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In Summerville, SC, where the local food scene is thriving and restaurants line Main Street and Highway 78, commercial kitchens work hard day in and day out. Reliable exhaust systems are essential not only for comfort but for safety and code compliance.

This week, our team at Arctic Air Inc. completed a full rooftop grill exhaust replacement for a busy restaurant in Summerville. The result was a cleaner, safer, and more efficient ventilation system designed to handle daily heavy use in the Lowcountry’s humid climate.

How We Properly Replaced a Restaurant Exhaust System

Here’s how our team completed a safe, code-compliant replacement using proven commercial methods.

Removing the Old and Preparing for the New

The unit was fully removed and the curb exposed. Years of grease buildup and corrosion were clearly visible. That kind of wear is common in South Carolina kitchens, where humidity accelerates metal degradation and grease saturation.

After removing the old unit, we thoroughly cleaned the base and inspected the structural integrity of the roof penetration.

Inspecting and Reinforcing the Curb

We closely checked the existing curb for rust or weakness. Any compromised metal was reinforced to guarantee a secure mounting point. Proper alignment and sealing are key here.

A flush, stable base ensures the fan can operate efficiently without vibration, air leaks, or exposure to the elements.

Crane Lift for Safe Installation

Once the site was prepped, we used a crane to safely lift the new upblast exhaust fan onto the roof.

Our crew guided the unit into place with precision. This step is typical for commercial-grade exhaust fans, which are too large to move manually and must be carefully positioned to avoid damage to the roof structure or the fan itself.

Final Hook-Up and Testing

With the new fan in position, our technicians secured it, reconnected the electrical lines, and completed startup testing. We checked airflow performance, motor function, balance, and duct connections.

Everything was verified to meet current code requirements and safety standards. The result is a robust, energy-efficient exhaust system that can handle the demands of a high-output kitchen.

This upgrade not only improves airflow and kitchen comfort but also lowers fire risk and reduces future maintenance issues.

The restaurant now has peace of mind knowing their exhaust system meets the demands of their operation, plus the regulations of the local fire and health departments.

Don’t Let an Old Exhaust Fan Put Your Restaurant at Risk

If your fan is outdated, corroded, or underperforming, a replacement can prevent bigger problems down the road.

At Arctic Air Inc., we specialize in exhaust fan replacements, kitchen ventilation upgrades, and full-service HVAC solutions for restaurants across Summerville, SC and the surrounding Lowcountry. Our team handles everything from safe removal to professional installation using the latest equipment and proven methods.

Contact us today to schedule your upgrade or request a service. Let’s keep your kitchen running safely and efficiently!

When a restaurant in Walterboro, SC, noticed its walk-in freezer wasn’t maintaining temperature, they called Arctic Air Inc. for a fast and professional solution.

The issue turned out to be more serious than expected. Heavy ice buildup on the evaporator coil had started affecting the freezer’s performance and airflow, threatening food safety and daily operations.

Identifying the Cause: Fan Motor Failure and Door Seal Problems

Upon arrival, our team quickly diagnosed two contributing issues.

First, the evaporator fan motor had failed. This motor is essential for circulating air across the coil and keeping temperatures consistent. Without proper airflow, cold refrigerant lingers too long on the coil surface, leading to ice formation.

Second, the freezer door was not sealing correctly, which allowed warm, humid air from the kitchen to enter. That extra moisture accelerated ice accumulation on the coil.

Both of these are common issues in high-traffic commercial kitchens. This is especially true in the South Carolina Lowcountry, where high humidity creates ideal conditions for ice to form when airflow or insulation is compromised.

The Repair Process: Restoring Efficiency Step-by-Step

To address the problem, our technicians followed a proven commercial HVAC-R repair process:

• Defrosting the Unit: We safely removed the ice buildup without damaging any internal components. This step is critical before any parts can be accessed or tested.
• Replacing the Evaporator Fan Motor: A new motor was installed to restore steady airflow and prevent future frost accumulation.
• Door Adjustment and Seal Inspection: We realigned the freezer door and inspected the gasket to ensure a tight, consistent seal. This is crucial for keeping out humid kitchen air.
• System Restart and Monitoring: After repairs, we restarted the system and monitored the suction pressure and temperature to confirm proper operation.

Thanks to these timely repairs, the restaurant was able to resume full operation without losing inventory or compromising food safety standards.

Why Commercial HVAC-R Repair Matters in Walterboro, SC

For restaurants and food service businesses in the vibrant place of Walterboro, SC, HVAC-R equipment is essential to daily operations.

The local climate, with its long, hot summers and high humidity, adds even more stress to refrigeration systems. Even small issues, like a worn-out fan motor or a poorly sealed door, can quickly lead to significant problems if not addressed early.

Routine maintenance and prompt repairs are key to avoiding downtime, protecting food inventory, and staying in compliance with health codes. When a walk-in freezer or cooler fails, every minute truly counts.

Keep Your Kitchen Running Strong with Arctic Air’s Expertise

Freezer issues don’t resolve themselves. The longer they go unchecked, the more damage they can cause. If your restaurant’s refrigeration system is underperforming, acting quickly can save you thousands in spoiled inventory and lost business.

At Arctic Air Inc., we provide expert commercial air-conditioning and refrigeration repair services throughout Walterboro and the surrounding Lowcountry. From walk-in freezers to full kitchen systems, we’re here to keep your equipment running reliably and efficiently.

Call us today to schedule your service or send an inquiry.

Let us help you stay cool under pressure.