Randell Prep Table Error Code CON: High Condenser Temperature
CON means the condenser temperature has reached its high limit on a Randell 8000-290 or 9000W-290 prep table with the Danfoss controller. Switch the table off and make sure nothing is blocking the front grille. The coil needs cleaning, and because the compressor compartment holds a flammable refrigerant, we recommend calling us for that.
Medium: cooling capacity drops and the compressor works harder until the condenser is cleaned.
- Code
- CON
- Maker
- Randell
- Equipment
- Prep tables
- Applies to
- Danfoss controller (8000-290 / 9000W-290)
What does Randell error code CON mean?
On a Danfoss-controlled Randell prep table, a temperature sensor on the condenser lets the controller know how hot the coil is running. The condenser is where the table dumps the heat it removes from the food well. When the coil is coated with dirt or its airflow is restricted, the temperature climbs until it hits the high limit, and the controller shows CON. The owner's manual response is to clean the condenser coil and check for objects blocking airflow. A hot condenser lowers cooling capacity, makes the table work harder and can shorten compressor life if it is left for weeks. The manual's causes include dirt, grease and lint on the coil, boxes or objects against the air path, a condenser fan that is slow or stopped, and a condenser sensor that reads too high. That last one matters because a bad sensor can show CON on a clean coil, so a cleaned table that still shows the code points to the fan or the sensor.
Affected models and control systems
This applies to Randell 8000-290 and 9000W-290 series prep tables with the Danfoss controller, such as the 8148N-290 and 9148W-290. The Carel controller shows CHt for the same kind of condition.
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
- CON on the Danfoss display
- Pans that run warmer than set point
- A compressor that rarely shuts off
- Hot air at the front grille
Possible causes
Listed in Randell's documentation
- Dirt, grease and lint on the condenser coil
- Boxes or objects blocking airflow to the condenser
- Condenser fan slow or stopped
- Condenser temperature sensor reading too high
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code CON on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Table installed with too little clearance behind or beside the grille
- Fryer or grill heat drawn straight into the intake
- Fan blade coated with grease so it turns slowly
Safe checks before calling for service
- Switch the table off and make sure nothing is stored against the front grille.
- Look for objects blocking the air path.
- Probe a pan of product with a food thermometer and move warm items to another cooler.
- Do not open the compressor compartment. Call us for coil cleaning and tell us the model number from the data plate.
How a technician diagnoses error code CON
- Read the code and confirm the Danfoss controller.
- Inspect the coil, the grille and the room around the table for airflow limits.
- Clean the coil by a method suited to the refrigerant used.
- Check the condenser fan for speed and free rotation.
- Compare the condenser sensor reading with a reference thermometer.
- Restart and verify that the temperature drops and CON clears.
- The compartment holds a flammable refrigerant system and should be opened only by a trained technician.
- Fan and compressor wiring carries line voltage and must be isolated before anyone reaches in.
- Telling a hot coil from a sensor that reads too high takes a reference thermometer and a meter.
How error code CON differs from similar codes
CON is the Danfoss code for a hot condenser. The Carel version of this alarm is CHt.
Technical reference
- Document
- Randell 8000-290 & 9000W-290 Series Prep Tables Operator Manual, PP MNL1803 Rev. I (12/25), Carel / Danfoss controller codes
- Edition
- PART NUMBER PP MNL1803, REV. I (12/25)
- Models / control
- Danfoss controller (8000-290 / 9000W-290)
- Section
- Carel Controller Codes and Danfoss Controller Codes tables, Service/Troubleshooting, printed pp. 5-6
- 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 Randell prep table error codes
Is CON the same as CHt?
They describe the same condition on different controllers. CON appears on the Danfoss and CHt on the Carel.
Can I keep using the table?
It may keep cooling for a while, but food temperature should be checked often until the coil is cleaned.
Why does CON return after a cleaning?
A slow fan or a sensor reading too high can keep it going on a clean coil.
Need help with Randell error code CON?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.