Nor-Lake LogiTemp Walk-In Error Code HDA: High Discharge Temperature
HDA is the high discharge temperature alarm on Nor-Lake LogiTemp KE2 Evap OEM controllers with the high-discharge option. It means the compressor discharge line is running hotter than it should. Take the box temperature, make sure nothing blocks the condensing unit, move food if the box is warming and call us.
High: sustained high discharge heat can damage the compressor and warm the box.
- Code
- HDA
- Maker
- Nor-Lake
- Equipment
- Walk-in coolers & freezers
- Applies to
- LogiTemp / KE2 Evap OEM (Split-Pak systems, A1 refrigerants)
What does Nor-Lake error code HDA mean?
The discharge line carries hot gas away from the compressor, and its temperature rises when the compressor works too hard or cannot shed its heat. On KE2 Evap OEM controllers with the high-discharge option, a sensor on that line is watched, and when the reading goes above its limit, the controller shows HDA. Heat like that damages compressor oil and parts, so the controller raises the alarm and may protect the system. The causes include a dirty condenser coil or a weak condenser fan, hot ambient air around the condensing section, low refrigerant or an expansion valve that is not behaving, and a discharge sensor that reads wrongly. The walk-in may warm while the compressor struggles, and the compressor can fail early if the cause is left. In a hot summer, a condensing unit on a roof or in a closed alley is the first suspect, and an air path that is blocked by boxes or debris makes it worse.
Affected models and control systems
This applies to LogiTemp KE2 Evap OEM controllers with the high-discharge option, on Nor-Lake Split-Pak walk-in coolers and freezers.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- HDA on the display
- Condensing unit hot to the touch or the fan running constantly
- Box temperature creeping up
- Compressor cycling off on protection
Possible causes
Listed in Nor-Lake's documentation
- Dirty condenser coil or weak condenser fan
- Hot ambient air around the condensing section
- Low refrigerant charge or expansion valve problem
- Discharge temperature sensor reading wrongly
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code HDA on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Condenser fins packed with grease and lint from kitchen air
- Condensing unit boxed in by stored cartons or a closed enclosure
- Condenser fan motor slowing with age so airflow drops
Safe checks before calling for service
- Take the box temperature on a hand thermometer.
- Make sure nothing is stacked against or blocking the condensing unit.
- Move food if the box is warming.
- Do not open the condensing unit or touch hot lines. Call us and tell us when HDA started.
How a technician diagnoses error code HDA
- Read HDA and note the discharge temperature and the box temperature.
- Inspect the condenser coil and fan for dirt and airflow.
- Check the ambient conditions around the condensing section.
- Connect gauges to check the refrigerant charge and expansion valve behavior.
- Verify the discharge sensor against a reference before replacing parts.
- Discharge lines are very hot and can cause severe burns.
- The refrigerant circuit may only be opened by a certified technician.
- Reading pressures and temperatures together takes gauges and training.
How error code HDA differs from similar codes
HDA is about heat on the compressor discharge line. Sensor alarms such as ASA report a bad temperature reading instead.
Technical reference
- Document
- LogiTemp Electronic Controller System Operations Manual (171527 Rev. A), Alarms & Notifications List pp. 47-51
- Edition
- 171527 Rev. A, 2025 (Refrigerated Solutions Group)
- Models / control
- LogiTemp / KE2 Evap OEM (Split-Pak systems, A1 refrigerants)
- Section
- Alarms & Notifications List, printed pp. 48-52; Troubleshooting Tables from p. 52
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Nor-Lake walk-in cooler & freezer error codes
Can I keep running the walk-in with HDA?
Only briefly. The heat can harm the compressor, so call soon.
Will cleaning the condenser help?
A dirty coil is a common cause, but cleaning it safely needs the power off, and we should do the check.
Why does it happen in summer?
Hot air around the condensing unit leaves less room for heat to escape.
Need help with Nor-Lake error code HDA?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.