Tefcold is a European brand (widely sold in the UK) known for reliable refrigeration including bakery display cases. Tefcold units often use Dixell/ELIWELL controllers with standard error codes. Common issues mirror those of similar displays: sensor errors, dirty condensers, and fan problems.
Typical Faults & Diagnosis: Tefcold patisserie displays are designed to hold temperature between +2°C to +8°C typically. If a unit shows “E0”, “E1” or “E2” on the display, it’s signaling a probe error (as per Tefcold’s documentation). Specifically, E0 usually means the cabinet sensor fault, E1 a defrost sensor fault, and E2 a condenser sensor error on certain models. These error codes indicate the controller can’t read a temperature – the fridge might still run but could over-freeze or overheat due to lack of proper feedback. Replacing the faulty probe is the solution. Aside from error codes, diagnose basics: High cabinet temperature on a Tefcold display can be due to overstocking or blocked airflow. Ensure you haven’t blocked the internal air outlets with too many cakes – good air circulation is key. Frost block on the evaporator is another cause of warm temperature; if the unit isn’t auto-defrosting enough, manually initiate a defrost. Tefcold manuals note that condenser contamination (dust) and fan failures are common culprits for temperature issues. Clean the condenser coil if it’s dirty. If an internal fan motor has failed, you’ll notice one side of the cabinet is warmer – the fan should be repaired or replaced. Unusual noises like grinding could also indicate a bad fan motor. For compressor not running, check if the controller is displaying an error or if perhaps the unit is in defrost or off mode. It’s rare for Tefcold units to have compressor failure, but a telltale sign is clicking without cooling (indicating the start relay or compressor issue – an engineer’s task to fix).
Fault Code Table – Tefcold: (Common Dixell controller codes in Tefcold units)
| Code | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| E0 | Probe 1 (cabinet sensor) error | Primary temperature sensor fault (open or short). Result: Controller runs compressor by timer (to protect contents). Fix: Replace sensor. |
| E1 | Probe 2 (defrost sensor) error | Defrost termination sensor fault. Effect: Defrost may not terminate properly (or shows “Ed” if ended by timeout). Fix: Replace evaporator probe. |
| E2 | Probe 3 error (if used) | On some models, a third probe (condenser or product temp) is used. Fault if seen. Fix: Replace or reconnect probe. |
| IA | External alarm input active | An external alarm (if fitted) is triggered (e.g., remote alarm contact). Action: Check if an external sensor or door switch triggered an alarm. |
| dor | Door open alarm | The door has been open too long (if door switch is installed). Action: Close the door to resume normal operation. |
| LO / HI | Low/High temperature alarm | Cabinet temperature exceeded set low or high threshold. Action: Investigate cause (door open, condenser dirty, heavy load, etc.) and monitor – alarm clears when temp is back in range. |
| EE / EF | Parameter error | Controller memory or parameter error (EE) or operating parameter fault (EF). Action: Try resetting power. If persistent, controller may need reprogramming or replacement by a professional. |
Note: Tefcold’s own troubleshooting guide emphasizes basics as well: check power supply (“poor socket contact” or wiring issues can cause no-power situations), verify the unit isn’t placed near heat sources or in direct sun, and ensure the condenser is not “contaminated” with dust (clean it if so). They also mention to check if the temperature control probe is touching the bottom of the cabinet (it can give false readings if not positioned correctly) – reposition it if needed. For any serious fault beyond these (like a compressor issue or persistent error codes), it’s advised to call a refrigeration engineer or the manufacturer’s service department. Always use the official Tefcold manual for model-specific diagnostics.