Top Winter Reefer Emergencies in New England
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.