Refrigerators or freezers occasionally break down because of common issues such as coolant leaks, faulty wiring, or old age. If your refrigeration equipment is on the fritz, you need to know how to mitigate the problem and keep food from spoiling. Professional ice suppliers recommend the following steps.

4 Steps to Handle Refrigerator & Freezer Breakdowns

1. Keep Them Closed

When refrigeration equipment breaks down, keep the doors shut. Each time they open, cold air seeps out and causes interior temperatures to rise, creating an opportunity for bacteria to grow. Make sure the temperature does not exceed 40 degrees F in the fridge and 0 degrees in the freezer.

2. Use Coolers

If you’re waiting a while for repairs, you may want to transfer items in your fridge and freezer into ice chests and cooling bags. Use separate coolers for refrigerated and frozen items, and include plenty of ice to keep temperatures as low as possible. 

3. Cook Perishable Items

Cook any produce, meats, dairy products, and eggs you might have in your refrigerator. Use the opportunity to treat your family to a delicious homemade lunch or dinner. If you have leftovers, give them to neighbors or deliver them to local shelters. 

4. Contact an Ice Supplier

Get in touch with a local ice supplier to order extra packages of ice to keep in your refrigerator, freezer, and coolers. You’ll need plenty to keep your food at safe temperatures, especially if you have to wait until the next day or over the weekend for repairs. 

The next time you need packaged ice for your home or business after a fridge or freezer breakdown, the Hawaiian Ice Company will provide you with prompt delivery services. This locally owned and operated ice supplier has offered ice sales, cooling storage rentals, and snow scenes to Honolulu for over 20 years. Call (808) 538-6918 to schedule ice delivery or rent coolers, trucks, and trailers. Visit these ice suppliers online to learn more about their products and services.