If your reefer unit isn’t holding temperature, you’re not just dealing with equipment failure—you’re facing potential product loss, compliance issues, and costly downtime. It’s a stressful situation, but before you worry, know that many common causes are fixable.
At Toronto Reefer Repair, we’ve seen it all. Here are the most frequent reasons a reefer unit loses its cool and what you can do about it.
1. Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils
The Problem: The condenser coils release heat from the refrigeration system. When they’re clogged with dirt, dust, or debris, they can’t dissipate heat effectively. This forces the unit to work harder and ultimately fail to maintain the set temperature.
The Fix: Visually inspect the condenser coils. If they’re dirty, they need a thorough cleaning. This is a critical part of regular maintenance. For a deep clean or if the blockage is severe, professional service is recommended to avoid damaging the delicate fins.
2. Worn Door Seals (Gaskets)
The Problem: The rubber seals around your reefer doors are vital for an airtight seal. Over time, they can crack, tear, or become brittle, allowing cold air to leak out and warm air to seep in.
The Fix: Conduct the “dollar bill test.” Close the door on a dollar bill; if you can pull it out easily, the seal is weak. Inspect the entire gasket for visible damage. Replacing worn door seals is a precise but common repair that restores efficiency quickly.
3. Failed Thermostat or Faulty Sensors
The Problem: If the unit’s thermostat or temperature sensors are malfunctioning, they’re sending incorrect readings to the control system. Your unit might think it’s colder than it is and shut off, or not kick on when needed.
The Fix: Check the displayed temperature against a reliable, independent thermometer placed inside the unit. If there’s a significant discrepancy, the issue likely lies with the controls or sensors. This requires expert diagnosis and calibration.
4. Low Refrigerant Charge (Leak)
The Problem: Refrigerant is the lifeblood of the cooling cycle. If there’s a leak, the system won’t have enough refrigerant to absorb and remove heat properly. You might notice the unit running constantly but never reaching the desired temp.
The Fix: This is a job for professionals. Adding refrigerant without finding and repairing the leak is a temporary solution. Our technicians at Toronto Reefer Repair use specialized tools to locate leaks, repair them, and recharge the system to the manufacturer’s exact specifications.
5. Blocked Evaporator Drain Line
The Problem: Defrost cycles produce water that drains away via a small line. If this line clogs with ice or debris, water can back up and freeze over the evaporator coils, forming an ice block that insulates the coils and stops cooling.
The Fix: Locate the drain line (usually at the back of the unit). If accessible, you may attempt to clear it with warm water. However, a significant ice buildup often requires a full defrost and professional cleaning to prevent immediate re-clogging.
6. Electrical Issues
The Problem: Loose connections, corroded wires, or a failing relay can interrupt power to critical components like the compressor or fans.
The Fix: A visual inspection might reveal obvious corrosion or burning. However, electrical diagnostics should be handled by a qualified technician to ensure safety and accurate repair, preventing further damage to costly components.
When to Call the Professionals
While some basic checks can be done yourself, reefer units are complex systems. If the problem isn’t immediately obvious with the points above, or if you’re not comfortable performing checks, it’s time to call in experts.
Persistent temperature issues, strange noises, warning codes on the display, or any suspicion of a refrigerant leak all signal the need for professional reefer repair in Toronto.
Don’t let a temperature failure turn into a cargo disaster. If your reefer isn’t holding temperature, our team at Toronto Reefer Repair is ready to help. We provide fast, reliable diagnostics and repair to get your unit—and your business—back on track.
Need a reliable fix? Learn more about our comprehensive repair services right here: Toronto Reefer Repair Services.
Schedule a service call today and keep your cool on the road.