Running a coffee shop in the Bay Area is all about consistency, whether it’s the flavor of your espresso, the freshness of your pastries, or the reliability of your refrigeration systems. From milk coolers to pastry display cases to ice machines, your commercial refrigeration is the backbone of daily operations. When it falters, it can lead to product loss, frustrated staff, and disappointed customers.
At East Bay Refrigeration, we’ve worked with countless coffee shops across the San Francisco Bay Area, and we know the unique challenges these businesses face. Here’s a guide to common refrigeration and ice machine issues for coffee shops, how to troubleshoot them, and when to call in a professional.
Common Refrigeration Issues in Coffee Shops
1. Warm Milk & Dairy Coolers
Milk is critical to your menu, and nothing disrupts service faster than warm or spoiled dairy.
Possible Causes:
- Dirty condenser coils restricting airflow
- Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor
- Overloading the cooler, blocking air circulation
Quick Fix: Clean the coils monthly and avoid overstocking. If the temperature still fluctuates, it’s time for service.
2. Pastry Display Cases Losing Temperature
Your pastries and grab-and-go items need to stay cool and safe while looking appetizing.
Possible Causes:
- Faulty door gaskets letting warm air in
- Fans not circulating properly
- Refrigerant leaks reducing cooling capacity
Quick Fix: Check for torn gaskets and replace as needed. Listen for unusual fan noise. Call a technician for suspected leaks.
3. Under-Counter Refrigerators Not Cooling
Compact fridges keep syrups, whipped cream, and other essentials nearby. When they underperform, service slows down.
Possible Causes:
- Blocked air vents due to tight storage
- Overfilled unit
- Malfunctioning compressor
Quick Fix: Give your unit breathing room and avoid overfilling. Persistent issues may require a professional check on the compressor.
4. Ice Machine Problems
Whether you serve iced lattes or cold brew, ice machines are essential. Brands like True, Hoshizaki, Follett, Manitowoc, Scotsman, and Ice-O-Matic are common in Bay Area coffee shops—but all are vulnerable to issues.
Common Issues:
- Low ice production due to clogged water filters
- Odd-tasting ice caused by scale buildup
- Leaks from blocked drain lines
Quick Fix: Replace water filters every 6 months and run regular cleaning cycles. If ice still tastes off, scale removal by a technician is needed.
Troubleshooting Checklist for Coffee Shop Owners
Before calling for service, here are a few steps you can take:
✅ Check the thermostat setting – sometimes it’s accidentally bumped.
✅ Clean condenser coils – dust buildup is a top cause of poor cooling.
✅ Inspect door gaskets – look for cracks or gaps.
✅ Ensure proper airflow – don’t push units flush against the wall.
✅ Replace water filters in ice machines regularly.
If problems persist, professional service is the safest option—especially with refrigerant, compressors, or electrical issues.
Trusted Brands We Service
At East Bay Refrigeration, we proudly repair and maintain top brands trusted by coffee shops across the Bay Area, including, but not limited to:
Refrigeration Units: True, Perlick, Structural Concepts, Traulsen, BevAir, Dukers, Hussmann, Victory, Follett, Continental.
Ice Machines: True, Hoshizaki, Follett, Manitowoc, Scotsman, Ice-O-Matic.
Keep Your Coffee Shop Running Smoothly
Your customers count on you for fresh drinks and food every day, don’t let refrigeration failures slow you down. Regular preventive maintenance can reduce emergency breakdowns, extend equipment life, and keep your coffee shop efficient year-round.
At East Bay Refrigeration, we offer emergency service and ongoing maintenance programs tailored for coffee shops across the East Bay.Contact Us to schedule service or learn more about our maintenance plans, or give us a call at (510) 940-8917!