The Most Common Causes of Reach-In Cooler Issues

Many medium-sized commercial kitchens rely on reach-in coolers for keeping ingredients fresh and beverages cold. However, like any frequently used appliance, they can run into issues that can disrupt operations. Knowing what causes such issues can help you take preventative measures and keep disruptions to a minimum. Local refrigeration equipment services provider Cafco Services takes a look at some of the most common causes.

Thermostat Issues

One of the most common problems affecting reach-in coolers is failure to maintain proper temperatures. When this happens, the first thing you need to check is the thermostat. It could be something as simple as someone inadvertently changing the settings, or the thermostat isn’t communicating with the cooler. Often, the solution is a simple reset or battery replacement. Follow the troubleshooting steps in the cooler’s user guide if the reset failed to work.

Blocked Air Vents

All refrigerators, from the smallest personal units to the largest walk-in refrigerators, need airflow for efficient cooling. Practice good storage practices by making sure that the vents inside are not blocked. Properly training staff and posting reminders within view of the refrigerator can help ensure compliance.

Refrigerator Door Not Closing Properly

The refrigerator needs to be properly sealed to keep thermal transfer to a minimum. If the refrigerator door is poorly-aligned or not closing properly, the cooling system will be running for longer times and increase the refrigerator’s workload. The seals around the door can get worn out over time and will eventually need to be replaced. Make it a point to periodically check door alignment. Most refrigeration and HVAC companies can fix misaligned doors, and the sooner repairs are done, the more efficient the refrigerator will be.

Dirty Condenser Coils

Like air conditioners, reach-in coolers have condenser coils that accumulate dust and dirt over time. Condenser coils are needed to release the heat removed from the refrigerator’s contents; dust and dirt hinder its performance. Commercial refrigerators need to be serviced at least once every year, and cleaning is usually part of the process.

To learn more about our HVAC and refrigeration services, including HVAC filter products, give our team at Cafco Services a call at (513) 242-3400. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.