Most restaurant and food service operators know that their commercial refrigeration equipment is vital to their business. After all, this type of equipment is responsible for keeping perishable food items fresh and safe for customers to consume. But, like any other type of mechanical equipment, commercial refrigeration units will eventually break down and need repair.

Unfortunately, many restaurants and food service operators wait until their unit completely breaks down before seeking professional repair services. This can often result in the loss of significant amounts of food — and money. To help you avoid this potential catastrophe, here is a list of five signs that indicate it's time to seek professional commercial refrigeration repair services:

1. The food in your refrigerator is spoiling quickly

If you've noticed that the food in your refrigerator is spoiling more quickly than usual, it could be a sign that your commercial refrigeration unit is in need of repair. Most fridge units are designed to keep food fresh for a certain period of time, so if you're seeing an uptick in spoilage, it's likely due to a problem with your unit. There are a number of potential issues that could be causing the problem, from a dirty condenser coil to a faulty thermostat. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. 

2. The temperature inside your fridge is inconsistent

If you've noticed that the temperature inside your commercial refrigerator is no longer consistent, it's time to call a professional. Temperature fluctuations can cause food to spoil more quickly, so it's important to have this issue addressed as soon as possible.

3. There is water pooling around your fridge

If you notice water pooling around your fridge, it's important to seek professional repair services right away. There are several potential causes of a leaking fridge, including a clogged drainage system or a faulty seal. A qualified technician will take the time to diagnose the problem and ensure that it's properly fixed.

4. Your fridge is making strange noises

If your commercial refrigerator is making strange noises, it's a sign that something is wrong. Common issues that can cause strange noises include loose fan blades, a worn-out compressor, or ice build-up in the evaporator coils. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

5. The door seals on your fridge are damaged

If the door seals on your commercial refrigerator are cracked or damaged, it's important to have them replaced as soon as possible. Damaged door seals can cause cool air to escape, which will make your fridge work harder — and use more energy — to maintain the desired temperature.

If you've noticed any of these issues with your commercial refrigerator, it's important to seek professional repair services such as NuAire Mechanical Engineering as soon as possible. Waiting too long to address the problem could result in costly food spoilage and other problems.