Open case coolers are a staple in grocery stores, delis, and convenience shops — designed to make products accessible and visually appealing. But because they’re constantly exposed to surrounding air, these coolers are more prone to temperature fluctuations than enclosed units. If your open display cases can’t hold consistent temperatures, it could lead to food safety risks, energy waste, and product loss.
At Buffo’s Refrigeration, we help businesses across Nevada identify and fix the issues that cause open case coolers to lose temperature — keeping food fresh and equipment efficient.
Understanding How Open Case Coolers Work
Unlike walk-in coolers or glass-door units, open case coolers rely on a “curtain” of cold air that flows across the display opening to maintain the correct internal temperature. This delicate air barrier separates the chilled air inside the case from the warmer air in the store.
When anything disrupts that air curtain — airflow obstructions, temperature changes, or system issues — warm air seeps in and causes the cooler to lose temperature.
Common Reasons Open Case Coolers Lose Temperature
Airflow Disruption
One of the most common causes is blocked airflow. When products are stacked too high or vents are obstructed, air circulation becomes uneven. Without proper airflow, the cold air curtain breaks down, and temperatures rise.
Solution: Keep vents and return air grilles clear. Avoid overstocking or placing signs that block airflow. Regular cleaning and airflow checks from Buffo’s Refrigeration help maintain proper circulation.
Dirty Coils or Filters
Dust, dirt, and debris buildup on condenser or evaporator coils restrict heat transfer, forcing the system to work harder and less efficiently. Clogged filters also reduce airflow, leading to poor cooling performance.
Solution: Schedule routine coil cleaning and filter replacement. Preventative maintenance from Buffo’s Refrigeration keeps your equipment clean and efficient.
High Ambient Store Temperatures
When the temperature or humidity inside your store rises, open cases must work harder to maintain cool temperatures. Excess heat or poor ventilation near cases can overload the refrigeration system.
Solution: Maintain proper store climate control and ensure cases aren’t placed near HVAC vents or direct sunlight.
Faulty or Misaligned Air Curtains
If the air curtain isn’t calibrated correctly, warm air can easily mix with cold air. Damaged or misaligned air discharge grilles are common culprits in older cases.
Solution: Have a technician from Buffo’s Refrigeration inspect and adjust your air curtain for correct velocity and direction.
Worn Door Gaskets or Case Seals
Even though open cases don’t have traditional doors, they still rely on seals and joints to maintain system pressure. Cracked or damaged seals allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter.
Solution: Inspect case seals regularly and replace damaged gaskets to restore efficiency.
Refrigeration System Issues
Problems like low refrigerant, compressor wear, or faulty sensors can cause the entire system to lose cooling capacity. These mechanical issues require professional diagnosis.
Solution: Buffo’s Refrigeration technicians can test refrigerant levels, inspect compressors, and verify sensor accuracy to identify and fix cooling loss at the source.
How to Prevent Temperature Loss in Open Case Coolers
Maintaining consistent temperatures takes a combination of good practices and professional care. Here’s how you can prevent recurring issues:
- Schedule preventative maintenance at least twice a year.
- Train staff to load products properly and keep vents clear.
- Keep cases clean and free from ice buildup.
- Monitor temperatures daily using digital sensors or smart monitoring systems.
- Contact Buffo’s Refrigeration immediately if you notice temperature fluctuations or frost accumulation.
FAQ: Open Case Cooler Temperature Problems
Why does my open case cooler lose temperature overnight?
When store HVAC systems shut down or ambient temperatures rise after hours, warm air can affect the cooler’s performance. Night curtains or air curtain adjustments can help.
Can open cases maintain the same temperature as closed coolers?
Not exactly. Open cases are designed for slightly higher operating temperatures but should still stay within food-safe limits.
How often should open cases be serviced?
We recommend at least quarterly maintenance, or more frequently for high-traffic grocery stores and delis.
Schedule Professional Service Today
If your open case cooler struggles to maintain temperature, it’s time for expert help. Contact Buffo’s Refrigeration for fast, reliable commercial refrigeration service to restore performance and efficiency.
We proudly serve Nevada, specializing in commercial refrigeration repair, maintenance, and installation for grocery stores, restaurants, and food service facilities.
📞Call Us For A Free Quote 775-782-8204 | Buffos-Refrigeration.com