Refrigeration downtime can quickly drain your vending profits. Fortunately, Vendnet offers a clear path to solving these issues that means you won’t need to call a technician right away. Here are the essential troubleshooting steps every operator should try first.
Start with the Video Walkthrough
This Vendnet refrigeration tutorial provides essential troubleshooting methods for units experiencing cooling issues. You will learn how to monitor core operating temperatures and quickly diagnose issues with the temperature sensors and control panel settings. Following these simple steps can restore your machine’s function and ensure you continue serving profitable chilled products.
Step 1: Confirm It’s Not a Power or Setting Issue
Start by checking whether the machine is receiving power and displaying temperature. Press 0 on the keypad to view the current temp:
- If you see a star symbol, the control board is signalling for the refrigeration to start.
- A dash next to T1 may indicate a faulty or disconnected temperature sensor.
To ensure the temperature mode is set correctly, go to Service Mode > Configuration > Temperature Settings and confirm the setting reads ‘Cold Food’ (not Cold setting, unle using specific models like 3589/3578).
Step 2: Check the Air Filter and Clean the Vents
The air filter is one of the most overlooked components, yet it is critical for maintaining proper cooling. Located inside the lower right of the machine, it should be examined and replaced every 3 months. A spare filter is typically included with your unit. Cleaning the screen located underneath the machine is another simple step that significantly helps improve airflow. Finally, it is recommended to place your machine at least 4 inches from the wall to maintain proper airflow.
Step 3: Look for Frost or Icing
Open the machine and inspect the evaporator coil for frost buildup that can act like insulation. This buildup can prevent the unit from cooling efficiently. If you find ice when inspecting your coils, check whether the evaporator fan is working as this can indicate a defrost issue.
Step 4: Run Diagnostics to Test Fan & Compressor
From Service Mode, go to the Diagnostics > Relays menu:
- Relay 1 controls the compressor
- Relay 2 controls the evaporator fa
Toggling these components manually will confirm if they are working properly.
Step 5: Confirm Voltage and Coolant Status
If the unit still isn’t cooling:
- Ensure the unit is receiving the correct voltage
- Lack of freon (coolant) could also be the issue, which requires professional service
Watch the Video for a Walkthrough
For a full demonstration, watch Vendnet’s official refrigeration troubleshooting tutorial: Watch it here. Still Not Working? Contact Vendnet Tech Support at 1-515-875-4218 or visit the Help Center for more guides and videos.
