Hi,
Is there anybody out there with much experience using strip heaters with ammonia evaporators to help out with hot gas defrosts?

I have three freezers that do pretty well with hot gas defrosting, but run ito problems every few weeks. Even with daily hot gas (75PSI) periods of 45 minutes, there always seems to be a tiny bit that clings to the bottom of the coil. After a few weeks, a bridge will form at the bottom between the coil and the drain pan and the ice will begin to creep up and I'll have to spend some time with it.

I've been wondering about trying some strip heater to keep the bridge from forming, but I also wonder if this solution might bring its own set of new problems.

I know the best solution is to minimize outside air infiltration, but with heavy traffic and a marine climate, what can you do?


Jim Heffernan
Tillamook Oregon