A frozen evaporator coil in your refrigeration system is a common problem that can hinder the efficiency of your cooling equipment. Whether you’re managing a freezer, fridge, or any refrigeration system, addressing the issue of frozen coils quickly is essential to avoid costly repairs or system failure.
Below, All So Cool will guide you through the process of fixing a frozen evaporator and how to prevent the issue from recurring:
Step 1: Temporarily Adjust the System Setpoint
The first action to take when you notice a frozen evaporator is to stop the refrigeration cycle from making the problem worse. You can do this by temporarily adjusting the system setpoint. Raise the setpoint above the ambient temperature, which will inhibit the refrigeration process and prevent the system from continuing to freeze. This step allows the ice on the evaporator coil to begin to thaw naturally.
While raising the temperature, keep the fans running to maintain air circulation around the evaporator. This airflow helps the ice melt without introducing too much heat to the environment, giving the ice enough time to gradually clear. Be patient, as the ice may take several hours to melt completely, depending on the extent of the freeze.
Step 2: Run Defrost Cycles (For Freezers)
If the frozen evaporator is part of a freezer system, the process can be expedited by running a few defrost cycles. Most freezers are equipped with a built-in defrost cycle, which alternates between running the refrigeration system and activating a defrost heater to melt any ice that has built up on the evaporator coils.
Running the system through a few defrost cycles helps clear the ice faster and prevents the system from freezing again once it returns to its regular refrigeration mode. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for defrosting, as excessive or improper defrost cycles could affect the longevity of your freezer.
Step 3: Use Cold Water for Severe Ice Buildup
For more severe ice buildup, where simple adjustments or defrost cycles won’t suffice, you may need to manually melt the ice. This can be done by using a hose with cold water running at low pressure over the frozen evaporator. Cold water will help break down the ice, speeding up the thawing process.
However, this method can get quite messy, so be sure to protect surrounding areas from water damage. Additionally, it’s crucial to exercise caution during this step. Never direct water towards electrical components such as fan motors, defrost heaters, or thermostats. Water and electricity do not mix, and coming into contact with these electrical parts can cause serious damage or pose a safety risk.
Step 4: Diagnose the Cause of the Ice Buildup
Once the evaporator has thawed and your system is running again, it’s important to determine the root cause of the ice buildup. In some cases, frozen evaporators are a one-time issue, but if it keeps happening, it could indicate a deeper problem.
Several factors can cause repeated ice buildup on evaporator coils, including insufficient airflow, a refrigerant leak, a malfunctioning defrost system, or dirty coils. If the problem persists despite following these steps, it may be time to call in the professionals at All So Cool to diagnose and fix the underlying issue. Our team can attend to your refrigeration system and ensure that any recurring problems are addressed promptly, preventing further disruptions to your operations.
Fixing a frozen evaporator in your refrigeration system doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By temporarily adjusting the setpoint, running defrost cycles, or using cold water for severe ice buildup, you can resolve the issue and restore your system’s efficiency.
However, if frozen coils are an ongoing problem, it’s important to have the system checked by a professional – such as the mechanics at All So Cool, to ensure that there are no deeper mechanical issues. Preventing frequent freezes will save you time, money, and keep your refrigeration equipment working effectively.
Having your refrigeration plant serviced by All So Cool at regular intervals will prevent the chance of a system breakdown. Breakdowns diminish your productivity and typically cost more than a preventative repair. Our reactive service means if you suffer a breakdown, our qualified technicians carry on board a variety of common parts that will get your equipment operating in the shortest period of time possible.
Chat to All So Cool fridge mechanics Brisbane and Gold Coast on (07) 3422 0011 to discuss how we can help keep your business running cool. We are available 24/7.