Before you call: quick safe checks you can do, from KitchenGuard

Safety first. Everything below is a basic, no-tool check only. Do not open equipment panels, do not touch gas connections, and do not handle refrigerant. If a check does not resolve the problem quickly, stop and call a certified technician. When in doubt, call us.

Safe checks by equipment type

Try these first

Refrigeration not cooling (walk-in or reach-in)

Confirm the unit has power and the breaker has not tripped.
Check that the thermostat setpoint has not been bumped or changed.
Brush the dust and lint off the condenser coil where you can safely reach it.
Check that the door gaskets seal cleanly and the door closes fully.
Keep vents and stacked product clear so air can circulate.
Clear the condensate drain line if it is visibly blocked.

Call us if the box is still warm, you see ice buildup, the compressor is not running, or you notice any refrigerant smell.

Ice machine problems

Confirm the water supply valve to the machine is fully open.
Clean or replace the air filter and clear any debris from the condenser.
Run the descale and clean cycle if you are due, following the maker's instructions.
Check that the bin is not jammed or overfull, which can stop the harvest.

Call us if you get little or no ice after cleaning, the machine is leaking, or it is making an unusual noise.

Cooking equipment will not heat or ignite

Confirm the gas valve is open and the unit has power.
Check that the thermostat or temperature dial is set correctly.
Look for a tripped reset or high-limit button you can reset by hand.
Do not open panels or touch any gas connections.

Call us if there is no ignition or burner trouble. If you smell gas, leave the area and call immediately from a safe location.

Weak exhaust or ventilation

Pull and clean the grease baffle filters, then reseat them.
Confirm the hood fan switch is on and the breaker has not tripped.

Call us if airflow is still weak after cleaning, the fan is noisy, or you see grease buildup in the ducts.

Warewasher or dishwasher

Check the water supply is on and the incoming temperature is correct.
Clean the wash and rinse arms and clear the screens of food debris.
Confirm the detergent and rinse-aid supply is not empty.

Call us if it will not clean, it is leaking, or it will not fill or drain.

When to stop and call a professional

Never attempt anything involving electrical panels or internal wiring.
Never work on gas lines or gas connections. If you smell gas, leave and call from a safe spot.
Never attempt to handle refrigerant. Refrigerant handling is federally restricted under EPA 608 and requires a certified technician.

Equipment down after hours? We run a 24/7 emergency line (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). Call (757) 304-0029.

Helpful videos

Watch a safe check in action

Short walkthroughs of the basic, no-tool checks above. See the full video library

How to clean a condenser coil (WebstaurantStore) · watch on YouTube

Replacing a worn door gasket (Parts Town) · watch on YouTube

Cleaning hood and baffle filters (Powerwash.com) · watch on YouTube

Guidance informed by manufacturer service literature and industry resources including CFESA, WebstaurantStore, KaTom, Parts Town, and AllPoints. Want more? Visit the full video library.

These tips cover basic, no-tool checks only. Do not attempt repairs involving gas, electrical panels, or refrigerant. KitchenGuard is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from attempted do-it-yourself work. When in doubt, stop and call us.

Before you call: quick checks you can do