In a busy commercial kitchen, a malfunctioning refrigerator can bring operations to a halt and create serious food safety concerns. KitchenAid refrigerators are a trusted choice for restaurants and catering businesses, but like any appliance, they can experience cooling issues over time, often related to specific KitchenAid refrigerator parts. If your refrigerator has stopped cooling, it must be addressed promptly to prevent spoilage and health hazards. In this article, we’ll explore common causes of cooling problems and offer expert solutions to restore your refrigerator’s performance quickly and efficiently.
Common Causes and Expert Fixes for KitchenAid Refrigerator Cooling Problems
Here are the common causes and expert solutions for cooling issues in KitchenAid refrigerators.
1.Dirty Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are used in the refrigerator to expel heat from the refrigerator. Over time, they may gather food particles, oil, and dust, particularly in commercial kitchens. When this happens, the refrigerator gets heated and stops cooling because the coils can’t release heat.
Fixes:
- Switch off, and unplug the refrigerator.
- Find the condenser coils which are normally situated at the back or beneath the refrigerator.
- Clean the coils using a vacuum or a coil brush to ensure that all the dust and dirt are removed.
- Switch the refrigerator back on and observe if the cooling efficiency has been restored.
2.Faulty Thermostat
Inside the refrigerator, the thermostat regulates the temperature.If it malfunctions, the fridge may not cool to the correct temperature, even if the appliance runs normally. A malfunctioning thermostat might not be able to sense temperature changes and might not cool down enough.
Fixes:
- Make sure the temperature settings are appropriate (37-40°F for the refrigerator, 0°F for the freezer).
- Check the efficiency of the thermostat by setting it to a lower temperature and waiting for the compressor to start.
- If there is no sound, then the thermostat may have to be replaced.
3.Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan motor is the one that is used to circulate cold air in the refrigerator. If this motor is not working properly, the refrigerator may not cool properly and there may be hot spots in the refrigerator.
Fixes:
- As you pull the refrigerator door, hear the evaporator fan running.If no noise is heard, it may be that the motor is faulty.
- Ensure that no objects are blocking the fan blades or ice formed on the blades.
- The evaporator fan motor needs to be replaced if the fan isn’t functioning.
4.Clogged or Frozen Defrost Drain
Water formed in the refrigerator is collected in a defrost drain. If the drain is blocked or frozen, water can collect and interfere with the airflow, causing cooling issues.
Fixes:
- Inspect the defrost drain, usually located at the refrigerator’s base.
- If there is ice or debris visible, use warm water or a pipe cleaner to defrost the area.
- Clear the drain to prevent the accumulation of water and to ensure adequate water flow.
5.Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is an important element in the cooling process. The refrigerator will not be able to reach the necessary cooling temperatures if there is a refrigerant leak. This is an extremely delicate issue that requires expert treatment.
Fixes:
- Check for oil stains around the evaporator coils or the compressor, which may suggest a leakage.
- In case of a leakage, one should consult a professional who will trace the leak, fix it, and recharge the refrigerant.
6.Compressor Problems
The compressor circulates the refrigerant in the refrigerator and if it breaks down, the refrigerator will not cool. Some of the causes of compressor problems include electrical problems, mechanical wear and tear, or damage to the compressor components.
Fixes:
- Check for any unusual noise that comes from the compressor like a buzzing or clicking sound.
- If the compressor is not responding or is defective, it may require the services of a professional technician.
7.Door Seals and Gaskets
Cracks and dirt on the door seals also allow warm air into the refrigerator making it difficult to cool it down. This is a small problem but if not corrected it can lead to a bigger problem.
Fixes:
- Check for any signs of wear and tear on the door seals, such as cracks, tears, or dirt accumulation.
- Replace any worn-out gaskets and wash the seals with warm, soapy water.
- Make sure that the doors shut properly to avoid air leakage.
Addressing cooling issues in your KitchenAid refrigerator promptly is crucial to avoiding operational disruptions and food spoilage. Regular maintenance can prevent common problems, while professional repair is essential for more complex issues. You can prolong your refrigerator’s life and maintain a clean kitchen by being proactive with maintenance.
Written by Allen Rode for PartsFe, your trusted source for a variety of high-quality commercial restaurant equipment, including refrigerator and convection oven parts.
