The Most Common Commercial Refrigerator Parts That Fail (And How to Fix Them)

1. The Most Common Commercial Refrigerator Parts That Fail (And How to Fix Them) A commercial refrigerator is a must-have for any restaurant, grocery store, or food business. But like any other appliance, it can break down. The good news is that many common problems can be fixed without too much trouble. Knowing what parts fail most often and how to fix them can save you time and money. If you ever need professional help, finding a trusted service like commercial refrigerator repair Poway can make all the difference. 1. Compressor Issues The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator. If it stops working, your fridge won’t stay cold. A common sign of compressor trouble is a fridge that’s running but not cooling. Sometimes, the problem is a blown capacitor or dirty condenser coils. Try cleaning the coils with a brush or vacuum. If that doesn’t help, you may need a technician to check for more serious issues. 2. Faulty Door Gaskets Door gaskets (the rubber seals around the door) wear out over time. When they crack or become loose, cold air escapes, making your fridge work harder. If you notice frost build-up or the door not sealing properly, inspect the gasket. You can replace it yourself by peeling off the old one and pressing a new one into place. Just make sure you buy the correct size for your fridge. 3. Broken Evaporator Fan The evaporator fan helps circulate cold air inside the refrigerator. If you hear an unusual noise or notice warm spots inside, the fan might not be working. First, check for ice buildup around the fan. If needed, let the fridge defrost. If the fan still doesn’t spin, it might need to be replaced. 4. Dirty or Clogged Condenser Coils If your fridge is overheating or not cooling properly, dirty condenser coils could be the issue. These coils release heat from the fridge but collect dust and grease over time. Cleaning them every few months with a brush or vacuum will help keep the refrigerator running efficiently. 5. Malfunctioning Thermostat If your fridge isn’t keeping food at the right temperature, the thermostat might be failing. Try adjusting the temperature settings. If nothing changes, the thermostat may need to be replaced. This part is usually easy to swap out with a screwdriver and a new thermostat. By keeping an eye on these common problems and fixing small issues early, you can avoid bigger— and more expensive—repairs later. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the coils and checking the door seals, can also help keep your commercial refrigerator running smoothly for years.