When Commercial Fridge Needs Repair
A commercial fridge is one of the most critical pieces of equipment in your business, whether you run a restaurant, grocery store, or any other operation that requires refrigeration. When a fridge breaks down or begins to malfunction, it can lead to spoiled inventory, lost sales, and even damage to your reputation. At Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary, we specialize in identifying and fixing issues before they become costly problems. In this article, we’ll walk you through some common signs your commercial fridge needs repair, so you can take action early and avoid unnecessary disruptions to your business.
1. Temperature Fluctuations
Why It’s a Problem:
One of the most critical signs that your commercial fridge needs repair is inconsistent temperature control. If your fridge is having trouble maintaining the proper temperature, it can cause food and beverages to spoil, resulting in inventory loss and health risks.
What to Look For:
- Warm spots inside the fridge, particularly in areas far from the cooling vents
- Overly cold areas where ice is forming or products are freezing
- The temperature gauge fluctuating or being inaccurate
If your fridge is not maintaining a consistent temperature (typically between 35°F and 38°F for most commercial fridges), this is a clear sign it requires immediate attention. Ignoring this can lead to health code violations, food waste, and even the need to replace damaged equipment sooner than expected.
What You Can Do:
- Check that the fridge is not overloaded, which can block airflow and prevent cooling.
- Ensure the door seals are intact, as air leakage can also cause temperature fluctuations.
- Call a professional technician from Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary for a thorough inspection and diagnosis.
2. Strange Noises
Why It’s a Problem:
Commercial fridges are designed to run quietly, but if your fridge starts making strange or loud noises, it’s usually an indication that something is wrong inside the system.
What to Look For:
- Banging, clanking, or popping sounds coming from the compressor or motor
- Hissing or sizzling sounds, which could indicate a refrigerant leak
- Rattling or buzzing sounds caused by loose or damaged components
These sounds can point to an issue with the condenser fan, compressor, or evaporator. The problem could be something simple like a fan obstruction, or it could be more serious, like a compressor failure or refrigerant leak.
What You Can Do:
- Inspect the fan and motor for any visible signs of damage or obstruction.
- Turn off the fridge to prevent further damage and call Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary immediately to get the issue fixed.
3. Water Pooling or Leaking
Why It’s a Problem:
Water pooling or leaking around your fridge is a clear sign that something is wrong. If left unaddressed, it can cause damage to the flooring, disrupt the fridge’s operation, and even lead to mold growth.
What to Look For:
- Puddles of water forming around the base of the fridge
- Water pooling inside the fridge, especially near the bottom or under trays
- Condensation appearing on the outside of the fridge doors or walls
This could be caused by several factors, such as a blocked or broken defrost drain, issues with the door seal, or problems with the refrigerant levels.
What You Can Do:
- Check the defrost drain for any blockages and clear them if necessary.
- Examine the door seals for tears or gaps, which can lead to moisture buildup.
- Contact Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary to get the water leak properly diagnosed and fixed.
4. Excessive Ice Buildup
Why It’s a Problem:
Excessive ice buildup in your fridge can be both a sign of a malfunctioning component and a cause of other issues. Over time, ice can block airflow, reducing the fridge’s efficiency and causing temperature fluctuations.
What to Look For:
- Large amounts of ice forming inside the fridge or freezer compartment
- Ice buildup around the evaporator coils
- Water dripping from the fridge when the ice melts
Ice buildup often occurs when the defrost cycle is malfunctioning or the door seal is damaged, allowing warm air to enter.
What You Can Do:
- Ensure the door is closing properly and that the seal is intact.
- Defrost the fridge manually if necessary.
- If the problem persists, it’s time to call Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary for a professional evaluation.
5. Fridge Stops Cooling
Why It’s a Problem:
A complete failure to cool is perhaps the most obvious sign that your fridge needs immediate repair. Without proper cooling, your entire business can be at risk. Inventory can spoil in a matter of hours, especially in warm environments.
What to Look For:
- The fridge no longer cools after being turned on
- The compressor isn’t running or is making unusual sounds
- The internal temperature rises significantly despite the fridge being turned on
A total loss of cooling could be due to a malfunctioning compressor, issues with the refrigerant, or problems with the thermostat. This is an emergency situation that requires quick action.
What You Can Do:
- Check if the fridge is plugged in and if the circuit breaker is tripped.
- Ensure the thermostat is set correctly.
- Immediately contact Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary for urgent repair services.
6. Frost on Food or Interior Walls
Why It’s a Problem:
Frost accumulating on your food or the interior walls of the fridge is a common issue that points to airflow problems or faulty defrost cycles. This can result in inefficient cooling and excess energy usage, which will eventually lead to higher utility bills.
What to Look For:
- Ice forming on food, especially in the fridge compartment (not just the freezer)
- Frost buildup on the walls or shelves of the fridge
- Water pooling inside the fridge after ice melts
The issue could be related to a malfunctioning defrost heater, a blocked vent, or poor door seals.
What You Can Do:
- Check for any obstructions in the vents that could block airflow.
- Clear any frost buildup manually if possible.
- For persistent issues, reach out to Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary for a full inspection.
7. Unpleasant Odors
Why It’s a Problem:
Unpleasant smells are a sign that something is wrong with your fridge. It could be related to mold, food spoilage, or even mechanical issues like a refrigerant leak.
What to Look For:
- Musty or sour smells inside the fridge
- Burning odors coming from the compressor or other electrical components
- Rotten food smells even when food is fresh
If you notice any of these smells, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and health risks.
What You Can Do:
- Clean the interior of the fridge thoroughly and dispose of any spoiled food.
- Check the condenser coils for dust buildup, which could cause overheating.
- Call Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary to inspect for mechanical issues.
FAQs – Common Signs Your Commercial Fridge Needs Repair
1. How do I know if my commercial fridge is overworking?
If your fridge is running constantly, making unusual noises, or struggling to maintain temperature, it could be overworking. It’s essential to check for airflow issues, door seal integrity, or blocked vents.
2. Can a dirty condenser coil cause cooling problems?
Yes! A dirty condenser coil can lead to overheating, poor cooling performance, and energy inefficiency. Regular cleaning can prevent these issues and keep your fridge working efficiently.
3. How often should I schedule fridge maintenance?
We recommend having your commercial fridge inspected at least once a year, or more frequently if it’s used heavily, to catch issues early and keep everything running smoothly.
4. My fridge makes a strange hissing sound, should I be worried?
A hissing sound can indicate a refrigerant leak, which is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Call a professional to inspect and repair the leak.
5. Is it normal for my fridge to frost up in the freezer?
Some frost buildup in the freezer is normal, but excessive frost or frost in the fridge compartment indicates a problem with the defrost cycle or air circulation.
At Freedom Appliances – Commercial Fridge Repair Calgary, we pride ourselves on offering timely and professional service to ensure your equipment runs smoothly. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today for expert repairs and maintenance for your commercial fridge.
