Preparing refrigeration equipment for winter is essential to ensure its efficiency and avoid breakdowns. During the colder months, factors such as checking seals and cleaning condensers are essential for optimising system performance.
In this article, we’ll cover the main strategies that should be adopted to ensure that refrigeration equipment works efficiently and maintains the quality of stored products.
1. Check doors and seals
The importance of sealing for energy performance
Doors and seals are fundamental to ensuring maximum performance from refrigeration equipment, as they act as a barrier to the outside temperature and prevent the equipment from struggling to control the internal temperature.
In winter, although outside temperatures are lower, it’s common to switch on heating systems indoors. This can create a significant difference between the internal temperature of the space and the temperature that the refrigeration equipment needs to maintain. If there are gaps in the seal, heat from the heating systems can penetrate the equipment, forcing the cooling system to work harder to compensate for this interference.
How to inspect the seals
Check the door seals for cracks or wear. You can apply a simple test: close the door of the unit with a coin inside the seal and try to remove it. If the coin comes out easily, this is a negative sign, indicating that the seal is compromised and outside air is entering the unit.
Benefits of correct sealing
Keeping the seals in good condition allows the equipment to maintain its internal temperature, even in heated environments. This minimises the escape of cold air and the entry of hot air, which helps preserve the quality of stored products and reduce energy costs.
2. Cleaning the condensers and evaporators
The importance of regular component cleaning
The good performance of refrigeration and conservation systems depends on the efficiency of the components. Dirt accumulating on elements such as the condenser and evaporator can reduce the equipment’s ability to dissipate heat. Consequently, this situation will cause the equipment to make a greater effort and consume more energy.
Winter humidity can cause dirt to accumulate, which is why it is important to clean. Cleaning is recommended every 6 months, but if the equipment is in a more polluted environment with temperature fluctuations, it should be carried out less frequently (every 3 months, for example).
Use a soft brush or a hoover to remove dust accumulated on the condenser blades and evaporator surfaces. If your system has air filters, check them and replace them if necessary.
Benefits of Regular Cleaning
Clean equipment works more efficiently, prevents overheating and extends the life of the appliances. In addition, regular maintenance reduces the risk of failure and minimises the need for corrective maintenance.
3. Adjusting the internal temperature of the equipment
How ambient temperature affects refrigeration
In winter, the ambient temperature tends to drop, which in theory could be beneficial for refrigeration equipment, as the environment is cooler. However, this scenario can change if the place where the refrigeration equipment is installed is being heated, which is common in many commercial spaces, such as supermarkets, shops or restaurants.
When heating systems, such as radiators or heaters, are switched on in winter to keep customers or employees comfortable, they can generate extra heat, altering the temperature of the environment in which the equipment is operating. This means that although the outside temperature is cool, the internal space may be warmer than ideal for the efficient operation of cooling systems.
To minimise this impact, it is important to adjust the thermostat of the refrigeration equipment. If the room temperature rises due to heating, the thermostat should be regulated to ensure that the equipment operates more efficiently, without having to overwork to maintain the ideal internal temperature. In addition, equipment should be installed in such a way as to avoid direct exposure to heat from heaters or radiators whenever possible.
Benefits of adjusting the temperature correctly
Correctly adjusting the internal temperature of refrigeration equipment ensures that products are stored in ideal conditions, preserving their quality and freshness. It also avoids the risk of the equipment having to work too hard to maintain the ideal temperature, which results in lower energy costs and greater system longevity.
4. Inspection of the drainage system
The importance of effective drainage in winter
During the winter, the risk of water accumulation increases. Accumulated water can lead to freezing problems and, in more serious cases, damage to the equipment. It is therefore essential to ensure that the drainage system is free of obstructions.
How to inspect the drainage system
- Check that the drainage system is clear and that the water drains correctly to the outside. Remove any dirt or debris that may be obstructing the water drain.
- Check the water tank (if there is one) and clean it to prevent the formation of mould or mildew.
Benefits of efficient drainage
Efficient drainage prevents ice from forming and mechanical problems or damage to the system. It also keeps the environment cleaner and reduces the risk of bacteria and mould proliferation.
5. Check the coolant level
How the refrigerant affects equipment performance
The refrigerant level is crucial for the proper functioning of refrigeration systems. If the level is low, the equipment strains and increases energy consumption.
Coolant inspection
- Inspection of refrigerant levels must be carried out by a qualified technician
- If the equipment is running longer than normal or is not reaching the desired temperature, this may indicate that the refrigerant level is low.
Benefits of maintaining the right coolant level
Keeping the refrigerant at the right level prevents overheating and ensures that the equipment works properly.
6. Carry out preventive maintenance
The importance of preventive maintenance in winter
Preventive maintenance is essential to ensure that equipment works properly during the winter. It ensures that all components are in good condition, minimising the risk of failure during the cold season.
Cautions to consider:
- Schedule a professional inspection before winter to check the condition of all components;
- Check the electrical cables and connections to ensure there is no risk of short-circuiting or damage;
Benefits of preventive maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures greater reliability and efficiency, reducing the risk of breakdowns and optimising energy consumption, as well as extending the life of the equipment.
Preparing refrigeration equipment for winter is essential to ensure that it works properly and efficiently during the colder months. With simple actions such as checking the seals, cleaning the condensers, adjusting the temperature and carrying out preventive maintenance, you can avoid breakdowns, save energy and extend the life of the equipment.
Investing in preventive maintenance and the correct adjustment of refrigeration systems is an important step towards guaranteeing business continuity and ensuring food quality and safety.
Preparing refrigeration equipment for the winter is an essential action to ensure its efficient performance and avoid unpleasant surprises during the colder months. With simple measures such as checking seals, cleaning key components, adjusting the temperature, inspecting drainage and preventive maintenance, you can minimise risks, optimise energy consumption and extend the life of the equipment.
FRICON equipment offers the quality you need to cope with all seasons, ensuring the optimum preservation of your products.
