When ice builds up in a commercial walk-in freezer, it might seem normal. After all, a freezer is supposed to freeze things. It’s only natural that ice and frost may occur once in a while. Even though this may seem like the case, the truth is that ice build-up is usually a sign that there is something wrong with the freezer.
So what causes ice build-up? There are many internal and external factors at play that could cause the problem. The best thing to do is to call a professional to give you the most accurate diagnosis of what is going on, but there are some things you can do beforehand to see what may be causing the ice to form.
If ice build-up in your freezer is becoming a problem, Ambient Edge can help. Our team of licensed technicians can diagnose and fix any issues that are affecting your freezer. We service all freezers, including Bush, Nor-Lake, and Barr models. With Ambient Edge, customer satisfaction is guaranteed. Call us and make an appointment today.
Causes of Ice Build-Up
Ice build-up is primarily caused by hot air and humidity entering the freezer. One of the most common reasons ice builds up is the door being left open for too long. This is the easiest issue to fix. Simply keep the door closed at all times when not in use. Keeping the door closed sounds like a no-brainer, but forgetting to close the door happens a lot. Whenever you open the door to go inside, make sure you know what you are looking for. Freezer organization can help remedy this problem.
Asides from doors being open too long, broken doors and improper sealing can cause hot and/or moist air to enter the freezer as well. If your door is not latching correctly, its gaskets are loose or damaged, or the door seems difficult to open and close, these are all textbook causes of ice build-up.
Age is also a factor when it comes to ice build-up. Over time, your freezer’s insulation will fade due to years of use. If you know that your commercial walk-in freezer is old, then it might be time to get a new one. Bad insulation allows for hot air to more easily enter the freezer’s interior, which creates a build-up of ice.
Issues with the evaporator coil or drain can also cause build-ups of ice to form. Evaporator coils contain a heating element that defrosts them when excess condensation causes frost and ice to form. When the defroster does not cycle at its regularly scheduled intervals or simply stops working, excess frost can build up on the ceiling of the freezer, or wherever the evaporator is located. If there is frost on the floor of the freezer, look to see if it is near a drain. A clogged drain will allow water to pool and freeze on the floor.
Things that cause ice build-up in a commercial walk-in freezer varies. It can be something as simple as leaving the door open too long, or it can be something entirely different. These causes are usually the most common and are easy to miss, but a professional can find the root of the problem and repair it in no time.
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Why Ice Build-Up Is Bad
When left unattended, ice build-up in a freezer can cause a host of safety issues, as well as damages that may be costly to fix. The longer a build-up issue is left unresolved, the worse the damage and potential hazards become.
If your walk-in freezer stores food, then frost and ice can damage that food by way of freezer burn. Not only is the flavor and texture of the food compromised, but its safety is as well. Ice and frost build-up inside your freezer is usually a sign that temperatures are above optimal levels, which is not good for food safety. In addition, excess moisture can also cause the interior of the freezer to rust or grow mold in certain areas. Mold and rust are health code violations and health hazards for your employees and customers.
Ice build-up can also damage your freezer. As the ice melts and refreezes inside the freezer, it can spread throughout the interior and damage the freezer’s internal components. If your freezer’s evaporator coils cannot do its job due to the ice and frost, your freezer will overwork itself to maintain an optimal temperature range. This can drastically reduce the lifespan of your freezer.
When ice and frost build up on the floor, it can create a hazardous environment for anyone inside or near the freezer. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a slip and fall accident is one of the most common workplace injuries in the U.S. Slip and fall accidents are dangerous for you and those around you. Prevent injuries and potential lawsuits by addressing ice build-up as soon as you notice it.
Cost is also an important factor, as commercial walk-in freezers are expensive. Having to replace one before its lifespan due to ice build-up can be a huge dent in anyone’s wallet. When ice builds up and your freezer overworks itself, it ceases to be energy-efficient and can cost you more on your energy bills. Having to throw out food or other temperature-sensitive material due to ice build-up is a waste of money, too.
Get Help for Your Freezer
Preventative maintenance is key to making sure your freezer stays running efficiently. Organizing and cleaning your freezer, as well as educating your staff on proper freezer usage, ensures that you create a safe environment and get the most out of your freezer.
Our technicians at Ambient Edge are experts at what they do and can make any repair you need to keep your commercial walk-in freezer running at maximum efficiency. Do not let the potential damages of ice build-up cost you money you otherwise would not have to spend. Our priority is to make your life easier. Call us to make an appointment today.
