178A12RHC Reach-In Refrigerators and Freezers

Product Information

The Avantco Reach-In Refrigerators and Freezers are available in different models with various sizes and door designs. The refrigerator models include:

• 178A12RHC – 24 Single Solid Door

• 178A19RHC – 29 Single Solid Door – Narrow Depth

• 178A23RHC – 29 Single Solid Door

• 178A23RGHC – 29 Single Glass Door

The freezer models include:

• 178A12FHC – 25 Single Solid Door

• 178A19FHC – 29 Single Solid Door – Narrow Depth

• 178A23FHC – 29 Single Solid Door

• 178A35RHC – 35 Double Solid Door

• 178A49RHC – 49 Double Solid Door

• 178A49RGHC – 49 Double Glass Door

• 178A35FHC – 35 Double Solid Door

• 178A49FHC – 49 Double Solid Door

This product is designed to store and preserve food items at a specific temperature. It is important to read the user manual before setting up, operating, and maintaining the refrigerator or freezer.

Product Usage Instructions

Installation

Before installation, ensure that the cabinet location guidelines are met. The refrigerator or freezer should be placed in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, and with sufficient clearance for air circulation.

If you need to convert the door from right-hinged to left-hinged, follow these instructions:

1. Remove the bottom vent by loosening the 4 screws that hold it in place.
2. Remove the top panel by unscrewing the 2 small screws.
3. Remove the small screws at the top and bottom door hinge where it attaches to the brackets. Note: DO NOT lose the small washers.
4. Take off the top bracket by removing the 3 bolts.
5. The door should come off at this point. Note: DO NOT lose the small round brass spacer on the bottom hinge.
6. Remove the 3 bolts holding the bottom bracket.
7. Replace the bottom hinge with the new left-hand bottom bracket using 3 bolts.
8. You will need to adjust the top and bottom spring tensioners so the door will close properly.
9. Put the door on the bottom hinge on the left side. You will need to reuse the brass spacer from step 5.
10. Place the top bracket on the top of the door, securing with 3 bolts.
11. Replace the small screws on the top and bottom of the bracket and door spring. Make sure the door is on properly before you do this.
12. Reattach the bottom vent and top panel.

This unit is intended for use in a temperature-controlled environment of less than 75°F and 60% relative humidity. Malfunction due to improper conditions is not covered under warranty.

Before Installation

• If the shelf has a raised lip, the lip needs to be installed facing up towards the rear of the cabinet to promote proper air flow. Failure to install the shelves properly is considered user error and is not covered by warranty.
• If the unit has recently been transported on its side, please let unit stand upright for a minimum of 24 hours before plugging it in.
• Make sure that the unit has reached the desired temperature before loading the unit with products. This unit is meant for keeping cold products cold, not chilling warm products.
• Make sure that there is proper ventilation around the unit in the area where it will operate.
• Make sure all accessories are installed (i.e., shelves, shelf clips, casters) before plugging in the unit.
• Do not attempt to remove or repair any component of the unit. Consult an authorized service technician for servicing/repair.
• Do not hang on doors or stand inside the unit.
• Please read through the manual in its entirety.

Field Convertible Doors

The Avantco A-19R, A-19F, A-23R, and A-23F ship with a right-hinged door design. If you would like to convert the reach-in to a left-hinged door design, you much purchase the bottom hinge separately (Avantco #178AKITFR) and follow these instructions:

Tools Needed:

• Socket Set
• Pliers
• Adjustable Wrench
• Phillips Head Screwdriver

1. Remove the bottom vent by loosening the 4 screws that hold it in place. You do not need to fully remove the screws as the vent will slide up and out.

2. Remove the top panel by unscrewing the 2 small screws. Once the screws are removed, the top panel will hinge up.

3. Remove the small screws at the top and bottom door hinge where it attaches to the brackets.
   Note: DO NOT lose the small washers.

4. Take off the top bracket by removing the 3 bolts.

5. The door should come off at this point.
   Note: DO NOT lose the small round brass spacer on the bottom hinge.

6. Remove the 3 bolts holding the bottom bracket.

7. Replace the bottom hinge with the new left hand bottom bracket using 3 bolts.

8. You will need to adjust the top and bottom spring tensioners so the door will close properly.

9. Put the door on the bottom hinge on the left side. You will need to reuse the brass spacer from step 5.

10. Place the top bracket on the top of the door, securing with 3 bolts.

11. Replace the small screws on the top and bottom of the bracket and door spring. Make sure the door is on properly before you do this.

12. Reattach the bottom vent and top panel.

Cabinet Location Guidelines

• Install the unit on strong and leveled surfaces.
• If the surface is uneven, the unit may be noisy.
• The unit may malfunction if the surface is uneven.
• Install the unit in an indoor, well-ventilated area.
• For best performance, please maintain clearance of 6” on the back of the unit.
• Brackets should be attached on the back of the unit.
• Do not use outdoors. For indoor use only.
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Avoid installation in a high humidity and/or dusty area.
• Humidity above 60% can cause the unit to rust, collect condensation, and may decrease efficiency.
• Dust collected on condenser coil will cause unit to malfunction.
• Malfunction due to temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity above 60%, or improperly maintained condenser coil will void the warranty.
• Select a location away from heat and moisture-generating equipment.
• Ambient temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit may cause the compressor to malfunction.
• Malfunction due to ambient temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit will void warranty.
• Do not install the unit inside a closet or alcove.

Electrical

• Ensure that the required voltage is being supplied at all times.
• The unit should be plugged into a grounded and properly-sized electrical outlet with appropriate over-current protection. Refer to the electrical requirements on the unit’s nameplate.
• The unit should have its own dedicated outlet.
• DO NOT use extension cords.
• Ensure the unit is not resting on or against the electrical cord.
• If the unit is not in use for a long period of time, unplug from the outlet.
• To avoid shock and fire hazards, DO NOT plug in or unplug the unit with wet hands.
• After unplugging the unit, wait at least 10 minutes before plugging it back in. Failure to do so could cause damage to the compressor.

Temperature Controls

The temperature controls can be adjusted based on your preference. Follow these instructions:

• Your new refrigerator or freezer is already factory-set to run at optimum temperatures for food safety and should require no adjustments.

• Refrigerators are set to cycle between a minimum temperature of 33°F and a maximum temperature of 40°F.

• Freezers are set to cycle between a minimum temperature of -5°F and a maximum temperature of 2°F.

• Adjusting the temperature changes the minimum temperature at which your unit will run. Your unit will not run constantly at this setting. To change it, follow these instructions:
  Digital Control Units

  1. Hold “SET” for 1 second. The display will flash the current minimum temperature.
  2. Use the arrow buttons to adjust the minimum temperature you’d like the unit to run at.
  3. Press “SET” again to save your settings.

Always remember to calculate the differential if you change the minimum temperature setting. The cabinet temperature will fluctuate up to 7°F over your set minimum temperature as the compressor runs and shuts off. Setting the temperature too high will result in unsafe maximum temperatures and possible health code violations.

Freezers (older models):

The temperature control is located on the back of the unit. Use a screwdriver to adjust the temperature control dial.

Refrigerators & Newer Freezers:

The temperature control is located inside the unit. Use a screwdriver to adjust the temperature control dial.

Operation

When loading products, ensure that they are properly stored and organized to allow for proper air circulation. Overloading the unit can cause it to operate inefficiently.

Defrost the unit regularly to ensure optimal performance. Follow the instructions in the user manual for the defrost system.

Defrost System

Automatic Defrost Cycle

• Refrigerator coils are kept below the freezing point (32°F).
• During compressor downtime, the evaporator fan continues to circulate air through the evaporator coil. This air circulation raises the coil temperature above the freezing point, melting any accumulated frost.
• Run-off water is drained into the evaporator pan and evaporated.
• Automatic defrost timers initiate at pre-set intervals and for a pre-determined duration.

Running a Manual Defrost Cycle

• Units are pre-programmed to run automatic defrost cycles at preset intervals. However, if you would like to run a manual defrost cycle at any time, follow the steps below.
• Only models with digital controls can run a manual defrost cycle. Units with mechanical controls cannot run a manual defrost cycle.
• Freezers: Press the defrost button (“DEF” and ▼) for approximately 5 seconds.
• Repeat to stop the defrost cycle.
• Refrigerators: Press the defrost button (Snowflake and ▼) for approximately 3 seconds.
• Repeat to stop the defrost cycle.

Loading Product

• Ensure there is at least 4″ of clearance from the evaporator.
• Ensure all shelves are sitting level and properly secured before loading products.
• DO NOT store flammable/explosive gas or liquids inside the unit.

Safety Information

Pay close attention to the safety notices in this section. Disregarding these notices may lead to serious injury and/or damage to the unit.

• To minimize shock and fire hazards, be sure to not overload outlet. This unit should be given its own outlet.
• DO NOT use extension cords.
• DO NOT put your hands under the unit while it is being moved.
• When the unit is not in use for a long period of time, unplug the unit from the outlet.
• After unplugging the unit, wait at least 10 minutes before plugging it back in. Failure to do so could cause damage to the compressor.
• To minimize shock and fire hazards, do not plug or unplug the cord with wet hands.
• Unplug the unit before performing maintenance or cleaning.
• To minimize shock and fire hazards, make sure that the unit is properly grounded.
• DO NOT attempt to remove or repair any component unless instructed by the factory.
• DO NOT allow the unit to rest on or against the electrical cord and/or plug.
• DO NOT hang on the doors.
• DO NOT store any flammable/explosive gas or liquids inside the unit.
• DO NOT attempt to alter or tamper with the electrical cord.
• DO NOT use the unit if the power cord is damaged.

Cleaning

Disconnect the power cord before cleaning any parts of the unit. It is recommended that any servicing of the unit be performed by an authorized service technician. Follow the instructions in the user manual for cleaning the unit. It is strongly recommended that any servicing of the unit be performed by an authorized service technician.

Fan Blades & Motor

• If necessary, clean the fan blades and motor with a soft cloth.
• If it is necessary to wash the fan blades more thoroughly, cover the fan motor to prevent moisture damage, then use a damp cloth to clean the fan blades.

Interior

• Use warm water and a mild soap with a clean cloth to wipe down the interior of the unit.
• DO NOT use steel wool, caustic soap, abrasive cleaners, or bleach that may damage the interior finish.
• Wash door gaskets on a regular basis, preferably weekly. Simply remove door gasket from the frame of the door, soak in warm water and soap for thirty (30) minutes, dry with soft cloth, and replace.
• Check door gaskets for proper seal after they are replaced.
• Periodically remove the shelves and pilasters from the unit and clean them with mild soap and warm water. To remove the pilasters, first remove the shelves and shelf brackets. Then, simply lift the pilaster up and out.

Cleaning the Condenser Coil

• A dusty condenser may lead to high energy consumption, less cooling effectiveness, and compressor damage.
• For efficient operation, keep the condenser surface free of dust, dirt, and lint.
• We recommend cleaning the condenser coil at least once per month.
• The condenser coil is located at the bottom behind the panel.

Cleaning the Condenser Coil Instructions

1. Disconnect the electrical power from the unit.
2. Remove the front cover and base cover with a screwdriver.
3. Using a soft brush and/or vacuum, remove the dirt, lint, etc. from the finned condenser coil in a vertical direction.
4. Clean the condenser with a commercial condenser coil cleaner, available from any kitchen equipment retailer. Ex. Noble Chemical Tech Line Coil Cleaners  (148TLECCCLNR, 148TLHDCCLNR, 148TLECOILDD, 148TLFMCCLNR, 147TLEVPCLNR, or 147TLHDCCLNR).
5. After cleaning, straighten any bent condenser fins with a fin comb.
6. When finished, be sure to reinstall the front cover and base cover.
7. Reconnect the electrical power to the unit.

Refrigerator Models

• 178A12RHC

  • 24″ Single Solid Door

• 178A19RHC

  • 29″ Single Solid Door – Narrow Depth

• 178A23RHC

  • 29″ Single Solid Door

• 178A23RGHC

  • 29″ Single Glass Door

• 178A35RHC

  • 39½” Double Solid Door

• 178A49RHC

  • 54″ Double Solid Door

• 178A49RGHC

  • 54″ Double Glass Door

Freezer Models

• 178A12FHC

  • 25″ Single Solid Door

• 178A19FHC

  • 29″ Single Solid Door – Narrow Depth

• 178A23FHC

  • 29″ Single Solid Door

• 178A35FHC

  • 39½” Double Solid Door

• 178A49FHC

  • 54″ Double Solid Door

Warnings

DANGER – RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION. FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT USED. TO BE REPAIRED ONLY BY TRAINED SERVICE PERSONNEL. DO NOT PUNCTURE REFRIGERANT TUBING.
CAUTION – RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION. FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT USED. CONSULT REPAIR MANUAL/OWNER’S GUIDE BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE THIS PRODUCT. ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MUST BE FOLLOWED.
CAUTION – RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION DUE TO PUNCTURE OF REFRIGERANT TUBING; FOLLOW HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY. FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT USED.
CAUTION – RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION DUE TO FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANT USED. FOLLOW HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY IN COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS.

Troubleshooting

Note:
You should read this manual in its entirety prior to equipment setup, operation, and maintenance.

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