Kelvinator Commercial Glass Door Refrigerator Troubleshooting Refrigeration is important in all foodservice establishments. Kelvinator Commercial makes a wide variety of units, including glass door refrigerators. These merchandisers are popular in supermarkets, convenient stores and even some restaurants. If an issue pops up over time, we have easy troubleshooting tips for Kelvinator Commercial glass door refrigerators to help you out.
Kelvinator Commercial Refrigerator Troubleshooting Solutions
Not Cooling / Too Warm
- Power is off – Check if the unit is unplugged or the power source is off.
- Condenser coil is dirty – The condenser coil might have a buildup of dust and debris. Clean the condenser coil thoroughly using a brush or vacuum.
- Evaporator coil is iced over – If the evaporator coil is frosted with ice, first check if the door is cracked open. That stops the unit form cooling properly. If that isn’t the cause, there could be a problem with the defrost system. An authorized technician will need to check the components and correct the issue.
- Temperature control is too warm – Make sure the control knob is turned to a colder setting. Wait several hours for the temperature to stabilize.
- Door is open too long or slightly open – This causes warm air to enter the compartment. Try opening the door less, or check for reasons why the door won’t close (refer to the “Door Won’t Close” section below).
- Large amounts of hot or warm product in the fridge – Wait until the food has had a chance to reach the appropriate temperature you’ve selected.
- Refrigerator was disconnected for an extended stretch of time – Let the appliance reach its cooling points for 24 hours.
Too Cold
Kelvinator Commercial Refrigerator Troubleshooting When the unit is too cold inside, the temperature setting is too low. Make sure the control knob is turned to a warmer setting. Wait several hours for the temperature to stabilize.
Not Running
- Temperature is off – See if the temperature setting is in the “OFF” position by checking the thermostat setting.
- Power outage – Check the lights in your building. Contact your local electric company for assistance.
- Unit is plugged into a circuit with a ground fault – Try to use another circuit. If you’re unsure about the outlet, have it checked by an authorized service technician.
- Power cord is loose or unplugged – Make sure the power cord is plugged tightly into the electrical outlet.
- Blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker – See if the fuse needs to be replaced or the circuit breaker needs to be reset.
Running Too Long
- Warm ambient weather – If the temperature outside or in the room is warm, the unit will run longer and harder.
- Worn out or dirty gaskets – See if the appliance’s gaskets are worn out or dirty. If they’re dirty, wipe them down with a soft cloth and warm water. If worn, have them replaced by an authorized technician.
- Refrigerator was disconnected for an extended stretch of time – Let the appliance reach its cooling points for 24 hours.
- Large amounts of hot or warm product in the fridge – Wait until the food has had a chance to reach the appropriate temperature you’ve selected.
- Door is open too long or slightly open – This causes warm air to enter the compartment. Try opening the door less, or check for reasons why the door won’t close (see “Door Won’t Close” section below).
- Low temperature setting – If the temperature setting is too low, turn the control knob to a warmer setting. Wait several hours for the temperature to stabilize.
Making Noises
- Loud when the unit is running – Due to increased storage capacity and stable temperatures, the unit has heavy-duty compressors that make loud noises when running. This is completely normal. Low noise levels occur when the compressor runs as the interior cools.
- Loud when the compressor turns on – The unit runs at a higher pressure during the beginning of the “ON” cycle. This is completely normal, and the sound will level off as the unit continues running.
- Popping or crackling sound – If you hear a popping or crackling sound as the compressor turns on and water enters the pipes, the metal parts undergo expansion and contraction. This is completely normal, and the sound eventually will level off as the unit continues running.
- Bubbling or gurgling – This sound occurs when refrigerant is circulating throughout the unit to help cool it down. This is completely normal.
- Vibrating or rattling – The unit is likely no level and rocking on the floor. Try to level the refrigerator by placing wood or metal shims under the unit.
Door Isn’t Closing
- Not level – The unit might not be level. This will often be accompanied by a vibrating or rattling sound as well as rocking on the floor. Try to level the refrigerator by placing wood or metal shims under the unit.
- Uneven or weak floor – Double check that the floor is capable of supporting the unit. If not, please move it to another location.
Water, Frost or Moisture Inside
- Hot or humid weather – If the weather is very hot or humid, this can increase the internal rate of frost buildup. This is completely normal.
- Door is open too long or slightly open – This causes warm air to enter the compartment. Try opening the door less, or check for reasons why the door won’t close (refer to the “Door Won’t Close” section above).
Light Bulb Isn’t On
- Fluorescent lamp or bulb is out – If the lamp or bulb has burned out, follow the installation instructions in your operation’s manual or contact an authorized technician for assistance.
- No electric current is flowing to the unit – There could be multiple issues at play. Please refer to the “Not Running” section for assistance.
Strong Odor Inside
- Dirty interior – Clean the interior with a sponge, warm water and baking soda.
- Food or product has a strong odor – In some cases, the food might have a naturally strong odor. Make sure to cover it tightly to avoid odors from escaping into the interior.