Commercial Refrigeration Repair in San Antonio, TX
24/7 Emergency Service for Walk-In Coolers, Ice Machines & Restaurant Refrigeration - TACLA29221C Licensed Technicians Serving San Antonio Businesses
Call for Emergency ServiceWhy Choose A-OK for Commercial Refrigeration?
24/7 Emergency Response
Refrigeration failures can't wait. We respond quickly to prevent food loss and business disruption.
Restaurant Specialists
We understand critical nature of restaurant refrigeration and work to minimize downtime.
All Equipment Types
Walk-in coolers, reach-in units, ice machines, display cases, and specialty equipment.
Preventive Maintenance
Regular maintenance prevents expensive breakdowns and extends equipment life.
Expert Commercial Refrigeration Service in San Antonio
Commercial refrigeration is critical for restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, and food service businesses. A refrigeration failure can result in thousands of dollars in food loss, health code violations, and lost revenue. A-OK Services provides fast, reliable commercial refrigeration repair throughout San Antonio with 24/7 emergency response. Our TACLA29221C licensed technicians are trained on all major brands and equipment types, from walk-in coolers to ice machines.
We service walk-in coolers and freezers, reach-in refrigerators and freezers, commercial ice machines, display cases and merchandisers, prep tables and sandwich units, beverage coolers and dispensers, and specialty refrigeration equipment. Whether you need emergency repair, routine maintenance, or equipment installation, we provide professional service that keeps your business running.
Our technicians carry common parts on their trucks for faster repairs. We understand that refrigeration downtime costs money, so we work efficiently to restore your equipment quickly. Serving restaurants, bars, grocery stores, convenience stores, hospitals, schools, and all food service businesses across San Antonio.
Financing Options Available!
0% Interest on HVAC Systems
We make HVAC repairs and replacements affordable with flexible payment plans and 0% interest financing options.
- ✓Flexible payment plans available
- ✓Same-day approval in many cases
- ✓No prepayment penalties
Disclaimer: Subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply. Call (210) 501-9445 to see if you qualify and learn more about available financing options.
Refrigeration Emergency? We Respond Fast
Don't risk food loss. Call now for immediate commercial refrigeration service.
Call Emergency LineCommercial Rooftop Refrigeration Units
Many commercial buildings use rooftop refrigeration condensing units for walk-in coolers. These systems face unique challenges from weather exposure, requiring specialized maintenance. We service rooftop condensers, refrigerant lines, electrical connections, and control systems. Regular maintenance includes coil cleaning, refrigerant level checks, compressor inspection, and weatherproofing. Our technicians are trained in safe rooftop work and carry necessary safety equipment.
Refrigeration Compressor Repair & Replacement
The compressor is the heart of any refrigeration system. Compressor failure can shut down your entire operation. We diagnose compressor problems including overheating, electrical issues, mechanical failures, and refrigerant problems. Our technicians perform compressor replacements quickly, often same-day, using quality replacement units. We service semi-hermetic, hermetic, and scroll compressors from all major manufacturers. Proper diagnosis ensures we address the root cause, not just symptoms.
Commercial Condenser & Outdoor Unit Service
Outdoor condenser units reject heat from refrigeration systems. Located on roofs or ground level, these units face harsh weather and require regular maintenance. Dirty condenser coils reduce efficiency dramatically - a heavily soiled coil can increase energy costs 30-50%. We clean coils, check refrigerant pressures, inspect electrical components, and ensure proper airflow. Bent fins are straightened to maximize heat transfer. Regular service prevents compressor overheating and extends equipment life.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance
Regular maintenance prevents costly breakdowns. Ask about our commercial maintenance plans.
Schedule Maintenance
Refrigerant Leak Detection & EPA Certified Repairs
Refrigerant leaks reduce cooling capacity and increase energy costs. Our EPA-certified technicians use professional leak detection equipment including electronic detectors and UV dye to locate even the smallest leaks. We repair leaks properly, evacuate the system, and recharge with the correct refrigerant type and amount. With changing refrigerant regulations, we help businesses transition to newer refrigerants. All work complies with EPA Section 608 regulations and maintains detailed service records.
Restaurant Under-Counter & Prep Table Refrigeration
Restaurants rely on under-counter refrigeration for prep areas, bars, and point-of-sale locations. We service reach-in refrigerators, prep tables, sandwich/pizza prep units, worktop refrigerators, and bar coolers. Common issues include door gasket failures, drain clogs, temperature control problems, and compressor overheating in hot kitchen environments. Fast repairs minimize disruption to your operation. We stock common parts for major brands including True, Turbo Air, Beverage-Air, and Delfield.
Complete Guide to Commercial Refrigeration
How Commercial Refrigeration Systems Work
Commercial refrigeration uses a continuous refrigerant cycle with compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator to remove heat from enclosed spaces. These systems run 24/7 with heavy-duty components.
Commercial refrigeration operates on the same basic principle as residential AC but with heavier-duty components designed for constant operation. The refrigeration cycle begins with the compressor, which compresses refrigerant gas, raising its temperature and pressure. This hot, high-pressure gas flows to the condenser (typically located outside or on the roof), where it releases heat and condenses into liquid. The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, which reduces pressure and temperature dramatically.
The cold, low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator (inside the cooler), where it absorbs heat from the stored products and surrounding air, causing the refrigerant to evaporate back into gas. This continuous cycle removes heat from the refrigerated space. Commercial systems use larger compressors, more robust evaporator fans, and heavier-duty components because they run 24/7 and must maintain precise temperatures despite frequent door openings and product loading.
Common Commercial Refrigeration Problems
Common refrigeration problems include temperature issues from low refrigerant, dirty coils, or failing compressors. Ice machines face specific issues like low production from dirty filters or water quality problems.
Temperature issues are the most common problem. If your cooler isn't maintaining temperature, causes include low refrigerant (leak), dirty condenser coils (restricting heat removal), failing compressor (not building pressure), faulty evaporator fans (poor air circulation), defrost problems (ice buildup blocking airflow), or door gasket failures (warm air infiltration). Other issues include water leaks from clogged drains, excessive frost buildup, unusual noises, and high energy bills indicating inefficiency.
Ice machines have specific issues: low production often results from poor water quality, dirty water filters, or inadequate air circulation around the machine. Dirty or cloudy ice indicates mineral scale buildup or mold growth requiring professional cleaning. Machine leaks typically come from clogged drains or damaged water supply lines. Complete failure can result from compressor problems, electrical issues, or control board failures. Regular preventive maintenance prevents most ice machine problems.
Refrigeration Emergency Response
Refrigeration failures require immediate response—food begins deteriorating above 41°F and bacterial growth accelerates at 45°F+. Document temperatures and product conditions for insurance claims.
Refrigeration failures require immediate response to prevent food loss and health code violations. If your walk-in cooler temperature rises above 41°F, perishable foods begin deteriorating. At 45°F+, bacterial growth accelerates rapidly. Time is critical. While waiting for service, keep doors closed as much as possible, don't add warm products, and monitor product temperatures with a thermometer. Consider relocating critical items to backup refrigeration.
Document the failure time and temperatures for insurance and HACCP logs. Take photos of products and temperature readings. If food loss occurs, you may need this documentation for insurance claims or health inspections. Our technicians arrive with common parts and diagnostic equipment to minimize repair time. We understand the urgency and work efficiently to restore your refrigeration.
Preventive Maintenance Programs
Quarterly preventive maintenance prevents 70-80% of refrigeration failures. Regular coil cleaning, refrigerant checks, and gasket inspections extend equipment life from 10 years to 15-20 years.
Regular preventive maintenance prevents 70-80% of refrigeration failures and extends equipment life significantly. Quarterly maintenance should include: cleaning condenser and evaporator coils, checking refrigerant levels and pressures, testing compressor operation, inspecting electrical connections, calibrating temperature controls, cleaning drain lines, checking door gaskets, and lubricating motors. For ice machines, add water filter replacement, scale removal, and sanitizing.
Maintenance pays for itself through reduced emergency repairs, lower energy costs (dirty coils waste 30-50% more energy), extended equipment life (from 10 years to 15-20 years with proper maintenance), and avoided food loss. Most businesses recover maintenance costs within 12-18 months through energy savings alone. We offer customized maintenance plans based on your equipment and usage.
Walk-In Cooler Troubleshooting
Walk-in cooler troubleshooting starts with obvious causes: unit running, ice on coils, clean condenser, and door gasket seals. Temperature fluctuations often indicate thermostat calibration issues.
Walk-in cooler not cooling? First check obvious causes: Is the unit running? (Listen for compressor and fans.) Are evaporator coils heavily iced? (Indicates defrost problem.) Is the condenser clean? (Dirty coils can't reject heat.) Are door gaskets sealing properly? (Light test - shine flashlight inside with door closed; if you see light outside, gaskets are bad.) Is the door closing properly? (Check hinges and door closer.)
Temperature fluctuations often indicate thermostat calibration issues or sensor placement problems. Excessive frost means defrost system isn't working - could be defrost timer, heater, or termination thermostat. Short cycling (unit turning on/off frequently) suggests low refrigerant, dirty coils, or compressor problems. Strange noises - grinding indicates bearing failure, hissing suggests refrigerant leak, clicking may be compressor struggling to start.
Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
Commercial refrigeration accounts for 40-60% of restaurant energy costs. Clean coils, proper temperature settings, and regular maintenance reduce energy use by 30% or more.
Commercial refrigeration typically accounts for 40-60% of restaurant energy costs. Improving efficiency significantly reduces operating expenses. Key strategies: Keep coils clean (dirty coils use 30-50% more energy), replace worn door gaskets immediately, minimize door openings, install strip curtains on walk-ins, set temperatures correctly (coolers 35-38°F, freezers 0-10°F - colder than necessary wastes energy), upgrade to LED lighting (incandescent lights add heat load), and schedule defrost during slower periods.
Modern refrigeration systems use variable-speed compressors and EC motors for superior efficiency. When replacing old equipment, high-efficiency units often pay for themselves in 3-5 years through energy savings. Refrigeration controls that adjust based on actual load (vs. constant running) can reduce costs 20-40%. Regular maintenance keeps systems running efficiently - a well-maintained unit uses 30% less energy than a neglected one.
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Learn MoreCommercial Refrigeration Service Areas
Our Commercial Refrigeration team serves homes and businesses throughout South Texas. From 24-hour emergency repairs to scheduled installations, we're here for you.
Service areas: Commercial Refrigeration in San Antonio, Commercial Refrigeration in Elmendorf, Commercial Refrigeration in Von Ormy, Commercial Refrigeration in Windcrest, and Commercial Refrigeration in China Grove.
Call us at (210) 501-9445 for same-day service in your area.
Commercial Refrigeration FAQs
How quickly can you respond to a refrigeration emergency?
We offer 24/7 emergency service and typically respond within 1-2 hours for refrigeration emergencies. We understand that refrigeration failures can cause food loss and business disruption, so we prioritize these calls. Our technicians carry common parts and diagnostic equipment for faster repairs.
What brands of commercial refrigeration equipment do you service?
We service all major commercial refrigeration brands including True, Turbo Air, Beverage-Air, Delfield, Master-Bilt, Kolpak, Bally, Manitowoc, Hoshizaki, Scotsman, Ice-O-Matic, and many more. Our technicians are trained on multiple brands and equipment types.
How often should commercial refrigeration be serviced?
We recommend quarterly preventive maintenance (every 3 months) for most commercial refrigeration equipment. High-use environments like busy restaurants may benefit from monthly service. Ice machines should be cleaned and sanitized every 3 months minimum, more often if water quality is poor. Regular maintenance prevents 70-80% of breakdowns.
My walk-in cooler isn't cooling properly. What should I check?
First, verify the unit is running (listen for compressor and fans). Check if evaporator coils are heavily iced (indicates defrost problem). Ensure condenser coils outside are clean. Inspect door gaskets for damage or gaps. Make sure the door closes and seals properly. If these check out okay, you likely need professional service for refrigerant, compressor, or control issues.
How long do commercial refrigeration systems last?
With proper maintenance, commercial refrigeration equipment typically lasts: walk-in coolers 15-20 years, reach-in units 10-15 years, and ice machines 10-15 years. Neglected equipment may fail in 5-8 years. Regular professional maintenance is the biggest factor in equipment longevity. Commercial equipment working 24/7 requires more care than residential systems.
What causes ice buildup in my walk-in cooler?
Excessive ice buildup usually indicates a defrost system problem. The defrost cycle should melt frost regularly. Issues include: failed defrost timer (not initiating defrost), broken defrost heater (not melting ice), or faulty termination thermostat (not ending defrost properly). Other causes: damaged door gaskets (letting humid air in), door left open too long, or undersized unit for the space.
Do you repair ice machines?
Yes! We service all commercial ice machine types including modular, undercounter, countertop, and ice/water dispensers. Common repairs include: low production, dirty or cloudy ice, machine leaks, and complete failures. We also perform regular cleaning/sanitizing (required every 3 months) to prevent mold, scale, and bacteria growth that affects ice quality.
Can you help with health department refrigeration violations?
Absolutely. We respond quickly to address health code violations related to refrigeration temperature control. We diagnose and repair temperature issues, calibrate thermostats, install temperature monitoring systems, and provide documentation for health inspectors. Our TACLA29221C license and experience with commercial food service equipment ensure code-compliant repairs.
Request Commercial Refrigeration Service
Complete this form for commercial refrigeration service or maintenance. For emergencies, call (210) 501-9445 immediately.
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Visit Our Elmendorf Location
A-OK SERVICES LLC
17812 I-37, Elmendorf, TX 78112
Open 24 Hours | License: TACLA29221C