A Look at Common Restaurant Refrigerator Issues

For a restaurant, a refrigerator issue can be a costly disaster. Thousands of dollars worth of food could be lost, and there is the potential of having to close down and miss out on customers while repairs are being made. Having a maintenance agreement with a commercial refrigeration company is a must for restaurants in order to reduce the risk of a major failure. Here is a look at some of the common issues that arise with restaurant refrigeration and what you can do about them.

Power Issues

Sometimes, refrigerators fail completely because of a power issue. If this happens in your restaurant, the first thing to check is the power switch. Sometimes, an inadvertent bump in the middle of a busy service can flip the switch. Switching it back on could be the only fix you need. Next, check the power cord, which can also easily become unplugged. If the problem persists, then call your refrigerator repair company. Sometimes, a problem with the unit itself could be causing the failure.

Compressor Failures

The compressor is a key component in your refrigerator. It keeps temperatures cool so that your food stays cool. Compressors need to be cleaned periodically to ensure that they don’t become clogged, which can happen quickly in restaurant settings. Check the owner’s manual for your units to see what cleaning schedule they recommend. Typically, compressors should be cleaned every 90 days. If the compressor is clean but the air is still warm, call your repair company.

Evaporator Fan Breakdowns

If you notice ice or freezing food in your refrigerator, your evaporator fan could be to blame. Check the fan to make sure it is clean and that the drain lines are clear. If that doesn’t solve the issue, you may need professional repairs.

At B & J Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration, our commercial refrigeration technicians in Tucson can help your important restaurant coolers stay in top condition. Call us today at (520) 355-4857 for more information.