Johnson Controls A419 Troubles

[bwoodworth]

I have had my keezer up and running for a few years using the A419 without any issues. Just recently after not opening the freezer in a while I noticed the compressor seemed to be running a lot. I opened it up and everything inside was frozen solid! I checked the temp controller and it was at 5 degrees F and the compressor was still running. I immediately unplugged the freezer from the controller and checked the controller's set point and it was still set at 41F. I pulled the temp sensor out and warmed it up in my hands to above 41F and the controller clicked and the green light turned on. I put it back in the freezer and watched as the temp dropped below the offset. It clicked and the light went off, but there was still power going to the outlet.

Has anything like this happened to anyone else? Is my controller fried and should I replace it? Thankfully there wasn't any damage beyond a couple bottles bursting, but it is scary to think I can't trust my temperature controller with full kegs.

 

[BrewerBrad82]

It sounds like the relay inside the controller is stuck closed. Even though everything else seems to function properly, your freezer will get power no matter what the controller is telling you. Unfortunately you will have to replace the unit.

 

[bwoodworth]

Thanks. Are there other recommended temp controllers that are more reliable?

 

[tchever1]

Not thrilled with mine either. Brtand new and trying to do a crash and the temp turns on at 42* F and (supposed) shut off at 41* but run on gets me to 33*. Not pleased. Called customer service and their attitude was take it or leave it. cannot use appropriate language here

 

[day_trippr]

Not thrilled with mine either. Brtand new and trying to do a crash and the temp turns on at 42* F and (supposed) shut off at 41* but run on gets me to 33*. Not pleased. [...]

fwiw, any controller used with a freezer and with its probe simply hanging in the air with zero additional thermal mass attached is going to exhibit the same behavior...

Cheers!

 

[CMAC]

It sounds like the relay inside the controller is stuck closed. Even though everything else seems to function properly, your freezer will get power no matter what the controller is telling you. Unfortunately you will have to replace the unit.

If you're considering replacing, take the time to disassemble and see if you can remove the cover of the relay. A little contact cleaner spray might just do the trick. This happened with my last furnace and was relatively simple, inexpensive fix.