Do not wait for a breakdown to take action

Many businesses wait until a problem occurs before having their refrigeration systems cleaned. This reactive approach costs more: emergency call-outs, lost products, health risks.

Here are the warning signs to watch for so you can act before it is too late.

1. Rising or unstable temperatures

This is often the first visible sign:

  • The temperature in the cold room fluctuates beyond the set point
  • The compressor runs continuously without reaching the desired temperature
  • Temperature alarms are triggered more frequently

Likely cause: a fouled evaporator that can no longer exchange heat effectively.

2. Excessive frost on the evaporators

A thin layer of frost is normal on freezer room evaporators. However, excessive frost or frost that returns quickly after defrosting indicates:

  • Blocked fins disrupting airflow
  • Faulty drainage (condensate is not draining properly)
  • An ineffective defrost cycle caused by fouling

3. Unusual odours

Odours in your refrigerated spaces are a serious warning sign:

  • Musty smell: mould growing in the condensate tray or on the evaporator
  • Rancid or sour smell: bacterial proliferation
  • Chemical smell: possible refrigerant leak

If your customers or staff notice odours, you need to act immediately.

4. Condensation and excessive humidity

Condensation on the walls, ceiling, or doors of your cold rooms indicates:

  • A sealing problem (worn door gaskets)
  • An evaporator that is no longer dehumidifying properly
  • Fouling that is disrupting airflow

Excessive humidity promotes mould growth, a critical point during HACCP audits.

5. Abnormal equipment noise

Listen carefully to your systems:

  • Whistling or vibration from the condenser: fans are obstructed or unbalanced
  • The compressor is louder than usual: it is running under overload
  • Water noise: a condensate drainage problem

6. Rising electricity bills

If your electricity consumption increases without a change in activity, your refrigeration systems may be the cause:

  • Fouled condensers raise condensing pressure
  • Fouled evaporators reduce heat exchange
  • The compressor compensates by running longer

Compare your bills year on year to detect any drift.

7. Visible mould

Mould traces on:

  • Cold room walls
  • Door seals
  • The evaporator condensate tray
  • Ventilation grilles

This is a sign that cleaning is urgent and HACCP compliance is at risk.

8. An upcoming HACCP audit or FASFC inspection

If a FASFC inspection has been announced or you have a quality audit coming up:

  • Check the condition of your installations
  • Make sure your cleaning reports are up to date
  • Schedule a preventive intervention if needed

Our intervention reports with photographs serve as proof of compliance for your self-checking file.

What should you do if you recognise these signs?

Do not let the situation deteriorate. Contact Sefibel for a quick diagnosis:

  • 24/7 emergency line: +32 486 35 60 11
  • Free quote within 24 hours
  • Service throughout Belgium

Preventive cleaning always costs less than an emergency call-out or a failed audit.