You’re loaded with temperature-sensitive cargo, up against a tight delivery window—and suddenly, your reefer unit breaks down. It’s a worst-case scenario for any driver or fleet manager. The clock is ticking, and your full load of cargo is at risk.
At Crosspoint Power and Refrigeration, we understand that every second counts when a reefer unit fails. That’s why we’ve developed a system designed to protect your cargo, minimize downtime, and get you back on the road—fast.
What Happens When a Loaded Reefer Trailer Breaks Down?
A reefer breakdown isn’t just an equipment issue—it’s a logistics emergency. Whether your trailer is sitting at a loading dock or already en route, failure of the refrigeration system means your cargo is no longer protected. Often, the first sign of trouble comes from Carrier alarm codes—warnings like Code 00030 or Code 00031 can indicate failure. Ignoring these alerts can result in lost cooling capacity and spoiled cargo. From fresh produce to pharmaceuticals, a temperature spike could mean spoilage, rejected deliveries, or costly insurance claims.
How We Save Your Reefer Cargo
When you arrive at our shop (or call us out to your location for mobile repair), our team acts immediately. Here’s how we keep your cargo safe during reefer trailer repairs:
Loaded Unit Diagnosis
Loaded trailers take priority over other repairs. When you call in, we will ask if the unit is loaded. If so, we will confirm the type of load, and setpoint. We will also record the current load temperature. Depending on the load temperature, and the ambient temperature, a unit will generally have a several hour window for repair. Our technicians will diagnose the refrigeration unit and if the repair can be made while maintaining a safe temperature for the load, the repair will proceed. Otherwise, a rental unit will be recommended.
Rapid Installation of a Rental Unit
If the repair cannot be made while maintaining a safe load temperature, we install a swing unit (also called a rental unit) within 1 hour—right at our shop. This mobile refrigeration solution keeps your load at the correct temperature, so your product stays intact and compliant with your delivery standards.
Temporary Use for Ongoing Deliveries
Most drivers use the rental unit for 1–2 days while we repair their primary reefer. This means you can make your scheduled delivery with peace of mind, knowing your full load is protected by a reliable backup system.
Expert Reefer Trailer Repairs, Done Fast
While you’re out delivering, our experienced technicians are hard at work repairing your unit. We coordinate the repair timeline so that your reefer is ready when you return. That’s the Crosspoint way—fast, reliable, and focused on keeping your business moving.
Why Do Reefer Units Fail? Common Causes to Watch For
Understanding why reefer units break down can help you catch problems early—before your cargo is at risk. Whether you’re seeing a Carrier alarm code or noticing inconsistent temperatures, here are the most common culprits behind reefer failures:
Refrigeration System Issues
- Compressor Failure — The compressor is the heart of your reefer system, circulating refrigerant to keep your trailer cold. When it fails, the entire cooling cycle is disrupted—leading to rising temperatures and potential spoilage.
- Refrigerant Leaks — Leaks reduce your unit’s ability to maintain set temperatures, compromising cooling efficiency. They also pose environmental risks and are often hard to detect until damage is done.
- Faulty Electronics— The unit micro is the brains of the refrigeration unit. If the micro goes bad, or if there are loose or corroded wires, the refrigeration unit may malfunction.
- Temperature Fluctuations — Fluctuating temperatures may be caused by leaks, compressor issues, or malfunctioning control systems—all of which can spell disaster for temperature-sensitive cargo.
- Insufficient Cooling — Low refrigerant levels, blocked airflow, or dirty coils can make it impossible for your reefer unit to reach or hold its target temperature.
- Condenser Problems — Blocked, dirty, or damaged condensers reduce heat dissipation, putting strain on the cooling system and reducing performance.
Electrical & Mechanical Failures
- Electrical Problems — Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or poor power connections can cause intermittent failures or complete shutdowns—sometimes without much warning.
- Air Leaks — Gaps in door seals or damaged gaskets let warm air in and cold air out, forcing the unit to work harder and often failing to maintain consistent internal temps.
- Improper Unit Settings — Incorrect settings can damage sensitive loads by top freezing produce or insufficiently cooling deep frozen loads.
- Faulty Sensors — Sensors that monitor temperature and pressure are vital to correct operation. If they’re malfunctioning, your unit could be reacting to incorrect data—causing cargo-threatening conditions.
- Defrosting Issues — Poor defrosting can lead to ice buildup on evaporator coils, restricting airflow and reducing cooling effectiveness.
- Low Fuel Levels — It might seem obvious, but it’s surprisingly common—if your reefer’s fuel tank runs too low, the unit will shut down, potentially leading to spoilage if not caught in time.
Why Trust Crosspoint Power and Refrigeration for Reefer Trailer Repair?
Our shop is staffed by certified experts who specialize in reefer trailer repairs and refrigeration installs. With deep experience across major reefer brands and models, we:
- Offer fast turnaround times
- Keep high-demand parts in stock to minimize delays
- Provide 24/7 emergency mobile support
- Understand the urgency and cost of protecting reefer cargo
We’ve built our business around the needs of drivers and fleet managers who can’t afford to wait—and certainly can’t afford to lose a load.
Don’t Lose Your Load to a Reefer Breakdown
At Crosspoint Power and Refrigeration, we’ve seen how quickly a reefer failure can escalate. But we’ve also seen how the right equipment and fast, expert service can turn a potential disaster into just a quick detour.
So if your reefer unit goes down and you’re sitting on a full load of perishable cargo, don’t panic—call Crosspoint. We’ll keep your trailer cold, get your unit repaired, and make sure you stay on schedule.
Need emergency reefer trailer repairs?
Contact one of our reefer repair locations in Indianapolis or Fort Wayne, or call for our mobile unit repair at Crosspoint Power and Refrigeration. We’re ready to keep your cargo moving.
