2nd failure of a freezer in 8 years

[scottsah]

I have a freezer with a collar that holds a few kegs. It ran for about 4 or 5 years and then developed an ice ring near the collar. I may have broken it when removing the ice but regardless when I turned it on after several months of having it off it never got cold again.

I replaced it 2.5 years ago and about a week ago it developed an ice ring. I made sure the temp sensor was at the bottom of the chest and turned the temp up a few degrees. 5 days later the beer was warmish and it has not gotten cold again. Irritating.

I doubt it is coolant and someone came over and thought the compressor was turning on. The appliance repair people we have used do not want to look at it. I have two questions:

Any ideas of what is wrong
Any suggestions on what is causing it and how to avoid another failure​

Any assistance would be appreciated.
Thanks
Scott

 

[mikescooling]

What is the temp you have it set to kick on and off also called the temperature differential of the cycle? For example, it will kick on a 45* and kick off at 38*?

 

[Konadog]

A little more info is needed.

1. Where is this unit located, house, garage?
2. Was the 2nd unit new?
3. Do you have a controller running the freezer, or are you using the built in thermostat?

Ice buildup is normal if you don't have something pulling moisture out of the air like a EVA-Dry 500
The compressor will run with or without refrigerant, It wont run long without any refrigerant, and it defiantly won't cool without it.
Sometimes you can find a leek by looking for an oil stain (look in the compressor compartment) but if its in the walls of the freezer, good luck finding it.

 

[beernutz]

What is the contraption with the blue hose and wooden box for?

I the recommendation for eva drys. I keep one of my freezers outside below my deck at 55 for storing homemade wine and keep 2 eva drys in it because if I don't water will collect at the bottom. Did I mention it is humid as heck here?