When your commercial refrigerator starts acting up, it’s not just an inconvenience—it can be a costly headache. Spoiled products, unhappy customers, and downtime can all hurt your bottom line. The good news is that many common refrigeration problems have straightforward fixes, and knowing how to handle them can save you time and money.

In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most frequent issues with commercial refrigeration systems and show you how to tackle them like a pro.

1. Temperature Swings

  • Your unit can’t seem to stay at a consistent temperature.
  • The refrigerator cycles on and off more than usual.

How to Fix It:

  • Check the Thermostat: It might sound basic, but sometimes the thermostat needs a quick reset. Make sure it’s dialed in to the right temp and working properly.
  • Inspect the Door Seals: If cold air is slipping out because of worn or torn door seals, your system will work overtime to keep things cool. Give them a once-over and replace them if needed.
  • Airflow Matters: Don’t stack stuff right against the walls or vents inside the unit. Proper airflow keeps things running smoothly.

2. Frost Buildup

  • Ice or frost starting to form on the walls or coils.
  • Airflow seems restricted, and the cooling power is reduced.

How to Fix It:

  • Defrost, Defrost, Defrost: If the frost takes over, it’s time for a manual defrost to clear things up. Make sure you’re doing this regularly if you notice frequent buildup.
  • Seal Check Again: Door seals can let warm air in, which leads to frost. Check them, as these seals are the root of many issues.
  • Defrost Timer Issues: If your unit isn’t defrosting automatically, the defrost timer could be malfunctioning. You’ll need to check or replace it to keep things frost-free.

3. Bad Smells

  • Your unit smells like something crawled in there and died (or at least like something’s not right).
  • Even after cleaning out old food, the smell lingers.

How to Fix It:

  • Clean the Interior: Scrub everything down—shelves, walls, everything. Spills, leaks, and spoiled food can all contribute to bad odors.
  • Check the Drain Pan: Sometimes, the drain pan at the bottom gets clogged, leading to gross standing water. Clear it out and clean it regularly.
  • Odor Control: To keep smells at bay, place baking soda or activated charcoal inside. These help absorb any lingering odors.

4. Weird Noises

  • Grinding, clicking, or hissing sounds that weren’t there before.
  • Your refrigerator seems louder than usual.

How to Fix It:

  • Fan and Motor Check: The fan or motor could be loose or damaged. Ensure nothing is rattling around, and tighten or replace parts if needed.
  • Obstructions: Look for any debris or ice near the fan. Anything blocking it can cause strange noises, so clear the area.
  • Compressor Trouble: If the noise comes from the compressor, it could be on its way out. This is one area where it’s probably best to call in a pro if it’s more than just a loose part.

5. Water Leaks

  • Puddles of water around your unit.
  • Condensation or wet spots inside the fridge.

How to Fix It:

  • Check the Drain Line: Blocked or frozen drain lines can cause water to pool. Unblock or thaw them out, and you should be good.
  • Door Seals: If the door isn’t sealing properly, it can cause excess condensation. Inspect them again and replace them as needed.
  • Double-Check the Temperature: Running your unit too cold can lead to excess condensation. Dial in the manufacturer’s recommended settings and keep things in check.

6. Power Problems

  • The unit won’t turn on at all, or it keeps shutting down.

How to Fix It:

  • Check the Power Supply: Start by making sure the unit is plugged in and that the outlet is working. Then, test the outlet with something else to confirm it’s not the issue.
  • Circuit Breakers: If the circuit breaker trips, reset it. But if this keeps happening, there might be a more significant electrical issue to handle.
  • Wiring Issues: If you suspect bad wiring, it’s time to bring in a pro. Electrical problems can be dangerous, so don’t try to DIY this one.

When to Call a Professional Charleston HVAC Company

While it’s great to tackle these common issues yourself, there are times when it’s best to bring in an expert. A professional technician can save you from making things worse if you’re dealing with electrical problems, a compressor issue, or persistent temperature problems.

At Prestige Heating and Air, we’ve seen it all in terms of commercial refrigerators and freezers. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more complex issue, we have the tools and experience to get your unit back up and running. Don’t let refrigeration problems slow you down—contact us today, and let’s keep your business operating effectively!