5 Common Reefer Repair Issues and How to Prevent Them

Refrigerated trucks, or reefers, are essential for the transport of perishable goods, from groceries to pharmaceuticals. However, like any specialized equipment, reefers can experience multiple issues that, if not caught early, can lead to costly repairs or even product spoilage. For fleet operators and drivers in Sturgeon County, AB, understanding common reefer repair issues and how to prevent them is crucial for keeping goods fresh and deliveries on time.

1. Compressor Failure

A compressor in a reefer unit circulates refrigerant to cool the air inside, maintaining a controlled temperature for perishable goods. When it fails, the entire system shuts down, leading to rapid temperature changes that can spoil a load of goods.

Common Causes of Compressor Failure

Compressors can fail due to overheating, low refrigerant levels, or electrical issues. One of the primary causes is a lack of lubrication, which can cause internal components to seize up. To prevent compressor failure, schedule regular inspections and ensure that the refrigerant is topped off. Checking for leaks in the refrigerant system is also critical, as low refrigerant levels can force the compressor to overwork. Ensure that the compressor is properly lubricated by using high-quality oils and replacing them as needed.

2. Electrical Problems

Your reefer unit’s electrical system controls everything from the temperature sensors to the compressor’s power supply. Electrical issues can cause erratic temperature fluctuations, complete unit shutdowns, or false alarms, disrupting deliveries and leading to costly repairs.

Diagnosing Electrical Failures: Common electrical issues include worn wires, loose connections, and faulty relays. Corrosion, often due to moisture exposure, is another major culprit. This corrosion can interrupt power flow or cause short circuits.

Preventing Electrical Issues: Routine electrical system checks can catch problems before they escalate. Inspecting wiring for signs of wear or corrosion and replacing any damaged components is key to keeping the reefer unit running smoothly. Additionally, investing in waterproof connectors and ensuring that exposed electrical components are sealed can greatly reduce the chance of moisture damage.

3. Evaporator Coil Icing

The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat and cooling the inside of your reefer trailer. However, under certain conditions, this coil can freeze up, limiting airflow and making the system work harder to maintain temperature, often leading to complete unit failure.

Why Icing Occurs On Evaporators

Coil icing typically happens when there's an issue with the airflow or humidity levels in the reefer. This could be due to a blocked air filter, low refrigerant levels, or frequent opening of the trailer doors, which introduces warm, moist air.

To prevent this issue, regularly clean or replace the air filters to ensure proper airflow over the coil. Monitoring refrigerant levels can also help maintain optimal conditions for the evaporator to function. Another tip is to minimize door openings in humid environments, which will reduce the introduction of warm air into the reefer.

4. Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant is what allows your reefer system to cool the air inside the trailer. A leak can cause the system to lose its cooling capacity, leading to spoilage of temperature-sensitive goods.

Common Sources of Refrigerant Leaks

Leaks can occur due to damaged hoses, corroded connections, or worn seals within the refrigerant system. Things like physical damage to the reefer unit from road debris or rough terrain can cause refrigerant lines to rupture.

It’s best to have routine inspections of hoses, seals, and fittings can catch early signs of wear or damage, allowing you to fix small leaks before they become bigger problems. Using refrigerant leak detectors during these inspections can help identify invisible leaks before they cause significant cooling loss. Reefer maintenance is important to prevent leaks and identify potential damages to your vehicle.

5. Thermostat Malfunctions

The thermostat is the brain of your reefer unit, regulating the temperature inside the trailer. A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to temperature misreadings, causing the reefer to either overcool or undercool the cargo.

Causes of Thermostat Issues

Thermostats can malfunction due to sensor failures, wiring problems, or software glitches. If the thermostat sensor becomes damaged or dirty, it may not provide an accurate temperature reading to the system, leading to improper cooling.

Ensure that thermostat sensors are regularly cleaned and inspected for proper calibration. Additionally, software updates should be performed regularly to prevent any system bugs that could lead to malfunctioning thermostats. Replacing the thermostat or sensor before it fails is often cheaper than dealing with spoilage or downtime from a failed component.

Stay Ahead of Reefer Repair Issues

Maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your reefer unit is essential for any fleet operator. By staying proactive with routine maintenance, monitoring for early signs of wear, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can prevent costly repairs and avoid the dreaded spoilage of perishable goods.

For operators and fleet managers, RT Heavy Duty Repair offers regular maintenance for your reefer units. Our services include checking compressor health, electrical systems, and thermostats, to extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure that your cargo stays fresh and your deliveries stay on schedule. To keep your heavy-duty trucks & reefers in peak condition, contact RT Heavy Duty Repair for quality repairs & services.