Hussmann Deli Case Troubleshooting Guide

Hussmann deli cases display foods attractively while keeping them at safe temperatures, encouraging product sales and ensuring food safety. While these units are known for their reliability, everyday use can eventually take its toll, leading to performance issues. If you want to keep your equipment in good working order, this Hussmann deli case troubleshooting guide will help you identify and solve problems with ease.

These tips are for Q1-DC and Q1-DS glass merchandisers. For more information on how to care for your unit, see our Hussmann deli case cleaning article.

Unit Isn’t Working

• Power is turned off - Turn the power on.
• Machine is unplugged - Plug in the unit.
• Circuit breaker is off or tripped/fuse is blown - Turn the circuit breaker on. If issues persist, contact a licensed electrician for assistance.

Case Temperature Is Too High

• Ambient airflow and temperature aren’t consistent - Relocate the unit a minimum of 15FT (4.6M) from open doors and windows, as well as a good distance from electric fans and air conditioning vents, to keep airflow and temperatures steady.
• Ambient temperature and humidity aren’t ideal - Move the unit to an area with 55% relative humidity and a temperature of 75°F (23.4°C). 
• Evaporator fan is faulty - Contact an authorized technician to remedy the issue.
• Fans are installed backwards - Schedule an appointment with a licensed technician to address the problem.
• Fan blades are installed incorrectly - Arrange a service call with an authorized technician.
• Fan plenum is installed improperly - Call a licensed technician to correct the issue.
• Suction pressure doesn’t meet factory specifications - Reach out to an authorized technician for help.
• Unit is set to defrost - Adjust the settings.
• Case is overloaded with product - Remove product from the unit.

Coil Is Frozen

• Return air is blocked - Make sure that nothing is blocking the intake section.
• Coil close-offs aren’t installed - Consult a licensed technician for assistance.
• Condensing or evaporator coil is clogged or dirty - Clean the coil.

Case Temperature Is Too Cold

• The thermostat is set too low - Raise the thermostat temperature.
• Surrounding airflow and temperature aren’t stable - Place the unit at least 15FT (4.6M) from open doors and windows, as well as a sufficient distance from electric fans and air conditioning vents, to maintain stable airflow and temperatures.
• Ambient temperature and humidity aren’t ideal - Move the unit to an area with 55% relative humidity and a temperature of 75°F (23.4°C). 

Condensation on Glass

• Surrounding air currents aren’t stable - Position the unit at least 15FT (4.6M) from open doors and windows, and ensure it’s a significant distance from electric fans and air conditioning vents, in order to maintain stable airflow and temperatures.
• Room temperature and humidity aren’t optimal - Put the unit in an area with 55% relative humidity and a temperature of 75°F (23.4°C). 
• Air sweep fans are defective - Call an authorized technician to solve the problem.
• Air sweep heater is faulty - Make an appointment with a licensed technician to remedy the issue.
• Glass gaps are on the side of the case - Adjust the glass.
• Glass isn’t shut completely - Close the glass tightly.

Water Is Pooling Under the Unit

• Drain is clogged - Clean the drain.
• PVC drains are leaking - Reach out to an authorized technician for help.
• Case tub opening isn’t sealed - Seal the tub.
• Case to case joint is missing or unsealed - Call a licensed technician to address the issue.
• Evaporator pan is overflowing - Schedule a service call with an authorized technician to solve the problem.

Case Isn’t Draining Correctly

• Unit isn’t level - Level the machine.
• Drain screen is blocked - Clean the drain screen and remove any debris blocking it.
• Drain or P-trap is clogged - Clear the blockage.

Evaporator Coil Has Frost or Ice

• Evaporator fans aren’t working - Contact a licensed technician for assistance. 
• Defrost clock is faulty - Reach out to an authorized technician to correct the problem.

Large Gap At Bottom of Front Glass/Glass Can’t Be Opened

• Glass height adjusters aren’t set properly - Change the glass height. 

Large Gaps Between Glass Panels/Glass Rubs Against End Panel

• Glass/glass clamp assembly needs to be adjusted - Reposition the glass clamp.

Front Glass Doesn’t Stay Open

• Glass shock/piston is malfunctioning - Call a licensed technician for assistance.

Lights Don’t Work

• Ballast/light socket wiring is improper - Schedule a service appointment with an authorized technician to correct the problem.
• Ballast needs to be replaced - Contact a licensed technician to service the unit.
• Lamp socket isn’t working correctly - Consult an authorized technician to address the issue.
• Lamp is defective - Seek the assistant of a licensed technician to solve the problem.
• Light switch is faulty - Reach out to an authorized technician to remedy the issue.

If you found this information helpful, be sure to take a look at the large library of Hussmann manuals and diagrams on our site for more tips on operating, cleaning and troubleshooting your equipment.

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