Continental Refrigerator Code Loc / UnL: Keypad Lock

What does Continental error code Loc / UnL mean?

The easy electronic control on a Continental reach-in, such as the 1RN, D2RN or 2RSN, has a keypad lock that protects the set point and settings from accidental changes during a busy shift. If no key is pressed for 30 seconds, the keys lock by themselves, and the display briefly shows Loc if someone touches them. To make a change, hold any key until the display changes from Loc to UnL. The keys then work, and a change should be made within 30 seconds, because the lock returns on its own after the idle time. The cabinet is cooling normally the whole time, so Loc is not a sign of a problem. The only time to look further is if a key does not respond after unlocking, or if the keypad locks and beeps on its own. Cleaning with a held button, settings that cannot change while locked, and a worn keypad are the likely reasons.

Affected models and control systems

This page covers Continental reach-in refrigerators with the easy electronic control, such as the 1RN, D2RN and 2RSN, as described in the control maker's manual (Evco).

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

• Loc appears on the display after the keys are touched
• Settings cannot be changed until the keys are unlocked
• Keypad may beep or lock again soon after unlocking

Possible causes

Listed in Continental's documentation

• The keypad locked automatically after the idle time
• A button held down during cleaning
• Settings that cannot change while the keys are locked
• A worn keypad that locks or beeps on its own

Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code Loc / UnL on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.

• A keypad membrane worn through at the most pressed key, so it sticks
• Cleaning spray that has dried under the key edges and keeps one pressed
• A change that took longer than 30 seconds, so the lock returned before it was saved

Safe checks before calling for service

How a technician diagnoses error code Loc / UnL

1. Confirm the lock behavior by unlocking and waiting out the idle time.
2. Test each key for response and for a stuck key.
3. Inspect the keypad membrane for wear and moisture.
4. Check the control's settings once the keys are free.
5. Replace the keypad or control only if a key fails to respond after cleaning.

Technical reference

Document

Continental easy electronic control manual (Evco)

Edition

REV. 07/22/2025

Models / control

Continental electronic control (Evco manual)

Section

Alarm Codes and Reset Types, printed p. 2; Loc/UnL appear only in How to Unlock the Keypad, p. 1

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.