Defrost

Frost will gradually build up on the evaporator coils as a result of normal operation. Periodically this frost must be melted to prevent a loss of cooling and airflow.

Defrost is accomplished by passing hot refrigerant gas through the evaporator coil, thus melting the frost (or ice). Melted frost drains out of the unit onto the ground through the drain tubes. The defrost damper closes during defrost to prevent warm air from entering the cargo area. The optional electric heater strips are also energized in defrost during electric standby operation.

Defrost can be initiated at any time the evaporator coil temperature is below 42 F (5.5 C).

There are two methods of defrost initiation:

SR-3 Microprocessor Controller: The Microprocessor Controller is programmed to automatically initiate timed and forced defrost cycles. The SR-3 uses temperature sensors to determine if forced defrost is required.

Manual Defrost: Manual Defrost allows the operator to initiate a defrost cycle by pressing the Defrost key. See “Initiating a Manual Defrost Cycle.”