7 Common Problems with Reefer Trailers and How to Repair Them

Reefer trailers are essential for moving commodities that need to be kept at certain temperatures, such as medicines and perishable food. These trailers include a cooling system that aids in maintaining the necessary temperature throughout transportation, ensuring the items reach their destination as intended.

Reefer trailers are, however, susceptible to a number of problems that can impair their general operation and ability to conduct cooling. This post will examine seven typical reefer trailer issues and provide advice on how to fix them so that your cargo is kept safe and chilled while being transported.

Problem 1: Malfunctions in Refrigeration Units

The most frequent problem with reefer trailers is a broken refrigeration system. This is a refrigeration unit, which controls interior cooling and temperature regulation.

Compressor failure, refrigerant leakage, defective thermostats, and electrical issues are a few potential reasons for refrigeration unit defects. It is crucial to thoroughly check the refrigeration unit, pinpoint the issue's origin, and take immediate action to fix it with the assistance of a trained professional in order to resolve this problem.

Problem 2: Lack of Cooling Capacity

In order to retain the integrity of the cargo, reefer trailers must maintain a constant and narrow temperature range. A weak compressor, insufficient insulation, or poor airflow are a few causes of insufficient cooling capability.

Check the compressor's operation, make sure the insulation is in excellent shape, and make sure the airflow within the trailer is not blocked in order to fix this issue. Upgrade the refrigeration system as necessary to meet increased cooling requirements.

Problem 3: Refrigerant Leaks 

A refrigerant leak can seriously impact reefer trailer cooling effectiveness. There can be leaks in the refrigerant lines, connections, or parts, which would impair cooling and perhaps harm the compressor.

In order to correct refrigerant leaks, the leak's source must be located, the afflicted area must be fixed, and the refrigerant must be recharged to the proper amount. Regular checks for refrigerant leaks can help avoid worse problems and preserve the cooling capacity of the trailer.

Problem 4: Electrification System Issues

The refrigeration unit and other components of reefer trailers must operate properly, which depends on the electrical system. The cooling process can be hampered by electrical issues, including damaged wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors.

Conduct a thorough examination of the wiring, connections, and sensors to identify and fix any problems with the electrical system. Repair any loose or broken connections, and replace defective parts as required.

Problem 5: Door Gasket and Seal Damage

A broken or worn-out door seal and gasket can cause temperature issues, which will impact the quality and freshness of the cargo. Wear and tear, poor loading and unloading techniques, or inadvertent damage are all common causes of door seal issues.

Replace the worn-out door seal and gasket with new ones to solve this problem. The door seal can be regularly inspected and maintained to minimize air leakage and guarantee sustained cooling effectiveness.

Problem 6: Issues with Thermostat Calibration

The thermostat monitors and controls the inside temperature of a reefer trailer. Thermostat calibration problems can result in uneven cooling and erroneous temperature readings.

In order to solve this issue, make sure the thermostat is accurate by comparing its readings to those of an outside thermometer. If recalibrating the thermostat is necessary, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or ask a professional mechanic for help.

Problem 7: Power System Issues 

When the trailer is not attached to the truck, reefer trailers often use an auxiliary power unit (APU) to power the refrigeration system and other electrical components. Filter clogs or fuel line difficulties in the fuel system can cause APU faults and interfere with the cooling process.

Regularly check the fuel filters, fuel lines, and APU components to identify and fix fuel system issues. To guarantee the APU will operate reliably, clear clogged filters or replace them, as well as take care of any fuel system problems.

Final Words

Transporting temperature-sensitive commodities safely and effectively depends on keeping reefer trailers in full working order. Understanding typical reefer trailer issues and knowing how to address them quickly can help you avoid expensive cargo transportation delays.

Reefer trailers must be maintained in top condition through regular inspections, preventative care, and a fast reaction to any problems. Your reefer trailers will operate at their peak efficiency, offering dependable cooling capabilities for your priceless cargo all the way to its destination, if you work with skilled experts and adhere to the manufacturer's maintenance and repair instructions.