When the temperature drops, most people think about turning on the heat — but for businesses that rely on commercial refrigeration, the colder months bring their own unique challenges. Whether you manage a restaurant, grocery store, or large cold storage facility, preparing your walk-ins and refrigeration systems for winter is key to avoiding costly downtime, spoiled inventory, and skyrocketing energy bills.

At AM Refrigeration, we’ve been helping El Paso businesses stay cool (and efficient) since 1976. Here’s how you can make sure your equipment runs at peak performance through the winter months.

1. Check Door Gaskets and Seals

When outdoor air cools down, rubber gaskets can stiffen and crack. Even small gaps can let warm air seep in, forcing your compressors to work overtime.  Inspect all door seals for brittleness or tears and replace any that aren’t airtight. It’s a small investment that pays off in energy savings and consistent temperatures.

2. Clean and Inspect Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Dust and grease buildup on coils reduce heat exchange efficiency, leading to higher power use and potential compressor failure.

Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove debris and make sure airflow around the coils is unobstructed. This is especially important for restaurants and convenience stores where oil residue can accumulate faster.

3. Calibrate Thermostats and Sensors

Winter can throw off sensor readings if ambient temperatures shift drastically. Double-check your control systems to ensure accurate temperature readings, especially for walk-ins storing perishable goods like meat, produce, or dairy.

Pro Tip: A few degrees off could mean product loss or worse, a food-safety violation.

4. Inspect Drain Lines and Defrost Systems

Condensate lines are notorious for freezing when ambient air cools. A frozen drain can back up water into your cooler or cause floor icing hazards.

Ensure drain heaters and defrost cycles are functioning properly, and clear any blockages before they cause damage.

5. Verify Weatherproofing on Outdoor Units

Many commercial refrigeration systems have outdoor condensers or remote compressors. Check that these units are shielded from direct rain and debris, and verify that refrigerant lines are properly insulated. Cold or fluctuating outdoor conditions can stress insulation and lead to leaks or pressure loss.

6. Schedule a Professional Winter Tune-Up

Some issues can only be caught by trained technicians using specialized gauges and diagnostic tools. A winter inspection from AM Refrigeration includes checking refrigerant levels, amp draws, pressure balance, defrost timers, and more — ensuring your system is ready for both cold and unexpected warm spells typical in West Texas winters.

7. Don’t Forget Your HVAC System

Your building’s comfort systems work hand-in-hand with refrigeration. A poorly balanced HVAC system can cause humidity spikes, affecting cooler efficiency and indoor air quality. Our technicians can assess both systems together for a complete energy-performance snapshot.

Stay Efficient This Winter with AM Refrigeration

A little maintenance now can prevent big headaches later. Whether you operate a local restaurant, supermarket, or warehouse, AM Refrigeration’s expert team keeps your systems running strong year-round.

📞 Call (915) 562-2122 to schedule your Winter Readiness Check-Up today.

Because when it comes to cold storage in El Paso, experience matters.