Summer 2025

When summer temperatures rise in Cleveland, TN, it’s not just your air conditioner that gets a workout—your appliances do too, especially those located in garages or outdoor spaces. One of the most vulnerable is your chest freezer or second refrigerator, often tucked away in garages, basements, or sheds. These units are convenient for extra storage, but they can struggle when the mercury climbs into the 90s and beyond.

At Cleveland Appliance Repair Service, we often see an uptick in service calls during the hottest months because garage-based appliances start to malfunction. Fortunately, there are several things you can do as a homeowner to help your outdoor refrigeration units survive the heat and run efficiently all summer long.

Why Summer Heat Impacts Garage Refrigeration

Garage or outdoor refrigeration units aren’t always designed to operate in extreme temperatures. When the outside air gets too hot, it makes the compressor inside your refrigerator or freezer work much harder. If the ambient temperature in your garage is regularly 90°F or more, your unit could be running almost non-stop just to stay cold—leading to wear and tear, component failure, or even spoiled food.

Simple Checks Homeowners Can Do Right Now

Before your freezer or garage fridge breaks down during a summer BBQ weekend, take these steps to check its condition and performance:

✅ 1. Check the Location and Airflow

• Make sure there are at least a few inches of space around the unit for airflow.
• Avoid placing the freezer or fridge against a wall or next to other heat-producing equipment (like a dryer or water heater).
• Ensure that it's out of direct sunlight and not placed under low roofs that trap heat.

✅ 2. Inspect the Door Seals

• Close the door on a dollar bill or piece of paper—if it pulls out easily, the gasket may be worn.
• Worn seals allow warm air in and cold air out, making the appliance work harder than it should.

✅ 3. Clean the Condenser Coils

• Dust and debris can collect on the coils, especially in garages.
• Unplug the unit and use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to clean the coils—usually located on the back or underneath.
• Dirty coils reduce efficiency and increase power consumption.

✅ 4. Test Internal Temperatures

• Place a thermometer inside and make sure your refrigerator stays below 40°F and your freezer stays at or below 0°F.
• If your appliance isn’t hitting those numbers, it could be a sign of trouble.

✅ 5. Listen for Unusual Sounds

• Clicking, humming, or buzzing that’s out of the ordinary can indicate a failing compressor or motor.
• If the unit is running louder than usual, it’s a good idea to get it checked.

✅ 6. Look for Frost or Moisture

• Excessive frost inside the freezer or puddles under the unit could signal a defrost problem or a leak.
• Both are early signs that repairs may be needed before things get worse.

How to Make Your Unit Summer-Ready

If your garage refrigerator or chest freezer is working fine now, that’s great—but a little prevention goes a long way. Try these summer prep tips:

• Install a fan or ventilation system in your garage to improve airflow and help manage temperatures.
• Consider using an appliance-rated surge protector to guard against summer thunderstorms and power surges.
• Avoid overloading the freezer, which can restrict air circulation. On the flip side, keeping it at least half-full helps maintain low temperatures.

If you’ve noticed any performance issues or are unsure whether your outdoor appliance is up to the challenge of summer, don’t wait until it breaks down.

We’re Here to Help Cleveland Beat the Heat

At Cleveland Appliance Repair Service, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing refrigerators and freezers of all brands—especially those that work overtime in garages during hot Tennessee summers. Our skilled technicians offer in-home repairs, so you don’t have to move your heavy appliances or risk spoilage waiting for a fix.

Whether your unit is acting up or just due for a tune-up, we’re just a call away.