Hill Phoenix Display Refrigerator Error Code P2: Evaporator Probe
P2, Evaporator probe failure, on a Hill Phoenix CNZLA or CNEZLA merchandiser with the Dixell XR06CX controller means the controller cannot read its evaporator probe, so defrost ends on a timer. The manual says to check connections before replacing the probe.
Low: the case keeps thermostat control while defrost runs on a timer, though ice can build over time.
- Code
- P2
- Maker
- Hillphoenix
- Equipment
- Display cases
- Applies to
- CNZLA / CNEZLA single-deck merchandisers with Dixell XR06CX controller
What does Hillphoenix error code P2 mean?
The Dixell XR06CX has a second probe on the evaporator coil. Its job is to tell the controller when a defrost has warmed the coil enough to stop. If the controller cannot read that probe, it cannot tell when the coil is clear, so it shows P2 and ends each defrost on a timer instead. The manual, in section 12 and 12.1 of the Dixell instructions, says defrost end is timed while the alarm is active and that the alarm stops a few seconds after the probe works again. Unlike a room probe problem, this one does not take away the case thermostat, so the case can keep cooling normally. The effect is on defrost: it may end too early, leaving ice, or run longer than needed. The manual says to check the connections before replacing the probe.
Affected models and control systems
CNZLA and CNEZLA single-deck merchandisers (R-290) with the Dixell XR06CX controller. The alarm is described in Appendix B of the installation and operations manual, sections 12 and 12.1 of the Dixell instructions.
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
- P2 shows on the controller display
- Ice builds on the evaporator because defrosts are cut short
- The case may warm between defrosts if the coil is iced
Possible causes
Listed in Hillphoenix's documentation
- Evaporator probe failure
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code P2 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Evaporator probe lead loose or pulled from its clip on the coil
- Probe cable cut by ice or abraded near the fan
- Moisture inside the probe connector
- Probe open or shorted after years of cold and defrost cycles
Safe checks before calling for service
- Check the case temperature to see whether the case is still holding.
- Look at the evaporator area where you can see it for heavy ice, without removing panels.
- Do not chip ice. Let the next defrost run and see whether P2 stays.
- Note whether the alarm comes back and tell the technician what ice you saw.
How a technician diagnoses error code P2
- Read the display and confirm P2 is the alarm.
- Check the evaporator probe's location, connector and cable.
- Measure the probe's resistance against its table at a known temperature.
- Check defrost duration settings, since defrost is timed while P2 is on.
- Replace the probe if the checks fail, then clear the alarm and watch a defrost end properly.
- The evaporator probe sits in the coil beside heaters and fan wiring.
- Defrost timing settings are part of the controller's parameters and should be handled by a technician.
How error code P2 differs from similar codes
P2 is the evaporator probe and P1 is the room probe on the same controller. P1 takes away thermostat control, while P2 affects defrost end.
Technical reference
- Document
- CNZLA/CNEZLA (R-290) Single-Deck Merchandiser Installation & Operations Manual, Appendix B Dixell XR06CX operating instructions
- Edition
- P117904D, Rev 1.04, 01/25
- Models / control
- CNZLA / CNEZLA single-deck merchandisers with Dixell XR06CX controller
- Section
- Appendix B2-B3 Dixell Operating Instructions, section 12 Alarm Signalling and 12.1 Alarm Recovery (PDF pp. 42-43); section 8 Digital Inputs
- 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 Hillphoenix display case error codes
Will the case still cool with P2?
Yes, the room probe is separate. The manual says defrost end is timed.
Why does ice build up?
With timed defrost the coil may not be fully cleared each cycle.
Do I replace the probe first?
The manual says to check the connections before replacing the probe.
Need help with Hillphoenix error code P2?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.