Pre-Season Tune-Ups for Walk-In Coolers & Freezers: Stop Emergencies Before They Start

Pre-Season Tune-Ups for Walk-In Coolers & Freezers: Stop Emergencies Before They Start

Why Pre-Season Service Pays

Hot kitchens + summer ambient heat = stressed refrigeration. A 60-minute tune-up can prevent a 2-day outage and product loss.

Our 18-Point Walk-In Tune-Up

  1. Clean condensers (indoor/outdoor)
  2. Inspect/clean evaporators & verify defrost operation
  3. Check superheat/subcooling, refrigerant levels, leaks
  4. Tighten electrical, inspect contactors/capacitors
  5. Verify door heaters, strip curtains, sweeps
  6. Test fan motors/ECM upgrades opportunities
  7. Calibrate temperature controls & alarms
  8. Inspect drains and pan heaters (freezers)
  9. Document before/after temps and amp draws

Add-On Upgrades That Pay Back

  • ECM evaporator motors (energy savings)
  • LED lighting & door switches
  • Smart temp monitoring with text alerts
  • New gaskets/closers to stop infiltration

Best Time to Schedule

Spring and fall shoulder seasons = quicker appointments and promo pricing.

CTA

Get on our preventive maintenance plan—priority response + seasonal tune-ups. Call 508-521-9477.

FAQ

Do tune-ups void my warranty? No—documentation helps warranty claims.
How often should I service? Quarterly for heavy use; at least bi-annually for most restaurants.


4) New Restaurant Checklist: Choosing the Right Walk-In & Keeping It Running

Meta Title: New Restaurant Walk-In: Sizing, Layout & Maintenance Checklist
Meta Description: Opening a restaurant or café? Use this checklist to size your walk-in cooler/freezer, plan layout, and avoid the most expensive mistakes.

Step 1: Pick Cooler vs. Freezer (or Combo)

  • Walk-In Cooler: 34–41°F for produce/dairy/beverage
  • Walk-In Freezer: 0°F for long-term storage
  • Combo Box: Saves footprint but requires careful load design

Step 2: Sizing & Layout

  • Start with par levels and delivery frequency
  • Allow 6–8″ clearance around coils; don’t block fans
  • Place doors away from cooklines and dish areas to reduce heat/moisture
  • Add shelving that doesn’t trap airflow under evaporators

Step 3: Decide Indoor vs. Outdoor

  • Outdoor units free up kitchen space; confirm slab, canopy, and weather kits
  • Indoor units avoid roof work but need ventilation and service clearance

Step 4: Energy & Health Code Must-Haves

  • Door closers, gaskets, strip curtains
  • ECM fans & LED lights
  • Temp logging and alarm setpoints (41°F cooler / 0°F freezer targets)
  • Routine ice machine cleaning if you serve iced drinks

Step 5: Service Plan = Fewer Emergencies

  • Quarterly condenser cleans
  • Bi-annual tune-ups (verify defrost, check charges, electrical, drains)
  • Keep a “call list” posted by the office phone with 508-521-9477 for fast dispatch

CTA

Opening soon or taking over an existing space? Get a start-up inspection and maintenance plan to protect your inventory from day one. Call 508-521-9477.

FAQ

Can I reuse an old walk-in? Often yes, but inspect panels, gaskets, and the refrigeration package.
What brands do you service? Most major OEMs for coolers, freezers, and ice machines.