It’s easy to think a fridge van has an easy time in winter. It doesn’t. Cold weather is hard on batteries and seals, brings condensation into the load space, and can push chilled goods too cold. Here’s how to keep yours working through the coldest months.
1. Look after the battery
Cold weather is hard on batteries, and the fridge system depends on the van’s battery. A weak battery that just about starts the van in October can let you down in January. Have it tested before winter, and replace it if it’s on its way out.
2. Keep the load space dry
Cold weather brings condensation inside the load space, and damp is where mould and bacteria grow. Wipe the load space dry after cleaning, leave the doors open to air it when the van is empty, and keep an eye on corners and seals.
3. Check the door seals
Rubber seals can stiffen and crack in the cold. A seal that’s gone lets warm or cold air in, makes the unit work harder and can let water into the lining. Check them regularly and replace damaged ones straight away.
4. Watch for loads getting too cold
On a frosty morning, the outside can be colder than the temperature your chilled load needs. Keep an eye on the temperature display, not just in summer. A fridge unit with heating holds the temperature both ways: it cools the load space in July and warms it in January, which matters for things like flowers and fresh produce that frost will spoil. See fridge vans for florists.
5. Service before the cold sets in
Book the van and the fridge unit in for a service in the autumn rather than waiting for something to fail. Check tyres, brakes, lights and wipers while you’re at it. Regular servicing is what makes a fridge unit last: see how long does a fridge unit last?
6. Think about overnight loading
If the van is loaded the night before an early start, the fridge needs power with the engine off. Electric standby lets it run from the mains overnight; it has to be specified when the van is built. See do you need electric standby?
When winter shows up a bigger problem
If the temperature won’t hold, the lining is damaged or the repair bills keep coming, read signs you should replace your refrigerated van and common problems with refrigerated vans. We take part exchanges, and our used fridge vans come with a warranty on the van (what’s left of the maker’s, or 12 months, which can be extended), plus 12 or 24 months on the fridge unit. See our fridge vans, or call us on 01444 245555.
