When your commercial refrigerator stops cooling, every minute counts. A malfunctioning fridge can spoil expensive ingredients, disrupt service, and put your business at risk of food safety violations. Before calling for emergency repair, there are several important steps restaurant owners should take to diagnose the issue.
This guide explains the most common causes of cooling failure, what you can check yourself, and when it’s time to call a professional technician.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
Sometimes the problem is as simple as the thermostat being set incorrectly. Ensure:
- The thermostat is at the correct temperature
- It hasn’t been bumped by staff
- It’s displaying accurate readings
If the fridge feels warmer than the reading, the thermostat may be faulty.
2. Inspect Door Gaskets for Damage
A damaged gasket allows cold air to escape and warm air to enter. Look for:
- Cracks
- Tears
- Gaps
- Loose sealing
If the door doesn’t seal tightly, cooling efficiency drops immediately.
3. Check for Blocked Airflow
Commercial refrigerators rely on proper airflow. Make sure:
- The interior isn’t over-packed
- Items aren’t blocking vents
- Boxes or trays aren’t pressed against fans
Blocked airflow is one of the leading causes of uneven cooling.
4. Inspect the Condenser Coils
Dirty or clogged coils prevent heat release, forcing the fridge to overwork. Check for:
- Dust
- Grease
- Debris buildup
Cleaning the coils often restores normal cooling.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises
Grinding, buzzing, or clicking noises can signal:
- Failing compressor
- Damaged fan motor
- Refrigerant issues
If the fridge is unusually loud, turn it off and call a technician.
6. Check for Ice Buildup
Ice forming on:
- Evaporator coils
- Freezer walls
- Ventilation areas
is a sign of defrost system failure or poor airflow.
7. Inspect the Power Source
Before assuming a major issue:
- Check circuit breakers
- Ensure the unit is plugged in properly
- Verify the outlet is working
Electrical issues can mimic cooling failures.
8. Look for Refrigerant Leaks
Low refrigerant levels prevent proper cooling. Warning signs include:
- Oily residue near lines
- Hissing sounds
- Gradual temperature rise
Refrigerant repairs must only be handled by licensed technicians.
When You Should Call a Professional
If the refrigerator still isn’t cooling after basic troubleshooting, contact a certified technician for issues such as:
- Compressor failure
- Refrigerant leaks
- Faulty fans or motors
- Electrical malfunctions
- Sensor failures
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Common reasons include dirty condenser coils, blocked airflow, faulty thermostats, refrigerant leaks, or compressor failure.
Start by checking thermostat settings, inspecting door gaskets, ensuring proper airflow, and confirming that the unit has power.
You can troubleshoot basics like cleaning coils or checking airflow, but refrigerant, electrical, and compressor repairs require a licensed technician.
Most commercial refrigerators take 4–6 hours to reach proper food-safe temperatures after being powered on.
A commercial refrigerator should maintain 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 40°F) to keep food safe.
No. Inconsistent cooling can cause food spoilage and health risks, so the issue should be checked immediately.
Sudden temperature drops may be caused by refrigerant leaks, door gasket failure, blocked airflow, or malfunctioning fans.
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue, or if you notice noises, ice buildup, electrical problems, or leaking refrigerant, professional service is required.
Conclusion
A commercial refrigerator failing to cool can cause major operational and financial problems. By understanding common causes and knowing what steps to take, you can prevent inventory loss and avoid unnecessary downtime. When in doubt, call Barton Service—the Lower Mainland’s trusted experts in commercial refrigeration repair.