Cold Room Not Reaching Temperature – A Common but Critical Issue

At Mattair, we understand how vital reliable refrigeration is to our commercial and industrial customers. A malfunctioning cold room can lead to significant losses, whether that’s food spoilage, disrupted operations, or energy inefficiency.

Recently, we were called out to a customer site where their cold room wasn’t reaching the desired temperature. This kind of issue can stem from a variety of causes—from control faults to mechanical failure—but one of the most common (and often hidden) reasons is a refrigerant leak.

Diagnostic Process: Pressure Leak Testing

Once on site, our experienced engineer began with a full inspection of the refrigeration system. To accurately assess the system’s integrity, a pressure leak test was performed.

Pressure testing is a standard method used to identify leaks in HVAC and refrigeration systems. It involves introducing a controlled amount of pressure using an inert gas (often nitrogen) and monitoring the system for pressure loss over time.

In this case, the test revealed a refrigerant leak at the expansion valve on the cold room’s indoor evaporator unit. This kind of leak reduces the system’s cooling capacity and causes the evaporator to underperform—explaining why the cold room wasn’t holding temperature.

On-Site Repair and Re-Testing

The leak was carefully repaired on-site, ensuring all connections were secure and the faulty component was sealed properly. Once the repair was completed, the system underwent a second pressure test to confirm there were no further leaks or pressure drops.

✅ The test passed successfully, and the system was re-commissioned and returned to normal operation. Temperatures in the cold room quickly stabilised, and the customer was able to resume operations with confidence.

Why Early Leak Detection Matters

Refrigerant leaks may seem minor, but they can have serious consequences if left unresolved:

• ❄️ Reduced cooling performance
• ⚠️ Increased energy consumption
• 💸 Higher operational costs
• 🔧 Potential compressor damage
• 🧊 Product loss due to unstable temperatures
• 🌍 Environmental impact from refrigerant emissions

By carrying out a pressure test early, we were able to prevent more serious damage and save the customer from a potentially costly system failure.

Preventative Maintenance Saves Time and Money

At Mattair, we always advise customers to invest in preventative maintenance for their HVAC and refrigeration systems. Regular servicing not only helps spot early signs of wear and tear but also improves energy efficiency, extends equipment life, and ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Our engineers are fully qualified and equipped to handle everything from routine servicing to emergency call-outs and system commissioning.

Need Help with Your Refrigeration System?

If your cold room, refrigeration unit, or HVAC system isn’t performing as expected, don’t delay. A quick call to Mattair could help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly downtime.

📞 Call us today on 01246 414922
🌐 Or visit www.mattair.co.uk to book a service, request a quote, or get expert advice.