A Complete Guide to Diagnosing Walk-in Cooler Compressor Issues

Keeping the walk-in cooler operating without any problems is crucial for people in charge of operations in firms that rely on it. One of the most important parts of a functioning walk-in cooler is a compressor. Your entire refrigeration system may shut down if the compressor fails, which might result in lost inventory, expensive repairs, and disgruntled customers. We’ll give you a thorough how-to on diagnosing walk-in cooler compressor issues in this post so you can maintain the functionality of your system and avoid costly malfunctions.

Read More: walk in cooler repair cost

What is a compressor for a walk-in cooler?

Let’s pause for a moment to understand the walk-in cooler compressor and its workings. The fundamental component of your cooling system is the compressor, which raises the temperature of the refrigerant gas by compressing it and forcing it through the condenser coil, which radiates and cools heat. The gas next passes via the expansion valve, where it expands and cools even more before entering the cooler’s evaporator coil. This area inevitably absorbs heat while also chilling everything inside.

Common Compressor Issues with Walk-in Coolers

After learning the basics of compressor operation, let’s examine some typical issues with walk-in cooler compressors:

Compressor won’t start: A malfunctioning compressor motor, a failing run capacitor, or a broken start capacitor might be the cause of your compressor’s inability to start.

Compressor regularly cycles on and off: A filthy condenser coil, a low refrigerant charge, or a malfunctioning thermostat might be the cause of frequent cycling.

The constant running of the compressor may be caused by an overcharge of refrigerant, a clogged filter drier, or a filthy evaporator coil.

Strange noises coming from your compressor: A worn-out compressor, a loose compressor mount, or a malfunctioning motor might be the cause of any grinding, screeching, or rattling noises coming from your compressor.

Tips for Troubleshooting Walk-in Cooler Compressor Issues

Compressor diagnosis calls for a methodical approach. The actions to take are as follows:

Step 1: Examine the power source

Examine your compressor’s power source as a first step. Verify that the circuit breaker is not tripped and that the power switch is switched on. Go to the following step if the power supply is working properly.

Check the starter capacitor in step two.

The start capacitor has to be checked if your compressor isn’t starting. The compressor motor’s first power increase is supplied by the start capacitor. The motor won’t start if the start capacitor isn’t working properly. Use a multimeter to measure the capacitance and resistance in order to inspect the start capacitor. Change the start capacitor if the measurements are out of range.

Check the run capacitor in step three.

Checking the run capacitor comes next, if the start capacitor is in good condition. The compressor motor is kept running by a steady source of electricity from the run capacitor. A malfunctioning run capacitor might cause the motor to start and then abruptly stop. Use a multimeter to measure the capacitance and resistance in order to inspect the run capacitor. Change the run capacitor if the measurements are out of range.

Verifying the compressor motor is the next step if the start and run capacitors are both in good condition. Test the resistance with a multimeter to determine the motor’s condition.

Step Four: Examine the motor

Verifying the compressor motor is the next step if the start and run capacitors are both in good condition. Test the resistance with a multimeter to determine the motor’s condition. The resistance value will be infinite if there is a problem with the motor. Conversely, if the motor is operating properly, the resistance value will fall within the acceptable range specified by the manufacturer.

It is recommended to replace the motor if it is malfunctioning. Although it might be costly, replacing the compressor motor is required to make sure the walk-in cooler runs well. Make sure the new motor has the same horsepower as the old one when replacing it. The performance of the compressor may be hampered by a motor with more or less horsepower.

Examine the compressor valves in step five.

The compressor valves should be checked whether the compressor motor is operating properly. The refrigerant flow into and out of the compressor is controlled by the compressor valves. Numerous issues, including as inadequate cooling, overheating, and compressor failure, can be brought on by malfunctioning valves.

First, switch off the walk-in cooler’s electricity in order to inspect the compressor valves. Next, take off the compressor valve plate so that the valves are visible. Examine the valves for evidence of deterioration such as pitting, scoring, and cracking. The valves must be changed if they are worn out or broken.

Examine the refrigerator charge in step six.

Verifying the refrigerant charge is the final action to do if everything else is in working order. The compressor may run hot due to low refrigerant charge, which may result in compressor failure. You must measure the pressure of the refrigerant in the system using a refrigerant gauge in order to determine the refrigerant charge.

You must replenish the system with extra refrigerant if the refrigerant charge is low. It’s crucial to remember that adding excessive amounts of refrigerant can also result in issues like inadequate cooling and compressor failure. Therefore, to find the proper refrigerant charge for your walk-in cooler, it’s advisable to speak with an HVAC specialist.

Compressor issues with walk-in coolers may be annoying, particularly if you depend on the cooler to preserve the freshness of your perishables. However, identifying and resolving compressor issues may be simple with the correct information and resources. You may locate the issue and take the required action to resolve it by following the instructions provided in this article.

When working on any electrical equipment, including walk-in refrigerators, never forget to prioritize safety. Before beginning any repairs, turn off the power and put on the proper safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses. If you’re unsure of how to correctly identify and fix the compressor in your walk-in cooler? Refrigeration Repairs has the solutions you require! For a free consultation on walk-in cooler repairs and maintenance, get in touch with us right now.