VWRbrand Laboratory 

Refrigerators 

and Freezers 

68393H02 Rev. E 

© 2000 Revco 

All rights reserved 

Printed in U.S.A. 

General Purpose 

Flammable Storage 

Explosion-Proof 

Installation and Operation Manual 

Table of Contents 

Introduction ............................... 1 

Safety Considerations ....................... 1 

Unpacking and Inspection .................... 1 

Installation ................................ 2 

Operation ................................ 2 

Cleaning ................................. 3 

Troubleshooting ........................... 3 

Flammable Storage Units .................... 4 

Explosion Proof Units ....................... 4 

Field Wiring .............................. 5 
Table of Contents 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

1 Introduction ....................................................................... 1 

1.1 General Purpose Units .................................................................... 1 

1.2 Flammable Storage Units .................................................................. 1 

1.3 Explosion Proof Units ..................................................................... 1 

2 Safety Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

3 Unpacking and Inspection ........................................................... 1 

4 Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

4.1 Location ..... ... ......................... .... .......................................... 2 

4.2 Wiring ....... .. ........................................................................ 2 

4.3 Leveling ............................................................................... 2 

4.4 Door Seal ...................... . ....................................................... 2 

5 Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

5.1 Temperature Control. ..................................................................... 2 

5.2 Combination Refrigerator/Freezers ... .... ....................... . ........................... 2 

5.3 Defrosting .............................. . ......................... .. .................... 2 

6 Cleaning ......................................................................... 3 

7 Troubleshooting . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

8 Flammable Storage Units ........................................................... 4 

8.1 Safety and Usage Standards ................................... . ........................... 4 

8.2 Electrical Requirements ....... .... .. . ................................ · ..................... 4 

9 Explosion-Proof Units .............................................................. 4 

9.1 Safety and Usage Standards ..... . ........................................................ .4 

9.2 Electrical Requirements .................................................................. .4 

1 0 Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

1 0.1 Domestic Warranty 

Two Years Full Warranty, Parts and Labor 

United States of America and Canada .............. , ......................................... 6 

1 0.2 International Warranty 

16 Month Parts Warranty .................................................................. 6 

11 Wiring Schematic .................................................................. 6 

VWRbrand 
1 Introduction 

This manual provides installation and operation instructions for 

VWRbrand general and special purpose laboratory refrigerators 

and freezers. 

1.1 General Purpose Units 

Standard units have conventional construction for small 

laboratory refrigerators and freezers. 

Condensers are the static type: air circulation is by natural 

convection, not forced by an electrically driven fan. In some 

models, condensers are built into the sidewalls of the unit; in 

others, they are fully visible coils mounted on the back of the 

unit. 

Condensate pans are made of copper or galvanized steel and 

located in the machine compartment, where compressor heat 

evaporates the water that collects naturally on the cooling coil 

surfaces. Water drains to the pan on the off or defrost cycle. 

Cold controls (thermostats) for general purpose units are 

mounted inside the cabinet and accessible from an open cabinet 

door. 

1.2 Flammable Storage Units 

Flammable storage units are UL approved for storage of 

flammable chemicals only. Flammable storage units cannot be 

placed in a room containing explosive vapors but chemicals that 

exude explosive vapors can be safely stored inside them. 

If you have a flammable storage unit, be sure to read Section 8 

onpage4. 

1.3 Explosion Proof Units 

Units rated UL explosion proof are similar in design to the 

flammable storage units but also have all operating components 

sealed against entrance of explosive vapors. Electrical junction 

boxes are also sealed after connections are made. 

If you have an explosion proof unit, be sure to read Section 9 

onpage4. 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrtgerators and Freezers 

2 Safety Considerations 

WARNING! Do not modify or change system 

components. Replacement parts must be O.E.M. 

exact replacement equipment. Modification or use of 

the equipment in a manner other than expressly 

intended may cause death or serious injury. This 

includes use of user-supplied components and 

materials not specifically designed for the equipment. 

Reconfiguring the controller may cause death or 

serious injury. 

VWR shall not be liable for any damages, including 

incidental and/or consequential damages, regardless 

of the legal theory asserted, including negligence 

and/or strict liability. 

Before using, user shall determine the suitability and 

integrity of the product for the intended use and that 

the unit has not been altered in any way. User 

assumes all risk and liability whatsoever therewith. 

DANGER! For personal safety and trouble-free 

operation, this unit must be property grounded before 

It is used. Failure to ground the equipment may cause 

personal injury or damage to the equipment. Always 

conform to the National Electrical Code and local 

codes. Do not connect unit to already overloaded 

power lines. 

WARNING! Disconnect unit from main power 

before attempting any maintenance to equipment or 

controls. 

3 Unpacking and Inspection 

At delivery, examine the exterior for physical damage while the 

carrier's representative is present. If exterior damage is present, 

carefully unpack and inspect the unit and all accessories for 

damage. · 

If there is no exterior damage, unpack and inspect the equipment 

within five days of delivery. If you find any damage, keep the 

packing materials and immediately report the damage to the 

carrier. Do not return goods to VWR without written 

authorization. When submitting a claim for shipping damage, 

request that the carrier inspect the shipping container and 

equipment. 

Model and serial numbers are important when requesting service 

parts from your dealer or the Technical Services Group. These 

numbers are found on the outside of the cabinet, bottom left front 

comer or inside the cabinet on the left wall at about eye level. 

You can record the identification numbers on the back page of 

this manual. 

VWRbrand 1 
4 Installation 

CAUTION! Improper operation of the equipment 

could result in dangerous conditions. To preclude 

hazard and minimize risk, follow all instructions and 

operate within design limits noted on the dataplate. 

4.1 Location 

Install the unit in a level area free from vibration with a minimum 

of 1.5 inches of space on all sides. 

Do not position the equipment in direct sunlight or near heating 

diffusers, radiators, or other sources of heat. The ambient 

temperature range at the location must be between 60 and 90°F 

(16 to 32°C). 

4.2 Wiring 

CAUTION! Connect the equipment to the correct 

power source. Incorrect voltage can result in severe 

damage to the equipment. 

DANGER! For personal safety and trouble-free 

operation, this unit must be properly grounded before 

it is used. Failure to ground the equipment may cause 

personal injury or damage to the equipment. Always 

conform to the National Electrical Code and local 

codes. Do not connect unit to already overloaded 

power lines. 

General purpose units use 15 or 20 amp power cords. They are 

rated for 115 volts, AC, 60Hz. Do not use extension cords, and 

always use a three prong grounded wall outlet. Figure 1 shows 

standard NEMA service cord plugs and wall outlets used for 

VWR refrigerators and freezers. 

15A-115V 

NEMA5-15P 

5-15R 

20A-115V 

NEMA5-20P 

@ 

5-2 0R 

(accepts both 

5-15P and 5-20P) 

Figure 1. NEMA Plugs and Receptacles 

4.3 Leveling 

The unit must be level. Rotate the leveling screws, located under 

the front corners of the unit, until the unit is level. If the floor is 

seriously out oflevel, you may need to shim the corners with thin 

sheets of metal. 

Note: Use thin sheets of metal to level units equipped with 

casters. 

4.4 Door Seal 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

To check the door seal, complete the following steps: 

I. Open the door. 

2. Insert a strip of paper (a couple of inches wide) between the 

door gasket and the cabinet flange and close the door. 

3. Slowly pull the paper strip from the outside. You should feel 

some resistance. 

4. Repeat this test at 4 inch intervals around the door. If the door 

does not seal properly, replace the gasket. 

CAUTION! Door seal integrity is critical for 

refrigerators and freezers. A loose fitting gasket 

allows moist air to be drawn into the cabinet, resulting 

in quicker frost buildup on the evaporator coil, longer 

running time, poor temperature maintenance, and 

increased operation cost. 

5 Operation 

5.1 Temperature Control 

Standard units have cold controls mounted inside the cabinet, 

except for some compact units that have the controls mounted in 

back of the cabinet.Flammable storage and explosion-proof units 

have cold controls mounted in back of the cabinet with the 

junction box (see Sections 8 and 9). 

Start by setting the control one quarter turn clockwise from the 

Off position. (The Off position is as far as you can turn the knob 

counterclockwise.) Wait 24 hours before adjusting the setting 

again. The farther you turn the knob clockwise, the colder the 

setting. 

5.2 Combination Refrigerator/Freezers 

If your unit has separate refrigerator and freezer compartments, it 

is important to remember that the temperature sensor is located in 

the refrigerator compartment. If you find that your freezer is not 

cold enough, you should open the refrigerator door more 

frequently to initiate cooling cycles. 

5.3 Defrosting 

When frost in the freezer compartment exceeds W', turn the unit 

off and allow the ice to melt. Do not use an ice pick or other 

sharp object to dislodge the ice. You can speed defrosting by 

placing a pan of warm water in the freezer compartment after 

turning the unit off. 

VWRbrand 2 
6 Cleaning 

Wash the inside of the cabinet with a solution of one quart of 

warm water and two tablespoons of baking soda. 

Wash the outside with a mild detergent such as dish washing 

liquid. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners. 

When the condenser tubing on the back is dusty, vacuum it clean. 

CAUTION! Condensers should be cleaned at least 

every six months. In heavy traffic areas, condensers 

load with dirt more quickly. Failure to keep the 

condenser clean can result in equipment warm-up or 

erratic temperatures. 

7 Troubleshooting 

Table 1. Troubleshooting Procedures 

Problem Cause Solution 

1. Check that the cord is 

securely plugged-in. 

Unit does not Power supply 2. Plug another appliance into 

operate the outlet to see if it is live. 

3. If the outlet is dead, check 

the circuit breaker or fuses. 

Cold control Make sure that the cold control 

Temperature is set correctly. 

fluctuates. Make sure the condenser is Condenser clean. 

Door is open 

Make sure the door is 

completely closed. 

Door seal Check the door seal (see 

Section 4.4). 

Warm product Allow ample time to recover recently loaded from loading warm product. in unit 

Check for proper voltage to the 

Unit warms up. Power supply unit. II there is no voltage to 

the unit, call an electrician. 

If the compressor is not 

running, have an electrician 

check for proper voltage to the 

Compressor 

unit. 

If the compressor is running, 

contact an authorized service 

provider or call the technical 

support hot line for assistance. 

VWRbrand 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

3 
8 Flammable Storage Units 

Units rated for flammable storage have no electrical sparking 

devices, relays, switches, thermostats, etc. inside the cabinet that 

could ignite flammable vapors. They cannot be placed in a room 

containing explosive vapors, but chemicals that exude explosive 

vapors can be safely stored inside the cabinets. 

Cold controls for flammable storage units are located on the left 

side of the junction box in back of the cabinet. 

8.1 Safety and Usage Standards 

Flammable storage units are designed to meet requirements for 

Class I, Division 2 storage of flammable liquids in accordance 

with the following standards: 

• UL 471 (Commercial Refrigeration) 

• NFPA 70, Sections 500 and 501 (National Electrical Code) 

• NFPA 99, Section 10 (Health Care Facilities) 

• NFPA 45, Section 9 (Laboratory Fire Protection) 

• NFPA 497 A (Defines Class I locations) 

It is the user's responsibility to follow the guidelines set forth in 

the codes listed above. Class I, Division I, Groups C and D 

combustible material may be stored inside the cabinet but the 

cabinet itself is not approved for Class I, Division I locations. 

Some important guidelines: 

• Do not place the unit near Bunsen burners, hot plates, ovens 

or any other sources of ignition. 

• Be sure to store flammable liquids in appropriate containers 

according to the standard NFPA 30. 

• Do not exceed the maximum storage quantity, 60 gallons per 

5000 sq. ft. of floor space. 

WARNING! Refrigeration components are very 

susceptible to damage due to the Introduction of 

caustic and acidic materials. The manufacturer will not 

be liable for damage to or loss of contents, or for 

damage to the following construction materials: 

Copper, aluminum, steel, ABS, polystyrene, 

polystyrol, zinc, lacquer coating, silicone 

sealants, epoxy, polyurethane, vinyl, and PVC. 

See written manufacturer's warranty for details and 

further limitations. 

Be sure that your unit is level and that the floor can properly 

support the weight of the unit and contents fully loaded. 

8.2 Electrical Requirements 

A properly grounded electrical receptacle must be installed to 

service this unit. The minimum wire size is 12 AWG. A circuit 

breaker or time delay fuse may be sized in accordance with the 

full load current stated on the unit nameplate, but in no instance, 

more than 15 amps. 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

9 Explosion-Proof Units 

Units rated UL explosion-proof have hermetically sealed 

compressors with all operating components sealed against 

entrance of explosive vapors. Electrical junction boxes are also 

sealed after connections are made. 

Cold controls for explosion-proof units are located in back of the 

cabinet behind the junction box cover (see Figure 2 on page 5). 

9.1 Safety and Usage Standards 

Explosion-proof units are approved for use in Class I, Division I 

locations, defined in the standard NFPA 497 A. 

These units are similar in design to flammable storage units and 

may be used for storage of flammable liquids. 

If you are using your unit to store flammable liquids, be sure to 

read Section 8.1 carefully and review the appropriate 

standards. 

9.2 Electrical Requirements 

Explosion-proof units must be installed electrically using rigid 

metal conduit having threaded fittings with at least five full 

threads engagement and internal sealing within 18" of any 

enclosure containing sparking devices. The user must supply 

and install a disconnect switch or circuit breaker suitable for 

hazardous locations within sight of the unit. 

When installing power supply, use 14 gauge wire with 1116" 

insulation, and three conductors, one of which is a ground. 

Mix all of the sealing compound and packing fiber supplied with 

the unit. Mix the compound in proportion by volume, 1 part 

water to 3 parts powder. 

Figure 2 on page 5 shows field wiring connections. Using an 

additional junction box, while not required by national and local 

codes, provides the best method in case the unit will be moved at 

any time in the future. Using this method, field connections will 

be made up in a reusable enclosure and all wires and sealing 

fitting will be retained intact. If desired, the second junction box 

can be eliminated and wire connections made up within the 

sealing fitting and then filled with the sealing compound. 

VWRbrand 4 
factory-supplied 

junction box 

! cold control 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

customer-supplied 

connections per local codes 

(optional) 

____.. user-supplied 

junction box 

factory-supplied 

1_. ____ seal fittings 

compressor 

Figure 2. Field Wiring for Explosion-Proof Units 

VWRbrand 5 
10 Warranty 

1 0.1 Domestic Warranty 

Two Years Full Warranty, Parts and Labor 

United States of America and Canada 

VWR warrants this product to the owner for a period of two (2) 

years from date of shipment by VWR, Inc. Under this warranty, 

VWR, through its authorized service organizations, will repair, 

or at its option, replace any part found to contain a manufacturing 

defect in material or workmanship without charge to the owner 

for parts, service labor, or any shipping or cartage costs. 

Replacement or repaired parts will be warranted for only the 

unexpired portion of the original warranty. This warranty is 

limited to products purchased and installed in the United States 

of America and Canada. It does not apply to damage caused by 

accident, misuse, fire, flood, or acts of God. It does not apply to 

damage caused from failure to properly install, operate, or 

maintain the product in accordance with the printed instructions 

provided. 

To obtain prompt warranty service, simply contact the nearest 

authorized service center or dealer listed in the directory 

enclosed with each product. VWR's own shipping records 

showing date of shipment shall be conclusive in establishing the 

warranty period. 

This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or 

implied, including merchantability or fitness for a particular 

purpose. The owner agrees that VWR's sole liability with respect 

to defective parts shall be as set forth in this warranty, and any 

claims for incidental or consequential damages are expressly 

excluded. 

Installation and Operation 

Laboratory Refrigerators and Freezers 

1 0.2 International Warranty 

16 Month Parts Warranty 

VWR, Inc., warrants this product to the owner for a period of 

sixteen (16) months from the date of shipment by VWR. If any 

part is found to contain a manufacturing defect in material or 

workmanship, VWR assumes no responsibility for any labor 

expenses for service, removal, or reinstallation required to 

replace part, or for incidental repairs, and such costs are the 

responsibility of the Owner unless a service labor agreement 

exists between the Owner and his Dealer. 

The warranty does not apply to damage caused by accident, 

misuse, fire, flood, or acts of God, or to defects resulting from 

failure to properly install, operate, or maintain the product in 

accordance with the printed instructions provided. 

To obtain prompt warranty service. simply contact the Dealer 

from whom you purchased the product or the nearest Dealer 

handling VWR products. VWR's own shipping records showing 

date of shipment shall be conclusive in establishing the warranty 

period. 

This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or 

implied, including merchantability or fitness for a particular 

purpose. The owner agrees that VWR's sole liability with respect 

to defective parts shall be as set forth in this warranty, and any 

claims for incidental or consequential damages are expressly 

excluded. 

Extended Warranty Options 

Note: In addition to VWR' standard two-year full warranty on 

the complete product (USA and Canada), VWR can supply an 

additional four year protection on compressor and compressor 

parts. This additional coverage must be purchased at the time of 

original product purchase. Under this contract, VWR agrees to 

furnish a compressor FOB our factory to replace one which has 

been determined to be defective by VWR or a factory authorized 

VWR Service Agency. 

Description Catalog 

No. 

Extended Four· Year Compressor Parts Contract, all 

refrigerators. 6069 

Extended 12-Month Comprehensive Coverage, for all 

models, provides additional 12-month warranty 

coverage, parts and labor. Contact VWR for details. 6613 

11 Wiring Schematic 

For all laboratory refrigerators and freezers, the wiring schematic 

is attached to the back of the cabinet. 

VWRbrand 6 
Important 

For your future reference and when contacting the factory, please have the 

following information readily available: 

Model Number: 

Serial Number: 

Date Purchased: 

The above information can be found on the dataplate attached to the 

equipment. 

If available, please provide the date purchased, the source of purchase 

(VWR or specific agent/rep organization), and purchase order number. 

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE: 

LABORATORY SALES DIVISION 

Phone: 

FAX: 

828/658-2711 

800/252-7100 

828/645-3368 

LABORATORY PARTS and SERVICE 

Phone: 

FAX: 

TECHNICAL SUPPORT 

Phone: 

800/438-4851 

828/658-2576 

800/43 8-4851