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.
