Refrigeration Faults We Diagnose
A reference to the commercial refrigeration faults we diagnose and repair across Gauteng — each documented with likely causes and on-site checks.
Not Cooling
The refrigeration system runs but the room or cabinet fails to pull down to setpoint — the most common emergency fault across cold rooms and freezer rooms.
Ice Buildup On Evaporator
Ice bridging across the evaporator coil blocks airflow and stops the room pulling down — usually a defrost or door-infiltration problem.
Compressor Failure
The compressor has stopped pumping — tripped, seized, or with burnt windings — requiring diagnosis before replacement to protect the new unit.
Refrigerant Leak
Loss of refrigerant charge reduces capacity and eventually stops cooling — the leak must be found and repaired before the system is regassed.
Temperature Fluctuation
The room swings above and below setpoint, risking food-safety breaches — usually a control, sensor or load issue.
Defrost System Failure
The defrost cycle is not clearing ice from the evaporator, leading to airflow loss and rising temperature in freezer and cold rooms.
Electrical Faults
Control-circuit and power faults that trip breakers or prevent the compressor and fans running — requiring systematic electrical diagnosis.
Door Seal Failure
Failed door gaskets and misaligned doors let warm humid air in, causing ice buildup, temperature rise and excessive load on the refrigeration system.
Fan Motor Failure
Evaporator or condenser fan failure stops heat transfer — the room warms even though the compressor may still run.
Thermostat / Controller Failure
A failed thermostat or electronic controller stops the system calling for cooling, or holds it on continuously — both risking product.
Condenser Problems
A fouled or fan-failed condenser raises head pressure, cuts cooling capacity and can trip the compressor on high-pressure protection.
Compressor Overheating
The compressor overheats and trips on motor protection — usually from poor cooling, high head pressure or oil-return problems.
Strange Noises
Unusual compressor or fan noises often signal a developing mechanical or electrical fault that should be diagnosed before failure.