Avoid These Common Mistakes That Drain Your Refrigeration Efficiency
- Przemysław Chmurski
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
In London’s fast-paced hospitality and retail industries, refrigeration is critical—but often overlooked. Minor issues like dirty coils or poor airflow may seem harmless, but they can lead to sky-high energy bills, equipment failure, and even food safety violations.
If you run a restaurant, café, commercial kitchen, or supermarket, here’s what you need to know to avoid the most common refrigeration maintenance mistakes.
1. Dirty Condenser Coils
What’s the issue? Dust, grease, and debris buildup on condenser coils prevents proper heat exchange, forcing your unit to work harder—and use more energy.
Impact: Up to 25% more energy usage, reduced cooling capacity, and increased risk of system failure.
How to fix it: Coils should be professionally cleaned at least every 6 months—more often in kitchens or dusty environments.
2. Poor Airflow Around Units
What’s the issue? Blocked vents or placing units too close to walls restricts airflow, overheating the compressor and lowering performance.
Impact: Can reduce cooling efficiency and shorten equipment lifespan.
How to fix it: Keep at least 5–10 cm clearance around units and avoid stacking stock near ventilation points.
3. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
What’s the issue? Setting temperatures lower than needed doesn’t improve food safety—it just wastes energy.
Impact: Unnecessary wear on compressors, higher electricity bills.
How to fix it: Set chillers to 2–4°C and freezers to –18°C for optimal energy efficiency and food safety.
4. Overloading or Poor Stocking Practices
What’s the issue? Overpacked shelves block airflow inside the fridge, causing uneven cooling and strain on the system.
Impact: Hot spots, spoiled stock, and compressor overload.
How to fix it: Don’t stack items directly in front of air vents. Train staff on best practices for spacing.
5. Ignoring Signs of Refrigerant Leaks
What’s the issue? Low refrigerant levels can make your system run longer to reach the set temp—driving up energy use.
Impact: Decreased cooling, ice buildup, increased wear and tear.
How to fix it: Look for ice on coils, hissing sounds, or reduced performance. Schedule a professional inspection.
6. Lack of Preventive Maintenance Plan
What’s the issue? Waiting until something breaks costs more in downtime and repair fees.
Impact: Unpredictable breakdowns, stock loss, and loss of business.
How to fix it: Sign up for a planned maintenance schedule with RSI Professional. We handle cleaning, inspections, filter checks, temperature calibration, and emergency callouts.
How RSI Professional Can Help
Whether you’re running a corner café or a full-scale food production site, our London-based team can help you stay compliant, efficient, and stress-free.
✔️ Planned maintenance & emergency repairs
✔️ Energy-saving audits for commercial fridges & freezers
✔️ REFCOM-certified technicians
✔️ Fast response across London and M25
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