9 Things to Check Before Calling for Refrigeration Maintenance

No matter your industry, you need your refrigeration system and equipment to perform at its best consistently. With food and health safety on the line – not to mention the significant investment of a complete system – there’s no excuse for less than adequate performance from your refrigeration equipment.

The importance of routine professional refrigeration maintenance and HVAC servicing can't be stressed enough. Having your refrigeration system inspected thoroughly, cleaned, and serviced at least twice a year – if not more – is guaranteed to keep your system running at peak efficiency and performance while extending your equipment’s lifespan.

That being said, there are some ways you can help maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of your equipment between routine maintenance calls. Paying attention to your energy bills and watching for spikes or excess energy consumption is one way to see if something strange is happening in your system.

Your refrigeration experts at Solid Refrigeration have more tips on preventative care and what to look for between regular servicing!

1. Temperature Settings

Check your settings regularly. It’s easy to forget your control settings, especially with so many pre-programming temperature controls that make it seem like you just have to set it and be done.

But it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the frequency of your defrosting cycle and where your temperatures are set to ensure the longevity of your equipment and the viability of your products.

2. Cleanliness In & Around Equipment

Keep units and the area around them clean. Obviously, wipe and mop up food and beverage spills as soon as they happen to keep from gunking up equipment. But also make sure the equipment can vent properly.

Well-designed refrigeration systems are set up to allow for the right ventilation for all equipment. So, don’t overpack refrigerators with food or supplies to allow for cold air movement within, and don’t block exterior vents so that air can circulate in and out of the machines.

3. Air-Cooled Condenser Coils

Air-cooled condenser coils on freezers and coolers need to be checked every few weeks or more, depending on the refrigerator’s placement. The fan coils on the exterior of refrigeration units collect dust and dirt frequently and can cause the unit to overheat if that grime stays on them too long.

Carefully brush off all dirt and particles from the condenser coils without damaging the aluminum fins. Remove dirt and dust build-up regularly to keep your unit running smoothly between service calls.

4. Drain Lines

Monitor your drain lines. Another often overlooked area within your refrigeration system is your drainage. Watch for clogging and other issues. You may be able to do some cleaning out yourself as long as you’re aware of it.

The most effective drain cleaning should be done by a professional with specialized equipment. So, if you notice drainage problems, call a professional right away.

5. Door Gaskets

Check door gaskets for rips or tears where doors may not seal properly. Even small punctures in gaskets can allow warm air to seep into your refrigeration equipment and force it to work harder to keep the interior cool.

A few ways to tell your refrigerator door needs repair are:

• The door is not aligned with the frame any longer.
• It takes more effort to close it.
• There is damage to the unit.
• You're finding ice build-up and pooling water around the door.

Call on a refrigeration parts vendor to provide you with the tools to repair or replace gaskets as needed to ensure lasting efficiency.

6. Door Hinges & Automatic Door Closers

Likewise, check your door hinges and automatic door closers. Again, if something is broken or not allowing your door to close and stay closed properly, warm air creeps in and forces your cooling system to work harder and longer, wearing it out faster.

Repair or replace those pieces as soon as you find them.

7. Ice Machines

If you have ice machines, regularly look inside them for mold and slime. Any amount of mold in an ice machine is a health code violation, not to mention just plain nasty.

If you see any, it’s time to have it professionally cleaned out.

8. Change the Air Filters

The unit is continuously exposed to outside elements so that the filters will get built up with grease and dust. Compacted particulates can break down the parts and system faster, and without replacement, the air quality inside the refrigerator suffers. Worse yet, because the air can't flow through it easily, it will wreak havoc on your energy use and force the unit to work harder than it needs to.

Most of the build-up can generally be removed with a shop vac, but if you notice damage or splits in the filter, replace it as soon as possible.

9. Inspect the Evaporator Fan Motor

The fan motor keeps the air distributed and circulated inside the refrigerator for continuous cooling. Proper lubrication and cleaning can help prevent motor failure, so it is recommended to oil the bushings and bearings and add regular cleanings to your maintenance plan.

When to Call for Commercial Refrigeration Repairs

If your unit is not running properly, this will cost you time and money. If you're not sure when it's time to call a professional, a few of our expert signs include:

• Dirty air or bad smells are coming out of the unit.
• It's cycling on and off continuously.
• The unit won't start up at all.
• You're hearing strange sounds like grinding and clanking.
• Pooling water around the unit is a normal occurrence.

Superior Maintenance From Solid Refrigeration

Maintaining your refrigeration equipment and boosting its performance is what we do! Since 2005, our team has ensured quality commercial refrigeration design, installation, and maintenance throughout the Twin Cities.

Whether you’re constructing a new facility needing a complete refrigeration system designed and installed, or you’d like to find ways to save money on energy bills through our energy audit, we’re here to help keep Minnesota cool!

From emergency repairs to routine maintenance, we always offer professional servicing on your refrigeration systems; call us at 952-854-2850 or message us online.