At Controlled Air Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen how quickly a small drip can escalate into a costly emergency. Serving Vancouver Island and the surrounding areas, our team of commercial HVAC contractors knows that identifying the "why" behind a leak is the first step toward protecting your investment. Here are the three most common reasons your walk-in cooler is leaking and how to handle them. Contact us today.
Why is My Walk-In Cooler Leaking Water? (Common Causes & Fixes)
Clogged or Frozen Drain Lines
The most frequent culprit is a blocked condensate drain line. Over time, dust, debris, or biological "slime" can plug the pipe meant to carry moisture away from the evaporator coil. If the water has nowhere to go, it backs up and spills over the drain pan. In many Vancouver Island kitchens, if the drain line heater fails, water freezes inside the pipe, creating an ice block that forces liquid out of the unit and onto your floor.
Damaged or Worn Door Gaskets
Your cooler relies on an airtight seal to maintain its internal climate. If your gaskets are cracked, torn, or brittle, warm, humid air seeps inside every time the pressure shifts. As this warm air hits the cold evaporator, it creates massive amounts of condensation that the system wasn't designed to manage. Regularly checking your seals is a simple DIY step that can prevent the need for more extensive walk-in cooler repairs.
Improper Sloping or Structural Issues
Precision is key during installation. If your walk-in wasn't installed with a slight, calculated slope toward the drain, gravity becomes your enemy. Water will pool in the corners of the pan rather than exiting through the line. This often requires professional cooler repairs to realign the internal components and ensure moisture flows exactly where it should.
GET STARTED TODAY
A leaking cooler is a symptom of a system under stress. While some fixes are simple, persistent moisture often points to deeper mechanical issues that require expert commercial HVAC services. Don't let a small leak turn into a total system failure. If you're struggling with water issues, contact Controlled Air Heating & Cooling today. Our experienced HVAC technicians are ready to provide the reliable walk-in cooler repairs you need to keep your Vancouver Island business running smoothly. Contact us today.