How to Maintain Your Commercial Refrigeration for Canadian Winters

As any business owner in the Great White North knows, winter in Canada is not merely a season; it is an endurance test. From the humid coasts of British Columbia to the deep freezes of the Prairies and the blizzards of the Maritimes, the plunging temperatures impact every aspect of facility management. While most restauranteurs and facility managers prioritize their heating systems and insulation during these months, one critical component often goes overlooked: the refrigeration equipment.

There is a common misconception that because it is cold outside, your coolers and freezers get a "break." In reality, the drastic shifts in ambient temperature, the dryness of the air, and the increased workload of indoor heating systems can wreak havoc on aging appliances. Ensuring your equipment is winter-ready is essential to preventing food spoilage, reducing energy costs, and avoiding the nightmare of a mid-service breakdown.

Below is a detailed guide on how to maintain your units during the colder months, and how to recognize when it is time to upgrade to more reliable equipment.

The Paradox of Cold Weather and Refrigeration

It seems counterintuitive that a machine designed to cool things down would struggle when the environment is cold. However, commercial refrigeration systems are engineered to operate within specific ambient temperature ranges. When the temperature drops significantly—especially for units located in unheated back rooms, loading docks, or outdoor enclosures—the pressure within the system can drop, causing the compressor to fail or the oil to thicken, which prevents proper lubrication.

Conversely, for units located in the heart of a kitchen, winter often means the indoor heating is cranked up high. This creates a dry, dusty environment where the ambient temperature fluctuates wildly between the freezing cold of a delivery door opening and the intense heat of the HVAC system. These extremes force your commercial refrigerators to work harder to maintain a consistent internal temperature.

1. Combatting the "Winter Dust" on Condenser Coils

One of the silent killers of refrigeration efficiency in the winter is dust. During the summer, windows and doors might be open, allowing fresh air to circulate. In the winter, buildings are sealed tight to conserve heat. Your forced-air heating system recirculates air, and with it, significant amounts of dust, lint, and grease particles.

This debris settles rapidly on your condenser coils. When coils are clogged, the unit cannot release heat effectively. The compressor must run longer and harder to achieve the set temperature, leading to overheating and premature failure.

• The Fix: Implement a strict bi-weekly cleaning schedule for your coils during winter months. Use a stiff brush and a vacuum to remove buildup.

• The Warning Sign: If you clean the coils and the unit still struggles to hold temperature, the compressor may already be compromised.

If your current unit is requiring constant attention just to keep up with the winter workload, it may be more cost-effective to replace it than to risk a total failure. Canadian Commercial Appliance offers a wide selection of robust units designed to handle high-demand environments. Call 1-800-393-0120 to discuss upgrading your kitchen with reliable, energy-efficient models.

2. Inspecting Gaskets for Dry Rot

Canadian winters are notoriously dry. The lack of humidity in the air is tough on human skin, but it is equally damaging to the rubber gaskets that seal your refrigerator and freezer doors. Over time, rubber loses its elasticity. In dry winter conditions, old gaskets become brittle, crack, and pull away from the frame.

A compromised seal allows cold air to escape and warm, dry air to enter. This triggers two problems:

1. Ice Buildup: The moisture that does enter (usually from cooking steam) hits the cold evaporator coil and freezes instantly, potentially blocking airflow.

2. Energy Waste: Your compressor runs non-stop to compensate for the leak.

Maintenance Tip: Perform the "dollar bill test." Close the door on a dollar bill (or a piece of paper). If you can pull it out easily without resistance, your gasket is shot. Wipe down gaskets with warm soapy water to keep them pliable, but if they are cracked, they must be replaced immediately.

3. Managing Ambient Temperature for Remote Units

Many Canadian businesses, particularly grocery stores and large restaurants, utilize walk-in coolers or freezers with remote condensers located on the roof or outside the building. While these are efficient in the summer, they face specific challenges when the mercury drops to -20°C or lower.

Without a "low ambient kit" or "head pressure control valve," the refrigerant pressure can drop so low that the system thinks it is out of refrigerant. This starves the evaporator, causing the compressor to short-cycle or shut down completely.

• Check Head Pressure Controls: Ensure your remote units are equipped with winter controls that restrict refrigerant flow to maintain proper pressure.

• Clear Snow and Ice: If your condensing unit is outside, ensure it is clear of snow drifts. Restricted airflow due to snow accumulation is just as bad as dust accumulation.

4. Thermostat Calibration and Probe Placement

In winter, the temperature zones in your kitchen can shift. The area near the back door might be freezing, while the line near the ovens is sweltering. If your refrigerator’s thermostat probe is located near a vent blowing hot air, the unit will overcool, potentially freezing your produce. If it’s located in a cold draft, it might not turn on often enough, allowing food to enter the "danger zone."

Action Item: Place a standalone thermometer inside the unit to verify the accuracy of the built-in thermostat. If there is a discrepancy of more than a few degrees, recalibrate the thermostat.

If your equipment is older and lacks precise digital controls, you are gambling with food safety. Modern commercial refrigerators come equipped with advanced digital thermostats that maintain precise temperatures regardless of external fluctuations.

Industry Note: Energy efficiency rebates are often available for upgrading to newer, Energy Star-rated equipment. This is the perfect time to retire an old energy-hogging unit.

If you are unsure which unit suits your specific kitchen layout and climate needs, reach out to the experts. Canadian Commercial Appliance specializes in high-quality commercial units that meet the rigorous standards of the Canadian food service industry. Call 1-800-393-0120 for product advice and inventory availability.

5. The Threat of Ice Accumulation on Evaporator Fans

In the winter, staff often track in snow and slush. As this melts, it increases the humidity at floor level, which is then sucked into reach-in freezers every time the door opens. In a walk-in freezer, this moisture can freeze onto the fan blades or the evaporator coil.

If you notice a loud buzzing or clicking noise coming from your unit, it is likely ice hitting the fan blades. Ignoring this will burn out the fan motor.

• De-ice carefully: Never use a pick or sharp object. Use hot water or a hair dryer to melt the ice (ensure the unit is unplugged).

• Check Drain Lines: A frozen drain line is a common winter issue. If the condensate water cannot drain because the line running to the outside or a floor drain has frozen, the water will back up and freeze inside the unit. Ensure heat tape on drain lines is functioning.

When Maintenance Is No Longer Enough

While the tips above will extend the life of your equipment, there comes a point where the cost of maintenance outweighs the value of the unit. The harsh reality of Canadian winters is that they expose the weak links in your facility. A compressor that was "limping along" in October will often die during the first major deep freeze or the holiday rush.

Signs your unit needs replacement rather than repair:

• Excessive Noise: Grinding or clattering usually indicates internal component failure.

• Rust and Corrosion: Winter moisture accelerates rust. If the exterior or shelving is rusting, the structural integrity and sanitation are compromised.

• Age: If your commercial refrigerator is over 10-12 years old, it is likely running at 50% efficiency compared to modern models.

• Recurring Ice Ups: If you have to manually de-ice your coil weekly, the system has a leak or a major component failure.

Running a business is stressful enough without worrying if your walk-in will hold temperature overnight. Investing in new equipment provides peace of mind, warranty protection, and significantly lower utility bills.

Choosing the Right Equipment for the North

When selecting new equipment, look for features that handle temperature variance well:

• Top-mounted compressors: These are often better in kitchens where flour and dust are prevalent near the floor, though bottom-mounted units are easier to service.

• Digital controls: Essential for monitoring performance.

• Self-closing doors: Critical for preventing heat ingress during busy shifts.

Winter maintenance is not just about fixing what is broken; it is about preventative care to ensure your business operates smoothly during the busiest and coldest times of the year. 

However, when your equipment reaches the end of its lifecycle, no amount of cleaning will restore its efficiency. Recognizing when to upgrade is a key part of smart business management.

For the best selection of durable, high-performance equipment, look no further than Canadian Commercial Appliance. We understand the demands of the Canadian climate and the food service industry. While we do not offer repair services, we provide the top-tier products you need to replace failing units and upgrade your kitchen’s capabilities.

Don't wait for your freezer to fail in the middle of a blizzard. Secure your inventory with reliable equipment today. Call 1-800-393-0120 to speak with a product specialist about your needs.