Sea Frost DC 5000 - Manual (Page 5)

5
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SEA FROST DC 5000 is a cold storage refrigeration system powered by a 1/2
horsepower permanent magnet direct current 12-volt motor. Refrigerant from the
compressor is piped to the SEA FROST plate in the icebox. Cold storage is attained by
rapidly freezing the solution contained in the plate, creating a captive (replenishable)
block of ice. The system may be used when the boat’s engine is on and charging the
batteries or with a properly sized battery bank. The compressor may be controlled by
an oil pressure switch preventing operation without the engine, a lockout relay that
prevents operation without the shore power charger operating, a timer, or by a
thermostat alone. The heat removed from the icebox is discharged into the seawater at
the water-cooled heat exchanger. A separate pump below the water line controlled by
the DC 5000 pumps water through the heat exchanger and overboard above the water
line.
BREAK-IN PERIOD.
REFER TO THE START UP PROCEDURE IN THE BEGINNING OF THIS MANUAL.
EVERY TIME THE SYSTEM IS RESTARTED FROM WARM, CHECK TO BE SURE IT
IS COOLING BEFORE OPERATING THE COMPRESSOR EXTENSIVELY. THIS IS
YOUR SYSTEM. SIMPLE OBSERVATIONS OF YOUR SYSTEM AND OPERATING
CAUTION WILL PREVENT DAMAGE THAT COULD COST YOU MONEY.
OPERATION
1. This system is water-cooled and depends on water being pumped by the remote
DC 5000 pump. The proper sea cock must be open before starting the
system. Water flow is most important, therefore CHECK THE WATER FLOW
AFTER STARTING THE SYSTEM.
2. Check the battery switch position and voltage readings before starting.
3. Start the DC 5000 by turning on the thermostat. The red indicator light should
light, indicating 12-volt power is available and that the system is operating.
Check the overboard discharge to be sure water is being pumped.
4. If the battery system is fitted with an amp/hr meter you will notice the DC 5000
compressor drawing about 45 amps/hr (12 volts) for the first few minutes
dropping to 35 amps/hr for the remainder of the cycle.
5. After 10 minutes of operation, check for a drop in the cold plate temperature by
feeling the plate with your hand. If no noticeable cooling has occurred, turn off
the thermostat. Check the charge level (See checking the refrigerant charge
section) and check the water flow. TO PROTECT THE COMPRESSOR, DO
NOT OPERATE the system if this temperature drop is not noted. CALL US AT
603-868-5720.