Commercial refrigerators are never silent. Compressors hum, fans whir and cabinets click as they expand and contract. But a new or louder noise is often the first warning of a problem. Learning to tell normal sounds from warning sounds can save you from a failure during a busy weekend.
Shop the equipment in this article: commercial refrigerators, reach-in refrigerators and True T-43-HC 47″ two section reach-in refrigerator. Freight is included on every order.
Normal Sounds
A steady hum from the compressor while it runs. A soft whoosh from fans. Clicks when the thermostat or controller turns the compressor on and off. Gurgling or hissing as refrigerant moves through the system, especially right after start-up. Occasional pops or cracks as plastic and metal panels expand and contract with temperature changes. Dripping or sizzling during a defrost cycle as water hits the drain pan.
Rattling or Vibrating
Rattling is often the easiest fix. Check that the unit is level and all four legs or casters touch the floor. A cabinet that rocks will vibrate. Look for items resting on top of or against the unit, such as pans, shelving or a wall. Check that the front grille and back panels are secure. Tighten loose screws. Make sure nothing inside, like a loose shelf clip, is buzzing against a wall.
Scraping or Ticking from the Fan
A fan blade hitting something makes a ticking or scraping sound. Inside the cabinet, this is often ice building on the evaporator coil or fan shroud. Manually defrost the unit with power off and the door open. If ice keeps returning, have a technician check defrost components. On the condenser side, debris like paper or a label can get pulled into the fan. With power off, look and remove any debris. Do not reach near fan blades with power on.
Grinding or Squealing
Grinding or squealing usually means a fan motor bearing is wearing out. The fan may run slowly or stop. A failing fan reduces airflow and cooling. Fan motor replacement involves electrical connections, so call a technician.
Loud Humming or Buzzing with No Cooling
If the compressor hums loudly, clicks off after a few seconds, and repeats, it may be struggling to start. This can be caused by a failing start component, an electrical issue or a compressor problem. Turn the unit off to protect the compressor and call a licensed refrigeration technician. Do not keep resetting it.
Clicking Over and Over
Rapid clicking every few seconds is often short cycling. First check that the condenser is clean and the unit has room to breathe. If it continues, call a technician.
Keep It Quiet with Maintenance
Clean the condenser coil monthly with power off, using a soft brush and vacuum. Keep the unit level. Leave clearance around the cabinet as the manual requires. Do not overload the cabinet or block the evaporator fan. Schedule preventive maintenance with a technician once or twice a year.
When to Call a Technician
Call a licensed technician for grinding motors, compressor start problems, electrical burning smells, or hissing with loss of cooling. A hissing sound with oily residue on tubing can indicate a refrigerant leak. Never attempt to handle refrigerant or open the sealed system.
Next Steps
If your unit is loud and aging, compare new options in our commercial refrigerators and reach-in refrigerators. Options include the True T-43-HC 47″ two section reach-in refrigerator, the Migali C-2R-HC 2 door reach-in refrigerator, and the True TWT-48F-HC 48 1/2″ worktop freezer. See each product page for specs.
Questions? Contact Express KitchQuip and we will help you pick the right size and configuration.
Models in this guide at a glance
The models linked above are listed here with the main points from each product page, so you can compare them side by side before opening the full listings.
True T-43-HC 47″ Two Section Reach-In Refrigerator, 2 Solid Doors (model T-43-HC)
- Brand: True
- The True T-43-HC solid door reach-in refrigerator offers reliable cooling from 33°F to 38°F in a durable stainless steel cabinet.
- With adjustable shelves, bottom-mounted refrigeration, and eco-friendly R290 refrigerant, it’s ideal for high-volume commercial kitchens.
- Warranty: 7-Year Parts & Labor
Migali C-2R-HC 2 Door Reach-In Refrigerator, 49 Cu. Ft. (model C-2R-HC)
- Brand: Migali
- Premium Commercial Refrigeration: A spacious 2 Door Reach-In Refrigerator designed for restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, bakeries, and commercial kitchens.
- 49 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity: Extra-large interior provides extensive storage space for fresh food, ingredients, beverages, and prepared products.
- Forced-Air Refrigeration: Provides uniform cold-air circulation throughout the cabinet for consistent refrigeration performance.
True TWT-48F-HC 48″ Worktop Freezer, 2 Doors (model TWT-48F-HC)
- Brand: True
- The True TWT-48F-HC commercial worktop freezer delivers consistent -10°F freezing, durable stainless steel design, rear service access, and energy efficiency.
- Warranty: 7-Year Parts & Labor
Before you order
- Measure the space and every doorway on the delivery path, and compare them with the dimensions on each product page.
- Check the spec sheet for power, gas or water requirements and match them to what your building has.
- Compare capacity with your busiest day rather than your average day.
- Read the warranty terms for the brand before you order.
Delivery, warranty and payment
- Delivery: delivery within the continental US is included in the price on the product page, and freight orders include liftgate service.
- Warranty: each product carries its manufacturer warranty. Terms by brand are on our warranty page.
- Financing: lease-to-own financing through Clicklease is offered on items of $500 and up. See how financing works.
- Quotes: buying for a business and need a written quote? Call +1-877-558-2253 or use our contact page.
Not sure which model fits?
Call +1-877-558-2253 with your space, power supply and daily volume, and we will help you narrow it down.