Refrigeration Troubleshooting
Commercial Refrigeration
Troubleshooting Guide
Walk-in coolers, freezers, ice machines, reach-in units, and display cases — common problems, what you can safely check, and when to call for emergency service. Written for Bay Area restaurant owners and commercial kitchen operators.
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Our interactive tool walks you through symptoms step by step.
Walk-In Cooler & Freezer Problems
The most common emergency calls we respond to. When a walk-in fails, food safety and product loss are at stake.
Emergency
Walk-In Cooler Not Cooling
Temperature rising, compressor running but not cold enough, or unit completely dead. What to check before calling.
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High Priority
Walk-In Cooler Too Warm
Unit runs but temperature is 3–5°F above setpoint. Gradually losing temperature over hours or days.
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Emergency
Walk-In Freezer Not Freezing
Freezer above 0°F and rising. Product thawing, ice buildup on coils, or compressor cycling on and off rapidly.
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High Priority
Walk-In Freezer Ice Buildup
Excessive frost on evaporator coils, ice forming on walls or ceiling, defrost cycle not working properly.
Read guide
Ice Machine Problems
Ice machines are the most maintenance-sensitive commercial refrigeration equipment. Bay Area hard water makes them especially vulnerable.
Emergency
Ice Machine Not Making Ice
Machine running but bin is empty. Water supply, scale buildup, dirty condenser, or compressor issue.
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Schedule Service
Ice Machine Not Dropping Ice
Ice forms on the evaporator but won’t release into the bin. Harvest cycle, water curtain, or thermostat issue.
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High Priority
Ice Machine Water Leak
Water pooling around the base, leaking from connections, or overflow from the bin. Can cause floor damage and safety hazards.
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Other Commercial Refrigeration Problems
High Priority
Display Case Not Holding Temperature
Open or closed display case running warm. Product at risk in grocery stores and delis.
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High Priority
Reach-In Refrigerator Not Cooling
Commercial reach-in fridge or prep table not holding temperature. Gaskets, condenser, or thermostat problems.
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Emergency
Compressor Overheating
Compressor hot to the touch, tripping on thermal overload, or shutting down repeatedly. Requires immediate attention.
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Schedule Service
Low Refrigerant Pressure
System running but not reaching setpoint. Likely a refrigerant leak that requires EPA-certified detection and repair.
Read guide
Related Services
Refrigeration Emergency?
Same-day emergency service for Bay Area restaurants and commercial kitchens. We carry common parts on our truck for faster repairs.
EPA 608 Certified
All Brands Serviced
Same-Day Emergency