# NewAir Prep Tables, Undercounters and Display Freezers: Use and Care > How to install, set, clean and troubleshoot NewAir prep tables, undercounters, ice cream freezers, deli cases and chef bases, from NewAir's manuals. How-to by Norpex. Published 2026-11-01, updated 2026-11-01. Canonical: https://norpex.ca/guides/newair-prep-tables-undercounters-and-display-freezers ![NewAir NPT-048-MSA two-door mega top sandwich and salad prep table on casters](https://norpex.ca/m/b9/99/b9993d078dffa0efc04fcec9a5af603add83c9a6e169a94ecf85af6447aeb66c.jpg) Pictured: [NewAir NPT-048-MSA Mega Top Prep Table](https://norpex.ca/product/new-air-npt-048-msa-48-2-door-mega-top-salad-sandwich-prep-table) This guide covers the proper operation and care of NewAir NPT, NUF, NIF, NDC, and NCB refrigeration units. It draws on the manufacturer's manuals for installation, controls, cleaning, and troubleshooting. ## Key takeaways - Always maintain the clearance specified in your unit's manual to ensure proper airflow. - Clean the condenser coil at least once a month using a commercial coil cleaner and a soft brush. - Use only a dedicated 115 V, 60 Hz grounded outlet; never use an extension cord. - For manual-defrost models, defrost when frost reaches 4–5 mm and never use sharp tools. - If a problem persists after checking the troubleshooting table, contact NewAir's service department. ## Which manual covers your NewAir unit The NPT-SA and NPT-MSA sandwich and mega-top prep tables are covered by the NPT-SA/-MSA Series manual. The NUF undercounter and worktop freezers are covered by the NUF Series manual. The NIF-CG curved-glass and NIF-FG flat-glass ice cream display freezers each have their own manual (NIF-CG Series and NIF-FG Series). The NDC-SG deli cases are covered by the NDC-SG Series manual, and the NCB chef bases by the NCB Series manual. Other NewAir models we list, such as back-bar coolers and open-air merchandisers, come with their own manuals. All six manuals say the equipment is meant for rooms where the ambient temperature typically does not exceed 86°F (30°C). ## Installation requirements Clearances differ by series. The NPT, NUF and NDC-SG manuals ask for at least 100 mm (about 4 in.) behind the unit and 50 mm at the sides, and the NCB manual for at least 4 in. between the unit and the wall. The NIF-CG and NIF-FG ice cream freezers want 3 in. at the back, and the NIF-FG manual also asks for more than 20 cm behind and at both sides, so leave the larger gap. Never put anything on top of a refrigerator. All series require a dedicated 115 V, 60 Hz single-phase grounded outlet. The NPT, NUF, NDC-SG, and NCB manuals specify a minimum 15 A fused and grounded socket. Do not use an extension cord. If the power cord is too short, have a qualified electrician install a socket closer to the unit. The NIF-CG and NIF-FG manuals note that the power cord should be 10 A capacity, with a 2.5 A fuse, and if the voltage is unstable, a voltage stabilizer of at least 1000 W should be installed. Every manual stresses that the unit must be installed on a level floor to ensure proper door alignment, condensate drainage, and refrigeration operation. After transport, let the unit stand upright for at least 1 hour (NPT, NUF, NDC-SG, NCB) or 24 hours (NIF-CG) before plugging it in, to allow compressor oil to settle. A qualified, licensed installer must handle any gas, water, or electrical connections according to local code. ## Daily operation and controls For NPT, NUF, and NCB series, the digital controller (XR03CX, XR06CX, or PJEZ) lets you adjust the set point. Press and hold the SET key for more than 2 seconds until the display flashes, then use the up and down arrows to change the value, and press SET again to store. The NPT and NCB temperature range is 0.5–5 °C; NUF freezers operate at -18 to -22 °C. The NDC-SG series uses a CAREL controller: press and hold SET for 2 seconds, then use the arrows to set the desired temperature (range 2–6 °C). The NIF-CG and NIF-FG freezers have a mechanical knob; turn it clockwise for colder, but do not leave it at FREEZING MAX for long periods, as the manual warns this may cause warmer cabinet temperatures. NPT and NUF units defrost automatically—the controller runs 4 defrost cycles in 4 hours. You can start a manual defrost by pressing the defrost button (top right of the display) for 6 seconds; the defrost LED will light. NIF-CG and NIF-FG freezers require manual defrost when the frost layer reaches 4–5 mm. Turn off the power, remove food, open the door, and let the frost melt; wipe with a soft cloth. Never use sharp metal tools to remove ice. The NDC-SG and NCB manuals do not describe a user-initiated defrost; the units manage defrost automatically. All manuals advise leaving space between items and the cabinet walls for proper cold air circulation. Do not overload the unit. For freezers, wrap moisture-prone foods in sealed bags to reduce frost. Do not store flammable or volatile substances inside. ## Cleaning and routine care Every series manual recommends cleaning the condenser coil at least once a month. Disconnect power first. Use a commercial condenser coil cleaner and a soft brush; brush the fins from top to bottom, never side to side. After cleaning, straighten any bent fins with a fin comb. The NIF-CG and NIF-FG manuals also suggest using pressurized air. The video “NEW AIR - HOW TO: Clean the NGR-036-H's condenser” demonstrates the process on a similar unit. Clean the cabinet interior with warm water and mild soap. Do not use steel wool, caustic soap, abrasive cleaners, or bleach. For the back panel (NPT, NUF, NDC-SG, NCB), remove the screws, clean the backboard carefully avoiding damage to insulation and tubing, dry with a soft cloth, and reattach the panel. Remove door gaskets weekly, soak in warm soapy water for 30 minutes, dry, and replace. Check for a proper seal afterward. If necessary, clean fan blades and motor with a soft cloth; cover the motor to prevent moisture damage. For long-term storage, unplug, clean, and dry the unit. Before reusing, have an electrician inspect the wiring. ## Troubleshooting common issues The manuals include detailed troubleshooting tables. Below are common problems and checks the operator can perform. If the issue persists, contact NewAir's service department. - No power / unit not running: Check that the main power switch is on, the outlet has power (verify breaker), the plug is fully inserted, and the power cord is not damaged. - High temperature inside: Ensure the thermostat is set correctly, the door is fully closed with undamaged gaskets, the condenser coil is clean, the condenser fans are working, and the unit is not near a heat source. If the evaporator coil is iced over, unplug and empty the unit, leave the door open to defrost. - Water leaks: Inside leaks may be due to an unlevel unit, a disconnected or frozen drain hose. Outside leaks can result from high humidity (wipe condensation) or an overflowing condensation tray; check that the drain hose is positioned correctly. - Noisy operation: Verify the cabinet is on a stable, level surface and tighten any loose screws or parts. - Compressor not working: Lower the temperature setting if too high, check that the outlet voltage is correct, and ensure the controller wiring is secure. ## When to call for service The manuals warn that the units use R290 (propane) or R134a refrigerant and are to be serviced only by factory-authorized personnel: never puncture the refrigerant tubing or attempt sealed-system repairs. If the troubleshooting steps do not solve a problem, contact New Air Refrigeration's service department, and leave electrical work to a qualified electrician. ## Videos from the maker - [NEW AIR - HOW TO: Clean the NGR-036-H's condenser](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QR3xx_7BsI4) (NewAir) ## Common questions ### How often should I clean the condenser coil? All NewAir manuals recommend cleaning the condenser coil at least once a month. Use a commercial coil cleaner and a soft brush, brushing from top to bottom, and straighten any bent fins afterward. ### Can I use an extension cord with my NewAir unit? No. Every manual explicitly prohibits extension cords. The unit must be plugged into a dedicated, properly grounded 115 V, 60 Hz outlet. If the cord is too short, have a qualified electrician install a closer socket. ### What should I do if my NIF ice cream freezer is not cooling properly? First, check that the temperature knob is set correctly and not left at FREEZING MAX for too long. Ensure the door seals are intact, the condenser is clean, and the unit has at least 3 inches of rear clearance. If frost is thicker than 4–5 mm, perform a manual defrost. ### How do I set the temperature on a NewAir prep table? On NPT models, press and hold the SET key for more than 2 seconds until the display flashes. Use the up and down arrows to adjust the set point, then press SET again to store. The factory range is 0.5–5 °C. ### Who should install my NewAir refrigeration unit? A qualified, licensed installer must handle all electrical connections and any gas or water hookups to local code. The unit must be placed on a level floor with the clearances specified in its manual. ## Related guides - [Refrigerated Prep Table Buying Guide: Sandwich, Pizza and Mega-Top](https://norpex.ca/guides/prep-table-buying-guide) - [Refrigerated Display Case Buying Guide: Deli, Gelato and Grab-and-Go](https://norpex.ca/guides/refrigerated-display-case-guide) ## Shop the catalogue - [Sandwich/Salad Prep Table](https://norpex.ca/products/sandwich-salad-prep-table) - [Undercounter Refrigerator](https://norpex.ca/products/undercounter-refrigerator) - [Ice Cream](https://norpex.ca/products/ice-cream-dipping-cabinets)