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Do You Want to Keep Your Cold Cargo Safe?
When you move food, ice cream, or medicine, you need a refrigerated truck. These trucks are also called reefers. They carry perishable goods. If your truck breaks down, your cargo can spoil. This can cost a lot. Do you want to know how to stop that from happening?
At CLW GROUP, we have a simple message: Regular maintenance and knowing common issues save time, money, and cargo.
What Makes a Reefer Truck Work?
A refrigerated truck has a few big parts:
- Compressor
- Condenser
- Evaporator
- Thermostat
- Reefer unit (cooling system)
- Electrical system
- Fuel system
- Fan motors
- Airflow (fans and blowers)
- Filters, belts, hoses
Most common trucks use a diesel reefer unit. Some can use electric or cryogenic units.
Common Issues with Refrigerated Trucks
1. Temperature Control Problems
- Sometimes, the temperature gets too hot or too cold. Your unit may have inconsistent temperature or big fluctuations.
- The reefer unit may not cool down at all. This is called a failed refrigeration unit.
- If the setpoint is not reached, your goods may spoil.
- The truck may short cycle (turning on/off too fast).
2. Mechanical Issues
- Refrigerant leaks are a big problem. Low refrigerant means it cannot keep things cold.
- Compressor failure or evaporator/condenser issues can cause a unit not to work.
- Sometimes, fans stop spinning. This can make the air stop moving and cause unit not cooling.
- Belts and hoses can break or crack.
- Drivers may hear unusual noises or feel vibrations.
3. Electrical System Problems
- Issues with batteries, wiring, or sensors can stop a truck from cooling.
- Sometimes control panels show error codes.
4. Fuel System Problems
- Dirty or clogged fuel filters
- Issues with the fuel pump or fuel lines
- Extra fuel being used by the truck
5. Structural/Body Problems
- Broken door seals (gaskets) let warm air inside.
- Walls or truck body may have damaged insulation.
- Floor drains can get blocked.
6. Operator and Loading Problems
- If the defrost cycle does not run, ice can build up.
- If you don't let the reefer cool before loading (pre-cooling), goods can be lost.
- If cargo is loaded wrong, airflow stops. This can spoil the load.
Why Do You Need Maintenance?
If trucks are not checked often, problems can cost a lot. Just look at the table below:
| Problem | Cost or Loss | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Unscheduled Repair | $3,000 – $10,000+ | A broken compressor or controller is very expensive |
| Truck Downtime | $100 – $300/hour | Lost money from waiting, late loads, driver salary |
| Spoilage (reefer failure) | Up to 20% of shipments | Messed up shipments can mean thousands lost per load |
| Fines (not meeting rules) | $100s – $1,000s | You must follow DOT and FSMA (food safety) to avoid fines and rejected cargo |
| Fuel Cost | 30-50% of operation | Bad maintenance means using much more fuel |
| Breakdowns (low maintenance) | +20-30% | Trucks with preventative maintenance have 20-30% fewer breakdowns |
| Unit Lifespan (good care) | +1–3 years | A cared-for unit lasts up to 3 years longer |
Easy Steps for Preventative Maintenance
CLW GROUP gives you a way to avoid problems before they start.
Regular Maintenance Checklist:
- Follow manufacturer’s service schedule
- Oil and filter changes (for engine, air, fuel)
- Refrigerant level check (find leaks early)
- Belt and hose inspection and replacement
- Clean condenser and evaporator coils
- Test and calibrate sensors and thermostat
- Check electrical wiring and battery
- Inspect door gaskets and insulation
- Keep drainage clear
Daily/Pre-Trip Checks:
- Check fuel level, oil, and coolant
- Listen for strange sounds
- Look for loose or broken belts, hoses, wires
- Make sure the door closes tightly
- Make sure the reefer is set right
Seasonal Tips:
- Winter: Use fuel additives, keep battery charged, test defrost
- Summer: Clean condenser, check coolant
Annual Professional Inspection:
- Get a certified reefer technician to check everything.
- Use your service manual and make a maintenance log.
What If You See Error Codes?
When your reefer unit shows a warning or error code, do not guess. Look in the service manual or call an expert. Common brands like Carrier Transicold and Thermo King list errors for easier troubleshooting.
Why Pick CLW GROUP for Your Reefer Trucks?
At CLW GROUP, we make your work easy:
- Customized production: We build the refrigerated truck you need, from the chassis to the insulation and reefer unit diagnostic codes.
- Vehicle delivery: We send the truck right to you.
- After-sales and technical consulting services: If you have a question about compressor issues, evaporator problems, or any refrigerated truck troubleshooting, we are here to help!
- Expertise: Our technicians know everything about reefer maintenance checklists, unit recovery procedures, compliance, and reducing downtime.
If you want more robust trucks for other needs—like a water tank truck, a rear loader garbage truck, or strong material handling cranes—we’ve got you covered at our special trucks factory.
Why Is This Important for You?
If you use refrigerated trucks for food safety, pharmaceuticals, or cold chain products, you can’t risk breakdowns. With good preventative maintenance and fast service, you will:
- Stop cargo from spoiling
- Save money on repair costs
- Avoid regulatory fines
- Keep drivers and cargo safe
- Lower fuel use
- Extend your truck’s life
Handy Table: Your Maintenance Plan
| Task | How Often | What to Check/Do |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-trip Inspection | Daily | Fuel, oil, coolant, belts, hoses, doors, sounds |
| Oil/Filter Change | 250-500 hrs | Engine, fuel, air, reefer unit |
| Refrigerant Level | Monthly | Leak test, recharge if low |
| Coil Cleaning | Monthly | Condenser, evaporator |
| Door Gasket/Insulation | Monthly | Repair if torn, fix insulation gaps |
| Professional Inspection | Yearly | Full diagnostic, error codes, calibration, battery, wiring |
How Can CLW GROUP Help You Today?
We want you to deliver your cargo safe and cold, with no downtime. We are the partner that backs you up with smart trucks, strong after-sales support, and answers for every common reefer issue.
See more at our special trucks factory or learn about auto transport solutions for every need you have.
References
Remember: To keep your reefers working, just follow the maintenance tips above. Call CLW GROUP for the most reliable refrigerated trucks and services. Your cold cargo will stay safe every trip!
