Commercial freezers are essential for many businesses, especially in the food and hospitality industry. When they malfunction, it can lead to significant losses due to spoiled food or downtime. Fortunately, many issues can be resolved with a little DIY troubleshooting before you need to call in professional help. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some common problems with commercial freezers and offer practical tips on how to fix them yourself.
Common Issues With Commercial Freezers
Before diving into specific troubleshooting steps, it’s helpful to know what types of problems are most common in commercial freezers. Some of the most frequent issues include:
- Freezer not cooling
- Frost buildup
- Water leakage
- Strange noises
- Freezer door not sealing properly
Understanding these common problems can help you identify where to focus your troubleshooting efforts. Let’s take a deeper dive into each issue and discuss how to address them. Learn about Different Types Of Refrigerators today!
Freezer Not Cooling
A commercial freezer’s primary function is to keep food at a low temperature to prevent spoilage. If your freezer isn’t cooling properly, the following DIY steps can help you diagnose and potentially fix the problem.
Check The Power Supply
First things first—ensure that the freezer is plugged in and receiving power. Check the electrical outlet by plugging another appliance into it to confirm it’s working. If there’s no power, check your circuit breaker to see if a fuse has blown or if the breaker has tripped.
Inspect The Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are overlooked. Make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. The recommended setting for a commercial freezer is typically between -10°F to 0°F (-23°C to -18°C). If the thermostat has been accidentally bumped or changed, simply reset it to the appropriate temperature.
Clean The Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils can reduce a freezer’s cooling efficiency. Over time, dust and dirt build up on the coils, forcing the compressor to work harder and potentially causing the freezer to lose cooling capacity. To clean the coils:
- Unplug the freezer.
- Locate the condenser coils, usually found at the back or underneath the freezer.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to remove the dust and dirt from the coils.
- Plug the freezer back in and see if cooling improves.
Check The Door Gasket
A poor seal due to a faulty door gasket can allow warm air to enter the freezer, causing cooling issues. Inspect the door gasket for cracks, tears, or signs of wear. To test the seal, close the door on a piece of paper or a dollar bill. If you can easily pull it out, the gasket may need to be replaced. A bad seal allows warm air to infiltrate the freezer, preventing it from maintaining a consistent low temperature.
Inspect The Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan helps circulate air inside the freezer. If this fan isn’t working, the freezer won’t cool evenly. Open the freezer and listen for the sound of the fan running. If it’s silent, the fan motor may need replacing, or it could be blocked by ice or debris.
Frost Buildup
Frost buildup inside a commercial freezer can be caused by a variety of factors, such as frequent door openings or a faulty defrost system. Here’s how to troubleshoot frost issues.
Defrost The Freezer
Excessive frost buildup can restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. If you notice significant frost accumulation, consider manually defrosting the freezer. Follow these steps:
- Unplug the freezer.
- Remove all items from the freezer.
- Allow the frost to melt naturally or use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the process (avoid using sharp objects to scrape off the ice, as this can damage the interior).
- Once the frost has melted, clean and dry the interior before plugging the freezer back in.
Check The Defrost Heater And Timer
Most commercial freezers have an automatic defrost cycle that melts away frost buildup. If frost keeps accumulating, the defrost heater or defrost timer may be malfunctioning. You can test these components with a multimeter to ensure they’re working correctly, but you may need professional help to replace them.
Ensure The Freezer Door Is Closed Properly
Frequent door openings or a door that doesn’t close properly can allow warm air into the freezer, leading to frost buildup. Make sure employees are aware of the importance of closing the freezer door securely after each use. If the door doesn’t seem to seal well, check the gasket and hinges for any issues.
Water Leakage
Water leaking from a commercial freezer can be both frustrating and dangerous, creating potential slip hazards in the workspace. Here’s how to troubleshoot water leaks.
Check The Drain Pan
The drain pan collects condensation from the freezer, and if it’s full or cracked, water can spill out. Check the pan located underneath the freezer and empty it if necessary. If the pan is damaged, replace it to prevent further leaks.
Inspect The Defrost Drain
If the defrost drain becomes clogged with ice or debris, it can cause water to back up and leak onto the floor. To clear the drain:
- Unplug the freezer.
- Locate the defrost drain, typically found inside the freezer at the back.
- Use warm water to melt any ice blocking the drain or use a pipe cleaner to remove debris.
Ensure Proper Leveling
If your freezer is not properly leveled, water may not drain correctly, leading to leaks. Use a leveling tool to check that the freezer is balanced evenly on all sides. Adjust the feet as needed.
Strange Noises
Strange noises coming from a commercial freezer can be a sign that something isn’t functioning as it should. Here’s how to troubleshoot the issue.
Identify The Source Of The Noise
Different noises can indicate different problems:
- A buzzing sound may suggest that the freezer’s compressor is overworked, possibly due to dirty condenser coils or low refrigerant levels.
- A rattling sound might be caused by loose parts, such as a fan blade or motor mount.
- A clicking noise could indicate a faulty start relay on the compressor.
Check For Loose Parts
Open the freezer and listen closely to determine where the noise is coming from. Inspect the fan, motor, and compressor for any loose or broken parts. Tighten any loose components and replace damaged ones if necessary.
Ensure The Freezer Is Level
A freezer that’s not sitting level can cause vibrations and noise. Check the leveling of the freezer and adjust as needed to reduce the noise.
Freezer Door Not Sealing Properly
If your commercial freezer door isn’t sealing properly, it can lead to cooling issues, frost buildup, and increased energy consumption. Here’s what to check.
Inspect The Door Gasket
The door gasket is responsible for creating an airtight seal. If it’s damaged or worn, cold air can escape, causing the freezer to work harder. Examine the gasket for cracks or tears and replace it if needed.
Check The Hinges
Loose or misaligned hinges can prevent the freezer door from closing properly. Tighten any loose screws and ensure the door is aligned correctly with the freezer body.
Test For Proper Alignment
If the door is misaligned, it may not be sealing properly. Use a level to check the alignment of the freezer door. If necessary, adjust the hinges or door to ensure a snug fit.
When To Call A Professional
While many commercial freezer issues can be resolved with simple DIY troubleshooting, some problems may require professional assistance. If you’ve tried the tips outlined in this guide and your freezer is still not working properly, it’s time to call in the experts.
At Appliance Pro Repairs, we specialize in commercial freezer repair and can quickly diagnose and fix any issue you may encounter. From compressor malfunctions to refrigerant leaks, our trained technicians have the expertise to get your freezer back up and running in no time.
Conclusion
A commercial freezer is a vital asset for any business that relies on food storage. By following these DIY troubleshooting tips, you can often resolve minor issues before they become major problems. However, for more complex commercial freezer repairs, Appliance Pro Repairs is always here to help. Keep your freezer well-maintained, and you’ll ensure that your business runs smoothly without the risk of costly breakdowns. Get in touch with Appliance Pro Repairs today!