Trouble Shoot Commercial Freezer

1. No Power in Your Commercial Freezer

If your commercial freezer isn’t powering on, you’ll notice that the lights and cooling components are inactive. This issue could stem from simple fixes or more serious problems requiring repairs.

• Power Switch: Check that the power switch hasn’t accidentally been turned off. A quick flip of the switch might solve the problem if it was unintentionally shut off.
• Plug and Power Cord: Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into the outlet. Look for any signs of damage, such as fraying or cracks, which could indicate that the cord needs replacing. If you’re using an extension cord, which isn’t recommended for a commercial freezer, try plugging the freezer directly into a wall outlet.
• Fuse or Circuit Breaker: Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box. A tripped breaker or blown fuse could be preventing power from reaching your freezer. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.

If your commercial freezer still isn’t receiving power, it’s best to call a professional technician.

2. High Temperatures

If the commercial freezer temperature is higher than it should be, food items might be at risk of thawing or spoiling. Here are some areas to check:

• Location and Ventilation: Place your commercial freezer in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heating equipment. Make sure it has sufficient space around it to allow for proper air circulation.
• Condenser Coils: Dirty commercial freezer coils make your freezer work harder to maintain cool temperatures. Clean the condenser coils regularly to improve efficiency and ensure the unit stays cool.
• Door Gasket and Hinges: A damaged door gasket can allow warm air to enter, affecting the freezer’s internal temperature. Inspect the door seal for cracks or wear, and ensure the door closes tightly. Damaged gaskets should be replaced to maintain an airtight seal.
• Thermostat: A faulty thermostat may not read the internal temperature accurately, causing the commercial freezer not cooling properly. Make sure nothing is blocking the thermostat, like inventory piled up against it. If the temperature remains high, consider replacing the thermostat.

3. Low Temperatures and Frost Buildup

In some cases, a commercial freezer may become too cold, leading to frost buildup inside or on food items. Here’s what to look for:

• Defrost Timer: Many commercial freezers have an automatic defrost cycle to prevent ice buildup on the evaporator coil. If ice is forming, it could indicate a malfunction in the defrost timer, which may need to be replaced.
• Pressure Issues: If the defrost timer is functioning properly but excessive frost buildup on commercial freezer coils continues, there may be a pressure issue that needs to be addressed by a technician.

4. Compressor Problems

The compressor plays a crucial role in maintaining the commercial freezer’s temperature. When it starts to fail, you might notice unusual noises or a decrease in cooling power.

• Noisy Operation: If your compressor is making loud or unusual noises, it could be overworking or encountering an internal problem. A technician can inspect and resolve the issue.
• Dirty Compressor: Dirt on the compressor can cause it to overheat and struggle to maintain the correct temperature. Regularly clean the compressor to prevent overheating and maintain efficiency.

5. Evaporator Fan Problems

The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the commercial freezer, ensuring consistent temperature levels. When the evaporator fan malfunctions, the unit may experience uneven cooling.

• Noisy Evaporator Fan: If you hear unusual sounds coming from the commercial freezer evaporator fan, it may be a sign that the fan motor is failing. A technician should inspect the fan and determine whether it needs replacing.
• Dirt or Ice Accumulation: Dirt or ice buildup on the evaporator fan can prevent it from working effectively. Clean the fan and surrounding areas to ensure optimal airflow.

6. Excessive Frost on Evaporator Coils

Excessive frost buildup on commercial freezer coils can obstruct airflow, making it difficult for the freezer to maintain cold temperatures. Additionally, an evaporator coil freezing up in commercial refrigerator units can prevent effective cooling and lead to temperature inconsistencies.

• Evaporator Coil Cleaning: Regularly check the commercial freezer evaporator coil for frost and ice. Use a soft brush to remove dirt and frost buildup. This simple step can improve airflow and efficiency.
• Defrost Heater Malfunction: If the defrost heater isn’t working, ice will accumulate on the evaporator coil, impacting cooling. A professional technician can check if the defrost heater or defrost timer is functioning properly and replace any damaged parts.

7. Leaking Water

If you notice water pooling inside or around the commercial freezer, it’s often due to a blocked drainage system or malfunctioning defrost components.

• Drainage Hose: A tangled or blocked drainage hose can cause water to back up inside the freezer. Inspect the drainage hose for clogs or kinks and clear any obstructions.
• Evaporator Pan: If the evaporator pan is too full, it might indicate an issue with the compressor or defrost system. An overfilled pan suggests that the commercial freezer is defrosting too often or the compressor isn’t effectively removing moisture.