As January comes to a close, refrigeration fleets servicing produce, dairy, meat, and frozen goods begin preparing for one of the busiest periods of the year. Getting your transport refrigeration units checked, repaired, and updated before the spring harvest and summer heat is critical to protecting cargo, reducing breakdowns, and controlling costs.

Thermo King fleet maintenance programs have long highlighted the value of proactive care. Customers using proactive vs reactive maintenance sees up to 18% cost savings, and service contracts can lead to as much as 39% fewer on-road repairs. In one case, unscheduled events dropped by 82% after maintenance plans were adopted.

Why the Beginning of the Year is the Ideal Time for Maintenance

Winter’s slower traffic provides the perfect window to bring units into the shop without disrupting your hauling schedule too much. Key reasons why January and February matter:

• Low season for hauls gives technicians more availability.
• Winter wear and tear becomes obvious when systems return from cold service. Cold weather stresses belts, seals and electrical systems. Catching issues early prevents failures under heat stress later.
• Manufacturers like Thermo King recommend regular service in cooler months before ambient heat increases work load on systems.

Common Winter Issues Affecting Refrigeration Performance

Even when units aren’t hauling, winter conditions can cause hidden damage:

• Condensation and corrosion on electrical components. 
• Cold-weather stress on belts, hoses, and gaskets that may harden or crack.
• Battery drain and fuel gelling that affects unit starts and diagnostics.

Addressing these now means fewer surprises when temperatures rise. Read more about winter weather issues.

Pre-Season Inspection Checklist for Truck and Trailer Units

Here’s a practical checklist experienced fleet managers use before the peak season:

Mechanical & Fluid Checks

• Belt tension and condition
• Coolant and oil levels
• Refrigerant level
• Compressor and condenser performance

Electrical & Controls

• Battery health and connections
• Sensor and control calibrations
• Check for logged fault codes (don’t clear without investigation)

Doors, Seals & Insulation

• Inspect and replace worn door seals
• Ensure insulation is intact

Telematics & Software

• Update unit firmware
• Verify telematics data connectivity and alerts for remote monitoring

Preventing Breakdowns During Peak Produce Season

Temperature extremes of spring and summer put increased load on your refrigeration units.Good habits that reduce breakdowns include:

• Daily pre-trip inspections: automated pre-trip diagnostics take about 15 minutes and identify issues before loading.
• Set proper load temperature before trips to reduce workload later.
• Check condenser coils and airflow to avoid efficiency loss.
• Document maintenance and inspections: important for warranty and long-term performance. 

Software Updates and Telematics System Checks

Modern reefers include telematics for real-time monitoring of temperatures, alarms, and performance metrics. Systems like Thermo King’s ConnectedSuite help you spot inefficiencies, alert on anomalies, and track long-term trends. 

Perform software and firmware checks during your pre-season service. Updated systems improve predictive maintenance and can reduce unplanned service events.

Genuine Thermo King Parts vs Aftermarket

While aftermarket parts may seem cheaper upfront, Thermo King recommends using genuine replacement parts and certified dealer service for optimal uptime:

• Factory parts are designed for your specific model and backed by warranty when installed by certified dealers.
• Thermo King certified technicians use tools and processes that help ensure reliability.

Service Scheduling Across All 5 Thermo King Northeast Locations

Thermo King Northeast operates multiple fully-equipped service centers staffed by certified technicians. Services include:

• Preventative maintenance
• Warranty and PM plans
• 24/7 roadside or mobile assistance
• Diagnostics and upgrades
• Pre-season and winter inspection packages

Locations include facilities in Windsor Locks, CT; Falmouth, ME; Seekonk & Saugus, MA; and West Seneca, NY. Serving all of the Northeast.

Pre-season maintenance is a season-defining strategy. With proactive service, telematics in place, and genuine Thermo King parts installed by certified Thermo King technicians, you reduce breakdowns, protect cargo integrity, and extend the life of your refrigeration assets. Start your year right. Schedule your inspections now and stay ahead of the heat.

December 2025

We’re excited to announce that our Thermo King Northeast Norton location has officially relocated to Seekonk, Massachusetts. Our new DeVivo Fleet Services facility offers expanded service capacity, improved accessibility, and the same expert Thermo King technicians you rely on for all transport refrigeration, reefer unit repair, and fleet maintenance.

What’s New in Seekonk:

• Larger, upgraded service bays for faster turnaround on refrigerated trailer repairs
• Easier access from Providence RI, Attleboro, Fall River, and Southeastern Massachusetts
• Full Thermo King parts inventory and certified service support
• Expanded capacity for reefer maintenance, APU repair, and emergency service

This move strengthens our ability to service carriers, fleets, and owner-operators throughout Bristol County and the Providence metro area with the quality Thermo King service you expect.

New Location:

80 Leavitt St, Seekonk, MA 02771

For service appointments or questions, please call (508) 521-6032. We look forward to welcoming you at our new, expanded Seekonk facility.

Winter in New England can bring your refrigerated transport to a standstill. Sub-zero temperatures, freezing rain, and road salt can trigger failures that put your cargo at risk and cost thousands in delays. 

Thermo King Northeast provides 24/7 mobile emergency service from 3 of our locations, so your reefer is back on the road quickly. No waiting, no answering machines, just fast, on-site solutions.

1. Gelled Diesel Fuel

What Happens:

Diesel thickens between 10-20℉, clogging filters and lines. Reefers arriving from warmer regions may not have winterized fuel, leaving the unit unable to start.

Warning Signs: 

• Engine cranks but won’t fire
• Sudden loss of power
• Cloudy fuel or wax in filters
• Trailer temperature rising unexpectedly

Quick Tip: Always carry anti-gel additives on cold-weather routes.

2. Dead Batteries & Cold Start Failures

What Happens:

Cold reduces battery output by up to 50% while the engine needs more power to start. Smaller batteries are particularly vulnerable.

Warning Signs: 

• Slow cranking or repeated clicking
• Dim displays or electrical errors
• Battery warning light
• Unit worked yesterday but won’t start today

Quick Tip: Pre-winter battery load tests can prevent many cold-weather failures.

3. Overcooling & Frozen Cargo

What Happens:

Extreme cold can cause reefers to overcool, freezing sensitive cargo like produce, dairy, or pharmaceuticals. 

Warning Signs:

• Return air colder than the setpoint
• Frost or ice forming on cargo
• Unit cycles excessively
• Temperature fluctuations on logs

Quick Tip: Continuous run mode in extreme cold can prevent uneven temperatures.

4. Air Leaks & Failed Door Seals

What Happens:

Cold makes gaskets brittle. Gaps allow air to escape, forcing the unit to run constantly and compromising cargo temperature.

Warning Signs: 

• Frost around door edges
• Cracks or deformed seals
• Unit running nonstop
• Warm spots during loading

Quick Tip: Run a hand along closed doors to detect escaping cold air.

5. Mechanical Failures Triggered by Cold

What Happens:

Winter exposes weak components: brittle hoses, slipping belts, frozen condensers, compressor failures, and salt corrosion.

Warning Signs: 

• Grinding or rattling sounds
• Displayed alarm codes
• Refrigerant or oil leaks
• Loose belts or hoses
• Unit running without cooling

Quick Tip: Frequent preventive maintenance reduces winter mechanical emergencies.

How Thermo King Northeast Handles Winter Reefer Emergencies

When winter strikes, Thermo King Northeast is ready to get your reefer back up and running quickly. Our factory-trained technicians and fully equipped mobile service trucks can handle any cold-weather failure, including:

• Fuel system issues – de-gel solutions, fuel filter replacement, winterization advice
• Battery and electrical problems – jump starts, load testing, on-site battery replacement, alternator checks
• Temperature and cargo issues – sensor recalibration, thermostat and control board repairs
• Air leaks and seals – gasket replacements, door adjustments, temporary sealing to protect cargo
• Mechanical failures – compressor, belt, and hose repairs; refrigerant leak detection; condenser cleaning and corrosion removal

Thermo King Northeast: 24/7 Winter Emergency Support

Why We’re Different:

• Fully equipped mobile service trucks
• Factory-trained Thermo King technicians
• Genuine Thermo King parts
• Remote diagnostics via TracKing
• Large parts inventory across New England

Service Coverage:

Saugus, MA | Windsor Locks, CT | Seekonk, MA | Falmouth, ME | Buffalo, NY

FAQ

Q: What do I do if my reefer won’t start in cold weather?

A: Check for gelled fuel and battery issues. Contact Thermo King Northeast 24/7 for emergency service.

Q: How can I stop overcooling from freezing my cargo?

A: Use continuous run mode, calibrate sensors, and adjust defrost cycles. Emergency recalibration may be needed if ice forms.

Q: Where can I get emergency reefer repairs in New England?

A: Thermo King Northeast provides fully mobile, 24/7 repair service across the region.

For fleet managers in New England and across the Northeast, winter brings more than snow and icy roads. It also puts refrigerated trailers and trucks under unique stress. 

In cold weather, engines and refrigeration systems lose efficiency. Studies show fuel economy can drop 10–20%, and diesel engines are up to five times harder to start in extreme cold. Combine that with reduced battery power and you’ve got a recipe for breakdowns.

Why Winter Strains Reefer Units

1. Frequent Temperature Fluctuations

Cold air outside doesn’t always make cooling easier. In fact, drastic shifts between freezing outdoor temps and insulated cargo space can cause reefer units to cycle more often. This creates added wear on compressors and increases fuel consumption.

2. Overcooling and Product Risk

When temperatures outside drop well below freezing, reefers risk “overcooling.” Products like fresh produce, beverages, and pharmaceuticals may require cool, not frozen, environments. Without careful monitoring, winter conditions can push units to drop below safe thresholds, putting sensitive cargo at risk.

3. Increased Fuel Consumption

While summer heat drives units to work harder, winter isn’t fuel-efficient either. Diesel engines powering reefers run less efficiently in extreme cold, and longer warm-up times add to consumption. Combine this with frequent cycling, and winter fuel use can climb significantly. 

4. Wear and Tear from Road Salt & Ice

In addition to accelerating corrosion on truck bodies and frames, snow, slush, and road salt also accelerates corrosion on reefer components. Salt buildup on condenser coils, wiring, and undercarriage parts can shorten equipment lifespan if not properly cleaned and maintained.

How to Prevent Winter Breakdowns

Stay on Top of Maintenance

• Check door seals and insulation: Even small air leaks force units to work overtime. 
• Service compressors and belts: Cold weather increases stress on mechanical parts.
• Clean condenser coils: Salt and grime buildup reduces efficiency.
• Schedule your pre-winter reefer service with our certified Thermo King technicians.

Monitor Temperatures Closely

Modern reefers are equipped with intelligent temperature controls and remote monitoring. Use these systems to prevent overcooling and catch fluctuations before they damage cargo.

Winterize Your Fleet

• Use winter-grade fuel and additives to prevent gelling. 
• Inspect electrical connections and battery health, cold drains power faster.
• Wash equipment regularly to remove road salt and prevent corrosion.

Train Your Drivers

Ensure your drivers know how to spot temperature irregularities, manage unit defrost cycles, and report issues before they become costly failures.

Protect Your Fleet This Winter

The cold months don’t have to mean higher operating costs and risk. With proactive maintenance, smart monitoring, and proper winterization, you can protect both your cargo and your equipment investment. 

At Thermo King Northeast, our service experts are here to help you prepare your fleet for winter conditions. From preventive maintenance to emergency repairs, we’ll make sure your reefers keep running, no matter how cold it gets.

FAQ

Q: Do reefer units work harder in cold weather?

A: Yes. In cold weather, reefer units cycle more frequently to maintain consistent temperatures, prevent overcooling, and protect perishable cargo. Components like compressors and sensors must work harder to stabilize internal temperatures.

Q: Why do reefer units burn more fuel in winter?

A: Cold weather affects both the engine and refrigeration system. Fuel thickens, engines take longer to warm up, and reefers may run longer cycles to prevent freezing—all of which increase fuel use.

Q: How can I prepare my reefer units for winter?

A: Inspect insulation and door seals, service compressors and belts, winterize fuel and batteries, and verify your temperature control systems are calibrated correctly. Regular preventive maintenance is the best defense against winter breakdowns.

Q: Can cold weather damage refrigerated cargo?

A: Yes. Sensitive cargo like produce, dairy, or pharmaceuticals can freeze if temperatures drop below set points. Using calibrated sensors and monitoring systems ensures products stay within safe ranges.

The team at Thermo King Northeast is excited to attend the HospitalityMaine 2025 Summit November 17-18 at Samoset Resort in Rockport, ME. As Maine’s hospitality professionals gather to explore industry trends, sustainability practices, and operational excellence, we’re looking forward to connecting with business owners who understand that reliable commercial refrigeration is the backbone of successful food service operations.

From farm-to-table restaurants showcasing Maine’s finest ingredients to large-scale catering operations, maintaining the cold chain from supplier to customer is one of your most critical operational challenges.

Why Cold Chain Reliability Matters for Maine Hospitality

In Maine’s hospitality landscape, in addition to compliance, temperature control is also about protecting your investment and reputation. Here’s why getting it right matters:

• Reduce Food Waste and Costs: A study by the University of Michigan suggests that nearly half of global food waste, approximately 620 million metric tons annually, could be prevented through fully refrigerated supply chains. This is particularly crucial for Maine’s hospitality industry, where maintaining the cold chain, from supplier to customer, is vital for preserving the quality and profitability of perishable goods like lobster and farm-fresh produce.
• Ensure Health Code Compliance: Maine’s strict food safety regulations require consistent temperature documentation. Our refrigeration solutions provide the reliability and monitoring capabilities you need to stay compliant and avoid costly violations.
• Protect Your Brand Reputation: Nothing damages customer trust faster than compromised food quality. Whether serving locally-caught seafood or craft beverages, maintaining optimal temperatures preserves flavors and freshness.
• Support Maine’s Farm-to-Table Movement: Many Maine restaurants pride themselves on local sourcing. Reliable New England food transport ensures that connection between local producers and your kitchen remains unbroken.

Advanced Transport Refrigeration Solutions for Hospitality

Thermo King Northeast specializes in commercial refrigeration that Maine businesses trust. Our advanced transport refrigeration units for trucks, trailers, and vans ensure perishable goods, from fresh Maine lobster to prepared meals, stay at optimal temperatures throughout every mile of transport. Whether you operate a fleet of refrigerated trucks or need custom installations for restaurant delivery, Thermo King’s industry-leading units keep your business running efficiently and safely.

For hospitality businesses that require flexible, mobile refrigeration without dedicated vehicles, our Penguin Trailer line offers versatile refrigerated trailers in multiple sizes. Perfect for off-site events, summer festivals, or seasonal overflow during Maine’s busy tourism months, Penguin Trailer units complement our full-service refrigeration offerings by providing convenient, on-demand cooling wherever you need it.

Factory-Trained Service You Can Rely On

Keeping your refrigeration solutions running smoothly is our top priority. At Thermo King Northeast, our factory-trained technicians provide expert installation, regular preventive maintenance, and fast, reliable repairs, all designed to minimize downtime and keep your business moving.

Here’s how we support you every step of the way:

• 24/7 roadside assistance and emergency service across New England to handle unexpected breakdowns
• Preventive maintenance programs that catch issues before they become problems
• Factory-certified technicians with the expertise to service all Thermo King equipment

With Thermo King Northeast, you get peace of mind knowing your fleet is in good hands, so you can focus on serving your customers.

Serving Maine’s Hospitality Industry

We are proud to serve a wide range of customers in Maine’s vibrant hospitality industry. From bustling restaurants and caterers to breweries, hotels, and event venues, our transport refrigeration solutions help keep food and beverages fresh from kitchen to customer. Whether you’re delivering farm-fresh lobster, catering a wedding, or managing a large-scale event, Thermo King Northeast provides the equipment and service support to meet your unique needs.

Meet Us at HospitalityMaine 2025

We’re excited to connect with Maine’s hospitality businesses at the HospitalityMaine Trade Show on November 17–18, 2025, at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. Say hello to learn more about how Thermo King Northeast and Penguin Trailer can help keep your food and beverage transport cool, reliable, and ready for anything.

When it comes to transporting perishable goods, there’s no room for error. Whether you’re hauling food, pharmaceuticals, or something else, your refrigeration units are the heart of your operation. That’s why so many fleets across New England trust Thermo King Northeast, a proven partner with deep experience in cold chain logistics and transport refrigeration.

Here’s why Thermo King Northeast stands out.

1. Trusted Thermo King Dealer Backed by Experts

As an authorized Thermo King dealer, we don’t just sell equipment. We live and breathe transport refrigeration. Our team is factory-trained and certified, meaning we know these systems inside and out.

From refrigerated trailers and trucks to vans and APU units, we offer the full suite of Thermo King products and service options, including:

• Genuine Thermo King parts
• Installation and preventative maintenance
• Emergency roadside repair
• Telematics and monitoring support

This means less downtime, fewer breakdowns, and more confidence in your cold chain performance.

2. 24/7 Service That Keeps You Moving

Breakdowns don’t follow business hours, and neither do we.

Thermo King Northeast provides 24/7 emergency service from 3 locations, including mobile technicians who can meet you roadside or at your lot. If your unit reefer fails, we act fast to protect your cargo and get your vehicle back on the road.

We operate multiple service locations across the Northeast, so no matter where your route takes you, you’re always within reach of expert help.

3. Reliability That Protects Your Cargo (and Your Reputation)

Thermo King refrigeration units are known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and consistent temperature control, even in extreme conditions. But it’s not just about the machines, it’s also about the people maintaining them.

At Thermo King Northeast, we treat your cargo like it’s our own. We know a failed reefer can mean lost product, missed deliveries, or damaged customer relationships. That’s why prioritize:

• Fast turnaround times
• Accurate diagnostics and quality repairs
• Minimal repeat issues

When your bottom line depends on reliable refrigeration, you can’t afford shortcuts.

We’re Local and That Makes a Difference

We’re not a call center or faceless provider. Thermo King Northeast is a locally-rooted, customer-first operation that’s proud to serve businesses across the region.

Our team works with:

• Independent owner-operators
• Regional distributors and wholesalers
• National fleets with Northeast routes
• Food service and grocery haulers
• Pharmaceutical carriers 

No matter your size, you get personalized attention and practical solutions built around your business. 

Thermo King Northeast is the partner you can count on. Let’s talk about how we can support your operation. Contact us today or visit your nearest Thermo King Northeast location.

We’re proud to share that Thermo King Northeast has been featured in the Business Member Spotlight by the Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA), New England’s leading advocate for the state’s lobster industry, .

The spotlight highlights our commitment to supporting Maine’s working waterfronts with dependable cold chain solutions.

“We provide and maintain transport refrigeration systems that keep live and processed seafood at optimal temperatures during transit,” said Eddie Sullivan, Sales Manager at Thermo King Northeast. “Whether it’s moving product from dock to distributor or direct to restaurants and retailers, Thermo King helps preserve the freshness, quality, and reputation of every catch.”

Thermo King Northeast serves seafood businesses across the region with:

• Sales, installation, and service of truck and trailer refrigeration units
• Preventative maintenance programs
• 24/7 mobile emergency repair
• Expert support from a team who understands the demands of seasonal and high-volume seafood logistics

“We joined the MLA to better connect with the people and businesses of the lobster industry. Supporting local working waterfronts is part of our mission,” Sullivan added.

About the MLA

The Maine Lobstermen’s Association, founded in 1954, represents Maine’s commercial lobstermen and advocates for the health of the industry and coastal communities. Their Landings magazine showcases stories, updates, and members across the lobster supply chain.

Read our full spotlight on the Maine Lobster Community Alliance (MLCA) site.

Transport Refrigeration Solutions for Maine’s Lobster Industry

If you’re in the lobster, seafood, or perishable food transport business, we can help keep your products cool, fresh, and on the move.

Thermo King Northeast, a division of DATTCO, has been donating a freezer trailer to Pauline’s Stockpot Kitchen in East Windsor, CT, to help them properly store the large amounts of perishable food donations they received every week during the pandemic.

As the pandemic enveloped our world in uncertainty and people lost their jobs, Pauline’s Stockpot Kitchen quickly grew from serving 6,000 pounds of food per year to over 100,000 pounds per MONTH! As the holidays approached and the donations increased, the mission’s organizers quickly realized they needed a solution for storing perishable goods. This was when they approached Thermo King Northeast of Windsor Locks for assistance.

“There was no question that Thermo King Northeast could step in and help make this operation a success. We delivered a temperature-controlled trailer (from our line of Penguin Trailer rentals) to Pauline’s Kitchen, providing them with the storage space they desperately needed. We were honored to be able to play such a critical role in helping our neighbors during this unprecedented time,” said John Crudden, Sales Representative for Thermo King Northeast.

“All our success is based on one factor – freezer space. It has provided Pauline’s with the opportunity to seamlessly take in large donations and distribute the food out before the next load. It has allowed us to feed 1,000s of people beyond East Windsor borders, including Norwich, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Manchester,” said Angelo DiMauro Jr., Director of Pauline’s Stockpot Kitchen. “I sincerely appreciate everything you have allowed us to accomplish, all the lives you have affected, all the folks you helped us feed.”

The need to feed families is not going away anytime soon as the pandemic continues to challenge the lives of many.  Pauline’s Kitchen will continue to keep its operation going for as long as donations continue to come in. It has truly taken a village to make this happen over the last year, and several area businesses and individual community members have stepped up to donate money and food, as well as volunteer time. Thermo King Northeast, as part of Thermo King Corporate’s We Move Food initiative, is proud to have contributed alongside The Wesley United Methodist Church and its members (home to Pauline’s Kitchen), Foodshare of Bloomfield, TBC Landscape of East Windsor, South Windsor Masons, and Harp Services of Windsor Locks.

ELITE SERVICE AND PREMIUM PARTS.
Choosing a temperature-controlled solutions partner is as important as the loads your fleet hauls. You can depend on us to keep you on the road.

Click here to learn more.

Thermo King Northeast now offers Express Service available for eligible repairs – designed to maximize uptime as a Blue Track by Thermo King dealer. The Blue Track Program implements new standardized and enhanced service offerings like centralized 24/7 fleet monitoring, remote triage, and express services, proactive maintenance and repair, and improved customer communications. These services are tailored to reduce planned and unplanned fleet downtime by 15-20 percent and improve fleet utilization by 5 percent, directly translating into lower total cost of ownership and better return on investment.

Becoming aware of potential problems that can occur with your Thermo King refrigeration unit will allow you to act proactively and keep your trailer on the road. Here are four specific refrigeration unit maintenance tips from Thermo King Corporation to help avoid potential issues that will put a trailer out of service.

1. Proactive maintenance can save you money in the end. The cost of a call-out charge or load loss will be significantly higher than being proactive about maintenance.
2. Utilize tools such as Thermo King OptiSet^®Plusto to ensure optimal temperature control and engine run time while minimizing the potential for setpoint/mode errors by the operator.
3. Install solar panels on units. Maintaining battery health is critical to reducing some of the most common out-of-service issues. With many units connected to cellular communication devices, the battery voltage is critical to maintain.
4. Utilize telematics such as TracKing^®to remotely monitor equipment location and health status. This allows fleets to take action on items immediately to prevent unscheduled breakdowns and reduce maintenance costs.

Read this full report from Thermo King Corporate by clicking here.