A fridge is one of the most critical resources for any commercial establishment in the food sector. If you're in charge of a place like this, you must ensure that the fridge is always in first-class condition and is never at risk of failure. Yet many people in your situation may overlook one of the primary components and do not pay enough attention to the compressor. What can go wrong with this component, and what should you do to try and avoid any drama?
Temperature Levels
To begin with, focus on the fundamentals. Don't be tempted to set the fridge's temperature too low simply because you think you are being extra cautious. Always refer to the manufacturer guidelines, as if you do set the temperature below its recommended level, it will put additional pressure on the compressor. This can lead to overheating and the risk of failure.
Thermostat Control
Check to see that the thermostat within the fridge is always working properly. It's a simple device, but it controls compressor cycles and, accordingly, operational life. Check to see that the thermostat is working and especially if you can hear that the motor is running more often than it should be.
Positioning
Talking of fundamentals, is your fridge positioned in the best place? Keep it away from any direct sunlight, as this will simply heat up the case and cause the fridge to work more than it should. Also, keep the area behind the fridge free of any obstruction so that the hot air generated by the condenser coils can escape.
Refrigerant Levels
Periodically, check to see that the refrigerant levels are still okay. They may deplete as time goes by, and if they do, the compressor will begin to overheat.
Condenser Fan
A faulty condenser fan can also cause high temperatures. You may not notice that the fan is not working, but if it has failed, you can expect the internal temperatures to rise, which could affect the compressor.
Bringing in the Professionals
As you can see, attention to detail can certainly help you avoid obvious problems. However, nothing can beat a regular service visit, and a skilled technician will see that everything is working as it should be. They'll also be able to carry out repairs to your compressor if it has been overheating. And don't forget, it's far better to be proactive than reactive so that you can avoid any costly downtime.
For more information on refrigeration repair, contact a professional near you.
