Traulsen System Leak Alarm

What does Traulsen System Leak Alarm mean?

The system leak alarm fires when the discharge line temperature does not rise as expected during a refrigeration cycle, which the control interprets as a possible refrigerant leak or low charge. It uses the discharge-line sensor to judge whether the sealed system is performing normally, so a misplaced or failed discharge sensor can also raise this alarm.

Symptoms

• Alarm LED illuminated and horn sounding on the control
• Discharge temperature not rising about 45F within the expected cycle window
• Cabinet not holding temperature
• Compressor running with poor cooling

Common causes

• Low refrigerant charge in the system
• Discharge line sensor not properly connected
• Failed discharge line sensor
• Dislocated discharge sensor probe out of correct position

Diagnostic steps

1. 01

   Check refrigerant charge

   Check the compressor for low refrigerant; add refrigerant if the charge is not OK.

2. 02

   Inspect the discharge line sensor

   Check the discharge line sensor per the manual procedure and replace it if it is failed.

3. 03

   Confirm probe connections

   Verify the sensor probes are properly connected and reconnect any that are loose.

4. 04

   Verify probe placement

   Check for a dislocated sensor probe and relocate it to the correct position on the hot-gas side near the compressor.

5. 05

   Re-insulate the discharge sensor

   Ensure the discharge sensor is properly placed before the hot-gas loop and insulated as required.

When to call a professional

Call a refrigeration technician for a system leak alarm. Diagnosing low charge, locating a refrigerant leak, and recharging the sealed system require EPA certification, recovery equipment, and leak-detection tools. Relocating or replacing the discharge-line sensor and confirming proper placement near the compressor are service tasks; improper handling can mask a real leak and damage the compressor.