What should I do if my chiller displays an alarm or fault?
If your ATC chiller displays an alarm, warning, or fault message, first record the message, first record the message or code shown on the controller.
An alarm does not necessarily mean that the chiller has suffered a major failure. It may indicate an operating condition that needs attention, but identifying the exact alarm is important before deciding what to do next.
Refer to the operating manual for your specific chiller model for information about the alarm and any recommended user checks.
What should I check first?
Before carrying out any checks, make sure it is safe to do so and avoid removing covers or accessing internal electrical or refrigeration components.
Depending on the alarm and the instructions for your particular model, useful initial checks may include:
- Record the exact alarm or code
- Take a photograph of the controller display
- Check the current temperature setpoint and displayed temperature
- Check the process fluid level and condition
- Look for any visible fluid leaks
- Check that hoses and pipework are not visibly kinked or obstructed
- Check that the chiller’s ventilation areas are not blocked
- For air-cooled equipment, visually check the condenser for excessive dust or debris
- Consider whether anything in the process or cooling system has recently changed
Always follow the troubleshooting instructions in your model-specific operating manual.
Should I reset the alarm?
Follow the instructions provided in the operating manual for the particular alarm displayed.
Avoid repeatedly resetting an alarm without understanding why it is occurring. If an alarm returns after the recommended checks or reset procedure, record the details and contact ATC.
A recurring alarm may indicate an underlying operating or equipment issue that requires further investigation.
Has anything recently changed?
If a chiller that previously operated correctly suddenly develops a fault, consider whether anything changed shortly beforehand.
For example:
- Has the temperature setpoint changed?
- Has the process or heat load changed?
- Has the process fluid been changed or topped up?
- Has any pipework been altered?
- Has the chiller recently been moved?
- Has the system recently been shut down or restarted?
- Has any connected process equipment been changed or serviced
This information can be useful when diagnosing the cause of an alarm.
When should I contact ATC?
Contact ATC for support if:
- You cannot identify the alarm
- The recommended checks do not resolve the alarm
- The alarm repeatedly returns
- The chiller will not operate correctly
- You notice a leak, damage, or unusual behaviour
- The operating manual recommends contacting ATC
- You are unsure whether it is safe to continue operating the equipment
Do not dismantle the chiller or attempt repairs to the refrigeration or electrical systems unless you are appropriately qualified to do so.
What information should I provide to ATC?
Providing detailed information with your initial enquiry can help ATC to diagnose the problem more efficiently.
Where possible, provide:
- Chiller model
- Serial number
- Exact alarm or error message
- Photograph of the controller display
- Description of the problem
- Current temperature setpoint
- Current operating temperature
- Application or process being cooled
- Heat transfer fluid being used
- Details of any recent changes to the system
- Relevant photographs or videos
The serial number can normally be found on the rating plate on the chiller. A clear photograph of the complete rating plate can also be useful.
See “What information do I need when requesting technical support?” for a full checklist.
Where can I find troubleshooting information for my chiller?
Refer to the operating manual for your specific ATC chiller model for alarm information and troubleshooting guidance.
Different models and controllers can display different alarms, so always use documentation applicable to your particular equipment rather than relying on instructions for another chiller.
If you cannot locate the correct manual or the recommended troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, contact ATC with your chiller model, serial number, and alarm details.
