The refrigerator in a laboratory is one of the most important equipments. Its function is to maintain, in a controlled environment (refrigerated space), various fluids and substances, so that they are kept in good condition while the lower the temperature, the less chemical and biological activity. To achieve this, the interior temperature of the refrigerator must be lower than the ambient temperature.
Operation
For operation, refrigerators require the following provisions:
1. Electrical supply with ground pole suitable for the voltage and frequency requirements of the equipment.
2. If more than one refrigerator is installed that depends on the same electrical circuit, it must be verified that the electrical power and its safety are adequate to supply the power required by the refrigerators.
3. Connect the refrigerator directly to the electrical outlet. Never install a refrigerator in an electrical outlet that is overloaded or that has voltage deficiencies. If possible, avoid the use of extension cords. The electrical outlet must not be more than 2 m from the selected place to install the refrigerator.
4. Install the refrigerator on a level surface, making sure there is free space around the equipment.
5. Avoid installing the refrigerator in direct sunlight or near heat sources such as radiators or heaters.
The operation of conservation refrigerators in general is very simple and is indicated below:
1. Connect the power cord of the refrigerator to an electrical outlet with a grounding pole and capable of supplying the required voltage and power.
2. Press the ignition switch.
3. Select the temperature by turning the knob to the desired temperature.
4. Wait for the refrigerator to reach operating temperature before storing any product.
5. Charge the refrigerator according to the capacity established by the manufacturer.
6. Distribute the loads evenly inside the refrigerator. The uniformity of the temperature depends on the free circulation of air inside the refrigerator.
7. Avoid opening the door for long periods of time, to avoid the entry of thermal energy and humidity -present in the air- to the refrigerated environment, as ice forms and the working time of the cooling system is increased. Open only to place or remove stored items.
Maintenance of a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are equipment that in general are not very demanding from the perspective of maintenance, although they are demanding in relation to the quality of power systems. The most common maintenance routines are described below.
Interior cleaning (Frequency: every 3 months)
1. Disconnect the power supply cable.
2. Verify that the interior shelves of the refrigerator are clean. They are usually made of metal mesh, to which a coating is applied to prevent corrosion. To clean them, any material that could interfere with the cleaning work must be removed from the refrigerator. Move the empty shelves forward and disassemble them. Apply a mild detergent with a damp cloth, rub gently, the upper and lower surfaces. Dry and relocate in the original position.
3. Once the shelves have been removed, clean the inside walls of the refrigerator, using a mild detergent. Dry before assembling the interior accessories.
Cleaning the condenser (Frequency: every 6 months)
1. Disconnect the power supply cable.
2. Check the position where the condenser is installed. The manufacturers place it mainly on the bottom and on the back of the equipment. Some refrigerators have it installed on top.
3. Remove the protection grid and the condenser protection filter (not all manufacturers provide a filter).
4. Remove dirt and dust deposited on the condenser surface.
5. Verify that both the surface of the tubes and the surface of the heat conducting fins are clean. Also vacuum the filter (if this element is available).
6. Reinstall the cover.
7. Connect the refrigerator to the electrical connection.
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