24/7 Memphis Emergency Service | Commercial Kitchen Experts Call (901) 257-9417
Glass-door reach-in refrigerator with a door ajar and frost on the glass

Commercial Refrigerator Not Cooling?

Try these 3 quick checks before you pay for a service call.

Need it fixed today?

Rapid Pro Maintenance repairs commercial refrigeration for restaurants and food service businesses in Memphis and the surrounding area.

Call (901) 257-9417

Memphis Troubleshooting Guide

Before calling for service, run through this quick checklist. You might save yourself a service fee!

1 Check the Condenser Coils

A leading cause of warm fridges in Memphis kitchens.

Dust, grease, and flour buildup acts like a blanket, trapping heat. If your coil is dirty, the fridge can't cool.

The Fix: Locate the condenser coil (usually bottom or top of unit). Use a stiff brush or vacuum to remove the buildup. If it's greasy, you might need a coil cleaner spray.

If the coil is packed with grease or the reach-in is still warm after cleaning, our commercial refrigeration repair in Memphis covers reach-in coolers, freezers, and prep tables.

2 The "Dollar Bill" Gasket Test

Cold air leaking out means the compressor runs non-stop until it burns out.

The Fix: Close the door on a dollar bill. Try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, your magnetic gasket is shot. Inspect the seal for rips or tears.

On a walk-in, a torn or hardened gasket also leaves condensation at the frame and frost on the evaporator; door gasket replacement and hinge adjustment are part of our walk-in cooler and freezer maintenance in Memphis.

3 Check for Airflow Blockages

Restaurants often stack boxes right in front of the intake vents or fill the shelves so full that air can't circulate.

The Fix: Ensure there is at least 6 inches of clearance around the outside intake vents. Inside, make sure produce boxes aren't blocking the fan fans.

When to Call a Professional

If you've checked the above and it's still warm, you likely have a more serious issue:

Don't risk losing your food inventory.

Rapid Pro handles commercial refrigeration repair in Memphis for reach-ins, prep tables, and walk-ins. If the problem is an ice maker rather than a cooler, see our ice machine repair and cleaning in Memphis.

Commercial Refrigeration Troubleshooting FAQs

Why is my commercial refrigerator running but not cooling?

Common causes include dirty condenser coils, blocked airflow, or low refrigerant. Check if the coils are covered in dust and clean them. Ensure vents aren't blocked by boxes.

How do I check the door seal on my walk-in cooler?

Perform the 'dollar bill test'. Close the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull it out easily without resistance, your gasket is worn and needs replacement.

What temperature should my commercial refrigerator be set to?

Commercial refrigerators should typically maintain a temperature between 35°F and 38°F. Freezers should be between -10°F and 0°F.

Still Not Cooling? Don't Lose Your Inventory.

Our Memphis emergency experts can diagnose and repair it today. We carry parts for True, Traulsen, Hobart, and more.

Call Now: (901) 257-9417

Available 24/7 for Emergency Service