20/01/2026
❄️ Myth: “Freezers don’t need defrosting if they still reach temperature.”
This is a common assumption, but it overlooks how refrigeration systems actually operate.
A freezer reaching –18 °C does not necessarily mean it is running efficiently or sustainably. Ice build-up on evaporator coils and air channels acts as an insulating layer, reducing heat transfer and restricting airflow.
As a result, the system compensates by running the compressor for longer periods to maintain the set temperature. Over time, this leads to:
Increased energy consumption
Higher compressor workload and wear
Uneven temperature distribution
Reduced usable storage space
Shortened equipment lifespan
Even modern frost-free units depend on properly functioning defrost heaters, sensors, and controls. When these components degrade or drift out of specification, ice accumulation can occur gradually and without obvious warning signs.
Key takeaway:
Temperature is only one indicator of performance and often a lagging one.
Airflow, efficiency, and compressor duty cycle are far better measures of system health.
Regular inspection and appropriate defrosting remain essential parts of preventive maintenance.