4 DIY Commercial Refrigeration Maintenance Tips

Cartwright’s has been in the plumbing, heating and cooling game since 1939. But did you know that we also service and install commercial refrigeration units for New Mexico restaurants, hotels and other businesses? Our experts are happy to provide regular service on your units. But for those who prefer a more DIY approach for routine maintenance, let us help you prioritize your to do list:

Clean Interior and Exterior Surfaces

One of the most important ways to keep your refrigeration unit running smoothly is basic surface cleanliness. Using a soft brush or washcloth, scrub all surfaces with hot soapy water. Remove shelving and ensure any liquid or ice accumulation is removed to avoid costly repairs. It’s also important to note that all spills in walk-in units should be cleaned immediately to avoid injuries or contamination.

Clean Coils

It’s important to regularly clean your unit’s condenser and evaporator coils. These parts are critical to your refrigerator or freezer running without issue. We recommend performing this maintenance every three months. The condenser coil can be located near the condenser. The evaporator coil is typically by the evaporator fan. After disconnecting power to the unit, use a brush or cloth to remove dust and dirt. Use a vacuum to extract any other undesirable dirt leftover and make sure there is no significant grease buildup.

Check Air Filter

If your refrigerator is near other cooking stations, it will likely collect its fair share of grease and grime buildup in its air filter. Replace your filter as needed or use a degreasing solution to remove buildups. Remove any debris or dirt that may have collected in this part of your unit.

Clean Drain Tubes and Pans

Grime buildup is extremely common around drain tubes and pans. The last thing you want is a drain tube developing a major clog from excess sludge. This will lead to undesirable odors and moisture in your refrigerator unit. Every few months, flush the tubing with hot soapy water and don’t forget to empty any buildup collecting in your drain pan.

Some problems require commercial grade solutions and expertise. Give Cartwright’s a call today or schedule online for a free estimate from one of our commercial plumbers. We are available 24/7 for all your commercial plumbing needs.