A mid-service breakdown doesn’t just cost a repair — it can cost a whole load of stock. The good news: most refrigeration failures build up slowly and are easy to catch early. Here are six checks worth doing regularly.
1. Keep the condenser coil clean
A coil clogged with dust and grease can’t shed heat, so the unit runs hot and works harder. Cleaning it is the single highest-value maintenance task.
2. Check the door seals
Perished or torn gaskets let warm, moist air in — driving up energy use and frosting. If a dollar note slips out easily when the door’s shut, the seal needs attention.
3. Watch the temperature and gas
A fridge that can’t hold its set point, or that’s icing up, often points to a refrigerant or airflow problem. Don’t ignore a unit that’s “nearly” cold enough.
4. Clear the drainage
Blocked drains cause water pooling and ice build-up. A quick clear keeps the defrost cycle working and the floor dry.
5. Don’t block the airflow
Stock packed against vents or stacked over the fans stops cold air circulating. Leave room around internal vents and the external condenser.
6. Book a scheduled service
A documented service catches the things a daily glance misses — and supports food-safety records. Set up a plan on our preventative maintenance page.
Already seeing a problem? Book a service or report a breakdown — our own mechanics service and repair most commercial equipment.