If you own a restaurant, your walk in cooler is absolutely necessary for your daily operations. However, just like any kitchen appliances, these large devices can sometimes break down and malfunction. Learn more about some of the most common issues coolers face to help you troubleshoot your problem.

Why Isn’t Your Walk In Cooler Working?

1. Fluctuating Temperatures

A walk in cooler that won't maintain the correct temperature may cause your food to spoil, resulting in expensive deliveries or maybe even temporary closure of your restaurant. The first step is to make sure that the superheat, subcooling, and operating pressures are normal. Then check to see if the door gaskets are allowing cold air to escape, or if the temperature control is allowing the compressor to turn off early. Finally, check the coils, grills, and panels. If they're all functioning as they should, it's time to call for repairs.

2. Freezing

If your cooler freezes up, it could start to overwork, resulting in high energy bills and premature breakdowns. Melt the ice off the evaporator and check the evaporation fan, and then make sure the coil is clean and the drain line is clear. Additionally, check the gauges for normal temperatures, pressures, and subcooling. The problem could also be a restricted liquid line, drier, or metering device, so you may want to get an expert's opinion.

3. Compressor Won’t Run

If your unit is on, but the compressor won't run, the problem could have several causes. Some include a tripped compressor relay, a hi-lo pressure safety switch shut down, or a defective contactor or coil. Other possibilities include a tripped internal thermal overload, a compressor malfunction, or a cold room temperature that's lower than the operation set point. Since there are so many possible causes, call in a professional to have them diagnose the issue.

4. Failure to Maintain Pressure

If the suction pressure is high, your walk in cooler might have an excessive load or an expansion valve that's overfeeding. Troubleshoot the problem by reducing the load and regulating the superheat. If the pressure is low, there may be a plugged suction filter, a lack of refrigerant, a dirty or iced evaporator, a non-operational fan, or an underfeeding expansion valve. Have an expert technician determine the cause of the problem, since each possible issue requires a separate solution.

Have your broken walk in cooler repaired by the professionals at Refrigeration & Food Equipment Inc. in Anchorage, AK. These commercial kitchen and restaurant suppliers have been serving the community since 1964. The locally owned and operated company also handles every repair in an effective and timely manner. Schedule an appointment by calling (907) 248-2525, or visit their website for more information on how they can help your business.