Harris FAQs

FAQ: Installation & Operation; Refrigerators and Freezers
Here you will find information pertaining to installation procedures and the operation of your unit and its features.

1. Can I operate my 60Hz freezer on 50Hz (or 50Hz on 60Hz)?
2. When should I consider purchasing a CO2 or LN2 backup system?
3. In relocating my freezer, are there any precautions that I need to take?
4. How do I defrost ice build-up around the door of the ULT or freezer?
5. How do you operate the temperature controller?
6. How can I get an MSDS?
7. How can I get a replacement operator's manual?
8. If I have a problem with incoming line voltage, what can I do about it?
9. How do I know what my actual line voltage is?
10. What is the difference between 115V and 208/230V? Is one recommended over the other?
11. The Voltage Low, Power Boost or Voltage Boost indicator on the front panel is on. Is this harmful to the freezer?
12. Why is the "Clean Filter" indicator on the front panel on?
13. Why is the "Low Battery" alarm indicator on the front panel on?
14. At what temperature does an ultra low freezer operate?

1. Can I operate my 60Hz freezer on 50Hz (or 50Hz on 60Hz)?

No! Freezers with "A" or "D" in the suffix at the model number run on 60Hz, "W" or "V" in the suffix indicate a 50Hz supply is required. These units will not operate on the wrong supply frequency, attempting to do so may cause permanent damage and invalidate the warranty.

- Updated: April 6, 2001

2. When should I consider purchasing a CO2 or LN2 backup system?

Any time critical samples are being stored between -40°C and -150°C, a backup system should be considered. The typical temperature range for CO2 is -40°C to -75°C, while liquid nitrogen is used as a back-up for temperature lower than -75°C.

In the event of a power outage, system failure, or other unforseen situation, a backup system will provide the necessary means to maintain the ultra-low temperatures within the freezer. (This system does require a customer supplied CO2 supply.) The backup system operates off a continuously recharged battery. Typical battery life, once the system is activated, is between 50-70 hours at -70°C.

- Updated: January 17, 2000

3. In relocating my freezer, are there any precautions that I need to take?

Always keep the unit upright while moving it to prevent compressor oil migrating around the refrigeration system. Handle the freezer carefully and avoid impact damage from impact to the cabinet and the mechanism.

Once at the new location, allow ten minutes for the compressor oil to resettle before the unit is started. Do not maneuver the unit by the latch as it may become overstressed and may not operate properly.

- Updated: January 17, 2000

4. How do I defrost ice build-up around the door of the ULT or freezer?

During normal use a certain amount of ice will form around the door and in the freezer chamber. It is important to defrost the freezer periodically to prevent damage:
1) Transfer the freezer contents to another cabinet
2) Turn off the unit and allow the interior to warm to room temperature (do not use an ice pick or other sharp tool that could easily damage the freezer)
3) Dispose of ice and wipe away any water standing in the bottom of the cabinet (if there is a freezer odor, wash the interior with a solution of baking soda and water)

- Updated: January 31, 2000

5. How do you operate the temperature controller?

First read the appropriate section of the operator's manual. If you don't have a manual you can download a copy from our website. If the manual does not answer your question, please call our Technical Service Department at 800-438-4851, and press 2 for a service technician.

- Updated: January 31, 2000

6. How can I get an MSDS?

Appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are routinely sent with each unit leaving the manufacturing plant. Additional copies may be ordered through the Parts Department at 800-438-4851. Please have the part or model number available for which you need the MSDS. You may also use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG96). This guide will help you in identifying the hazard classification, table of placards, and emergency numbers to call. In the case of freight handling or lab emergencies ONLY you may call Chemtrec 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at 800-424-9300.

- Updated: January 17, 2000

7. How can I get a replacement operator's manual?

You may download operators manuals from this Web site; they are also available through GSLE Parts & Service at 800-438-4851 for a nominal fee. Please be sure to have your model and serial number ready when your place your order.

- Updated: January 31, 2000

8. If I have a problem with incoming line voltage, what can I do about it?

Consult with a qualified electrician to verify that you have dedicated circuits for each unit. Some conditions may not be correctable (i.e. older facilities or conditions during peak load aka "brown outs").

Harris freezers feature a "Voltage Boost" system designed to provide continuous compensation during periods of weak supply, but operating for extended periods at low voltage can shorten the life of your freezer.

- Updated: January 31, 2000

9. How do I know what my actual line voltage is?

Standard outlets wired per NEC or other regional codes will reflect a distinct plug pattern and with which voltage it is supplied. See the Line Cord Plug Reference in the appropriate Harris catalog for the most common arrangements. If in doubt, please consult a qualified electrician. Have a service technician or maintenance person measure. Note, it is most meaningful to measure voltage during compressor start-up to reveal weak power supplies.

On Harris models with microprocessor controls (all except the Essential ELT Series), the line voltage can be displayed by pressing the Voltage Boost or Voltage Low button on the control panel.

- Updated: February 1, 2000

10. What is the difference between 115V and 208/230V? Is one recommended over the other?

Generally in the U.S. and Canada, 115V is considered household voltage and 208/230V is industrial. Both are available in the U.S. and will provide outstanding performance and reliability; there is no meaningful difference in performance, power consumption, heat rejection or product life between 115V and 208/230V products.

One may be more convenient for users to install depending on what power receptacles are already available (i.e. for replacement units). A dedicated circuit for each freezer is always recommended.

The last digit on the model refers to the voltage; "A" means 115V 60Hz, while a "D" suffix is used for models with 208/230V 60Hz.

- Updated: January 17, 2000

11. The Voltage Low, Power Boost or Voltage Boost indicator on the front panel is on. Is this harmful to the freezer?

Harris freezers manufactured prior to 96Q1 have both a Voltage Low and Power Boost indicator. After 96Q1 these two indicators were combined and renamed Voltage Boost. Whenever either indicator is illuminated, the incoming supply voltage to the unit is low.

All Harris freezers feature a Voltage Boost system designed to provide continuous compensation during periods of weak supply. During such an event, the actual line voltage may be displayed by pressing the button adjacent to the indicator.

Operating for extended periods at low voltage can shorten the life of the freezer. If the voltage low indicator lights frequently or all the time, we recommend you call an electrician to check the power supply. We also recommend that these freezers be connected to dedicated circuits, not shared with any other equipment.

The Voltage Boost System is provided on all models. However, the Voltage Boost indicator light is not provided on the Essential Series freezers.

- Updated: February 2, 2000

12. Why is the "Clean Filter" indicator on the front panel on?

All Harris models except the Essential ELT Series have a "Clean Filter" indicator that illuminates when the filter needs to be cleaned. Open the grille, remove the filter, shake it to remove any loose dust, then rinse the filter in clean water. After shaking off the excess water you may replace the filter and close the grille. The filter should be cleaned every two to three months on all models, including the Essential Series.

- Updated: February 1, 2000

13. Why is the "Low Battery" alarm indicator on the front panel on?

All Harris models except the Essential ELT Series have a "Low Battery" alarm light that illuminates when the back-up battery is either disconnected or has passed its service life and needs replacement.

To locate the battery, open the front grille; the battery is directly behind the grille and is connected by two push-on terminals (you may need pliers to remove them). Call 800-438-4851 for replacement parts.

- Updated: February 1, 2000

14. At what temperature does an ultra low freezer operate?

Harris ultra low freezers are designed with operating temperatures of -40°C, -50°C, and -85°C.

- Updated: February 1, 2000


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