How Do You Service Commercial Refrigeration?
When it comes to commercial refrigeration, there are many different things you need to consider when you are choosing how to service it. You will want to make sure that you are doing a thorough job so that it can be efficient, safe, and last as long as possible.
Cleaning the exterior of the unit
If you want to keep your commercial refrigeration unit working at its best, cleaning it from time to time is essential. This will extend the life of your equipment and save on energy costs. It will also help you avoid unexpected breakdowns.
In order to clean your commercial refrigerator, you should start with the exterior. This is the area where dust and debris build up. You can easily get rid of this accumulated dirt by using a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
For the interior of your refrigerator, you can use a sponge or a soft-bristled brush. A good scrubbing technique can be followed by a thorough rinse with a clean water. Alternatively, you can use a mild detergent mixed with warm water.
During the cleaning process, you should pay special attention to the condenser coils. These should be cleaned at least once a month to maintain the unit’s efficiency. If they become dirty, they will not be able to release the heat required to cool the food inside. This can lead to overheating and possible damage to the refrigerator.
Aside from the evaporator, the condenser is another vital component of your refrigeration unit. It helps to cool the interior of the unit by absorbing heat from the warm air.
Cleaning the condenser coil
Cleaning the condenser coil is a vital part of maintaining the efficiency of your refrigerator. It is a simple process that can improve the longevity of your unit. Performing this maintenance every three months can help you get the most out of your unit.
You can clean your coils with either a commercial cleaner or a home-made detergent. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear chemical impervious goggles. Using acidic cleaners could lead to corrosion, which will shorten the life of your coils.
If you’re unsure about how to properly clean your coils, it’s best to consult an expert. In addition, it’s not advisable to use high-pressure coil cleaning equipment. It can damage delicate fins.
For a more natural approach, try a vinegar-based solution. Alternatively, you can use alkaline cleaners. These are based on sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. These cleaners can remove grease and grime. Ideally, a dilution ratio of 1:4 or 1:2 should be used.
Before attempting to clean your coils, you should shut down the system. This will allow you to apply the chemicals without fumes. For best results, use a low-pressure sprayer. It’s also important to rinse the coils thoroughly after applying the cleaner.
A coil brush is a helpful tool for removing dirt and grime from the coil face. You can also vacuum the coils for better removal. However, you should avoid hard bristles since they may damage the AC fins.
Cleaning the drain pan
Commercial refrigeration systems require frequent cleaning. You must clean the drain pan to keep the system running smoothly. This will also prevent a clogged drain line. During winter, sludge can build up in the tubing and cause the unit to freeze. Sludge can also produce a foul odor.
Before you begin cleaning, make sure that your refrigerator is empty. This will enable you to easily reach into tight spaces and remove the accumulated sludge.
You can clean the drain pan with hot water, soap, and vinegar. The acidity in the vinegar helps to break up any buildup. If you don’t have a removable drip pan, you can clean it with a cloth soaked in an antibacterial cleaning solution. The solution should be left on the drip pan for a few minutes.
The condensate drain outlet on your unit is usually at the base of the compressor. It is usually covered by a cover. You can use a small nut driver to pop the cover off. Afterwards, you can use a soft brush to scrape debris off the evaporator coil.
If you are cleaning your air conditioner, it is important that you use a mask. This will help protect you from the fumes and allergens. You can also take the time to find any leaks. If you do have a leak, you can fix it with waterproof sealant.
