If your establishment relies on walk-in coolers and freezers to preserve perishables, keeping these units in top shape is critical. Without refrigeration equipment, your goods will not last, and you risk serving unsafe ingredients to serve your patrons. Below are five warning signs that your cooler or freezer needs repair.

How to Tell You Need Refrigeration Repair

1. Problematic Motor

Refrigeration equipment uses motors to maintain temperatures. If you notice your motor is louder than usual or it is running hot, you need repairs. A professional can diagnose the issue and decide if fixing or replacing it is better.

2. Leaks & Puddles

If you notice wet floors and puddles around your walk-in units, seals may be damaged and letting out moisture. The cool air is also seeping out, which will increase your utility bills. Have seals replaced to stop any leaks and curb mold and mildew from growing.

3. Excess Frost

Be wary if you spot frost in an unexpected spot. This is a sign that your cooling system is not functioning correctly and is letting ice build up where it shouldn’t.

4. Bad Smells

Unpleasant odors usually point to a coolant leak. The fluid leaves behind a potent chemical smell, and if it is seeping out, you will smell it when you enter the walk-in cooler. Don’t let coolant linger, as it can be toxic.

5. Unstable Temperatures

It is vital that perishable foods be stored at the right temperature, usually around 38 degrees Fahrenheit in the refrigerator. For freezers, temperatures should be 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. If your unit is fluctuating, your items are at risk for spoilage. When your ingredients go bad, you put your customers at risk of getting sick. You also open your business up to the possibility of lawsuits. Timely maintenance and repairs will ensure that you continue to serve your customers quality goods and food.

When your refrigeration units need repair and maintenance, call Ruby Mountain HVAC & Refrigeration in Elko, NV. These HVAC contractors offer 24-hour services to keep your residential and commercial HVAC systems in top shape. Their teams work with top brands such as Lennox®, Carrier®, Trane®, and Rheem®. To make an appointment with an HVAC technician, call (775) 738-9375 or stop by their website for more on their offerings.