Desert Sand Handyman

Signs of a refrigerant leak: unit runs but doesn't reach temperature, ice buildup on evaporator coil, hissing or bubbling sounds from refrigerant lines, oily residue near connections or fittings, and higher than normal electricity consumption. Only EPA-certified technicians can legally handle refrigerant. If you suspect a leak, call a technician promptly — operating a refrigerator with low refrigerant damages the compressor.

Commercial ice machines should be professionally cleaned and sanitized every 6 months at minimum, or more frequently in hard water areas. The FDA Food Code requires ice machines to be clean and sanitized to prevent mold, slime, and bacterial growth. Between professional cleanings, staff should clean the exterior, ice bin, and scoop holder regularly. Many operators who skip cleaning face costly repairs from scale buildup and potential health code violations.

Kitchen equipment emergencies include: walk-in cooler/freezer temperature rising (food inventory at risk), gas leak or smell, fire suppression system discharge, electrical sparks or burning smells, complete loss of cooking equipment during service hours, dishwasher failure during a busy shift, or any situation creating an immediate food safety risk. These situations require immediate professional attention and may require temporary closure.