Common Chiller Problems & Quick Fixes

By Rite Temp on 11/30/2025

Downtime is expensive. Here are the eight of the most common industrial chiller issues we see and how to fix them fast.

Low refrigerant charge → Poor cooling, high head pressure
Fix: Leak test, repair, recharge to nameplate
Dirty or blocked condenser coils → High head pressure, compressor shutdown
Fix: Chemical clean or pressure-wash coils yearly
Failed condenser fan motor → Overheating in air-cooled units
Fix: Keep spares on site; replace in <1 hour
Fouled evaporator tubes → Low suction pressure, freezing
Fix: Brush-clean or acid-wash tubes every 2-3 years
Water flow issues (low flow switch trip) → Pump strainer clogged or valve closed
Fix: Clean Y-strainer monthly; verify valve position
Oil pressure faults (common on screw chillers) → Clogged oil filter or bad sensor
Fix: Change oil filter twice a year; test sensor
High discharge temperature → Overcharged or non-condensables
Fix: Recover refrigerant, vacuum to 500 microns, weigh in correct charge
Control board or sensor failure → Random alarms
Fix: Keep critical sensors in stock; most swap in 15 minutes

Pro tip: 80% of emergency calls are preventable with quarterly PM. Rite-Temp’s maintenance plans include all filters, sensors, and 24/7 priority response.

Got an alarm code flashing right now? Text a photo of the screen to (888) 748-3867 – we’ll tell you the fix in minutes.