Delfield Refrigerator Troubleshooting & Error Codes Guide

Delfield refrigerators are known for their superior performance and proven reliability, making them a mainstay in foodservice operations worldwide. Although these units are built to last, constant use can eventually take its toll–that’s why addressing small issues early before they grow into larger ones is crucial for increasing productivity and maximizing longevity. If you’re looking for assistance, this Delfield refrigerator troubleshooting and error codes guide will help you identify and resolve common equipment issues quickly and easily.

The information in this article applies to a wide range of reach-in, undercounter, air curtain, LiquiTec™ cold pan and work table units, such as the 6000XL, Specification Line, ACR, 8100-EF and 18600 series models.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Not Working?

If your Delfield refrigerator isn’t turning on, here are some potential reasons why:

• Unit isn’t plugged in - Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet.
• Machine is turned off - Turn on the machine by pressing the power button.
• Thermostat is set too high - Lower the temperature setting.
• Unit is in the defrost cycle - Wait for the defrost cycle to finish.
• Fuse is blown or circuit breaker is tripped - Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker. If issues persist, schedule an appointment with a licensed electrician.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Running But Not Cooling?

When your fridge is powered on but not chilling, possible causes include:

• Condenser coil has dust or grease buildup - Clean the condenser coil with a vacuum cleaner or stiff brush.
• Condenser coil is damaged - Contact an authorized technician to remedy the issue.
• Evaporator coil is frozen - Turn off the unit to defrost the coil.
• Evaporator coil is defective - Call a licensed technician to address the problem.
• Evaporator coil is rusty - Schedule a service call with an authorized technician. Going forward, be sure to store fruits, vegetables and other acidic items in covered containers away from the evaporator coils.
• Air vents are blocked - Rearrange items to ensure good air circulation.
• Warm items placed in the unit recently - Wait for the internal temperature to return to normal.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Too Warm?

Several issues can keep your fridge from cooling properly, such as:

• Thermostat setting is too high - Adjust the setting to a lower temperature.
• Air circulation within the cabinet is poor - Rearrange product to improve circulation.
• Warm product placed in the unit recently - Wait for the unit’s internal temperature to return to normal.
• Door is opened frequently - Open the door as little as possible to help keep internal temperatures stable.
• Door isn’t closed completely - Close the door tightly.
• Gasket is cracked or broken - Install a new gasket.
• Condenser coil is dirty - Maintain the coil. If needed, refer to our guide on how to clean a commercial refrigerator coil.
• Evaporator coil is frozen - Power down the unit to defrost the coil.

What Should I Do If My Delfield Refrigerator Runs Constantly?

Here are some things to check if you can hear your machine running all the time:

• Warm product is placed in the unit consistently - Avoid placing warm items in the unit.
• Door is opened frequently - Open the door only when needed.
• Door is ajar - Close the door.
• Gasket isn’t seated properly - Adjust the gasket.
• Gasket is cracked or broken - Replace the gasket.
• Condenser coil is dirty - Clean the coil. If needed, refer to our step-by-step instructions on how to maintain refrigeration unit condenser coils.
• Evaporator coil is frozen - Turn off the unit to defrost the coil.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Leaking Water?

If you notice water pooling under or near your unit, one or more of the following may be to blame:

• Evaporator coil is frozen - Power down the machine so the coil can defrost.
• Evaporator coil is defective - Reach out to a licensed technician to resolve the problem.
• Drain tube is blocked - Clear the clogged tube with an air compressor or shop vacuum.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Noisy?

Unusual noises coming from your commercial refrigerator are often caused by placement or mechanical issues, like:

• Unit isn’t level - Level the unit by adjusting the legs or casters, or by relocating it to a flat surface.
• Parts are loose - Seek help from an authorized technician to remedy the issue.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Door Not Closing?

If the door on your Delfield refrigerator won’t close, potential causes and solutions include:

• Gasket is split or cracked - Replace the gasket.
• Hinges are damaged - Schedule an appointment with a licensed technician to service the unit.
• Unit isn’t level - Adjust the legs or casters and wheels to level the machine, or relocate it to a flat surface.

Why Is My Delfield Refrigerator Freezing Food?

To keep your unit from freezing everything you put in it, take a look at the following:

• Thermostat is set too low - Raise the temperature setting.
• Condenser coil is dirty - Clean the condenser.
• Clearance around the unit is insufficient for proper ventilation - Relocate the machine to ensure proper ventilation for the refrigeration system.

What Should I Do If My Delfield Refrigerator’s Compressor Won’t Start?

If your machine’s compressor won’t kick on, consider the following causes:

• Voltage is too low - Contact a licensed electrician to address the issue.
• Start relay is defective - Seek help from an authorized technician to solve the problem.

Common Delfield Error Codes

Select Delfield refrigerator models have error codes that display when something is wrong with your unit. Below are common error codes, such as e-2 and e-13, associated with different Delfield refrigerators. Please note that in some cases a professional service company or authorized technician will need to repair your unit.

Danfoss Display Codes

Associated models: Select 6000XL and Specification Line refrigerators

E-1 Code

• Box temperature sensor circuit has opened or shorted - Call a licensed technician to remedy the issue.
• Box temperature control is faulty - Schedule a service appointment with an authorized technician to address the problem.

E-2 Code

• Coil temperature sensor circuit has opened or shorted - Reach out to a licensed technician for assistance.
• Coil temperature control is defective - Consult an authorized technician to correct the issue.

E-6 Code

• Unit control has a defective potentiometer - Contact a licensed technician to resolve the problem.

E-13 Code

• A plug on the cable connecting the display and controller is loose - Check the cable; if there’s a loose plug, tighten it. If issues persist, reach out to a licensed technician for further assistance.
• Display or control is faulty - Seek help from an authorized technician to resolve the problem.

ERC2 Display Codes

Associated models: Select 6000 Series, ACR and Specification Line refrigerators, such as the ACR-26S air curtain unit

Er 1 & Er 5 Codes

• A software or hardware failure has occurred - Reset the machine. If the problem continues, contact a licensed technician to remedy the issue.

Er 2 Code

• Display module cable is faulty - Reset the fridge. Reach out to an authorized technician for more help if the problem persists.

Er 3 Code

• Temperature sensor has opened or shorted - Reset the refrigerator. If the error message still displays after resetting, consult with a licensed technician to address the issue.

Er 4 Code

• Unit’s evaporator sensor has opened or shorted - Reset the machine. If the error message is still displayed, schedule a service call with an authorized technician.

Er 6 Code

• Refrigerator temperature is below low alarm setpoint - Raise the internal temperature by adjusting temperature settings, checking the seals, ensuring proper ventilation and other operational best practices.

Er 7 Code

• Unit temperature is higher than the high alarm setpoint - Lower the internal temperature by changing temperature settings, shutting the door, inspecting the seals and other recommended operating procedures.

ERC112 Display Codes

Associated models: Select 8100-EF and 18600 Series refrigerators

E01 Code

• Air sensor is defective - Schedule an appointment with a licensed technician to service the machine.

E02 Code

• Coil sensor is faulty - Reach out to a licensed technician for further assistance.

Lo Code

• Unit temperature is lower than the setpoint - Raise the internal temperature by following standard operating guidelines.

Hi Code

• Fridge temperature is higher than setpoint - Lower the machine’s temperature by complying with operational best practices.

Delfield Refrigerator Troubleshooting & Error Code FAQs

Why Won’t My Delfield Fridge Cool?

While there are many reasons why your fridge might not be cooling, dirty condenser coils are one of the most common causes—that’s why cleaning your commercial refrigerator’s condenser coils is so important. A split or cracked gasket is another common but often overlooked reason, so be sure to check your gasket and replace it if needed.

How Do I Read Delfield Refrigerator Error Codes?

You can read Delfield refrigerator error codes by first locating the display panel, noting the code and then matching the code with the issue mentioned in this guide. If you don’t see the code listed above, refer to your unit’s owner’s manual for more information.

What does LEA mean on a Delfield refrigerator?

The “LEA” code on a Delfield refrigerator means that the unit has been trying to cool continuously for over 24 hours. The machine will reset once the compressor cycles off or the unit is powered down. If the issue continues, contact an authorized technician for assistance.

How Can I Clear Error Codes on My Unit?

Resolving the underlying issue will clear the error code on the unit. Refer to the list of codes above to help with solving the problem. If the code doesn’t clear, unplug the machine, wait 1-2 minutes and then plug it back in again.

How Do I Reset My Delfield Refrigerator?

Reset your Delfield refrigerator by powering it down, unplugging it, waiting 1-2 minutes, plugging it back in and then turning it on again. This will help clear error codes, unfreeze the display panel and recover from power surges, among other problems.

How Can I Prevent Issues With My Unit?

Preventative maintenance is critical to avoiding equipment issues. Be sure to clean your Delfield refrigeration unit regularly, as well as address issues quickly if they arise. If needed, reach out to a licensed technician to resolve problems.

Looking for a little extra help? Check out our collection of Delfield manuals and diagrams for more info on how to operate, maintain and troubleshoot your exact model.

Please contact a local authorized service agent who can help with these specific units and all your commercial kitchen equipment needs.