Under-counter chillers are essential in every professional kitchen, ensuring efficiency and food safety. However, even the best commercial refrigerator in the UAE can experience performance issues over time — especially in high-heat, demanding environments such as restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
At ANKE, we have worked with thousands of commercial clients, helping them diagnose and fix chiller problems quickly to minimise downtime. Here is a guide to the most common under-counter chiller problems and how to fix them effectively.
1. Chiller Not Cooling Properly
Symptoms:
- The interior feels warm despite being switched on
- Temperature fluctuates frequently
- Food or beverages spoil faster than usual
Possible Causes:
- Blocked air vents or dirty condenser coils
- Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor
- Low refrigerant levels
- The door gasket is not sealing properly
How to Fix It:
✅ Clean the condenser coils using a soft brush or vacuum
✅ Ensure air vents are not blocked by items inside
✅ Check and replace the door gasket if air is escaping
✅ If the compressor is not running, contact a certified technician
Pro Insight: Always maintain 5–10 cm clearance around the unit for proper ventilation, as poor airflow is one of the top reasons for reduced cooling efficiency.
2. Water Leaking Inside or Outside
Symptoms:
- Water is pooling inside the chiller
- Damp floor or dripping beneath the unit
Possible Causes:
- Blocked drainpipe or clogged drip tray
- The door was left open too long, causing condensation
- Faulty drain pan heater (in some models)
How to Fix It:
✅ Remove the drip tray and clean it with warm, soapy water
✅ Use a pipe cleaner or compressed air to unclog the drain line
✅ Ensure the door closes tightly
Pro Insight: Schedule routine servicing every 6–8 months to ensure drainage and air systems remain in top shape.
3. Unusual Noise or Vibration
Symptoms:
- Loud buzzing, rattling, or knocking noises
- Excessive vibration when the compressor runs
Possible Causes:
- Loose fan blades or mounting brackets
- Worn-out compressor mounts
- The unit is not level on the floor
How to Fix It:
✅ Check if the chiller is placed on a flat, stable surface
✅ Tighten any visible screws or panels
✅ If the compressor is excessively noisy, contact a service expert
Pro Insight: ANKE under-counter chillers are designed with anti-vibration mounts, but if your floor is uneven, always use levelling feet to balance the unit.
4. Ice Build-Up or Frost Inside
Symptoms:
- Ice forming on shelves or evaporators
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- The door is difficult to close
Possible Causes:
- The door is frequently opened or left ajar
- Faulty defrost timer or thermostat
- Humid air is entering the cabinet
How to Fix It:
✅ Defrost the unit manually by unplugging it for a few hours
✅ Clean the interior and restart
✅ Inspect and replace faulty defrost components if needed
5. Chiller Not Turning On
Symptoms:
- No lights, no compressor sound
- The power indicator is off even when plugged in
Possible Causes:
- Loose power plug or tripped circuit breaker
- Faulty thermostat, compressor, or power cord
How to Fix It:
✅ Verify the power supply and outlet
✅ Check the fuse or circuit breaker
✅ Replace the thermostat if the unit does not respond
✅ If the compressor does not start, contact service support for professional diagnostics
6. Temperature Fluctuations
Symptoms:
- Temperature varies without changing settings
- Food freezes or spoils intermittently
Possible Causes:
- Malfunctioning temperature sensor
- Blocked air circulation
- Improper thermostat calibration
How to Fix It:
✅ Avoid overloading shelves & allow space for air circulation
✅ Calibrate the thermostat or replace the sensor
✅ Check for ice blocking the evaporator fan
7. Bad Odor Inside the Chiller
Symptoms:
- Unpleasant smell even after cleaning
- Mold or mildew spots visible inside
Possible Causes:
- Spilled liquids or spoiled food
- Poor ventilation and moisture build-up
- Clogged drain or mold on door seals
How to Fix It:
✅ Empty the chiller and clean all surfaces with mild vinegar or baking soda solution
✅ Wipe door seals thoroughly
✅ Allow the chiller to air-dry with the door open for a few hours
✅ Ensure monthly interior cleaning and quarterly servicing for odour prevention
Preventive Maintenance Checklist
- Clean condenser coils every 3 months
- Defrost the unit regularly
- Check door seals and hinges
- Keep temperature settings consistent
- Schedule annual servicing with a qualified technician
Experience Durable Cooling Efficiency With ANKE Refrigeration Systems
Most under-counter chiller issues are easy to diagnose and fix with basic maintenance, but when in doubt, always call a professional. Even the most reliable under-counter chillers need expert design and regular maintenance to perform at their best. Choosing the right manufacturer ensures long-term efficiency, safety, and value for your business.
At ANKE, with more than two decades of experience in stainless steel and custom fabrication, we are proud to be recognised among the best commercial refrigerator manufacturers in the UAE. Every chiller we produce is engineered for precision cooling, hygiene, and durability and built to withstand the demanding conditions of restaurants, hotels, cafés, and cloud kitchens across the region.
If you are planning to upgrade or expand your kitchen, contact us today to learn more about ANKE’s range of under-counter chillers and the best commercial refrigerator solutions in the UAE, crafted for lasting performance, energy efficiency, and total reliability.
