Walk in cooler thermostat
Table of Contents
Introduction
A thermostat for a walk-in cooler is essential for maintaining a stable temperature, which helps preserve food quality and safety. When choosing or troubleshooting a thermostat for a walk-in cooler, here are a few key points to consider:
Thermostat Type:
- Mechanical Thermostats: These are simple and reliable, using mechanical components to sense temperature changes and control the compressor.
- Digital Thermostats: These provide more precise control and may include additional features like digital displays, programmable settings, and alerts for high/low temperatures.
Temperature Range:
- Walk-in coolers generally operate between 35°F to 38°F (1.7°C to 3.3°C), so choose a thermostat that allows control within that range.
- Ensure the thermostat has an appropriate differential (the temperature range before it cycles on/off) to prevent rapid cycling.
Installation:
- Place the thermostat sensor probe in an area away from direct airflow or external heat sources to ensure accurate readings.
- Follow the manufacturer’s wiring and mounting instructions carefully, as incorrect wiring could lead to malfunction.
Troubleshooting:
- If the cooler isn’t maintaining temperature, check that the thermostat is set correctly and the sensor is securely connected.
- Inspect for visible damage or corrosion on the thermostat wiring, as this could interrupt its function.
- Clean the sensor or thermostat, as dust or ice buildup can affect its readings.
Calibration:
Periodically check and calibrate the thermostat to ensure it’s maintaining the setpoint accurately, especially if temperature fluctuations are observed.
3 Best walk in cooler thermostat
1. Johnson Controls A19AAT-2C Freezer Thermostat
- Type: Mechanical
- Features: This highly reliable, single-stage thermostat is popular for its simplicity and durability. It can be set between -30°F to 100°F, so it works for both coolers and freezers.
- Mechanical Reliability: As a mechanical thermostat, it operates without electrical power, making it highly reliable and less prone to electronic malfunctions.
- Wide Temperature Range: It offers a range from -30°F to 100°F (-34°C to 37.7°C), making it suitable for both walk-in coolers and freezers.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand commercial conditions, this thermostat is highly durable and can handle the demands of a busy walk-in cooler or freezer.
- Ease of Installation: It’s straightforward to install and set up, requiring only basic wiring and no complex programming.
- Affordable: Generally more cost-effective than digital thermostats, this model is budget-friendly while still being effective.
- No Digital Display: Lacking a digital display, it’s harder to check the exact setpoint or current temperature at a glance.
- No Alarms or Alerts: Unlike digital models, it doesn’t offer alarms for high/low temperatures, which could alert staff to potential temperature issues.
- Less Precise Control: While it’s reliable, it’s not as precise as a digital thermostat in maintaining the set temperature.
- Limited Adjustability: Without programmable features, it doesn’t allow for customized settings or scheduled temperature changes.
2. Dixell XR60CX Digital Thermostat
- Type: Digital
- Features: The Dixell XR60CX provides a digital display, precise control, and alarm functionality. It has a temperature range of -40°F to 176°F, making it versatile for coolers and freezers.
- Digital Precision: This thermostat provides highly accurate temperature control with a digital setpoint, making it easier to maintain specific temperatures.
- Wide Temperature Range: With a range from -40°F to 176°F (-40°C to 80°C), it’s suitable for both coolers and freezers, offering flexibility for a variety of applications.
- Defrost Control: Built-in defrost cycle management helps prevent ice buildup, improving efficiency and reducing manual maintenance.
- Alarm Functionality: High/low-temperature alarms are integrated, providing alerts if temperatures fall outside the set range, which is critical for food safety.
- Easy-to-Read Display: The digital display shows the current temperature, setpoints, and error messages, allowing for quick monitoring and troubleshooting.
- Programmable Settings: Customizable settings enable tailored control for various cooling needs, including different defrost schedules and cycles.
- Complex Installation and Setup: This thermostat requires more detailed wiring and programming knowledge than mechanical models, so professional installation may be necessary.
- Higher Cost: Digital thermostats like the Dixell XR60CX are generally more expensive than mechanical models, which may not suit all budgets.
- Power-Dependent: Unlike mechanical thermostats, this one requires electrical power to function, so it won’t operate in case of power outages.
- Learning Curve for Programming: With multiple settings and programmable options, it may take time for users to understand and set up the thermostat optimally.
3. Ranco ETC-111000-000 Digital Thermostat
- Type: Digital
- Features: A versatile thermostat that offers a temperature range of -30°F to 220°F. It has a single-stage temperature control and an LCD for easy reading.
- Wide Temperature Range: With a range from -30°F to 220°F (-34°C to 104°C), this thermostat is highly versatile, suitable for both cooling and heating applications.
- Digital Precision: The digital control provides accurate and reliable temperature management, which helps in maintaining consistent temperatures.
- Programmable Settings: Users can easily set high and low-temperature limits, differential settings, and calibration, making it highly customizable.
- User-Friendly Display: The large LCD display shows both the current temperature and setpoint, making it easy to monitor at a glance.
- Single or Dual-Stage Capability: The ETC-111000-000 model supports single-stage control, making it ideal for simple applications, while dual-stage models are also available for more complex setups.
- Flexible Applications: This thermostat is suitable for various applications, including walk-in coolers, freezers, and HVAC systems, adding to its adaptability.
- Requires Electrical Power: As a digital thermostat, it requires electrical power to operate, so it won’t work during power outages, unlike mechanical thermostats.
- Complex Setup for Beginners: Installation and programming may be challenging for those without experience, as it requires proper wiring and setting adjustments.
- No Built-In Defrost Management: Unlike some refrigeration-specific thermostats, the Ranco ETC-111000-000 doesn’t have a built-in defrost feature, so additional equipment may be needed if defrost cycles are required.
- Moderate Cost: While more affordable than some high-end digital thermostats, it’s still more expensive than basic mechanical models.
Walk in cooler thermostat installation instructions
Installing a thermostat in a walk-in cooler requires careful attention to wiring, sensor placement, and calibration. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:
1. Turn Off Power
- Shut off the power to the cooler to ensure safety during installation. Confirm that no electricity is running to the cooler or the existing thermostat.
2. Choose the Thermostat Location
- Mount the thermostat in a location where it can accurately read the internal temperature. Avoid placing it near doors, vents, or areas where it may receive direct cold air from the evaporator fan.
- Ensure the mounting location is easily accessible for monitoring and adjustments.
3. Remove the Old Thermostat (if applicable)
- Carefully disconnect and remove any existing thermostat, noting where the wires are connected, as you may need to match them on the new thermostat.
4. Prepare the Wires
- Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the wire ends if needed, making sure each wire is clean and free of corrosion.
- If the thermostat requires a sensor probe, route the probe wire from the thermostat to an appropriate spot in the cooler, securing it away from high-traffic areas.
5. Mount the New Thermostat
- Attach the new thermostat to the wall using screws and brackets as provided by the manufacturer. Ensure it’s secure but not overly tight, as this can damage the thermostat housing.
6. Connect the Wires
- Following the manufacturer’s wiring diagram, connect each wire to its corresponding terminal on the thermostat.
- Common wiring colors: Typically, the red wire is power, white is heating, and yellow is cooling. However, these can vary, so always refer to the manual.
7. Install the Temperature Sensor
- If your thermostat has an external sensor probe, place the sensor in a central, undisturbed location within the cooler to get the most accurate temperature reading.
- Avoid placing the probe in the direct airflow of the evaporator coil, as this can cause inaccurate readings.
8. Set the Temperature Range
- Set the thermostat to the desired temperature range (typically 35°F to 38°F for walk-in coolers).
- If using a digital thermostat, program any other necessary settings, like alarms, differential, and defrost cycles.
9. Secure the Wires and Cover
- Tuck any loose wires neatly and secure them to prevent damage. Attach the thermostat cover.
10. Power On and Test
- Turn the power back on and observe the thermostat and cooler operation. Ensure the compressor, fan, and any defrost cycles function correctly.
- Check that the temperature reading aligns with the desired setpoint. You may need to calibrate the thermostat if the readings seem inaccurate.
11. Monitor for Proper Operation
- Observe the cooler for at least a full cycle to confirm it’s cooling to the desired temperature and that the thermostat cycles correctly.
FAQs
How does a walk-in cooler thermostat work?
In essence, the thermostat functions as an automatic switch, turning the cooling system on and off to keep the cooler within a specific temperature range. This process ensures the cooler stays at an optimal temperature for food safety and energy efficiency.
What temperature should a walk in cooler be?
A walk-in cooler should generally be kept between 35°F and 38°F (1.7°C and 3.3°C) for optimal food storage.
Where is the thermostat on a walk in cooler?
The thermostat on a walk-in cooler is usually located inside the cooler or just outside, depending on the design and purpose of the unit:
1. Inside the Cooler:
The thermostat sensor or probe is often mounted on the wall inside the cooler, typically in a central location that accurately reflects the cooler’s overall temperature.
It’s generally positioned away from direct airflow from the evaporator fan to avoid false readings due to direct cold air.
The thermostat control unit (if mechanical) may also be mounted on an internal wall where it’s accessible but not in high-traffic areas where it could be accidentally bumped.
2. Outside the Cooler:
For convenience and to prevent accidental changes, digital thermostats with a control panel are sometimes mounted outside the cooler. This allows easy access for adjustments without needing to enter the cooler.
If the thermostat controller is outside, it will have a sensor probe extending into the cooler to measure the internal temperature accurately.
3. Integrated with the Evaporator Unit:
Some walk-in coolers have the thermostat integrated with the evaporator fan or coil unit, typically mounted at a higher point in the cooler. This is more common in self-contained units or smaller coolers.
READ ALSO: Is a noisy freezer dangerous?