The experts at Thermo King Corp. offer the following refrigeration unit maintenance tips:

Cleaning
When performing routine maintenance on transport refrigeration units:
• Always wash the condenser and evaporator coils.
• Washing the condenser in the spring and summer is particularly important, as pollen and insects tend to be most extreme during those seasons. When a build-up of debris accumulates on the coils it makes the unit less efficient.
• Cleaning and maintaining an evaporator coil will assure maximum efficiency and airflow.

Belts
When performing routine maintenance on transport refrigeration units always pay close attention to the belt and drive systems.
• One of the top three reasons for a refrigeration unit to require emergency service is belt failure.
• Loose and/or worn belts lead to poor performance and excessive fuel consumption.

Batteries
Although most batteries used in transport refrigeration are “maintenance free technology” they still require maintenance.
• Most maintenance-free batteries still require periodic adjustments to the electrolyte level in order to perform at an optimal level.
• In addition, the cable-to-battery connections should be cleaned and maintained.
• A poorly maintained battery may cause the unit to stay running longer then required for refrigeration purposes, causing excessive fuel consumption.