Commercial Fridges
Common Commercial Refrigerator Issues: Causes and Solutions
If you own or manage a restaurant, grocery store, or any business in the Greater Seattle area that relies on commercial refrigeration, you know how vital it is to keep your equipment running smoothly. A malfunctioning refrigerator can disrupt your operations thereby losing customers, spoil valuable inventory, and result in costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Whether you use a True refrigerator, Hoshizaki unit, or a Kutano refrigerator system, understanding common issues can save you time and money.
At Orca Mechanical, we specialize in commercial refrigerator service and repairs tailored to the unique needs of businesses in the Greater Seattle area. Let’s dive into some common commercial fridge issues and how you can address them.
1. Inconsistent Temperatures
One of the most frequent issues with reach-in refrigerators is not holding temperature. This can lead to spoiled food and unhappy customers. Causes often include:
Faulty thermostats or temperature controls
Dirty or clogged condenser coils
Worn-out door gaskets allowing cold air to escape
Solution: Regular maintenance and cleaning of condenser coils, and replacing worn gaskets can prevent this issue. If the problem persists, professional commercial refrigerator repair may be necessary.
2. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your commercial fridge, enabling it to maintain cold temperatures. A leak can result in reduced cooling efficiency or complete failure. Signs of a leak include:
Ice build-up on evaporator coils
A unit that’s constantly running but not cooling effectively
Unusually high energy bills
Solution: Call a professional technician immediately. Our team is experienced in detecting and fixing leaks in all major brands, including (but not limited to) Hoshizaki, True and Kutano refrigerator repairs.
3. Noisy Operation
Loud or unusual noises from your refrigerator can indicate problems with fans, motors, or compressors. Common culprits include:
Worn-out evaporator or condenser fan motors
Loose or broken parts inside the compressor
Debris blocking the fan blades
Solution: If these fixes are beyond your capabilities, you should schedule a professional to diagnose the issue and replace any faulty components. Ignoring the problem can lead to more expensive repairs down the line.
4. Ice Build-Up in Unwanted Areas
While small amounts of ice can be normal in certain circumstances, excessive build-up on walls, doors, or evaporator coils can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs. Potential causes include:
Poor door seals
Blocked drain lines
Problems with the defrost cycle
Frequent opening of door or keeping door open too long
Loading the unit with hot food before letting it cool
Solution: Clean the drain lines and check door gaskets regularly. Sometimes hinges may be worn as well. If the issue persists, professional service for commercial refrigerator repair is recommended.
5. Electrical Problems
If your commercial fridge won’t turn on or keeps tripping breakers, it could signal issues with the power supply, wiring, or internal circuits. These issues are serious and dangerous. The current in a commercial unit could cause serious bodily injury.
Frayed wires or faulty connections
Overloaded circuits
Defective control boards
Solution: This is not a DIY repair! Electrical repairs are hazardous and require a professional. Our technicians have years of experience and specialize in diagnosing and fixing electrical issues, ensuring your safety and functionality of your refrigeration system.
Why Choose Orca Mechanical for Commercial Refrigerator Service?
At Orca Mechanical, we understand the fast-paced demands of the restaurant and retail industries in Seattle, Tacoma, Everett, Bellingham, and everywhere in between.. We offer prompt, reliable service for all major brands. Whether you need emergency repairs or routine maintenance, our team has you covered.
Preventative Maintenance Saves Money
The best way to avoid expensive repairs is with regular maintenance. Our preventative maintenance services include:
Cleaning and inspecting condenser and evaporator coils
Checking refrigerant levels
Testing temperature controls and defrost systems
Replacing worn-out components before they fail
Serving Seattle’s Businesses with Excellence
From Ballard to Bellevue, Orca Mechanical is proud to provide top-notch commercial refrigerator repair and maintenance services. Whether you’re dealing with a broken reach-in unit or a malfunctioning Hoshizaki fridge, our team is here to help.
Don’t let refrigeration problems disrupt your business. Contact us today for expert restaurant refrigerator repair services in Seattle!
Get a Free Quote Today!
Ready to schedule your service? Call Orca Mechanical to learn more about our comprehensive commercial refrigerator service options.