Not cool! Your Malfunctioning Commercial Refrigeration System

Is it time to replace or simply repair?

If you’re in the business of serving or selling perishable food items, your commercial refrigeration system can literally make or break your success. Although replacement or repairs can be costly, if you start to notice your refrigerator compressor is running non-stop, your unit is running hotter than normal, or your inventory isn’t remaining fresh as long as it should, you need to act fast.

Replace or repair?

A properly functioning commercial refrigeration system is critical to your operation, so when it’s malfunctioning, it’s important to determine the most efficient and cost-effective course of action.

Sometimes, a symptom can signal a big issue, such as a compressor motor that runs non-stop. If the problem is a defective or malfunctioning compressor, you’re going to have to replace either the compressor itself or the entire refrigeration unit. However, if the problem is simply a faulty thermostat that displays an incorrect unit temperature, the solution is much simpler and affordable . . . replace the thermostat.

Other times, something like your refrigeration unit running hotter than normal may signal a big problem and an expensive repair. But in fact, the solution could be as simple as cleaning the dust off of the condenser coils on the back or bottom of your commercial refrigeration unit.

The best way to ensure your commercial refrigeration unit continues to operate at peak efficiency is to follow a consistent schedule of preventative maintenance tasks:

• Have a refrigeration professional inspect your refrigeration unit regularly to provide maintenance and simple repairs.
• Check the holding temperature of your unit daily to ensure proper food safety.
• Clean the interior of your unit weekly with a soft cloth, warm water and mild soap.
• Clean dust, dirt, and lint from condenser coils once a month.
• Clean fan blades and motors monthly with a soft cloth to remove dust.
• Consistently confirm door gaskets are sealing properly.
• Replace interior lights as needed to ensure accurate visual inspection of refrigerator contents

For more information, or for commercial refrigeration inspection or maintenance, contact us today.