Causes of Common Commercial Refrigerator Problems

A refrigerator is a fundamental device in any restaurant. To keep your restaurant's food from spoiling, you must address a non-cooling refrigerator promptly. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential causes for refrigerator issues.

Temperature Control Is Improperly Set

A common issue with refrigerators arises from improper temperature control settings. When the temperature control is not set correctly, it can lead to undesirable outcomes. 

For instance, if the temperature is set too high, the refrigerator fails to cool the food adequately, resulting in potential spoilage and food waste. Conversely, setting the temperature too low can cause the refrigerator to freeze items that should remain unfrozen. 

This can affect the quality and texture of certain food items, rendering them inedible or unappetizing. Ensuring that the temperature control is adjusted appropriately is vital to maintaining the freshness and longevity of perishable goods stored in the refrigerator. 

Blocked Vents

When vents become obstructed, they hinder the crucial airflow necessary for optimal cooling. These blockages typically occur due to various reasons, such as the accumulation of food particles or ice formation. As a result, the refrigerator's ability to maintain the desired temperature throughout its compartments is compromised.

One of the main culprits behind blocked vents is the buildup of food debris. Over time, small food particles can find their way into the vent openings, leading to clogs. Additionally, excessive moisture within the refrigerator can cause these particles to stick together, exacerbating the problem.

Another cause of blocked vents is the formation of ice. When the temperature inside the fridge drops too low, condensation can occur, causing ice to develop around the vents. This ice formation restricts the flow of air and prevents it from reaching all areas, resulting in uneven cooling and potential food spoilage.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to prevent blocked vents.

Dirty Condenser Coils

When the coils become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, they hinder the refrigerator's cooling efficiency. As a result, the fridge struggles to maintain the desired temperature, leading to inadequate cooling performance. This issue can manifest in various ways, such as insufficiently chilled food or beverages, inconsistent temperatures, and excessive energy consumption.

By cleaning the coils regularly, you can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your refrigerators.

Not Level Installation

Various issues can arise if your refrigerator has an uneasy installation. One such issue is the uneven distribution of cooling throughout the appliance. If a fridge is not level, the refrigerant flow may be hindered, making certain areas of the refrigerator colder than others. This uneven cooling can affect the freshness and quality of stored food items. 

Additionally, an improperly leveled refrigerator may cause the doors not to close properly, leading to air leakage and temperature fluctuations. Such fluctuations can impact the overall efficiency of the refrigerator and potentially increase energy consumption. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the appliance, you should ensure your refrigerator is installed on a level surface, maintaining proper balance and stability.

Dirty or Faulty Gaskets

Gaskets, which are the rubber seals around the refrigerator door, play a crucial role in maintaining a tight and airtight seal when the door is closed. When these gaskets become dirty or develop faults, they can lead to several problems.

Dirt accumulation on the gaskets can occur due to regular usage and exposure to external elements. This dirt not only affects the appearance of the gaskets but can also compromise their functionality. Faulty gaskets, on the other hand, may develop cracks, tears, or lose their elasticity over time, resulting in gaps or leaks in the seal.

Dirty or faulty gaskets lead to energy wastage as cold air escapes from the refrigerator, causing it to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. 

Hawkins Commercial Appliance has been selling appliances for over a century. We supply, install, and repair most kitchen appliances. Contact us now for more information.