Troubleshooting Temperature Readings in Task Manager
Table of Contents
NOTE
This article is for NCCO Task Manager. Learn more about Task Manager.
Monitoring temperature data accurately is crucial for ensuring food safety and equipment efficiency. Occasionally, you may observe irregular or elevated temperature readings in Task Manager.
This guide will help you interpret those readings and take appropriate corrective action.
Sudden Temperature Spikes
If your temperature log shows a sharp and temporary spike (see example below), this typically indicates a door has been left open for an extended period.
Common Causes:
- Staff forgetting to close the door.
- Door blocked open during restocking.
- Faulty door mechanisms.
Recommended Action:
- Check door closure practices and retrain staff if necessary.
- Inspect door hinges and latches for wear or damage.
- Consider adding alerts for prolonged door-open events, if supported.
Consistent Temperature Spikes
If your temperature log shows a sharp and consistent spike (see example below), this typically indicates the cooling unit is responding to an automated defrost cycle, typically set every 6-12 hours.
Common Causes:
- Automatic defrost cycle.
Recommended Action:
- Confirm the spikes align with the unit’s defrost schedule.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for expected defrost timing.
- No corrective action is needed if temperature returns to normal promptly.
- Contact maintenance if defrost cycles last unusually long or occur too frequently.
Consistently Elevated Temperatures
If the temperature remains consistently above the designated threshold, the issue may be more persistent and mechanical in nature.
Possible Causes:
1. Overstocked fridge: Excess product can block air circulation, especially around the cooler fan.
2. Improper or worn-out door seals: This can allow warm air to enter, affecting cooling efficiency.
3. Dirty condenser coils: Reduced heat exchange will impair cooling performance.
4. Blocked vents: Airflow restrictions lead to uneven cooling.
5. Incorrect thermostat settings or power fluctuations: Can prevent the unit from reaching or maintaining the correct temperature.
Recommended Action:
- Reduce stock levels and ensure even spacing to allow proper airflow.
- Inspect and replace damaged or worn door seals.
- Clean condenser coils regularly as part of scheduled maintenance.
- Ensure vents are not blocked by containers or packaging.
- Verify the thermostat is correctly set and check for electrical issues.
Reviewing Historical Data Trends
Looking at historical data can help identify patterns or recurring issues.
Tips:
- Compare current readings with previous weeks to identify trends.
- Use the Task Manager’s reporting tools to flag repeated temperature issues in the same unit.
- Set up alerts for recurring threshold breaches to catch problems early.
Equipment Age and Maintenance History
Older refrigeration units are more likely to struggle maintaining temperature.
What to Look For:
- Units over 10 years old may require more frequent maintenance.
- Check maintenance records to ensure regular servicing.
- Consider scheduling a professional inspection if recurring temperature issues persist.
When to Escalate
Not all issues can be solved by frontline staff. Know when to escalate.
Escalate if:
- Temperature issues persist despite troubleshooting.
- There's visible damage to components (e.g., cracked seals, broken fans).
- You suspect electrical or compressor-related faults.
- Contact your refrigeration technician or facility maintenance team for a full inspection.
Troubleshooting Checklist
If you're unable to resolve an issue using this guide, contact the Task Manager support team at supporttm@ncco.com or escalate to your refrigeration service provider.
