True Refrigeration Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
There are many ways to clean and maintain a commercial refrigeration unit. While standard tips can get the job done, sometimes you need help tailored just for your refrigerator or freezer. If you own a True refrigeration system, there are specific instructions to follow. We’ve put together an easy list of helpful True refrigeration cleaning and maintenance tips that are specified by the manufacturer. That way you can not only keep your unit looking good but also working at peak performance.
This guide is applicable for a full range of True refrigeration models, including reach-in units like the T-49, undercounter and underbar models like the TUC-72, and glass door merchandisers like the GDM-49.
Cleaning a True Refrigeration Condenser Coil
Dust and grime often find their way into your True unit’s condenser coil. Use the steps below to clean the coil at least once a month.
- Step 1. Disconnect the unit – Make sure to power down your unit by unplugging the power cord.
- Step 2. Remove the grill assembly – Open the door, and unfasten the top screws on the louver grill with a Phillips screwdriver. Some True models have a door light switch with wiring in this area. Make sure you don’t pinch the wires during this step.
- Step 3. Access the condenser assembly – Using an adjustable wrench, loosen the bolts anchoring the condenser assembly to the frame rails. Carefully slide out the assembly to access the condenser coil.
- Step 4. Brush off dust and dirt – Remove any accumulated dust on the assembly and coil using a stiff bristle brush. You can also use an air or CO2 tank to blow out any large buildup.
- Step 5. Clean condenser fan blade – Many True condenser assemblies feature a cardboard cover the fan that is near the coil. Lift the cardboard cover above the fan, and use the stiff bristle brush or compressed air to clean off dust from the fan blades.
- Step 6. Vacuum the surrounding area – Using a vacuum cleaner or shop vac, pick up any dirt or dust by the coil and on the interior floor.
- Step 7. Put assembly back into place – Place the cardboard cover back over the condenser fan, and slide the assembly back into its regular position. Use your adjustable wrench to anchor bolts back into the frame rails.
- Step 8. Reinstall the grill assembly – Fasten the louver grill back on the unit using your screws and Phillips screwdriver. Make sure each screw is fastened tightly.
- Step 9. Reconnect the unit – Plug in the power cord to see if your condenser is running properly.
Cleaning the Stainless Steel Exterior
True units have a delicate stainless steel exterior that requires specific instructions and cleaning materials. To keep the outside spotless and well maintained over time, try following the tips below.
- Tip 1. Use suitable cleaning tools – Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool, wire brushes and scrapers. Stick with non-abrasive tools like soft cloths and plastic scouring pads, so you don’t harm the passive layer of the stainless steel.
- Tip 2. Choose proper cleaners – The wrong cleaning solutions can leave hard deposits that can damage the surface over time. Cleaners containing quaternary salts, chlorides and hydrochloric acid can cause significant damage to the exterior. Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride cleaners on the exterior.
- Tip 3. Treat hard water – If you have hard water, soften it to reduce deposits or install water filters to help remove corrosive elements. In some cases, you might need to contact a treatment specialist for additional assistance.
- Tip 4. Clean along the polish lines – When you’re cleaning the exterior, look for the “grain” or polishing lines. Scrub parallel to the visible lines, or use a soft cloth or plastic scouring pad if the lines aren’t visible.
- Tip 5. Rinse appropriately – Whether you use a chlorinated or standard cleaner, rinse and wipe it dry from the surface immediately.
Replacing Lighting on a True Refrigerator
Whether you have a reach-in fridge for a commercial kitchen or display cooler for a store, your unit gets a lot of use. That means the lights will run consistently and will need to be changed frequently. Below are some tips to replace different types of refrigeration lighting. Before you start, make sure the power is disconnected.
- Integrated door lighting – Remove the plastic lamp shield by squeezing it together and pulling away from the door. Push the light bulb down while pulling the spring-activated lampholder up. You should have enough clearance to remove the bulb and replace it with a new one.
- Light bulb– When removing the bulb, hold onto the end of the bulb firmly and pull toward the center of the cabinet to remove the bulb. When installing the new one, seat the prongs correctly into the lampholder.
- Lamp cover (GDM-10F & GDM-12F models) – Find the rubber gasket behind the lampholder that is mounted to the evaporator housing. You’ll notice a bottom groove of the gasket. Fit the bottom edge of the lamp cover into the groove, and rotate upward while working the edges into the remaining part of the rectangular groove. Use your fingers to slide underneath the top edges of the gasket, and push the rubber over the lamp shield’s top lip. The cover should be secure. Double check that it’s seated properly.
If you need additional True refrigeration maintenance and cleaning tips for your specific model, check out our wide selection of True manuals and diagrams for more help.