 to 4 closes in the
time clock, energizing the temperature control
circuit.
4. Suction pressure rises, the low pressure control
closes, and the compressor starts.
5. The fan relay closes when the coil temperature
reaches 23-30°F. This energizes the fan motors.
6. The system operates in the refrigeration cycle until
another defrost cycle is initiated by the timer.
Do not start the compressor while it is in a vacuum.
Do not leave the unit unattended until the system
has reached normal operating conditions.