Navigation Menu:

• -80 Freezer Filters
• Batteries
• Icing Issues
• Refrigeration Maintenance
• Tips

Freezer/Fridge Maintenance Checks

NOTE: If a freezer fails or is warming up, please use a backup -80 freezer to preserve your samples. Locations of backup units can be found on our website under the dropdown titled “Policies and Important Communications.” If you have problems with a refrigerator, please use a nearby cold room.

Make sure you label your items and have a plan to remove them within a timely manner.

• -80 Freezer Filters (back to top)
  • Most freezers have filters on the bottom that protect the coils from dirt and debris. Keep these clean to allow cool air to pass through. This prolongs freezer life and helps prevent compressor failure.
  • Filters should be checked monthly and cleaned as needed. The filter compartment may require sliding the panel to the right or unscrewing. If the filter is damaged or extremely dirty, it should be replaced.
  • Labs may want to purchase up to 6 filters at a time to have available replacements available. Please submit an order through your appropriate vendor.
  • During checks, if coils are clogged with dirt and debris, please contact the SOP team for further instructions. Labs are responsible for all charges associated with cleaning coils.

• Batteries (back to top)
  
  • Battery lifespan varies, and many freezers have alarms indicating a need to replace them.
  • Most are located at the bottom left in a compartment and are easy to replace.
  • Consult manual (this can be found online by searching for your unit). Purchase a new battery. We can help if you are unable to figure out how to do this because some batteries aren’t easily located.
  • Batteries supply power to LCD screens when a unit is unplugged during a move or if there is a power outage. Batteries do NOT provide backup power to freezer.

• Icing issues (back to top)
  
  • -80 freezers
    • If there is significant ice build-up, defrost the whole unit.
    • While defrosting freezer:
      • Place absorbent pads and autoclave bins to catch the water.
      • Units must be totally dry before powering back on to avoid freezing any remaining water.
    • Contact the SOP team to request a backup -80 unit that you can transfer your samples to as needed. Fill out our Online Request form at this link:
      https://onlinerequest.facsur.com/osu/d04ee36e-6724-4901-a295-bbc4eef72391
      • Select “11 – Other Assistance” when choosing the Request Type on the form.
    • If there is minimal ice build-up, gently knock off ice with a soft mallet. Don’t use a screwdriver or sharp object to chisel off ice. This will damage the rubber seal around door.
    • Removing ice will help door shut and provide better seal.
    • Do this with inner doors and shelving in front. The inner doors should be able to latch easily. If this is done and still won’t latch. Ice buildup around and behind racks need removed.
    • If you are experiencing continual ice build-up, check condition of gasket. If there are any tears or the gasket is not aligned properly, please contact your vendor.
    • The OSUCCC and SOP team is not responsible for damage associated with removing ice buildup. DO THIS CAREFULLY!
      
      
  • -20 freezers
    • They should be thawed out when ice build-up occurs around shelving coils and walls.
    • While defrosting freezer:
      • Place absorbent pads and autoclave bins to catch the water.
      • Units must be totally dry before powering back on to avoid freezing any remaining water.
    • We have a backup (already at -20) that can be brought to your lab - will need scheduled by completing our request form found here:
      https://onlinerequest.facsur.com/osu/d04ee36e-6724-4901-a295-bbc4eef72391
    • • Select “11 – Other Assistance” when choosing the Request type on the form.
    • Our backup -20s need to be returned within 3 days to allow others to use it.
    • If you have multiple units, please state in request.
      
      
• Refrigeration Maintenance (back to top)
  
  • Deli-glass door units (4 degree)
    • Compressor inside on top should be free of ice. You need to check towards the back of the unit.
    • There is tubing that runs down the back from the compressor into a pan underneath. Heating coils should normally evaporate water. Check the pan to see if water is present. If not, the tubing may accumulate mold causing the tube to be blocked.
    • If this happens, please contact the SOP to assist. Use the online request form:
      https://onlinerequest.facsur.com/osu/d04ee36e-6724-4901-a295-bbc4eef72391
      
      
  • Mini fridge
    • Units with small, upper freezer compartment need checked for ice buildup. Thaw when frozen over. You can move items into another unit or temporarily use cold room. Label and date your items.
      
      
  • Freezer portion of top/bottom 4 degree
    • Do not block inside, back vent. Air circulation is important to maintain -20 temp and bottom 4-degree portion.
    • Pull unit away from wall and make sure coils are clear and clean- being close to the wall can cause fridge failure.
    • Also check for ice buildup and thaw when necessary.

Tips: (back to top)

1. Use glassware tub to catch water in -20s (place inside on bottom and empty when 3/4 full).
2. Propping up mini fridges in back (when empty) using a door stopper or something else to slightly elevate will help empty water into pan. Open door all the way or it will it won’t work.
3. Use absorbent pads around thawing unit and clean up water to prevent falls.
4. Once thawed, good time to wipe inside with 10% bleach to disinfect.
5. Rather than stuffing fridge with new stock, periodically properly discard old and unwanted items.
6. I recommend adding something to a calendar, making a sign on your units with some of the information below to remind you.