Panasonic B30FX1 - Error Code H36 & H40

[zkopf]

Hello everyone,

I am trying to repair my faulty Panasonic Inverter Fridge, have done the self diagnosis and had both errors repeatedly displayed (H36 & H40).

Now as the service manual states, there is gas leaking at the low pressure side or a faulty Control PCB (IPM & Compressor Protection Control and probably a compressor lock !!)

I have changed the inverter PCB so I am sure now it's not because of it.

Any suggestions how to check whether a leakage actually persists ? Or check whether the Control PCB is faulty or not?

Is there any way to start the compressor with out connecting it to any of the PCBs?

Ps. I can upload photos of any part of the fridge upon request.

Thanks for your concern.

[The Viking]

Sorry zkopf,

Now is the time to call the experienced service guy.
The system needs the charge verified and that requires specialist knowledge and tools.

[zkopf]

Thanks for your reply, don't you think it might be the PCB's fault?

I just can't imagine there was a leakage without seeing any physical damage around the tubes or the compressor, surely I am wrong but isn't there a simple way to check whether system has ran out of the refrigerant or not!

[The Viking]

First,
I've been in this industry for more years than I care to remember and wouldn't even try to count the number of leaks I repaired, I can safely say that it is very rare to be able to see a refrigerant leak with the naked eye.

Yes, there are simple ways to tell if your system has run out of refrigerant but those simple ways requires both specialist tools and knowledge. Not to mention that as you live in Germany you will be covered by the European F-gas legislation that states that any person attempting to work on refrigeration circuits needs to be qualified.

Sorry.

[zkopf]

Thanks for your reply, I'll call the specialist to come over and have a look and let you know how it was.

[zkopf]

So I had to specialists examining the appliance, it can't be repaired as the leakage is not repairable ( Probably because it's between the walls ) !!

Aren't there any known spots for the leakage to be controlled?

Or any ideas what to do with the fridge now, it's very well designed, just a bit pity to throw it away!!