(Newbie) How to properly defrost CK-2-C16

Hi, glad to see you joined up here and are looking for ways to take care of your CK.  

The normal operation of the machine keeps the evaporator (the cold coil inside the cabinet) between 6°F and 20°F. The frost won't ever melt within this temperature range. 

The control knob should have a position labelled "Defrost" which will change the cut-in temperature so the evaporator has to reach 50°F before the next running cycle. Since ice melts at 32°F, the ice will melt during the off-cycle. 

So to defrost it; it's simple. Ensure the drip tray is in place to catch the water. If it's super-bad frosted, you may have to empty it more than once. Select "Defrost" on the control.  Monitor the defrosting action to be sure that excess water doesn't go in the cabinet, and possibly cause wet insulation in the bottom.

Once it's clear of frost, return the switch to the normal "on" position.

The above method is gentler on the machine since it doesn't allow the evaporator to get hotter than 50°F and the compressor isn't allowed to get stone-cold.

If that's taking too long, you can turn the machine off and leave the door open. This will be quicker and if the ice buildup is extreme, it may be the best option. 

Whatever you do, never scrape, pry, or pull the ice off.  If the ice is partially released from the coils and it is pried or pulled off, there could be some small refrigerant tubing still trapped in the ice; and it could be broken. So let the ice melt naturally. 

It's that simple!
Sincerely,
David

Glad it helped!