Tecfrigo is an Italian manufacturer whose units (like Tecfrigo Primera, Isola, etc.) are often re-badged by UK brands (Interlevin, Coolpoint, etc.). They are commonly found as deli or pastry displays. Common issues and codes largely align with the generic patterns we’ve seen.
Typical Faults & Diagnosis: According to a Tecfrigo user manual, if the unit has operation disturbances, users should check: Is the unit connected to mains properly? And is the mains supply live? This mirrors the basic power check – make sure the cabinet’s plug is firmly in a working socket (many Tecfrigo units sold in the UK have a fused UK 13A plug, so also verify the fuse in the plug). If the display fridge temperature is too high, consider recent usage: “Has the cabinet recently been filled with products?” – loading a large quantity of non-chilled cakes can raise the temperature for several hours. In such a case, the fridge needs time to pull down to set temperature. Also, “Is the lid or door not closed properly?” – always check doors and lids for proper closure. Another point: “Is the thermostat set correctly?” – if someone set the thermostat too high (or to a warmer setting, e.g., turning a dial by mistake), the cabinet may be at the wrong temperature. Adjust the thermostat clockwise to a colder setting and wait to see if conditions improve.
Tecfrigo units with digital controls will have error codes similar to others. If you see E1/E2 on a Tecfrigo display, treat them as probe errors (again, consistent with Dixell/LAE controllers). Many Tecfrigo displays actually use simple mechanical thermostats, which means no digital error readout – you’ll diagnose by symptoms. For example, a freezing cold display (too cold) in a cake fridge might mean the thermostat is stuck or set too low; whereas a warm cabinet with compressor running continuously might mean the thermostat sensor bulb dislodged from its holder causing the unit to run non-stop (refit it to measure correctly). Always also check the ventilation: Tecfrigo’s larger models often have front ventilation grills; ensure nothing is blocking them.
Noises can also indicate issues: rattling sounds call attention to leveling (fix by adjusting feet) and any loose screws on fans or compressor mounts. Tighten any loose screws if safe to access. If a clicking relay sound is heard repeatedly and the compressor isn’t staying on, the compressor might be cycling on overload – possibly due to high head pressure (dirty condenser or ambient too hot) or a bad capacitor. Clean the condenser and try again; if it continues, an engineer should examine the compressor and start components.
Fault Code Table – Tecfrigo: (if digital controller present)
| Code | Likely Meaning | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| E1 | Probe 1 (air) fault | Cabinet temperature probe issue. Fix: Replace sensor. (Symptom: unit may run constantly or not at all, depending on fail-safe mode.) |
| E2 | Probe 2 (coil) fault | Evaporator probe issue. Fix: Replace sensor; until then, defrosts might be time-based only. |
| — (no display) | No power | Check power switch (if any), plug, and fuse. Tecfrigo units may have an on/off switch near the thermostat – ensure it’s “on”. |
| Temp display blinking | Alarm active | If the temp value flashes, it’s often an alarm (hi/lo temp). Check if recent loading or door open caused it, otherwise condenser may be dirty. Reset by turning unit off and on after issue is resolved. |
Note: The Tecfrigo Primera manual explicitly notes the thermostat should only be adjusted by a skilled person (the thermostat might be hidden in the compressor compartment). This means end-users should be cautious when changing settings – small adjustments and monitoring are key. Also, defrost regularly: Tecfrigo freezers (and some fridges) need manual defrost every couple of months to prevent ice build-up, which can also apply to fridges if used in humid conditions (ice on the evaporator of a fridge will cause warm temps). By adhering to these guidelines and performing simple checks, most Tecfrigo display issues can be identified before calling a technician.