Are You Cleaning Your Refrigerator Coils?
In our last post we discussed the importance of a Clean & Service plan for commercial refrigeration units. Scheduled cleaning and service is important for making certain that all refrigeration units are holding at South Carolina DHEC required temperatures effectively, and that food is being properly refrigerated to protect consumer safety.
There is also some basic cleaning that equipment owners can do themselves between scheduled service to keep refrigeration equipment operating at peak performance.
Dust and Debris Can Hurt Refrigeration Performance
Dust, dirt, and other large debris finds its way into the nooks and crannies of all refrigeration units–reach-in, walk-in, deli cases and other types. It’s important that dust and dirt is not only cleaned around the refrigeration unit, but that the same dusting, vacuuming and cleaning is done behind the grill where the refrigeration coils live.
When dirt clogs the refrigeration coils, you may notice your unit working harder to maintain cold temperatures. Units may be running louder and longer and not getting cold enough. Additionally, you may notice increased electric bills as a result. Cleaning off the coils is a great first step to addressing your performance problems.
How to Clean the Coils of Your Refrigerator
Before you begin, be sure to unplug your unit for your own safety. Once safely shut down, clean you coils by doing the following:
1. Remove the Grill: The grill is a vented cover that protects the refrigerator’s coils. It may be located at the top, bottom, front or back of the unit, and is held in place with screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the grill, wipe off any debris on the grill surfaces, and set it aside.
2. Brush the Coils: Using a soft coil brush, dust the coils, freeing dirt and debris that may be stuck or lodged in tight spaces.
3. Vacuum the Coils: Remove the loosened dirt and debris using a vacuum cleaner with a crevice attachment. Be gentle with the attachment as the thin metal “fins” can bend easily.
4. Attach the Grill: Replace the grill and tighten all screws.
Once your coils have been cleaned, plug your unit back it and monitor it to determine if cooling power and efficiency has improved.
Call Cooper for Deep Cleaning and Service
While brushed and vacuuming the coils is a great way to keep your refrigeration unit clean, it doesn’t replace the deep cleaning and service testing done by a Cooper Mechanical Services professional. Cooper has been serving the Myrtle Beach area since 1989. We specialize in commercial refrigeration and provide 24/7 emergency service. Call Cooper to speak with our refrigeration specialists.