Demand-Based Defrosting Starts with Measurement

Most defrost cycles are not triggered because they are needed.

They are triggered because the schedule says so.

In refrigeration systems, fixed defrost intervals have been the standard for decades. The problem is that frost buildup does not follow a schedule. It depends on operating conditions, humidity levels and system load. As a result, many evaporators are defrosted long before it is necessary, wasting energy and reducing overall system efficiency.

Our Defrost Sensor changes that approach.

By measuring ice buildup directly on the evaporator, the sensor initiates defrost only when performance is affected. No assumptions. No fixed intervals. Just measurement-based control.

Stop Defrosting on a Schedule

Every unnecessary defrost cycle consumes energy and temporarily reduces cooling capacity.

The Defrost Sensor continuously monitors ice accumulation between evaporator fins and ensures defrosting is initiated only when required. This helps maintain optimal heat transfer while reducing the number of unnecessary defrost cycles.

The result is lower energy consumption, improved system stability and more consistent cooling performance.

Direct Measurement Provides Better Control

Traditional defrost control relies on timers and assumptions.

Our Defrost Sensor uses a capacitive measuring principle to detect the actual ice thickness on the evaporator. This provides accurate information about the condition of the heat exchanger and enables demand-based defrosting.

The sensor is available with both 4-20 mA analog output and advanced digital communication, allowing direct integration into existing control strategies.

Digital versions also include temperature measurement for reliable detection of defrost completion, ensuring the process ends when the evaporator is ready—not when a timer expires.

Easy Installation in New and Existing Systems

Improving defrost control should not require major system modifications.

The Defrost Sensor can be installed on both new and existing evaporators without shutting down the refrigeration system. The solution consists of a control box, a coated steel wire and, depending on the version, an integrated temperature sensor.

This makes upgrading existing installations both practical and cost-effective.

Control the Way You Prefer

Different applications require different control strategies.

For systems controlled through a PLC, the Simple Analog version provides easy access to parameters and integration into existing automation platforms.

For applications where local configuration is preferred, the Smart Analog version allows parameters to be adjusted directly through a PC connection to the sensor.

Both approaches provide flexibility without adding unnecessary complexity.

Designed for Real-World Refrigeration Systems

No two refrigeration systems are identical.

That is why the Defrost Sensor is available in multiple versions with wire lengths from 10 to 30 metres, allowing the solution to be adapted to different evaporator sizes and system designs.

Configuration is performed using the HB Tool, making it easy to tailor the sensor to the specific operating conditions of the installation.

Better Defrosting Is Not About Defrosting More Often

It is about defrosting at the right time.

By measuring frost buildup directly, refrigeration systems can reduce unnecessary defrost cycles, lower energy consumption and maintain cooling capacity more consistently.

The technology is simple.

The impact on system performance is not.