Reefer trailers symbolise the foundation of temperature-controlled transportation and assure that perishable goods, such as fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and pharmaceuticals, will reach their destinations in perfect condition. However, if satisfactory maintenance is not considered, the reefer trailer’s efficiency and lifespan will decline due to expensive repair or replacement.
So, to assist you in maintaining your reefer trailers for years, eight essential steps will be mentioned that you need to follow:
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Inspect the Refrigeration Unit Regularly
Your reefer trailer’s heartbeat is its refrigeration unit; thus, care for it more. Perform normal inspections for evidence of wear, such as leaks in hoses, loose belts, clogged filters, or something strange happening when operating, to avoid expensive breaks. Small fixes before big damage prevent your costly reefer trailers from drifting into an inopportune situation.
Tip: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when substituting air and fuel filters. This will decide the overall efficiency of the equipment.
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Clean and Maintain the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
The buildup of dirt and debris on the evaporator and condenser coils in your reefer trailer reduces cooling efficiency. Plan to clean off grime for proper heat transfer. Without such a simple process, the refrigeration units have to work extra hard and will burn more energy, cutting into profits and shortening the trailer’s lifespan.
Pro Tip: For effective but gentle cleaning, use a soft brush or a specialised coil cleaner.
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Monitor and Maintain Duel Levels
The refrigeration unit might shut down without notice if it runs out of fuel. Keep an eye on the fuel level and monitor whether you are using the proper type of fuel for your unit. You can add a fuel sensor for real-time monitoring, especially if you run long distances.
Did You Know? Some reefer trailers use diesel additives to improve efficiency and reduce deposits in the system.
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Inspect Door Seals and Insulation
Your reefer trailers can be kept cold by insulation and sealed doors to prevent heat from getting in or cold from getting out. If the seals are broken or the insulation is poor, warm air may leak in, adding to the load on the refrigeration unit. Check for cracks, tears, and general wear on your seals and replace them when necessary.
Quick Test: Feel around the frames of the door as the unit is operational so that you can tell if there are any air leaks.
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Conduct Pre-trip Inspections
Take a few minutes before embarking on performing a more detailed pre-trip inspection, including how the refrigeration unit is functioning, tyre pressure, lighting, and brakes. Confirm that the set temperature is accurate for the cargo needs and that it maintains this during operation.
Bonus: Document every pre-trip inspection for recordkeeping and compliance purposes.
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Keep Tires in Good Condition
The tyres in your reefer trailer are as important as the reefer trailer unit itself. When properly inflated, well maintained and in good condition, they decrease the rate of wear and tear and improve fuel consumption and safe control. It is advisable to check it out now and then for signs of uneven tread wear, crack line or puncture.
Pro Tip: You should turn your tyres and balance them to increase their durability and reduce the forces they apply to axles.
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Follow a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Waiting for things to go wrong is expensive. However, with a prevention plan from the manufacturer, we can maintain the condition of the reefer trailers in top condition. The schedule includes servicing the equipment, inspecting the electrical appliances and structural components, and lubricating the moving parts.
Pro Tip: Periodically get serviced by a qualified reefer trailer technician.
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Keep It Clean Inside and Out
Clean hygiene is important, especially for carrying food and medications in reefer trailers. Regularly wash the inside using a mild detergent in case odours, mould, or bacteria could start to grow. Wash the outside to eliminate the grime accumulated on roads that could negatively impact insulation and make it look dirty.
Reminder: Don’t forget to remove blockages in the drainage holes to avoid moisture inside the trailer.
Why Maintenance Matters for Your Reefer Trailer
A well-maintained reefer trailer ensures:
- Reliability: Reduced chances of breakdowns on key deliveries.
- Efficiency: Fuel saving and cost of operation.
- Longevity: Extending the life of the trailer and refrigeration unit.
This includes cargo protection, quality maintenance of perishables, and avoidance of spoilage claims.
In Summary
These eight steps allow you to maximise the lifespan of your reefer trailers and not waste your resources by making large, expensive repair jobs or long periods of unnecessary downtime. Investment in reefer trailers involves significant sums and ensures you optimise the use of this investment while avoiding interruptions to the operation of your business.
Take good care of your reefer trailer, and it will look after your cargo, reputation, and profits for you. Remain proactive and well-prepared, and watch out as your reefer trailer stays in its optimal performance for the years ahead!