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Tips and essentials for the restaurant, foodservice and HVAC spaces in one place.

Norlake Walk-In Cooler Cleaning Instructions

Due to their efficiency and dependability, Norlake walk-in coolers are sure to provide your establishment with many years of service. If you want to keep your unit working properly for as long as possible, these Norlake walk-in cooler cleaning instructions will help you maintain your unit so it performs optimally and stays sanitary.

This guide contains information for KL1014 and KL771012 Kold Locker™ walk-in refrigeration systems. 

Supplies

Never leave standing water in the unit after cleaning is done. Always dry the interior to prevent unit damage, bacteria growth, mildew formation and slip hazards.

Cleaning the Unit

Norlake walk-in coolers and freezers need to be cleaned at least once a month.

  • Step 1. Power down the unit - At the circuit breaker, power down the walk-in and relocate product to another unit.
  • Step 2. Wash the exterior - Use a damp cloth and warm, soapy water to clean the unit exterior. 
  • Step 3. Wash the interior - Use a cloth and warm, soapy water to clean the interior walls and shelves.
  • Step 4. Wash the door trim - Clean the interior door trim and gasket with dish soap, warm water and a soft cloth. 
  • Step 5. Rinse the walk-in - Using separate cloths, rinse and thoroughly dry the unit exterior, door exterior, interior walls, shelves, interior door trim and gasket. 
  • Step 6. Clean interior flooring - Clean the floor of the walk-in by sweeping and/or with dish soap and water. 
    • Note: Thoroughly dry the floors before restoring power to the unit.
  • Step 7. Treat odors - For spots with odors, let a mixture of warm water and baking soda sit on the spot and then wipe it away. 

Cleaning the Condenser Coil 

Extend the life of your walk-in unit by cleaning the condenser coils once every 3 months.

  • Step 1. Power down the unit - At the circuit breaker, power down the walk-in and relocate product to another unit.
  • Step 2. Clean the condenser - Use a stiff-bristle brush to clean up any dust or debris present on the condenser coil. 
  • Step 3. Check the coil - Inspect the condenser coil after it’s cleaned. Verify none of the fins are bent or damaged. 
    • Note: Contact an authorized service technician if you find any damages to the condenser. 

Resuming Normal Operation

Don’t leave excess soap scum or standing water in the unit since they can lead to surface damage, shock risks and slip hazards.

  • Step 1. Reconnect the power - Reestablish the electrical connection to the unit.
  • Step 2. Turn on the cooler - Use the power switch to power on the unit.
  • Step 3. Reload the unit - Return food product to the cooler.
  • Step 4. Resume normal operation - You may now use the unit normally.

Maintenance Checklist

On top of regular cleaning, there’s other components that require additional maintenance.

  • Door Gasket - Check the door gasket for cracks, tears and other signs of wear and replace the gasket if necessary.
  • Door Sweep - Inspect the door sweep for signs of wear and improper seal; if necessary, install a new door sweep or make adjustments to it.
  • Door Parts - Check the hinges, closers and handle for wear and alignment. If the parts are worn, replace them; if the door doesn’t close completely, adjust them, especially the hinges and closer.

If you found this information helpful, take a look at the extensive collection of Norlake manuals and diagrams on our site: it’s a great resource for tips on using, maintaining and troubleshooting your unit.

Please contact a local authorized service agent who can help with these specific units and all your commercial kitchen equipment needs.