Cruise Line
Marine Refrigerators
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
PRODUCED BY
GREAT WATER, INC.
BRUNSWICK MAINE
WWW.GREAT-WATER.COM
207 729 8500 TEL 517 813 6509 FAX
INFO@GREAT-WATER.COM
Table of Contents
1 Preface
2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
2.2 Safety Considerations
2.3 Tools and Materials Required
2.4 Getting Good Results
2.5 Location and Ventilation
2.6 General Electrical Installation
3 Boat’s Electrical System
4 Changing the Door Panel
5 Re-hanging the Door
6 General Maintenance
6.1 Defrosting
6.2 Cleaning
6.3 Storage
7 Cruise Models with Traditional Thermostats
7.1 Electrical Connections
7.2 Operation
7.2.1 Start Up
7.2.2 Protection System
8 Troubleshooting Guide for Cruise Refrigerators
9 Cruise Models with ASU
9.1 Electrical Connections for Cruise ASU Models
9.2 Operation
9.2.1 Control Panel
9.2.2 Operation
9.2.3 INDICATOR LIGHTS
10 Troubleshooting Guide for Cruise ASU Refrigerators
11 Appendix I: How Refrigerators Work
Isotherm Cruise Refrigerators
Installation and Service Manual
1 Preface
Isotherm Cruise refrigeration systems are designed and built to provide excellent performance and many years of trouble-free service. The system is pre-charged with environmentally safe R-134a refrigerant and can be owner-installed. This manual has
been prepared to provide information needed for proper installation, operation and
maintenance. Before starting please read it carefully.
2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Please examine the box and contents for signs of shipping damage. If there is any
damage, contact the carrier immediately. All units are shipped with insurance but the
carrier must be notified immediately of any shipping damage in order to process a
claim.
2.2 Safety Considerations
Whenever working on the elec trical system make certain that all circuits are off before
opening any electrical panels. Disconnect shore power cables and turn battery
switches off. Follow ABYC standards for electrical installations. If in doubt contact a
certified technician.
All Cruise refrigerators s use environmentally safe R-134a refrigerant with “0” Ozone
depletion potential. R-134 is non toxic; in the unlikely event that it is released from the
sealed system it poses no hazard.
2.3 Tools and Materials Required
•
Electric drill and bits for pilot holes to attach mounting frames.
•
Wire cutters and electrical terminal crimping tool.
•
Good quality electrical wire of suitable gauge (usually 10/2).
•
Screwdrivers.
2.4 Getting Good Results
All Cruise refrigerators are designed for use in a marine environment and will operate
efficiently for many years with a minimum of maintenance if installed properly. Plan the
installation carefully and choose a suitable location for the refrigerator that will protect
the components at the rear of the refrigerator (the tubing, condenser, and compressor)
from exposure to seaw ater or from damage that could result from chafe or f alling objects. Mount the refrigerator securely to prevent movement.
2.5 Location and Ventilation
All refrigerators are heat-transfer machines. They transfer the heat from the inside of the box to the outside. If adequate ventilation is provided, the compressor will operate more efficiently and use less power.
Inlet vent should be located at the bottom (as low as possible) and the outlet vent at
the top of the refrigerator (as high as possible); this supports the natural flow of
convection of heat from cool (bottom) to warm (top).
A vent of 20 to 30 square inches is recommended at top and bottom.
2.6 General Electrical Installation
Good performance and efficient opera ti on o f the refrig er ati o n system depe nds on a good
electrical installation that will deliver power to the system with a minimum of voltage loss.
If the boat’s electrical panel cannot deliver the required power with no more than a half volt
of loss the circuit may need to be connected directly to the boat’s main battery switch.
In either case the circuit that supplies the power to the refrigerator must be protected with
either a 15 amp fuse or circuit breaker. Always use a separate dedicated circuit to power
the refrigeration system. Remember that the negative connection is equally important in
delivering power to the unit.
Use a good quality marine duplex wire to make the connection between the unit and the
power source. Tinned cable is recommen ded because it will give better resistance to corrosion and long service life.
Keep the length of the run as short as possible.
For runs up to 10 ft. use 12 gauge wire (12/2 duplex).
For runs up to 30 ft. use 10 gauge wire (10/2 duplex).
Make sure the circuit is not connected to the power source while making these connections.
3 Boat’s Electrical System
A refrigeration system when properly installed and operating efficiently will still be a major
consumer of electrical power. It is important to make sure that the boat’s electrical system
is in good order and is large enough to supply the power required. A good rule of thumb is
reserve between 75 to 100 ampere hours of battery capacity in the main house battery
bank for supplying the refrigerator. It is also a good practice to reserve a separate battery
bank for starting the engine.
The connections to the battery switches and electrical panel need to be large enough to
supply power with a minimum of voltage loss.
Battery Chargers - Most modern battery chargers ha ve re gulation circuits that will allow
them to charge the boat’s batteries continuously. This also means that they will be able to
supply power to the refrigeration system when shore power is available. Make sure the
battery charger has this feature. A charger with at least a 10 amp output is recommended.
The charger must always be connected to the battery and never directly to the refrigerator’s electronic unit. (Fig. 13).
Alternators - Most marine engines are equipped with an alternator that is mainly intended
for charging the engine starting battery. In order to also charge the boat’s house batteries
quickly and efficiently it is good to increase the size of the charging leads. Installing a high
output alternator with a separate regulator that will directly sense the voltage in the house
batteries is a good way to improve the charging to the house bank.
4 Changing the Door Panel
To suit various boat interiors, the doors of all
Cruise refrigerators are available as accessories with panels in white, black, mahogany,
teak, and cherry. They may also be covered in
other materials of choice.
1. To replace the panel, remove the strip on
the lower edge of the door. (Fig. 1)
2. Remove the latch.
3. Slide the new panel into place over original
panel.
4. Replace the latch and the plastic strip at the
lower edge of the door.
5 Re-hanging the Door
Fig. 1
All Cruise refrigerators doors are hung with the
hinges on the right hand side of the box. To rehang the door with the hinges on the left follow
these steps (Fig. 2 & 3):
1. Make sure the door is empty.
2. Remove the bottom hinge bracket.
3. Remove the door.
4. Unscrew top hinge pin.
5. Screw top hinge pin on left hand side.
6. Unscrew the door latch and reattach on the
right-hand side of the door.
7. Move the bottom hinge pin bracket to the
left hand side of the refrigerator box and reattach.
Fig. 2
8. Check the hanging of the door to make sure
it is latching and closing properly.
Fig. 3
6 General Maintenance
6.1 Defrosting
How often defrosting is needed depends on usage (how often door is opened) and humidity. Moist air will produce more frost on the evaporator. It is time to defrost when
frost builds up to 1/4 inch.
The best way to defrost the refrigerator is to remove all food and place a towel inside
the refrigerator, on the bottom o f the box . Tur n the ther m ostat to the “o ff” positi on and
leave the door open.
Never use a knife to scrape ice from the evaporator. This will damage the evaporator and allow the refrigerant to escape.
6.2 Cleaning
The best time to clean the refrigerator is after defrosting. Wipe the inside clean using
soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaner.
If you notice your refrigerator running longer than normal it may be time to clean the
condenser (usually required every 1 to 2 years).
The condenser is located behind the refrigerator and can be cleaned by using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and dirt.
Take care not to damage the condenser or to remove the protective paint finish.
6.3 Storage
When the bo at is laid up for storage it is best to defrost, clean and dry the interior of the refrigerator. The door can be set slightly open with the latch to provide ventilation to the interior. This will prevent mildew growth. (Fig. 4 & 5)
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
7 Cruise Models with Traditional Thermostats
F
D
C
P
T
101N0200
TC
7.1 Electrical Connections
7.2 Operation
7.2.1 Start Up
Make sure the circuit supplying the refrigerator is turned on. The thermostat is adjustable and has an on/off switch. Turning the control knob to the extreme counter clockwise position turns the unit off. Turning the control to the right (clockwise) will turn the
unit on. Turning the control clockwise lowers the temperature setting with the lowest
temperature at the extreme clockwise position.
A good initial setting is mid-range.
7.2.2 Protection System
The compressor is equipped with an electronic protection system. The system is activated when the compressor is overloaded and fails to start for any reason. It is also activated if the batteries are under- or overcharged.
To prevent battery damage the protection system will shut off the compressor when the
input voltage at the electronic module falls below 10.3 volts. The compressor will not
start again until the input voltage rises to 11.5 volts.
8 Troubleshooting Guide for Cruise Refrigerators
Problem Possible Cause Action
Refrigerator isn’t cold. Compressor won't start. Check that power is present at terminal
box. Check fuse. Check all connections
and cables. Check the thermostat. If the
compressor still doesn't start this indicates
a fault in the electronic unit or compressor.
Contact an authorized service agent.
Compressor starts but
doesn't cool refrigerator.
Compressor runs al l the time. Air leak. Check gasket/seal of door. Make sure
Condenser dirty. Clean condenser using vacuum with soft
Insufficient ventilation. Improve ventilation. Refer to installation in-
Contact an authorized service agent.
door is closing properly.
brush attachment.
structions.
9 Cruise Models with ASU
9.1 Electrical Connections for Cruise ASU Models
9.2 Operation
9.2.1 Control Panel (Fig. 6)
Fig. 6
The control panel is equipped with:
•
A three position rocker switch.
•
Green, yellow and red LED status indicators.
•
Rotary control for temperature adjustment in the Manual mode.
The control panel connects to the ASU processor on the compressor using a 12 ft.
telephone type cable with modular connectors at each end.
A 30 ft. long accessory cable is available if needed. (Part No. 39230).
The ISOTHERM ASU refrigeration system can be operated in two modes.
•
In the “NORMAL.AUTO” position the ASU program manages the temperature and
compressor operation. Optimum refrigeration temperatures are maintained and
compressor operation is managed to consume a minimum of battery power.
•
In the “MAN.TEMP” position. The temperature can be manually adjusted.
In the center position the unit is switched off.
9.2.2 Operation
“NORMALAUTO” position:
The green light indicates that power is on and the ASU program is running.
The ASU f eature senses when surplus power is available—from the engine alternator,
solar panels or wind chargers—and switches the compressor to high speed, quickly
freezing the holding plate. Thermal energy stored in the holding plate will keep the refrigerator cool for many hours without consuming battery power. The ASU control
then will restart the compressor at a low speed, using a minimum of power to maintain
a stable temperature in the box.
The yellow ”Economy” LED indicates low-speed compressor operation.
The red “Freeze” LED indicates high-speed compressor operation.
The ASU processor monitors the supply voltage. When the voltage rises above 13.2
(26.4) volts it will start the compressor and after a short delay gradually increase the
speed of the compressor and cooling fan. The ind icator LED will shift from yellow to
red. This operating condition is maintained until the holding plate is completely frozen
at approximately -14°C (7°F). This can take between 45 minutes and 2 hours depending on the model, ambient temperature and box size.
As long as the ASU processor senses surplus power the holding plate is maintained in
the frozen condition. If the holding plate temperature rises to -10°C (14°F), the compressor re-starts and the red LED comes on again.
When the supply voltage falls below 12.7 (25.4) volt, the refrigeration energy stored in
the holding plate will maintain the box tempera ture for many hours (up to 12 hours depending on the box size, ambient temperature and insulation).
When all the thermal energy sto r ed in the holdin g plate is used and the plate temperature rises to -1°C (30°F) the ASU system will start the compressor at a low speed to
bring the plate temperature down 6°C (21°F). This will maintain a very stable b ox temperature using the minimum amount of battery power.
“MAN.TEMP” position:
This position can be used when shore-power is connected and energy saving is not required or whenever a higher or lower refrigerator temperature is desired. The ASU
program is stopped and the temperature is regulated by means of the temperature
knob on the control panel. Turn the control clockwise for a colder temperature setting.
The “A” (Accumulation) position approximates the freezing point of the holding plate.
In the ”MAN.TEMP” position, the compressor runs at a low speed to maintain the set
temperature. If the difference between the set and actual temperature is greater than
6°C, the compressor will automatically speed up for faster cooling. As soon as the
temperature comes down the compressor speed will be reduced for the lowest power
consumption and quietest operation.
9.2.3 INDICATOR LIGHTS
Green: Power and system on, compressor not running. Set temperature reached.
Green + Yellow: Compressor running at low speed in Normal Auto mode.
Green + Red: Compressor running at high speed in the Normal/Auto mode.
Green + Yellow + Red: Compressor running in MAN.TEMP mode.
Flashing Yellow and/or Red: Error signal. See Troubleshooting Guide.
Automatic Defrosting will take place automatically every tenth day of operation.
10 Troubleshooting Guide for Cruise ASU Refrigerators
Problem Possible Cause Action
Nothing happens when turned
on. All lights off.
Green light on. Compressor
does not start.
No power supply. Check that main power switch is on.
Check fuse.
Holding plate cold enough. No action required.
Temperature sensor not con-
Check cable.
nected.
Fault in control unit. Replace.
Yellow light flashing. Low volt-
Battery in poor condition. Inspect charging circuit.
age cut-out activated.
Voltage drop due to thin cables.
Measure voltage drop when running
and replace cables if needed. Switch
off, wait 5 sec.
Red light flashing. Overload
cut-out activated.
Yellow/red lights flashing. Shore-power driven charger
Oil compressor too thick at <41
C.
Faulty fan. Check fan.
Frequent restarts as above. Warm
compressor.
Switch to "MAN.TEMP" and choose
that cannot compensate when
compressor runs at high
suitable temperature on control
panel.
speed.
Compressor runs, but no refrigeration generated.
Compressor runs often, but
Loss of cooling medium. Contact specialist to fill cooling me-
dium.
Connections not tight enough. Inspect and tighten.
Poor insulation Re-insulate
temperature in box isn't cold
enough.
Compressor never stops run-
Fan not running or too warm in
compressor compartment.
Too much gas in system (frost
on pipe)
Repair fan or ventilate the space us-
ing air hose kit (part #10-10013).
Refrigeration specialist to check gas
pressure and adjust quantity.
ning& not sufficiently cold. See above. See above.
& too cold. Temperature sensor faulty. Renew.
& temperature can't be re-
duced manually.
Compressor keeps running
when engine is stopped.
Compressor won’t run at full
speed & red light not on when
engine is running.
Radio interference when running.
Fuse blows. Crossed +/- leads. Fault in
Temperature sensor touching
box wall or ice build-up.
Batteries in excellent condition,
or extra power source (solar
panel, wind generator, etc.)
Poor charging. Plus or minus
cables too thin.
Connections affected by verdigris, loose fuse.
System is suppressed and fulfills present regulations.
control box.
Adjust sensor or defrost by switching
off system.
Normal operation. If temperature
becomes too cold switch to "MAN.
TEMP".
Check charging, cables, etc. and
rectify.
Clean & grease. (Correct voltage
>13.4 V measured at control unit w/
compressor & engine running.)
Fit additional suppressor. Part# 10-
39035 (20A Puresound).
Renew 20 (15) a fuse or control box.
11 Appendix I: How Refrigerators Work
How It Wor ks
A refrigerator is a heat transfer system. A popular misconception is that “the thing” (the
evaporator or holding plate) inside the box is radiating cold. It is more precise to say
that the evaporator is absorbing heat from the contents of the box. By absorbing heat
the products are cooled.
Refrigeration systems have three major components connected in a recycling circuit.
(Fig. 1)
1. The evaporator is the heat
collector located inside the
box.
2. The compressor pumps a
refrigerant gas around the
system.
3. The condenser is a heat
exchanger that transfers
the collected heat to the air
or water used to cool the
system.
The Refrigeration Cycle
Fig. 1
…..Liquid refrigerant is carried
into the evaporator where it boils into a gas. Just as it takes a lot of heat to boil water,
a lot of heat is absorbed from the box to boil the refrigerant. The main difference is the
refrigerant boils at a much lower temperature than water.
The boiled refrigerant gas is pumped out of the evaporator by the compressor allowing
the boiling process to continue. The heat is carried out of the box by the gas. As the
gas passes through the compressor, its pressure and temperature increase.
This compressed gas then passes to the condensing unit, a heat exchanger that is
cooled with either air or water. Because the refrigerant is now at a higher pressure, it is
possible to expel the heat from the system into the cooling air or water which is at the
ambient temperature (60°F-90° F). This cooling process converts the high pressure
gas to a cool liquid that is carried to the evaporator and the cycle begins again….
The cooling medium used in Isotherm systems is R134A, an ozone-friendly refrigerant.
This is commonly called “freon”. Freon was a brand name applied to an R12 product
that has been phased out for environment al reasons.
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