When to call a refrigeration repair specialist in Newcastle
Commercial refrigeration systems are a crucial element of food business operations. Refrigerators must run continuously every day to keep the food and food ingredients fresh and safe to eat or drink. But at some point, commercial refrigerators may break down or require repair or replacement.
Preventive maintenance will ensure that commercial refrigerators function efficiently and properly at all times. Also, business owners should know how to identify and troubleshoot problems that may come up from time to time. Early identification and quick action will prevent the issues from escalating into serious problems.
Below is a list of the most common refrigeration problems and how to address them accordingly:
The refrigerator is not cooling properly.
When refrigerators do not cool properly, food will spoil easily. There could be a number of reasons behind the refrigerator’s temperature problem. These include dirty condenser coils, thermostat failure, and blocked air vents.
If the commercial fridge is too cold or fails to reach the desired temperature, here are some quick fixes that one can do:
- Check for dirty condenser coils. Clean the build-up of dirt, grease, spider webs, and dust.
- Make sure that the temperature control gauge is working properly. Reset the thermostat by unplugging the unit first. After turning it on, raise the temperature by a degree and check if the problem is fixed.
- Look at the contents of the fridge. Take a visual inspection to see if there are items that are blocking the air vents. Reposition or remove items that are blocking the air vents to allow air circulation.
- Examine the door of the commercial fridge. Sometimes, the gasket needs replacing.
- Finally, check the location of the fridge. Location matters when it comes to refrigerators. The place where they are installed should have a space for air circulation. There should at least be 1/2-inch clearance on the side and 1-inch clearance at the back for the air to circulate properly. If they are attached to the wall, there could be insufficient cooling. Worse, the units could overheat.
Compressor issues
The compressor regulates the temperature inside the fridge. It pumps the refrigerant (the cooling fluid) into the refrigerator.
Some signs that the fridge compressor is not working include the following:
- The refrigerator is not cooling.
- The compressor is making so much noise.
- The compressor is turning on and off.
- Overheating compressor
The best way to address compressor problems is to call professional services. But while professional technicians have not yet arrived, business owners can perform the following:
- Clean the condenser coils. Dirty condenser coils cause compressor problems. When coils are dirty, the compressor tends to work harder because the fridge usually takes a while to cool down. Check the condenser coils and clean them up immediately when you see a build-up of dirt.
- Determine the level of refrigerant. Sometimes, the problem with the compressor happens because there is too little or too much refrigerant. If a refrigerant issue is suspected, call a qualified technician to have it checked.
- Listen for loud noise. A loud humming, knocking, or clunking sound only means that the compressor has gone bad. This means the compressor should already be replaced.
Ice or frost build-up
When ice builds up inside the shelves or walls of commercial refrigerators, it means that the inside temperature is too low. If it happens in the freezer, there could be a number of causes to blame.
Here’s what can be done to address the issue:
- Check the refrigerator manual to know the suggested temperature level of the particular model of the fridge. Typically, it should not fall below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Set the temperature one degree higher and wait to see if the issue is resolved.
- Examine the gasket or the tight seal around the commercial refrigerator. A damaged gasket causes the outside air to get pulled inside the fridge and causes frost to form inside. Replace worn-out gaskets if this is the problem.
- Keep the refrigerator closed at all times when not in use. One of the most common reasons for ice build-up is due to the fridge door being left open. Avoid frequent opening and closing of the fridge doors unless necessary.
Power problems
The fridge not powering up is another common commercial refrigeration problem. So, first, check to make sure that the power switch is turned on. Next, look at the power cord to ensure that it is properly plugged in. Lastly, check the wirings to see if they are still intact. If everything is in place but the fridge still does not power up, call a service technician to determine the cause of the power problem.
Evaporator fan issues
Check the evaporator fan when there is still ice build-up inside the fridge and the solutions mentioned above did not solve the problem. Turn off the fridge to melt the ice, then clean the evaporator coils. Include the drain lines in the cleaning process. Cleaning the evaporator fan will also help remove the build-up of dust that causes obstruction to the evaporator. If the problem persists after cleaning, check if the defect is on the motor or on the evaporator’s power supply.
Contact professionals from Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration for commercial refrigerator problems.
When the commercial refrigeration system breaks down, businesses relying on them could lose profits if the issues are not immediately fixed. Have your commercial fridge systems checked by professionals from Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.
While it is okay to troubleshoot commercial fridge problems on your own, it is best to have your refrigerators checked by experts.
When it comes to the business of refrigeration, we are the most reputable name in NSW Central Coast. We have been helping businesses in these areas for the past 80 years through our qualified and experienced professionals. Aside from conducting preventative maintenance of commercial refrigerators, we can help you troubleshoot the most common problems with fridges when you call for help at any time of the day or night. We offer 24/7 service if you call us up on 02 4957 2201. Alternatively, fill out the contact form, and a representative will call to discuss your needs.
