True Refrigeration Troubleshooting

Refrigerator Not Cooling

There are several possible reasons why your True refrigerator or freezer is not cooling, including frozen evaporator coils, dirty condenser coils, and issues with your unit's door. Use the following instructions to address these refrigeration issues, and call a professional to replace any necessary parts. Additionally, check your warranty before making repairs to ensure your actions do not invalidate it.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Frozen evaporator coils can lead to inadequate cooling and potentially spoilage of your perishable items. Some warning signs of this issue include a constant ticking sound coming from the refrigerator, water puddling underneath the unit, and a rise in the internal temperature. Here are some common causes and troubleshooting tips for dealing with frozen evaporator coils:

• Broken gasket: A worn-out gasket can allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, causing the evaporator coils to freeze. Inspect the gasket for any signs of damage, such as cracks or gaps. If you notice any issues, replace the gasket to create a proper seal and prevent air leakage.
• Incorrect thermostat setting: The evaporator coils freeze if the thermostat is set too low. Check the settings and ensure they match the recommended temperature range for your specific True refrigerator model.
• Poor ventilation: Place the refrigerator in a well-ventilated area and ensure there is enough space around it for proper air circulation. Remove any obstructions or debris blocking the vents or fans.
• Poor stocking: Overstocking the refrigerator can restrict airflow and prevent proper cooling, leading to frozen evaporator coils. Avoid overcrowding the refrigerator and ensure that items are properly spaced to allow adequate air circulation. Consider rearranging the contents to optimize airflow if necessary.

Door Won't Close

A door that closes correctly is essential for maintaining the desired internal temperature for your True Refrigeration unit. By addressing these potential issues promptly, you can avoid food spoilage, energy waste, and damage to your equipment.

• Broken gasket: The gasket is the rubber seal that lines the edges of the door, creating an airtight seal when closed. Over time, the gasket may become worn, cracked, or torn, causing air leaks and preventing the door from closing securely. Inspect the gasket for any visible signs of damage, such as tears or gaps, and replace it if necessary.
• Uneven surface: If your refrigerator is not level, the door might not align correctly with the cabinet. Adjust the legs or casters of your unit with other materials until it sits levelly.
• Uneven hinges: Over time, hinges may become loose or misaligned and prevent the door from fully closing. Inspect the hinges for any signs of damage or looseness and tighten or replace them as needed.

Dirty Condenser Coil

A dirty condenser coil is a common issue that prevents a True Refrigeration unit from cooling effectively. Dust, dirt, and grease accumulate over time on the condenser coil, hindering its ability to release heat. This buildup restricts airflow and causes the coil to work harder to cool the refrigerator, leading to decreased efficiency and potential damage to the coil.

Clean the condenser coil routinely to remove dirt and grease buildup, allowing the coil to function optimally. Disconnect the unit from the power supply, then gently remove dust and debris from the coil with a soft cloth or brush. Be careful not to bend or damage the delicate fins of the coil during the cleaning process.

If the buildup on the condenser coil is too severe, contact a professional technician to clean or replace the coil.

Faulty Thermostat

If you're experiencing issues with the temperature control of your True Refrigeration unit, a faulty thermostat may be the culprit. This issue leads to spoiled food from freezer burn, ice buildup, or bacteria growth from warm temperatures. Use the following steps to troubleshoot your thermostat:

1. Check the thermostat setting: Ensure that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and adjust it if necessary.

2. Remove obstructions: Clear any items or debris blocking the thermostat's sensor. Obstructions can prevent the thermostat from accurately sensing the temperature inside the unit, leading to improper cooling or freezing.

3. Take a reading with an independent thermometer: Use a separate thermometer to check the unit's internal temperature and compare the reading with the temperature on the thermostat. If they match, the thermostat is working and no further action is needed.

4. Replace the thermostat: If the readings from the independent thermometer significantly differ from the temperature set on the thermostat, it is likely faulty and needs replaced. Contact a qualified technician to handle this task.

Refrigerator Is Leaking Water

If water is pooling inside your refrigerator or on the floor outside, there are a few potential causes to consider. Inspect the following areas to find the cause of the leakage and repair it.

• Clogged defrost drain: Over time, debris and ice can accumulate in the drain, causing water to back up and overflow. Try clearing the drain using a pipe cleaner or flushing it with hot water. Regularly cleaning the drain can help prevent future clogs.
• Damaged drain pan: A cracked or damaged drain pan will allow water to seep onto the floor and puddle. Replace the old pan with a new collection device.
• Faulty thermostat: If the thermostat isn't working or is set to an incorrect temperature, the cabinet's contents might melt. Inspect your thermostat to ensure nothing is blocking it, and replace it if needed.
• Poor ventilation: Proper ventilation helps prevent the buildup of excess moisture, reducing the chances of water leakage. Position the refrigerator at least 2 inches from the wall, and check that the condenser coils are clean.
• Low refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, leading to water leakage once the ice thaws. Contact a certified technician to inspect and recharge the refrigerant if necessary.

Light Not Working

If the light inside your unit doesn't work, it might not seem like a significant problem. However, this issue could prevent you from noticing issues with food stored inside. Check the following items to ensure the light works correctly.

• Insufficient power: Check if the refrigerator is plugged into a functioning power outlet. Ensure that the power cord is securely connected and not damaged. If there is no power to the unit, you may need to consult an electrician to address any electrical issues.
• Disconnected bulb: Carefully remove the bulb cover and check if the bulb is securely screwed in. If it is loose, gently tighten until snug. Once secured, test if the light is working.
• Burnt-out bulb: If you have checked the power supply and the bulb is connected but still not working, the bulb may have reached the end of its lifespan. Replace the commercial bulb with a new one of the same wattage and type.

Refrigerator Compressor Failure

The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system and is responsible for circulating refrigerant to cool the unit. When the compressor fails, your refrigerator cannot maintain the desired temperature, resulting in spoiled food and potential loss of revenue. If your compressor is loud or running intermittently, these signs indicate a damaged or failing compressor. If needed, replace the compressor entirely.

• Dirty condenser coils: Dirt, dust, and debris buildup prevents the condenser from working properly and might damage it beyond repair. Clean the condenser coils regularly and replace them if necessary.
• Low power levels: If your refrigerator is not getting enough power, the compressor cannot work properly. Ensure your unit is connected to the power source correctly, then contact a certified electrician for a thorough investigation if the problem persists.
• Faulty thermostat: A blocked or faulty thermostat creates an unstable temperature within the unit, forcing the compressor to work harder. Inspect your thermostat and replace it if needed.