What should I check first if my commercial refrigerator isn’t cooling?

Confirm the unit is on, plugged in, the breaker is on, and the outlet supplies power. If power is fine and cooling issues persist, contact a professional.

How does the compressor affect cooling and how often should it be cleaned?

The compressor is vital for cooling and should typically be cleaned every 90 days. Dirt causes overheating and poor cooling. If it’s clean but not running, call a technician.

What problems can occur with evaporator fans?

Ice buildup on the evaporator or partial freezing may indicate a low refrigerant charge or a failing fan motor. A technician should inspect, clear drains, verify charge, and test the motor.

What are common causes of temperature issues in a commercial refrigerator?

Insufficient wall clearance restricts airflow, forcing the compressor to work harder. Worn door seals also let cold air escape. Ensure proper spacing and replace damaged gaskets.

Do condenser coils need professional cleaning?

Yes. Condenser coils require routine cleaning—often by a professional—to maintain efficiency and prevent overheating and breakdowns.

Why is my commercial refrigerator leaking water?

Clogged drains, a full evaporator drain pan, uneven flooring, or a hot room can cause leaks. Clear drains, level the unit, empty the pan, and address ambient heat.

Can overloading the refrigerator cause cooling problems?

Yes. Too much product blocks airflow and reduces cooling performance. Keep loads within manufacturer recommendations and maintain clear air paths.

What if my refrigerator is too cold or has ice buildup inside?

The thermostat may be set too low. Increase the setpoint and monitor. Persistent icing could indicate defrost or thermostat issues requiring service.

How does ambient temperature affect refrigerator performance?

High heat or humidity can strain the system and cause condensation. Improve ventilation and keep ambient conditions within the unit’s rated range.

What if the automatic defrost isn’t working?

A faulty defrost timer or issues with evaporator fans can lead to ice buildup. A technician should diagnose and replace failed components.

Can opening the door too often cause cooling issues?

Yes. Frequent or prolonged door openings increase energy use and reduce cooling. Some units are designed for only 6–8 openings per day.

Can a defective thermostat cause freezing or icing problems?

Yes. A faulty thermostat can cause evaporator coils to freeze. If temperature swings or icing persist after adjustments, schedule professional service.

When should I call a professional technician?

If power checks pass but cooling issues remain, or you suspect compressor, fan, defrost, or thermostat faults, contact a professional service provider for diagnosis and repair.

sales + service:

888.887.1675

for sales + service

Smart Care acquires HiTech of Texas

Learn More

Common Causes for Commercial Refrigeration Cooling Problems

In a commercial kitchen, a refrigerator is an essential piece of equipment. As such, when the refrigerator is having issues cooling it can cause problems for production, business owners, and customers. At Smart Care Solutions, we understand its importance, and we are here to help!

Believe it or not, a refrigerator has many components making up the refrigeration system. As the owner of a commercial appliance, you want your appliance to have a long life span while maintaining energy efficiency. There are a few common issues with commercial refrigerators. First, check that the refrigerator is on, plugged into power, that the circuit breaker is switched on, and that the outlet is providing power to the unit. If all of these things are okay, there may be something else going on and it may require contacting a professional.

Common Cooling Problems

Compressor Issues

The compressor motor is a vital part of the refrigeration system. If it stops working, the refrigerator cannot stay cool. Dirt is the most common issue, and most manufacturers recommend cleaning compressors every 90 days. If it’s clean and still not running, a technician should inspect it further.

Evaporator Fan Issues

The evaporator fan helps regulate airflow. A technician will check for ice buildup and confirm the drain lines are clear. If only part of the evaporator is freezing, it could mean a low refrigerant charge or a faulty fan motor.

Temperature Issues

Improper air circulation or poor door seals often cause temperature problems.

Leave space between the refrigerator and the wall.
Check that door seals close tightly all around.
If both look fine and the issue persists, call a professional.

Condenser Coil Issues

Dirty condenser coils prevent proper cooling. These coils need to be cleaned regularly, usually by a professional, to ensure they work correctly.

Water Leaks

Leaks are usually caused by clogged drains or a full drain pan. Other possible issues include:

Uneven flooring
Excess heat in the room
Keeping drains clear is the easiest prevention step.

Overloaded Refrigerator

Too much food can block airflow and prevent cooling. Organize items so air can circulate freely inside the unit.

Refrigerator Too Cold

If ice builds up inside, the temperature may be set too low. Adjust the thermostat slightly higher and monitor if the issue continues.

Ambient Temperature Problems

If the room is too hot or humid, the unit may struggle to keep up. Signs include condensation on items or inside the refrigerator. Proper ventilation and room conditions are key.

Automatic Defrost Malfunction

If the auto-defrost function fails, ice can build up. This may be due to faulty evaporator fans or a timing system that needs replacement.

Open Door Problems

Opening the door too often causes cooling loss and higher energy use. Some units are only designed to open 6–8 times per day. Be mindful of frequency and duration.

Thermostat Issues

A defective thermostat can cause evaporator coils to freeze. If this happens regularly, the thermostat may need replacement.

Professional Support for Commercial Refrigeration

With so many components making up your refrigerator, it is easy for something to go wrong. At Smart Care Equipment Solutions, we know how vital efficiency in your business is, and we are here to help.

From appliance repair to preventive maintenance, we have over 500 technicians to help get and keep your commercial kitchen equipment running.