Few things are more stressful for a business owner than discovering that a commercial refrigerator won’t turn on. Whether you run a restaurant, grocery store, or food storage facility, even a few hours without refrigeration can lead to product loss, safety risks, and costly downtime.
At Buffo’s Refrigeration, we’ve helped countless Nevada businesses handle this exact issue. Before you panic, there are several possible causes and many can be resolved quickly with the right steps.
Check the Power Supply
Start with the basics. Make sure the unit is securely plugged into a functioning outlet. Sometimes, the plug can loosen from vibration or be accidentally disconnected during cleaning. Next, check your circuit breaker or fuse box. A tripped breaker or blown fuse is one of the most common causes of a refrigerator that won’t turn on. Reset the breaker and see if power returns. If the issue repeats, there could be an underlying electrical fault that needs professional attention.
Inspect the Power Cord
Look for visible damage to the cord or plug. Frayed wires, burn marks, or bends can interrupt power flow and prevent the system from starting. Never use a damaged power cord—this poses both safety and equipment risks. If the cord looks worn or damaged, unplug the refrigerator and contact a commercial refrigeration repair technician to replace it safely.
Test the Outlet
If the refrigerator still won’t start, test the outlet by plugging in another device, such as a lamp or small appliance. If the outlet doesn’t work, the issue may lie in the building’s wiring or electrical panel. Avoid using extension cords or power strips for large commercial units, as they can overload circuits and prevent the system from powering up properly.
Check the Temperature Control Settings
If your refrigerator has power but still isn’t cooling or running, check the thermostat settings. Someone may have accidentally turned the dial to “off” or “defrost.” Set it to the correct temperature range—typically between 34°F and 40°F—and wait a few minutes to see if the system activates.
Listen for Clicking or Humming Sounds
If you hear a clicking sound when the refrigerator tries to start, the problem might involve the start relay or compressor. The start relay helps the compressor begin its cooling cycle; if it fails, the compressor won’t run at all. A continuous clicking or silent compressor is a strong sign that professional service is needed.
Inspect the Evaporator and Condenser Fans
Both fans are critical to proper airflow and cooling. If either fan motor fails, your system may not start or may quickly shut off after turning on. Make sure the fans are clear of debris and not obstructed. If they’re not running when the system should be active, a technician should check for electrical or mechanical faults.
Examine the Door Switch
Many commercial refrigerators have a door switch that controls interior lighting and sometimes fan operation. If this switch is stuck or broken, it can prevent certain functions from starting correctly. Press the switch manually to test it. If the light or fan doesn’t respond, the switch may need to be replaced.
Check for Control Board or Start Capacitor Issues
Modern commercial refrigerators rely on electronic control boards to manage temperature and system operation. If this component fails, the refrigerator may not power on. Similarly, a bad start capacitor can prevent the compressor from starting. These parts require diagnostic tools and should only be inspected by trained professionals to avoid damage or safety risks.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve checked the power source, controls, and visible components but the unit still won’t turn on, it’s time to call for service. Continuing to troubleshoot without proper tools can risk further damage. At Buffo’s Refrigeration, our certified technicians specialize in diagnosing power and startup issues in commercial refrigeration systems. We’ll identify the cause quickly, repair it efficiently, and get your equipment running again to protect your inventory and business operations.
Prevent Future Power Failures
The best way to avoid surprise outages is through regular preventative maintenance. Routine inspections catch electrical wear, component failure, and power irregularities before they cause downtime. Our maintenance programs at Buffo’s Refrigeration are designed to keep your systems dependable and efficient all year long—especially during Nevada’s temperature extremes.
Partner with Buffo’s Refrigeration for Reliable Service
For over 20 years, Buffo’s Refrigeration has been Nevada’s trusted provider of commercial refrigeration repair, walk-in cooler service, walk-in freezer maintenance, and emergency refrigeration repair. Our team is dedicated to minimizing downtime and protecting your inventory with fast, expert service.
Schedule Service Today
If your refrigerator won’t turn on, don’t wait until product loss becomes a problem. Contact Buffo’s Refrigeration today to schedule a service visit or request a free consultation. We proudly serve Nevada and surrounding areas with dependable commercial refrigeration solutions.
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