Commercial Refrigerator Repairs in Tacoma

A malfunctioning commercial refrigerator in Tacoma, can bring your business to a grinding halt—especially for restaurants, grocery stores, and food service establishments.

A breakdown risks a potential inventory loss and can also lead to compliance violations and customer dissatisfaction. Knowing how to respond quickly and efficiently can minimize disruptions and prevent further damage.

Here’s a step-by-step guide, courtesy of Performance Mechanical Group, on what to do when your commercial refrigerator breaks down.

Assessing the Problem

The first step is to determine the extent of the issue. Some breakdowns may be minor and easily fixable, while others might require professional intervention.

Start by checking whether the refrigerator is still running but not cooling properly. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations, and look for signs like excessive frost buildup or water leakage.

Additionally, ensure the electrical connections are intact. A quick assessment will help you decide whether it’s a simple fix or if professional repair services are necessary.

Checking the Power Supply and Thermostat

Before assuming the worst, verify that the refrigerator is still receiving power. A tripped circuit breaker or a loose plug could be the culprit.

Be sure the unit is securely plugged in, and check your circuit breaker panel for any tripped breakers. If necessary, try plugging another device into the same outlet to rule out electrical issues.

Once you’ve confirmed that power isn’t the issue, check the thermostat settings. An employee may have accidentally adjusted the temperature or bumped the controls while stocking inventory. Adjust the thermostat to the correct setting and wait 15 to 30 minutes to see if the unit starts cooling properly.

If the issue persists, the thermostat sensor may be faulty and require replacement. Our Performance Mechanical Group can quickly shoot any issues with your commercial refrigeration system in Tacoma, and offer practical solutions.

Examining Airflow and Condenser Coils

Commercial refrigerators rely on proper airflow to maintain consistent cooling. Blocked air vents can restrict circulation, causing temperature fluctuations and overworking the compressor.

Be sure stored items are not blocking vents, and avoid overloading the refrigerator. Also, ensure there are at least two to three inches of space between the unit and the wall for adequate ventilation.

Dirty or clogged condenser coils can also cause the compressor to overheat, leading to inefficient cooling or complete failure. To clean the condenser coils, unplug the refrigerator and use a coil brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris.

Wipe them down with a damp cloth and repeat this maintenance regularly to prevent future issues.

Identifying Refrigerant Leaks and Gasket Issues

If the refrigerator isn’t cooling efficiently despite good airflow, a refrigerant leak may be the issue. Signs of a leak include hissing or bubbling noises, ice buildup on the evaporator coils, and a sudden increase in energy bills.

Since handling refrigerants requires proper certification, it’s best to call a professional commercial refrigeration company like Performance Mechanical Group if you suspect a leak. New refrigerant regulations may also need to be considered.

Another common issue is a worn-out or damaged door gasket. A faulty gasket allows warm air to enter the unit, making it harder to maintain a stable temperature.

Inspect the door seals for cracks, tears, or gaps, and clean them with warm, soapy water to ensure a tight seal. If the gasket is too worn to seal properly, replace it to prevent further temperature fluctuations.

Monitoring Temperature and Transferring Perishable Items

Even if the refrigerator appears to be running, it’s essential to monitor its temperature closely. Use a separate thermometer to verify the internal temperature.

The ideal range for a commercial refrigerator is 33-40°F (0.5-4.4°C). If the temperature fluctuates significantly, professional repair assistance in Pierce County, may be required.

If the refrigerator isn’t maintaining a safe temperature, move perishable items to an alternative cooling unit or ice-filled containers to prevent spoilage. If you have backup refrigerators or freezers, use them to store critical inventory.

Otherwise, portable coolers with ice packs can help temporarily keep food items at safe temperatures. In some cases, working with nearby businesses or suppliers in Tacoma, for short-term storage may be necessary.

When to Call a Professional Refrigeration Technician

If troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional refrigeration technician like Performance Mechanical Group. Choose a service provider experienced in commercial refrigeration repair in Pierce County to ensure quick and reliable solutions.

When calling for service, provide the technician with details such as the refrigerator’s make and model, any error codes displayed, and a history of recent maintenance and repairs. This information can help speed up the diagnosis and repair process.

Preventing Future Breakdowns with Regular Maintenance

Implement a routine maintenance schedule to reduce the likelihood of unexpected failures. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your commercial refrigerator.

• Monthly: Clean condenser coils and check air vents for blockages.
• Quarterly: Inspect door gaskets and seals for wear and tear.
• Annually: Schedule a professional tune-up to detect potential issues early.
• Daily: Keep the unit organized to maintain proper airflow and prevent overloading.

Training staff on proper refrigerator use and maintenance can also help prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Simple habits like keeping the doors closed as much as possible, ensuring proper ventilation, and regularly checking temperature settings can go a long way in maintaining efficiency.

Call for Commercial Refrigeration Help Today

A commercial refrigerator breakdown can be stressful, but acting swiftly and methodically can minimize disruptions. Start with basic troubleshooting steps such as checking power, thermostat settings, and airflow before calling a professional in Tacoma.

If necessary, relocate perishable items to prevent losses. To avoid future breakdowns, implement a preventative maintenance routine and educate staff on proper refrigerator care.

By staying proactive, you can ensure your refrigeration system remains reliable, protecting both your business operations and food inventory from costly setbacks.

Reach out to Performance Mechanical Group for professional service; our team is happy to help. Call us at 425-251-0356 or request service online today.