It is important to maintain a refrigerated van for the safe transportation of your perishable products. Keeping your van in top shape will ensure that you are able to make deliveries on time and will also help keep your perishable product safe. Figuring out what needs to be maintained can be a little confusing, so here is some advice on how to do it properly.
You can maintain a refrigerated van yourself. The first thing you should do is to check the electric compressor. If it needs repairing, have it repaired immediately, as the food in your vehicle may spoil. Check your hoses and seals for leaks which may affect the unit’s performance and efficiency. Lastly, clean your cooling unit often to avoid odors.
The battery in your vehicle is also very important. Make sure it’s properly maintained and tested at least once every month or two. You also need to check if there are any leaks in your fuel lines and tank. Always store diesel fuel in approved containers to avoid leaks.
Maintaining a refrigerated van involves not just the components but also the body of the unit itself. Check underneath for rusting, drains that need cleaning, and fluid levels that need changing. The doors must be working properly and locks should be strong enough to avoid forced entry by thieves. Check all lights and make sure they are functioning correctly.
For more details follow these tips to keep your van in top condition:
Keep all components inside the van clean, especially the condenser and evaporator. Dirt can damage the compressor, which runs constantly to circulate a refrigerant through the system.
Treat the evaporation coils with a coil cleaner. These are available at auto supply stores and are relatively inexpensive. Coil cleaners have a powerful solvent that removes dirt and debris from the coils. You can use a high-pressure water hose, as well, but be careful not to damage the fins on the coils. Use an aftermarket coil brush instead to clean them gently.
Most refrigerators in vans are powered by propane or diesel fuel, which is more expensive than regular gas. The best way to reduce your fuel costs is to drive as efficiently as possible; driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph can save as much as 25 percent on your fuel costs. You can also keep the back of your van uncluttered so it doesn’t drag behind you, and make sure it’s properly loaded so that weight isn’t all concentrated in one spot.
Keeping your refrigerated van properly maintained can help you avoid costly repairs later. A few simple habits can help you keep everything running smoothly for years to come.
