Temperature swings can put significant strain on industrial refrigeration systems, especially in facilities that operate year-round, like food processing plants, cold storage warehouses, beverage producers, and agricultural operations. As outdoor conditions shift from hot to cold or cold to hot, refrigeration equipment has to work harder to maintain stable temperatures inside the facility.

Seasonal maintenance isn’t just routine housekeeping—it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent energy waste, unexpected breakdowns, and costly product loss. With thoughtful preparation, facility managers can keep systems operating efficiently and identify issues long before they become emergencies.

Here’s a detailed, practical checklist to help your facility stay ahead of seasonal changes and ensure your refrigeration system remains reliable no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Inspect and Clean Condensers
Condensers are highly sensitive to outdoor temperature fluctuations. When the weather warms up, dirty or restricted condenser coils force the system to work much harder to reject heat. By cleaning your condenser coils, you’re able to improve heat rejection, lower head pressure, and reduce overall system load, saving energy when temperatures peak.

What to check:

Remove dirt, dust, debris, cottonwood, or pollen buildup
Check for bent fins or airflow obstructions
Confirm fan motors and belts are operating properly
Inspect variable frequency drives (VFDs) if applicable

Evaluate Evaporators for Frost and Airflow Issues
Seasonal humidity changes can increase moisture levels in refrigerated spaces, which often leads to frost buildup or ice accumulation on evaporator coils. When this happens, cooling capacity is reduced, forcing compressors to run longer, increasing energy costs and decreasing system reliability.

What to check:

Coil frost levels and airflow restrictions
Proper function of defrost cycles
Drain pan cleanliness and unobstructed drains
Fan motors, bearings, and blade condition

Test System Controls and Sensors
As temperatures swing, controls play a major role in maintaining consistent operation. Even slight deviations in sensor accuracy can mean the difference between stable product temperatures and operational downtime.

What to check:

Calibrate temperature and pressure sensors
Test safeties, alarms, and interlocks
Verify setpoints for compressors, condensers, evaporators, and defrost cycles
Inspect wiring and connections for wear or corrosion

Review Refrigerant Levels and Check for Leaks
Temperature fluctuations can affect pressure balances, making undetected leaks more problematic during seasonal transitions. By maintaining proper refrigerant charge, you prevent inefficiency, protect compressor health, and ensure your system delivers its full capacity.

What to check:

Suction and discharge pressure trends
Liquid levels in receivers
Oil levels indicating possible leaks
Leak detection monitors and alarm functionality

Inspect Compressors for Efficiency and Wear
Compressors shoulder the most significant workload during seasonal changes, particularly during warm weather. Any sign of stress or inefficiency can become a major issue quickly. With early detection of performance issues, you can prevent breakdowns and increase your compressor’s lifespan.

What to check:

Oil quality (send out for analysis if needed)
Vibration levels
Suction superheat and discharge temperatures
Valve plate integrity
Motor amperages and electrical connections

Confirm Proper Operation of Defrost Systems
Defrost requirements tend to change with seasonal humidity. If defrost cycles are too frequent or too infrequent, both energy efficiency and product quality can suffer. Optimized defrosting saves energy, improves evaporator performance, and reduces temperature fluctuations inside refrigerated spaces.

What to check:

Review time-initiated or demand-defrost settings
Inspect heaters, solenoids, and termination sensors
Confirm proper ice melt and drainage

Test and Service Condenser Water Systems (For Evaporative Models)
For facilities that rely on evaporative condensers, seasonal temperature changes often require water system adjustments to maintain efficiency. Proper water system maintenance significantly improves heat rejection and extends equipment life.

What to check:

Water treatment levels to prevent scale or corrosion
Basin cleanliness and water distribution
Pump operation and flow rates
Fan sequencing to match seasonal loads

Review System Start-Up and Shutdown Procedures
During seasonal transitions, some facilities increase or decrease production, while others bring systems offline temporarily. It’s important to verify that proper start-up or shutdown steps are followed. By avoiding thermal shock and electrical stress, you can protect core components and ensure smooth, reliable system operation.

What to check:

Correct oil return
Stable pressures during start-up
Proper sequencing for multi-compressor systems
Standby equipment readiness

Validate Compliance Documentation and Safety Systems
With every season change, it’s a good time to review safety records and required documentation, especially for ammonia systems governed by PSM and IIAR standards. Seasonal maintenance also provides a natural checkpoint for safety compliance, reducing the risk of violations or preventable incidents.

What to check:

Relief valve schedules
SOP updates
Emergency ventilation testing
Alarm logs and panel notifications
Leak detection and emergency shutoff readiness

Consider a Professional Seasonal Tune-Up
While many facilities handle day-to-day maintenance in-house, seasonal transitions often require a deeper level of inspection and system knowledge. A professional tune-up can identify issues that aren’t visible from routine checks, including control logic problems, load imbalances, airflow deficiencies, and early-stage compressor or fan failures. This results in higher efficiency, lower operating costs, and fewer surprises when extreme temperatures hit.
A Strong Season Starts With Strong Preparation
Temperature swings challenge even the best refrigeration systems, but with a proactive seasonal maintenance plan, your facility can operate efficiently, reliably, and safely all year long.

Whether you operate a food processing plant, beverage facility, cold storage warehouse, or agricultural operation, smart seasonal maintenance protects your product, your equipment, and your bottom line.

Ready to prepare your system for the season ahead? Connect with the Central Washington Refrigeration team today at 509-248-4600.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming nearly every industrial sector, and industrial refrigeration is no exception. Facilities that depend on reliable, precise temperature control are under increasing pressure to reduce energy costs, minimize downtime, improve safety, and comply with tightening regulations. As a result, the industry is moving toward smarter, data-driven systems designed to anticipate problems before they happen.

For plant managers, operations directors, and facility engineers, understanding where AI and automation are headed can provide a major competitive advantage. The next decade will bring significant changes to how refrigeration systems are monitored, controlled, and maintained, and Central Washington Refrigeration is here for it all.

Here’s a look at what’s already emerging and what’s coming next.
Intelligent Controls That Adapt in Real Time
Traditional control systems follow fixed logic: if X happens, the system initiates Y. But real facilities are dynamic, with shifting load conditions, varying ambient temperatures, and changing equipment performance over time.

AI-enabled controls allow refrigeration systems to learn and adapt. What this looks like in practice:

Controls adjust compressor sequencing based on real-time load and energy cost
Systems optimize suction pressure and head pressure autonomously
AI predicts the most efficient operating points instead of using fixed setpoints
Algorithms account for weather patterns, product pull-down needs, and occupancy

The result? Lower energy consumption, fewer short-cycling events, and smoother daily operations.
Predictive Maintenance Replacing Reactive Maintenance
For decades, refrigeration maintenance has centered on scheduled intervals: checking oil levels, vibration, temperatures, and pressures at set times. But problems often emerge between preventive visits.

AI-powered predictive maintenance uses continuous sensor data to monitor equipment health in real time. What AI can detect before failure:

Slight increases in discharge temps
Changes in compressor vibration patterns
Early refrigerant leaks
Fan or motor inefficiency
Oil degradation
Frost buildup trends
Valve performance shifts

When the system notices something unusual, it can alert technicians before the issue becomes critical. This proactive approach reduces unplanned downtime, extends equipment lifespan, and minimizes product loss. For high-volume food processors, cold storage facilities, and distribution centers, predictive maintenance can completely reshape budget planning and risk management.
Automated Load Balancing and Energy Optimization
Industrial refrigeration represents a major portion of a facility’s total energy consumption—sometimes up to 60% of the entire energy load in cold storage operations. AI is making it possible to intelligently manage that load without sacrificing performance.

Energy efficiency tools powered by AI include:

Adaptive Defrost Cycles. Initiating defrost only when sensors detect actual frost buildup, rather than on a timer.
Compressor Optimization. Staging compressors based on real-time energy prices, thermal demand, and operating efficiency.
Smart Condenser Fan Control. Adjusting speed based on ambient temperature trends and optimal condensing pressure.
Heat Recovery Analytics. Capturing waste heat for hot water or space heating to reduce overall energy use.

These improvements can reduce energy consumption by 10–30%, depending on facility size and complexity.
Improved Safety Through Automation
Ammonia systems and other natural refrigerants require rigorous safety compliance and close monitoring. Automation enhances Process Safety Management (PSM) by improving both visibility and response times.

Examples of automated safety enhancements include continuous monitoring for NH₃ concentrations, automatic ventilation activation, remote shutoff capabilities, spill and leak detection, and real-time compliance documentation.

Instead of relying on manual checks or delayed detection, automated systems respond in seconds, improving safety for both personnel and equipment.
Remote Monitoring and Cloud-Based Data Access
Modern facilities are no longer limited to on-site supervisory control systems. Cloud-based dashboards allow managers and technicians to access system data from anywhere, at any time.

For instance, remote monitoring capabilities allows for viewing real-time suction and discharge pressures, tracking compressor performance, monitoring refrigeration loads, and accessing maintenance logs.

For multi-site operations, this eliminates guesswork and standardizes efficiency. Facility managers get immediate visibility into performance and can prioritize issues quickly, even if they’re off-site.
Integration With Plant-Wide Automation Systems
Industrial refrigeration is no longer operating in isolation. AI-driven refrigeration systems increasingly integrate with:

PLCs and SCADA systems
Building automation systems (BAS)
Manufacturing execution systems (MES)
Energy management platforms

This allows refrigeration to adjust based on production schedules, equipment start-up or shutdown, cleaning cycles, shifts in demand, and utility rates. When refrigeration “talks” to the rest of the facility, operations become more predictable and efficient.
The Future: Digital Twins and Fully Autonomous Plants
The next frontier is the use of digital twins, which are virtual models of refrigeration systems that mirror every component and operating condition in real time. This matters because engineers can test system changes virtually before applying them, supervisors can visualize behavior under different loads, and AI learns how different scenarios impact efficiency and equipment health.

In the long term, digital twins will pave the way for fully autonomous refrigeration plants where AI handles everything from load balancing and optimization to safety responses and maintenance scheduling. Human oversight will always remain essential, but automation will carry much of the routine workload.
AI and Automation Are Reshaping the Future of Refrigeration
AI and automation are rapidly becoming essential tools for facility managers who want increased uptime, better energy efficiency, improved safety, lower operating costs, and longer equipment life.

As these technologies become more accessible, forward-thinking facilities will gain a clear advantage in reliability, cost control, and operational excellence. Want to optimize efficiency and reduce downtime? Connect with Central Washington Refrigeration to get started.

When you walk into a perfectly chilled cold storage facility or open a carton of milk that’s been kept at just the right temperature, you might not think about the refrigeration system working in the background. For large-scale operations like food processing plants, dairies, and beverage producers, reliable cooling is non-negotiable.

One of the most effective designs used in these industries is the pump recirculated system. These systems offer precise temperature control, efficient refrigerant use, and the ability to handle massive cooling loads, making them a cornerstone of industrial refrigeration.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we specialize in designing and maintaining pump recirculated systems so our clients can focus on running their businesses. Let’s break down what these systems are, how they work, and why they’re trusted by industries that demand reliability every single day.
What Is a Pump Recirculated System?
A pump recirculated system is an industrial refrigeration setup that relies on pumps to circulate liquid refrigerant from a central vessel to evaporators placed throughout a facility. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the space, then flows back to the central vessel where it is separated, cooled, and pumped out again. This constant circulation ensures consistent and reliable cooling, even across large or complex facilities.

Unlike direct expansion (DX) systems, where refrigerant evaporates completely inside the evaporator, pump recirculated systems intentionally circulate more liquid refrigerant than needed. This “overfeed” design ensures that the evaporators are always supplied with sufficient refrigerant, which improves efficiency and prevents warm spots. The result is steady cooling performance, even under heavy loads.
Why Industries Choose Pump Recirculated Systems
Pump recirculated systems are especially valuable in industries where product quality depends on strict temperature control. For example, food processing facilities require precise cooling to prevent spoilage, while breweries and dairies rely on consistent temperatures for product safety and flavor integrity. By ensuring refrigerant is always available in the evaporators, these systems reduce temperature fluctuations that could compromise quality.

They are also scalable, meaning they can be designed for anything from a mid-sized warehouse to a massive food distribution center. Because they’re versatile and adaptable, pump recirculated systems have become the go-to choice for industries that can’t afford downtime or inconsistent cooling.
Efficiency and Reliability Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of pump recirculated systems is efficiency. Since they maintain a surplus of refrigerant in circulation, evaporators operate more effectively, leading to lower energy consumption and better performance over time. This design reduces the risk of dry spots in the coils, which can waste energy and strain the system.

Reliability is another key benefit. Because pump recirculated systems are designed with redundancy in mind, they can continue to perform even when the cooling demand spikes. For industries that run 24/7, such as cold storage or pharmaceuticals, this reliability provides confidence that products are safe, protected, and always maintained at the proper temperature.
Comparing Pump Recirculated and DX Systems
A common question business owners ask is whether a pump recirculated system or a direct expansion (DX) system is better. DX systems are often more affordable upfront and are typically used in smaller operations where the cooling load is more limited. However, they can be less efficient for large facilities because they don’t provide the same level of redundancy or refrigerant coverage.

Pump recirculated systems, on the other hand, require more initial investment but pay off with efficiency, scalability, and durability in high-demand environments. For companies planning long-term growth or operating under strict temperature requirements, the benefits usually outweigh the higher setup cost.
Pump Recirculated Systems: Cooling You Can Count On
Pump recirculated systems may not be widely known outside of industrial refrigeration circles, but their impact is everywhere, from the dairy aisle in your local grocery store to the warehouses keeping fresh produce ready for distribution. Their ability to deliver precise, reliable, and efficient cooling makes them a trusted solution across industries.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we design, build, and maintain systems that keep your operation running smoothly day after day. If you’re considering an upgrade or want to learn whether a pump recirculated system is right for your facility, our team is here to help with custom solutions tailored to your needs. Schedule a call with us today to discuss your needs at 509-248-4600.

When it comes to industrial refrigeration, one size does not fit all. Facilities in food processing, cold storage, dairy, and beverage production all require reliable cooling, but the system design that works best in one setting may not be the right fit in another. Two of the most common options are pump recirculated systems and direct expansion (DX) systems. Both serve the same purpose of keeping products and spaces at the correct temperature, but they operate in very different ways.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we help businesses choose the system that best supports their operations, budget, and long-term growth. Let’s break down the differences between these two refrigeration methods so you can decide which might be right for your facility.
How Pump Recirculated Systems Work
Pump recirculated systems use a central vessel where refrigerant collects before being pumped to multiple evaporators across the facility. These systems intentionally circulate more liquid refrigerant than the evaporators need, creating an “overfeed.” This design ensures the coils are always fully supplied, which results in consistent cooling and fewer temperature fluctuations. After absorbing heat, the refrigerant returns to the vessel, where the process begins again.

Because of their reliability and ability to handle large cooling loads, pump recirculated systems are often the go-to choice for industries that operate 24/7 or have strict temperature requirements. Food processors, dairies, and cold storage warehouses rely on this design to protect their products and maintain compliance with safety standards.
How Direct Expansion (DX) Systems Work
In contrast, direct expansion (DX) systems send refrigerant directly from the compressor into the evaporator coils, where it absorbs heat and evaporates completely. This design is simpler and generally more cost-effective upfront, making it a good choice for smaller operations or facilities with limited cooling needs.

Because DX systems operate with less refrigerant and don’t require pumps or central vessels, they’re easier to install and maintain. However, they can be less forgiving in large-scale settings, where variations in load or temperature demand can lead to inefficiencies or uneven cooling.
Advantages of Pump Recirculated Systems
The biggest strengths of pump recirculated systems are scalability and reliability. Since refrigerant is always available at the evaporators, they perform consistently under heavy loads. This design also supports larger and more complex facilities where precise temperature control is critical. For example, in a dairy plant, even small fluctuations can affect product quality, making reliability essential.

Another advantage is efficiency over time. By maintaining an overfeed of refrigerant, the system reduces dry coil spots, leading to improved heat transfer and lower energy waste. For operations running around the clock, those savings can add up significantly.
Advantages of Direct Expansion Systems
Direct expansion systems have their own benefits, especially for smaller or more budget-conscious operations. Their lower installation costs and simpler design make them attractive for facilities that don’t require extensive cooling or that are just getting started. For example, a smaller warehouse or beverage distributor might find that a DX system meets their needs without the higher investment of a pump recirculated setup.

Maintenance is often easier with DX systems as well, since they don’t require pumps or complex circulation vessels. For operations where cooling needs are stable and relatively modest, the simplicity of DX can be a real advantage.
Which System Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your facility’s size, industry, and long-term goals. If you run a large-scale operation that depends on 24/7 reliability and tight temperature control, a pump recirculated system is often the better fit. If your operation is smaller, your cooling demands are lighter, or your budget is more limited, a direct expansion system might be the smarter investment.

The good news is you don’t have to make the decision alone. At Central Washington Refrigeration, we work closely with clients to evaluate their needs, design customized systems, and provide ongoing maintenance to keep everything running smoothly.
Conclusion: Cooling with Confidence
Both pump recirculated and direct expansion systems play important roles in industrial refrigeration, but choosing the wrong one can lead to inefficiency, higher costs, or even product loss. By understanding the strengths of each, you can make an informed decision that supports your operation today and in the future.

If you’re unsure which system is right for you, our team at Central Washington Refrigeration is here to help. With decades of experience designing and maintaining refrigeration systems across industries, we’ll guide you toward the most efficient, reliable solution for your operation. Give us a call today at 509-248-4600.

Consistency is critical in industrial refrigeration. Whether you’re storing produce, dairy, or frozen goods, even slight temperature variations can result in spoilage, shortened shelf life, and significant financial loss. According to a 2024 University of Michigan study, poor cold chain management contributes to as much as 620 million metric tons of global food loss annually. Strengthening cold chain systems has the potential to reduce losses of dairy, meat, and produce by up to 63%, protecting both products and profits.

Hotspots and cold zones are two of the most common challenges in large-scale cold storage, but the good news is that with smart design and proper maintenance, they can be avoided. Central Washington Refrigeration has spent over two decades engineering systems that keep products safe, energy costs down, and operations running smoothly. Here’s what you should know about avoiding uneven temperatures in your cold storage facility.
What Causes Hotspots and Cold Zones?
Hotspots occur when certain areas of a refrigerated space are warmer than the rest, while cold zones are pockets where the temperature falls below the intended setpoint. Although they present differently, both problems usually have the same root causes.

Impacted airflow, whether from blocked vents or inefficient circulation, is one of the most common culprits, as it prevents cooling from being evenly distributed. Storage practices also play a role; when products are packed too tightly, air movement is restricted, creating uneven temperatures.

In addition, design limitations such as poorly placed fans, evaporators, or racks can contribute to the problem. Finally, maintenance issues like dirty coils, failing fans, or low refrigerant levels reduce system efficiency and make it harder to maintain consistent cooling.
Strategies to Keep Temperatures Even
Prioritize Smart System Design
The foundation of consistent cooling is a system engineered with airflow in mind. Here at Central Washington Refrigeration, we strategize the placement of fans, ducts, and evaporators. This way, they can eliminate dead zones and ensure every corner of your facility gets uniform coverage.
Maintain Proper Airflow
It’s imperative that your vents, fans, and coils are regularly inspected, as buildup can disrupt circulations. It’s also important to avoid overloading shelves or stacking products in ways that restrict air movement between items.
Invest in Monitoring Technology
Temperature sensors and advanced control systems provide real-time data, helping operators identify hotspots and cold zones quickly. If there is an issue, you’ll receive an automated alert so that you can correct the problem before it affects inventory.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
Preventive maintenance, such as cleaning evaporators, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting fans, goes a long way toward maintaining consistent temperatures. As with other systems, addressing small issues early helps prevent big problems later.
Train Staff on Best Practices
Operators play a huge role in maintaining efficiency. Train your staff to avoid blocking vents, manage storage density, and report irregularities. Having multiple eyes on your system ensures it performs its best.
Keeping Your Cold Storage Consistent and Reliable
Hotspots and cold zones aren’t just inconveniences—they can mean lost product, wasted energy, and reduced trust in your operation. By combining thoughtful system design, regular maintenance, and smart operational practices, your industrial refrigeration facility can maintain consistent, reliable temperatures that protect both products and profits.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we specialize in designing and maintaining large-scale cold storage systems that deliver performance you can trust. With over 25 years of expertise, we’re committed to keeping your facility efficient, your products safe, and your operations worry-free. Give us a call today to discuss your project at 509-248-4600.

Craft brewing has grown into a major force in the U.S. beer market. While production volume has dipped slightly in recent years, the industry remains strong, with more breweries opening and market share continuing to expand. In 2024 alone, craft brewers produced 23.1 million barrels of beer, generating an estimated $28.8 billion in retail sales. With so much at stake, protecting inventory is essential.

One of the most significant risks brewers face is spoilage. Beer can be lost at multiple stages of production and, without proper care, may even expire before it’s sold. That’s why effective storage is critical, not only to preserve inventory, but also to maintain the quality and consistency that keep customers coming back.

How you cool, store, and serve your beer can make or break the final product. Let’s take a closer look at why cold storage is such a big deal for breweries—from the mash all the way to that perfect pint.
Why Temperature Matters in Brewing
Beer is a living product. Even after fermentation, chemical and microbial processes continue to evolve inside the liquid. Without consistent temperature control, your carefully balanced IPA can lose its hop character, your lager might pick up unwanted flavors, and your shelf life could shrink dramatically.

Think of cold storage as the “pause button” for your beer. By keeping things cool, you slow down chemical changes, protect flavors, and give customers a consistent drinking experience every time. Consistency is key here, not just keeping beer cold, but keeping it cold uniformly from tank to tap to distribution. Even small fluctuations can mean the difference between a crisp, refreshing pint and one that tastes flat or stale.
Cold Storage at Different Stages of Brewing
Fermentation and Conditioning
Once fermentation begins, keeping the right temperature is critical to yeast health and flavor development. Lagers, for instance, need much cooler fermentation than ales. Afterward, cold conditioning allows flavors to mellow and solids to settle, resulting in that crisp, clear finish.
Packaging and Keg Storage
After conditioning, cold storage ensures your beer doesn’t degrade while waiting to be bottled, canned, or kegged. Even slight fluctuations in temperature can accelerate oxidation or cause haze issues. For kegs, consistent cold storage preserves carbonation and keeps your product bar-ready.
Distribution and Serving
Your responsibility doesn’t end once the beer leaves the tank. Cold storage during distribution protects your brand’s reputation. A hazy IPA that tastes great in your taproom should taste just as good when a customer cracks open a can at home—and that’s only possible if the cold chain is consistent.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Even the best brewing practices can be undermined if your cold storage isn’t managed properly. Here are a few of the most common issues breweries run into and how to prevent them.
Hot Spots and Cold Zones
Uneven temperatures in a walk-in cooler affect efficiency and impact beer quality. If one area runs too warm, certain batches may spoil or lose flavor more quickly. On the other hand, overly cold areas can cause haze issues or affect carbonation. Proper airflow and thoughtful system design are key to keeping temperatures uniform across the entire space, ensuring every keg and case is stored at the right conditions.
Overloading Storage
It’s tempting to pack a cooler as tightly as possible, especially when production is running high, but overcrowding restricts airflow. Without enough circulation, some products may not get the cooling they need, creating pockets of warm beer that age faster than the rest. Keeping walk-ins organized and leaving space for air to flow around kegs and cases helps maintain even temperatures throughout your storage area.
Skipping Maintenance
Refrigeration systems need regular care to perform at their best. Dirty coils, failing fans, or low refrigerant levels force the system to work harder while delivering less consistent results. Over time, this not only risks uneven cooling but also drives up energy costs and shortens the life of your equipment. Scheduling routine maintenance helps keep your system efficient, reliable, and ready to protect your inventory.
The Bottom Line for Brewers
You’ve put too much passion into your beer to let poor refrigeration compromise it. Cold storage isn’t just about keeping things chilly; it’s about protecting your craft, your consistency, and your reputation.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we help breweries of all sizes design and maintain refrigeration systems that keep every pint as fresh and flavorful as the brewer intended. Because at the end of the day, your beer deserves the same care in storage as it does in the mash tun.

Every great beer deserves the right cold storage. Let’s talk about your brewery’s refrigeration needs today. Give us a call at 509-248-4600.

Are you experiencing walk-in cooler temperature control issues? Our commercial and industrial refrigeration team has the insight you need to quickly identify common repair problems and restore your system to proper operation. Here’s what to do if your walk-in cooler isn’t holding temperature.
Walk-in cooler temperature issues – a step-by-step guide:

Use a calibrated thermometer to verify the current temperature
Check door seals and closures for damage and proper operation
Make sure the walk-in cooler’s operation hasn’t tripped the breakers and the system has power
Verify thermostat settings and operation
Look for airflow problems, including overloaded shelves and blocked vents
Check for refrigerant leaks, ensure fans are operational, and coils are not frozen
Verify defrost system settings and operation
Call a professional commercial or industrial refrigeration repair technician
If repairs are necessary, move products to another freezer to prevent loss

Verify Walk-In Cooler Temperature
Ensure optimal temperatures throughout your walk-in cooler by taking a reading with a calibrated thermometer in multiple areas. Temperature inconsistencies indicate airflow issues. If temperature readings don’t reflect your walk-in cooler’s built-in thermometer, it may require professional replacement.
Check Walk-In Cooler Door Seals
Inspect door seals, looking for cracks, gaps, and brittleness that could allow for air leakage. Verify that door hinges and latches work, and doors fully close. Replace damaged seals or parts to prevent cold air leakage. Limit door openings until you have addressed all door function issues.
Make Sure Your Walk-In Cooler has Power
Make sure that your walk-in cooler is fully plugged in. Verify breakers haven’t tripped, and that it has power.
Verify Thermostat Settings and Operation
Double-check temperature settings. It may take several hours for temperatures to stabilize if settings have been inadvertently changed or you’ve recently experienced an outage.
Look for Walk-In Cooler Airflow Problems
Stacking items too tightly impacts air circulation and cooling. Relocate items in crowded areas and move anything that’s blocking vents or fans to ensure proper circulation. Verify coils aren’t dirty or iced over, that frost isn’t blocking the evaporator, and fans are running.
Inspect Operational Components
Listen for unusual noises. Make sure your walk-in cooler’s evaporator and condenser coils are clean and unfrozen. Look for refrigerant leaks, which resemble oil spots or frost patterns. Check for clogged or frozen drain lines. Inspect electrical connections and test the temperature control device for proper voltage and operation. Our cold storage room engineers recommend leaving these tasks to a professional if you’re unsure how to complete them.
Verify Defrost System Settings and Operation
Make sure your defrost system timers, settings, and heaters are correctly programmed and functioning. Defrosting is required at set intervals to prevent frost buildup, airflow blockages, and trouble maintaining temperature.
Schedule Professional Walk-In Cooler Service and Repair
If you cannot quickly determine why your walk-in cooler isn’t maintaining temperature, or you see one of these five signs your cooling system needs immediate attention, contact our commercial refrigeration repair technicians immediately. Describing observations you made while troubleshooting can speed repairs. To keep food products out of the temperature danger zone and avoid microorganism growth and product loss, relocate items to another freezer while awaiting service.
Restore Your Walk-In Cooler to Proper Operation, Fast
Unsure of what to do if your walk-in cooler isn’t holding temperature? Get the help you need fast with emergency walk-in cooler repair from CW Refrigeration. Contact us at 509-248-4600 to schedule commercial walk-in cooler service and maintenance in Ellensburg, Kennewick, Moses Lake, Pasco, Richland, Spokane, Tacoma, or Yakima today.

Choosing the best industrial refrigeration system style for your application is among the most important decisions you’ll make when designing custom cold storage. Is ammonia refrigeration right for your Central Washington facility? Ammonia systems offer many benefits over conventional industrial refrigeration solutions.
Why ammonia is the leading choice for large-scale industrial refrigeration:

Ammonia systems are more reliable, cost less to operate, and last longer
Environmentally friendly and sustainable, ammonia incurs no carbon taxes
Ammonia refrigeration systems come in a variety of styles
Recent advancements allow for use in previously unsuitable industrial refrigeration applications

Why Ammonia Remains the Leading Choice for Large-Scale Industrial Refrigeration
Ammonia systems are adaptable to many applications, providing significant advantages over traditional cooling technology:
Ammonia refrigeration systems cost less to operate
Ammonia systems offer superior thermodynamics, transferring heat more effectively than freon systems. They consume less energy to deliver similar cooling output, significantly reducing operating costs, particularly for facilities with high refrigeration demands. Abundant and inexpensive, ammonia incurs no phase-out costs and is required in smaller quantities than synthetic refrigerants, reducing charging costs.
Ammonia cooling systems last longer
Ammonia systems withstand heavy-duty commercial and industrial use, lasting for decades with proper maintenance. Systems utilize fewer parts and experience less frequent breakdowns and downtimes, resulting in lower maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Ammonia systems provide 24/7 reliability
Ammonia refrigeration systems perform more reliably in large-scale, high-capacity settings, preventing downtime and reducing product loss.
Is Ammonia Refrigeration Safer for the Environment than Alternatives?
Ammonia systems outshine older CFC and HCFC synthetic refrigerant technology. Energy-efficient and natural, ammonia (NH3) does not contain chlorine and won’t deplete the ozone layer. Ammonia systems use significantly less energy for operation, producing fewer carbon emissions. It breaks down rapidly in the environment, reducing ecological impact.
What Types of Ammonia Refrigeration Systems Are Available for Your Facility?
Our industrial refrigeration system engineers will help you select the optimal solution for your product, facility size, cooling requirements, and safety needs. We provide custom solutions to meet your production and efficiency goals, including:

Pump recirculated systems for large-scale cold storage and food processing applications
Cascade systems, ideal for ultra-low temperature food processing and storage
Ammonia absorption systems, capable of turning waste heat from your facility into energy to drive the refrigeration cycle
Direct expansion (DX) systems, an affordable solution for smaller refrigeration loads
Flooded systems, for maximum heat transfer
Low-charge ammonia systems that operate on a smaller amount of refrigerant
Hybrid systems, which combine ammonia with other refrigerants

Learn More About Ammonia Industrial Refrigeration
Is ammonia refrigeration right for your facility? CW Refrigeration has the industry experience you need to select the ideal system design for your product and budget. We serve large-scale food storage and processing facilities nationwide. Contact us at 509-248-4600 to schedule an industrial refrigeration system design consultation in Ellensburg, Kennewick, Moses Lake, Pasco, Richland, Spokane, Tacoma, or Yakima today.

Foodborne illness is on the rise nationwide. Industrial refrigeration maintenance is critical in ensuring products remain safe for consumption. Taking a proactive approach minimizes food safety risks, helping you protect customers and workers, avoid legal liability, and maintain strict FDA and USDA food safety requirements. Learn how to plan and maintain cold storage safety for food facilities with these tips from CW Refrigeration, Central Washington’s trusted industrial refrigeration services provider.
Perform Regular Industrial Refrigeration System Inspections
Routine inspections, including the following, identify potential issues before they become hazards, ensuring safe, reliable operation:
Equipment inspections
Verifying that compressors, evaporators, fans, and other equipment are in optimal condition and performing preventive repairs promptly prevents system failure.
Routine pressure testing
Routine pressure testing prevents potential chemical releases and explosions in industrial refrigeration systems, which operate under high pressure.
Ammonia leak detection
Installing leak detection ensures even the smallest leaks are identified, triggering alarms or shutdown when they occur to initiate emergency procedures.
Thermostats and sensor calibration
Accurate thermostat and sensor readings are essential to maintaining an optimal storage environment and preventing the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast, ensuring safe, high-quality, lasting food.
Strict cold chain adherence
Keeping products out of the temperature danger zone of 40-140°F at every stage, from picking and processing to storage and transport to the consumer, is crucial to food safety.
Implement Process Safety Management (PSM) Programs
CW Refrigeration offers PSM development and training programs for ammonia-based industrial refrigeration systems to prevent accidental ammonia release and equipment failure that can lead to food safety issues, worker injury, and product loss. Our comprehensive PSM programs include:

Process safety information on ammonia’s properties, hazards, and corresponding equipment design and operational specifications
Process hazard analysis to identify and evaluate potential hazards
Pre-startup safety reviews for new systems
Step-by-step operating procedures including shutdown, start-up, emergency response, equipment limits, and consequences of deviation (hazards)
Training for operators, technicians, and maintenance staff on operational, maintenance, hazards, and safety rules for ammonia cooling systems
Inspection, testing, and maintenance schedules to ensure mechanical integrity
Formal management of change review and approval in response to procedural, equipment, and chemical process modifications
Site-specific emergency action plans, including ammonia release drills, evacuation plans, and coordination with local emergency response providers
Compliance audits to ensure OSHA and PSM compliance

Hold Regular Staff Safety Training and Feedback Sessions
Establish and document clear employee protocols for safe industrial refrigeration system use. Train staff on proper cold chain management, product handling and storage, refrigeration system operation, maintenance, door usage, refrigerant hazards, the correct use of personal protective equipment, and how to respond to equipment failures and outages. Hold regular training and safety reviews. Encourage all team members to participate in hazard and procedural analyses to improve operations and safety.
Emergency Response Planning
Unexpected equipment failures, power outages, leaks, and fires pose significant risks to food and employee safety. A clear, well-documented plan and staff training for responding to emergency issues provide insurance, mitigate product loss, and reduce potential liability. Instructions should include procedures for emergency shutdown or generator operation, relocating products, evacuation procedures, contacting emergency response providers, first aid, and fire safety measures.
Ensure Operational Integrity and Food Safety
Get the help you need figuring out how to plan and maintain cold storage safety for food facilities in Central Washington from CW Refrigeration. Contact us at 509-248-4600 to discuss your industrial refrigeration and process safety management improvement needs today.

Are you installing or upgrading an industrial refrigeration system? Choosing the right refrigerant is an important decision. Ammonia-based cooling systems offer a proven solution that is adaptable for many applications. What are the benefits of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems in Central Washington, and are they right for your business? Learn why this refrigerant outshines older CFC and HCFC technology with keen insight from CW Refrigeration, trusted provider of custom industrial refrigeration solutions for large-scale food storage and processing facilities across the US.
Ammonia Cooling Systems Provide Long-Term Savings
Installing ammonia refrigeration can be more expensive initially due to safety and containment regulations. However, ammonia systems offer a greater value and a lower cost of ownership, providing many savings opportunities:
Ammonia systems cost less to operate
Superior thermodynamic properties enable ammonia systems to transfer heat more effectively than freon systems. Highly efficient, they consume less energy to deliver similar cooling output, significantly reducing electricity costs over time, particularly for facilities with high refrigeration demands.
Ammonia costs less
Ammonia is abundant and inexpensive and is used in smaller quantities than synthetic alternatives. Refrigerant charges are less expensive, with no phase-out-related costs.
Ammonia cooling systems last longer
Built to withstand heavy-duty commercial and industrial use, ammonia systems last for decades with proper maintenance. They contain less parts and experience fewer mechanical issues and downtime, resulting in lower maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Ammonia cooling systems provide 24/7 reliability
Ammonia systems are more reliable in large-scale, high-capacity settings, preventing downtime and reducing product loss.
Ammonia systems incur no carbon taxes
Unlike synthetic refrigerants, ammonia doesn’t deplete the ozone layer or cause global warming.
Ammonia-Based Refrigeration Systems Offer a Sustainable Solution
For businesses seeking more energy-efficient industrial refrigeration, ammonia-based natural refrigerant systems provide an ideal choice. Highly efficient ammonia industrial refrigeration systems use significantly less energy for operation, resulting in lower carbon emissions. Ammonia does not contain chlorine. It has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and zero global warming potential (GWP) if released into the atmosphere. Naturally occurring and biodegradable, it breaks down rapidly in the environment, reducing ecological impact.
Advances in Ammonia Refrigeration Technology Drive the Future of Industrial Refrigeration
Tried and trusted, ammonia refrigeration systems remain a top choice in food production and storage. Ammonia cooling system manufacturers continue to advance the industry, evolving to meet changing demands with innovative solutions. Low-charge ammonia systems, which require a smaller amount of refrigerant, make ammonia systems safer and more accessible. Hybrid systems, which combine ammonia with other refrigerants, also offer an alternative in applications where ammonia systems were previously unsuitable.
Industrial Ammonia Refrigeration Systems are Adaptable to a Variety of Applications
We provide custom-tailored ammonia refrigeration system designs to meet your production and efficiency goals.

Direct expansion (DX) systems
Flooded systems
Pump recirculated systems
Cascade systems
Ammonia absorption systems

Our experienced industrial refrigeration system engineering and installation team will help you select the optimal solution for your product, facility size, cooling requirements, and safety needs.
Learn More About Industrial Ammonia Cooling Systems in Central Washington
Upgrade to more efficient, cost-effective, sustainable industrial refrigeration technology. Take advantage of the benefits of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems in Central Washington. Contact CW Refrigeration at 509-248-4600 to discuss ammonia refrigeration installation today.