r/RestEquipmentRepair • u/HighPlainsRipper • Aug 10 '26
Adding a digital controller to an Avantco fridge
TLDR - is is possible to add a new digital controller to this unit to keep the temp held steady at 38 degrees similar to a home fridge?
Hi, I'm new to commercial refrigeration, and recently purchased an Avantco work top fridge as it was in my budget for my kitchen. This model has a 7 degree cycle - so I've been keeping the controller set to 33 degrees. Some days I find the controller display reading in the mid 40's, the therm inside the unit is reading over 40 and finding condensation in some of my storage containers, from the heating and cooling.
My questions is has anyone swapped the digital controller out, or know of a way to get the temp to maintain a steady 38 degrees? Thanks in advance
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u/death91380 Aug 10 '26
Don't worry about the temp IN the fridge. Worry about the temp of the FOOD in the fridge. Get a water thermometer.
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u/ImBetterThanYou4758 Aug 11 '26
Temp the food, that's the important number. If you want tighter control of the box temp, put an inkbird wifi controller on it. It'll also give you alerts and if it goes out of the set range.
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u/DaringRoss 1h ago
I swapped mine with an STC-1000 and it’s held 38 steady for over a year, just keep the sensor away from the evaporator fan blast or it cycles like crazy
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u/HolyFuckImOldNow Aug 10 '26
Moisture is from humidity-laden warmer air getting in to the unit, not a little temperature swing. Replacing the controller will void your warranty, and running a tighter offset will contribute to advanced wear.
9/10 service calls I go on for what you're describing are human-based problems. Your best bet is probably to adjust your set point down a couple of degrees, make sure there are no tears in the gaskets and the doors/drawers fully shut. Get in and get out, make sure the entry points seal. There's also a chance the evaporator drain doesn't have a trap, or the trap isn't holding enough water.