As a restaurant manager or owner, there are not many things as frustrating as a commercial fridge that isn’t cooling. The refrigerator is a main component of the kitchen and restaurant at large and can cause loss when not working properly. A well-cooling, reach-in commercial refrigerator is key to any functional restaurant and shouldn’t be overlooked. If you notice your refrigerator isn’t cooling or circulating enough cold air, it doesn’t automatically mean the fridge is dysfunctional or should be condemned because it can be fixed! You must act quickly if your refrigerator isn’t working properly before your inventory goes to waste. Commercial refrigerators are designed to store raw ingredients, fresh food, and perishables at cold Temperatures. However, not all refrigerators can function over a long period and will require maintenance and management. Fluctuations in temperature may not be discovered early on. However, other obvious symptoms may not go unnoticed. Check if the system is running, including the lights and fan, and display if the condenser is plugged in. It is essential to troubleshoot and do research on possible symptoms so as to tackle them in time. If your refrigerator isn’t cooling, follow these simple tips to get it back and running in no time.

Common causes of temperature fluctuation in reach in commercial refrigerators

Doors not sealed properly

When you notice that your commercial refrigerator isn’t cooling enough, check the doors to see if it has been shut properly. The rubber gasket around the refrigerator door is designed to seal in cold air and warm air out of the refrigerator. Suppose this gasket is broken or worn out. The doors wouldn’t seal properly, and cold air will escape and be infiltrated by warm air.

Faulty compressor

If you have tried necessary troubleshooting solutions and the refrigerator still isn’t cooling, then it’s most likely it has a failing compressor. The compressor is a crucial part of producing cool air for the refrigerator. If the compressor isn’t functional or working properly, the refrigerator will not cool. If you notice the compressor getting louder and vibrating, it’s your sign to have a technician check it out.

Dysfunctional thermostat

The thermostat is designed to measure the refrigerator’s internal temperature and sends a signal to the control board to alert the compressor when more cooling is required.

Early symptoms of a non-cooling reach in commercial refrigerator

    ●   It is not cooling or partially cooling

    ●   Inaccurate temperature

    ●   It is not defrosting

    ●   Trips brakers

Tips for repair

Unblock the thermostat or check the thermostat settings

For the refrigerator to maintain a cool temperature, cold air has to circulate properly inside it. The cold air is released from vents which can time get blocked. Check to see that the thermostat isn’t blocked with food items. Use a thermometer to check the thermostat temperature. If it differs, then your thermostat may need replacement.

Replace the compressor

After troubleshooting and you have determined that the compressor is failing, getting a replacement would be the best bet to get your refrigerator up and running.