{"id":2097,"date":"2024-10-09T16:52:02","date_gmt":"2024-10-09T09:52:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tradecorp-usa.com\/blog\/?p=2097"},"modified":"2024-10-29T16:32:35","modified_gmt":"2024-10-29T09:32:35","slug":"how-to-defrost-reefer-containers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tradecorp-usa.com\/blog\/how-to-defrost-reefer-containers\/","title":{"rendered":"Defrost Reefer Containers: Challenges and How-Tos"},"content":{"rendered":"

We need to regularly defrost reefer containers<\/a> after using them for some time. Much like their smaller refrigerator cousins, using reefer containers without occasionally defrosting them can cause many problems that degrade the containers\u2019 performance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Because of that, it is important to know how to defrost reefer containers to prevent problems that can happen from not defrosting them for a long time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Challenges Related to Reefer Containers<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Challenges
Challenges in cleaning reefer containers<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

These challenges often cause problems when someone needs to defrost reefer containers and clean them to keep their condition ideal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frost Accumulation<\/span><\/h3>\n

Frost buildup is one of the most common problems reefer containers encounter. When warm air from the outside enters the container or the interior is very humid, frost occurs.<\/span><\/p>\n

A layer of frost forms on the evaporator coil as a result of the air’s moisture condensing and freezing due to the low temperatures. This ice accumulates over time and reduces the cooling system’s effectiveness.<\/span><\/p>\n

In turn, the refrigeration unit must work harder to maintain the ideal temperature when the evaporator coil is covered in frost because it is unable to transfer heat effectively. This might result in increased energy usage and possibly a failure to keep the product at the proper temperature, which can cause spoiling.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reduced Airflow<\/span><\/h3>\n

A buildup of frost not only damages the evaporator coil but also reduces the container’s internal airflow. As such, there must be a constant airflow to distribute the cold air inside reefer containers evenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frost accumulation has the potential to impede airflow, resulting in heated areas inside the container. The uneven cooling process may result in unequal product quality because some areas may get excessively warm while others may freeze.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Increased Energy Consumption<\/span><\/h3>\n

As frost forms on the evaporator coil, the refrigeration unit needs to work harder to maintain the specified temperature.<\/span><\/p>\n

This increased workload causes an increase in energy consumption, which, particularly on lengthy trips, can result in expensive fuel costs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Excessive frost formation can force the refrigeration system to work constantly, increasing energy expenses and perhaps resulting in equipment failure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Compressor Strain<\/span><\/h3>\n

The compressor in the reefer container\u2019s system can suffer more stress when frost covers the evaporator coil.<\/span><\/p>\n

For the refrigerant gas to absorb heat and keep the container cool, it must be compressed and circulated through the system by the compressor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Should the accumulation of frost impede the coil’s ability to sufficiently absorb heat, the compressor can overwork and end up in early wear and possible malfunction.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Temperature Inconsistencies<\/span><\/h3>\n

Accurate temperature management is essential in reefer containers to maintain the cargo’s quality. Temperature variations brought on by frost accumulation can harm the cargo’s condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

This can be especially harmful when shipping items sensitive to temperature, including medications or frozen meals, as even a little temperature change can cause substantial losses.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Defrost Reefer Containers (Carrier and Thermo King)<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Preparation
Preparation for reefer container cleaning<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Many shipping container vendors like Tradecorp use Carrier and Thermo King reefer machines in their reefer container lineups. As such, learn how to defrost reefer containers that use machines from these two brands.<\/span><\/p>\n

Automatic Defrosting<\/span><\/h3>\n

Thermo King and Carrier reefer units both have automated defrost cycles. These cycles activate frequently, usually every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the operating environment and the amount of moisture in the container.<\/span><\/p>\n