Check for frost pattern.
STEP 1: CHECK FOR FROST PATTERN
- First check for a frost pattern by powering on the freeze dryer.
- Press “Start” and sequence through the screens until the unit begins “Freezing.”
- Open the freeze dryer door and let it run for 60 minutes.
- After 60 minutes you should see a frost pattern that extends ½ the length of the chamber or more. Touch the walls of the chamber, if they are not cold, or if you do not get a frost pattern then proceed to STEP 2
STEP 2: CHECK CONDENSER FAN & RELAY BOARD
Check to make sure your refrigeration condenser fan is running. You can hear it and you can feel it blowing air out the sides of your freeze dryer. If you want to be certain, take a thin strip of toilet paper and hold it next to the side of the freeze dryer where the holes are. On one side of the freeze dryer it will be sucked to the holes and on the other side it will blow away from the holes. If the fan is working then do the following:
1. Check to see if the computer relay chip for freezing is switching on. You can do this by watching the video, “Testing Computer Relays.”
2. If the relay is faulty, the entire board will need to be replaced. You can purchase one from Harvest Right and replace it by watching the video, “Relay Board Replacement.”
