The situation when you need to get to the internal components of a display case arises quite often among owners of commercial equipment. This could be a routine seal replacement, drainage system cleaning, or major compressor repair. Unlike household models, retail display cases have design features that require a special approach and knowledge of the sequence of actions.
Before proceeding with dismantling, it is necessary to clearly understand the risks associated with working under voltage and the presence of refrigerant in the system. Improper disassembly may lead to damage heat exchanger or loss of sealing of the circuit. That is why it is important to prepare theoretically and prepare the necessary tools so that the process goes smoothly and without unnecessary costs.
In this article we will analyze in detail the stages of disassembling the main types of display cases, paying attention to the nuances of fastening panels and electrical components. You will learn how to safely remove the glass, get to the compressor compartment and replace failed elements while maintaining the presentation of the equipment.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
The first and most critical stage is organizing a safe space for work. Display cases are often large and heavy, so make sure you have enough room to maneuver. Be sure to disconnect the equipment from the power supply by unplugging the plug from the socket, and let the unit stand alone for at least 30 minutes.
For high-quality disassembly, you will need a set of tools that will avoid damage to fasteners and plastic parts. Using the wrong screwdrivers can strip the slots on the screws, making reassembly much more difficult. Prepare everything you need in advance so as not to be distracted during the work process.
The basic set of tools includes:
- 🔧 A set of Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers of various sizes for working with screws.
- 🔑 Open-end wrenches or socket heads for removing nuts compressor.
- ✂️ A utility knife or plastic spatula for carefully removing decorative plugs.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, make sure that the display case is completely defrosted. The presence of ice in the evaporator or water in the pan can lead to a short circuit or damage to the electronic components during dismantling.
Particular attention should be paid to the condition electrical cable. If there is visible damage to the insulation, working with the device is strictly prohibited until the cord is replaced. Also check that the floor at the work site is dry and level, which will prevent the equipment from slipping.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
Dismantling the top part and glass elements
Disassembling the top part of the display case begins with removing the glass lids or sliding doors. This is the most fragile stage of the work, requiring caution and, preferably, the participation of a second person. Showcase glass is often tempered, but impacts on the metal edges of the case can lead to its instant destruction.
The removal process depends on the type of structure. In models with sliding doors, you need to lift the glass to remove the lower rollers from the guide, and then carefully put it in a safe place. Fixed covers are usually attached to hinges or special hooks that need to be unlocked.
If sensors are installed on the glass, they should be disconnected only after the glass panel has been completely removed. Do not try to disconnect the wiring while the glass is still suspended or in an unstable position. Heating elements or sensors, they need to be disconnected only after the glass panel has been completely removed. Do not attempt to disconnect the wiring while the glass is still suspended or in an unstable position.
⚠️ Attention: Never place the removed display glass on an edge or on an uneven surface. It should lie strictly horizontally on a soft mat to avoid spontaneous cracking under its own weight.
After removing the glass, access to the internal space of the chamber and the top panel opens. Lights, temperature controllers and fans can be located here. To service them, it is often necessary to remove the decorative box, which is attached with self-tapping screws or plastic latches.
Removing the side panels and access to the insides
The side walls of the display case perform not only an aesthetic, but also a constructive function, hiding thermal insulation and frame elements. Their dismantling is usually required to replace the compressor, repair wiring or clean the condenser. The panels can be secured using screws located around the perimeter or hidden latches.
Carefully inspect the perimeter of the display case. Often the screws are covered with decorative plugs that can be easily removed with a flat-head screwdriver. In some models Indesit or Pozis the sidewalls may be held on by powerful magnets or guide slides that require shear force.
When removing panels, proceed carefully so as not to damage the layer of polyurethane foam insulation. If the panel does not come off, do not use excessive force; you may have missed a hidden fastener. Check the bottom part of the display case, where additional fasteners are often located.
After removing the side panels, access to compressor-condensing unitopens. Here it is important to be careful about copper tubes, which are very easy to deform. Any dent on the tube can disrupt the circulation of the refrigerant and lead to breakdown of the entire system.
Disassembling the compressor compartment
The compressor compartment is the “heart” of the refrigerated display case. The main components are located here: compressor, condenser, filter drier and start-protective relay. They are usually accessed from the bottom or rear of the equipment, depending on the model.
Before removing the compressor, access to the tubes must be cleared. This may require removing the protective grille or metal casing. The compressor mounting bolts often have rubber damper bushings that must be carefully removed.
The main elements located in this compartment:
- 🌀 Compressor - creates pressure for the circulation of refrigerant in the system.
- ❄️ Condenser - a grid where hot gas is cooled and turned into liquid.
- ⚡ Starting and protective relay - provide engine starting and protection against overloads.
- 💧 Filter drier - removes moisture from the cooling system.
If the compressor needs to be replaced, remember that you cannot simply unscrew the tubes. The system is under pressure and filled with freon. For safe dismantling, you need to call a specialist with equipment for pumping out the refrigerant or carry out work in a well-ventilated area in compliance with fire safety measures.
Why can’t you just bite the tubes?
Cutting the tubes under pressure can lead to the release of oil and refrigerant residues, as well as the entry of dust and moisture into the system, which is guaranteed will disable the new compressor in a short time.
Replacement of heating elements and maintenance of the defrost system
The evaporator defrost system is one of the most vulnerable parts of the display case. Heating elements (tubular electric heaters) are located directly on the evaporator inside the chamber or behind the rear wall. Their replacement requires partial disassembly of the internal volume.
To access the heating element, it is often necessary to remove the back panel inside the display case or dismantle the air ducts. Heaters are usually secured using brackets or special clamps. When removing the old heating element, be careful, as it may be fragile due to temperature deformations.
It is important to check not only the heater itself, but also defrost sensor (the thermostat) that regulates its operation. Often, the failure of one element entails incorrect operation of the entire defrosting system.
| System element | Function | Typical sign of malfunction |
|---|---|---|
| TEN evaporator | Heating and melting of ice | Increase of "fur coat" on the evaporator |
| Defrost sensor | Turning off the heating element when heating | The compressor does not turn on or the heating element constantly heats |
| Glass heating element | Prevention of fogging | Condensation on the glass, fogging of the display case |
When installing a new heating element, make sure that its power corresponds to the rating indicated on the equipment tag. Installing a more powerful heater can lead to overheating of the plastic elements of the case.
Assembling the display case and checking the tightness
The assembly of the display case is in progress in the reverse order, but requires no less care than disassembly. It is important to install all seals and gaskets correctly to avoid cold leaks. Do not over-tighten the screws to avoid damaging the threads in the plastic bases.
After installing all panels and connecting electrical circuits, you must visually check for correct assembly. Make sure that the wires are not pinched by metal elements of the case and do not touch moving parts of fans or hot pipes.
The final stage is a test run. Plug in the display case and listen to the compressor work. Extraneous noise, vibration or humming may indicate improper installation of the unit or foreign objects.
⚠️ Attention: Do not load the display case with products immediately after switching on. Let the equipment run idle for 2-3 hours to reach the operating temperature mode and ensure the stability of all components.
Check the tightness of the doors and glass. A sheet of paper sandwiched between the seal and the body must be removed with noticeable force along the entire perimeter. If the paper slides freely, adjustment of the hinges or replacement of the sealing rubber is required.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to disassemble the display case? without draining the freon?
You can completely disassemble the display case by removing the panels and electrics without draining the freon. However, if a compressor, filter or pipe repair is required, the system is under pressure. In this case, it is necessary to call a specialist with equipment for pumping out the refrigerant. Independent release of freon into the atmosphere is prohibited by environmental standards.
Why did the display case begin to make noise after assembly?
The appearance of noise after disassembly often indicates that the compressor tubes are touching the housing or each other. The cause may also be an incorrectly installed fan, which touches the wires or grille with its blades. Check the gaps between the moving parts and the body.
How often do the seals on the display case need to be changed?
There is no regulated service life, replacement is carried out as they wear out. If the seal has lost its elasticity, cracked or no longer fits tightly (cold lets in), it must be replaced. On average, during active use in a store, this happens once every 3-5 years.
Do door hinges need to be lubricated during assembly?
Yes, it is recommended to periodically lubricate door hinges and sliding glass mechanisms with silicone grease. This will prevent squeaking, facilitate movement and protect metal elements from corrosion. Do not use ordinary machine oils, as they can drain and stain food or the floor.
What to do if, after replacing the heating element, the display case does not freeze?
If after replacing the heating element there is no cold, the evaporator may have been damaged during installation (puncture with a sharp screwdriver) or the tightness of the system has been compromised. Also check that the defrost sensor is connected correctly - if it “sees” a high temperature, the compressor may not turn on. Diagnostics of the refrigeration circuit is required.