Winter in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area isn’t just a challenge for commuters; it’s a relentless test for your refrigerated transport units, or “reefers.” The combination of freezing temperatures, road salt, and sudden temperature swings can turn minor issues into major breakdowns, risking your cargo and your schedule. At Toronto Reefer Repair, we see a consistent set of cold-weather problems each year. Knowing what to watch for can save you time, money, and a major headache.
1. Frozen Condensate Drains and Lines
One of the most frequent winter calls we get. The water that normally drains away from the evaporator coil can freeze solid in the drain line or pan. This ice backup can then lead to:
Water leaking inside the trailer, damaging both the interior and your cargo.
Ice forming on the evaporator coil, reducing cooling efficiency and causing the unit to overwork.
The Fix: Regular checks are key. Technicians can apply heat tapes or trace elements to drain lines and use compressed air to clear potential blockages before they freeze solid.
2. Diesel Fuel Gelling
As temperatures plummet, paraffin wax in diesel fuel begins to crystallize. This “gelling” can clog fuel filters and lines, starving the reefer unit of fuel and causing it to shut down completely—a dangerous situation for temperature-sensitive loads.
The Fix: This is preventable! Using winter-blend fuel and fuel additives (anti-gels) is essential. Also, ensure your fuel filters are replaced as part of a comprehensive winter preventative maintenance plan.
3. Battery Failure
Cold weather dramatically reduces battery cranking power. A battery that starts your unit in the fall might be unable to do so after a night parked in a -20°C Windsor or Oshawa yard. A dead reefer battery means a non-starting unit and a potential spoiled load.
The Fix: Test battery health before winter hits. Load-testing can identify weak batteries that need replacement. Ensuring connections are clean and tight also prevents power loss.
4. Door Seal and Gasket Hardening
The rubber seals around trailer doors can become brittle and crack in the cold, losing their flexibility. This breaks the critical thermal barrier, allowing cold air in (or warm air out), forcing the reefer unit to run constantly to compensate.
The Fix: Inspect door gaskets for cracks, tears, or stiffness. Applying a rubber protectant can help maintain pliability, but damaged seals should be replaced promptly to maintain integrity.
5. Excessive Component Wear from Constant Cycling
In extreme cold, a reefer unit works much harder to maintain a set temperature, especially for heated loads. This non-stop cycling puts immense strain on components like starters, relays, and compressors, leading to premature wear and failure.
The Fix: A thorough pre-winter inspection by a qualified technician can spot early signs of wear. Proactively addressing these small issues prevents a catastrophic failure on the road between Mississauga and Markham.
6. Control and Sensor Malfunctions
Modern reefer units rely on a network of sensors and control boards. Moisture ingress from snow and meltwater can freeze, leading to faulty sensor readings or electrical shorts. This can cause the unit to behave erratically or shut down.
The Fix: Keeping electrical connections dry and protected is vital. Professional diagnostic tools are needed to accurately assess and repair control system issues.
Don't Let Winter Freeze Your Operations
The common thread in preventing these winter woes is proactive action. A reactive “fix-it-when-it-breaks” approach is costly and risky during a Toronto winter.
The most effective strategy is a dedicated Winterization Service from a trusted provider. This service typically includes fuel system treatment, battery testing, drain line inspection, door seal checks, and a full system diagnostic to ensure every component is ready for the deep freeze.
Is your fleet ready for winter? At Toronto Reefer Repair, we specialize in keeping your reefers running reliably all year round. Our GTA-wide mobile technicians can perform complete winterization and emergency repairs to protect your cargo when it matters most.
Contact Toronto Reefer Repair today to schedule your winter prep service and face the cold with confidence!