Service guide

Refrigeration units, maintenance and service for refrigerated vehicles

The right refrigeration unit can only be reliable if it matches the base vehicle, temperature range, energy requirements and subsequent service process.

Quick answers

What this page covers

Refrigeration units need to match more than the required temperature. Cargo space, door openings, stationary periods, power supply, ease of use, maintenance, spare parts availability and response times for service all matter.

Distinguish chilled and frozen goods requirementsAssess stationary refrigeration and operation while drivingMake maintenance predictableKeep service information available

Which refrigeration unit suits the application?

The right system depends on more than the vehicle model. What matters is the temperature that must be maintained in actual day-to-day operation.

  • Chilled goods transport has different requirements from frozen goods transport.
  • Frequent stops and door openings increase capacity requirements.
  • Cargo volume, insulation and airflow must match refrigeration capacity.
  • For large vans such as the Crafter, Transit, Ducato, Movano, Master or Daily, the specific body variant is decisive.
  • For electric vans, refrigeration, range, charging and stationary periods must be considered together.

Stationary refrigeration, electric refrigeration and vehicle propulsion

In daily use, it matters when and where refrigeration should operate: while driving, when stationary, during loading or on an external power supply.

  • Vehicle-dependent refrigeration is closely linked to the vehicle’s operation.
  • Stationary refrigeration can be useful when goods need to remain at the required temperature during breaks or loading.
  • Electric refrigeration can offer advantages depending on the base vehicle, power supply and route profile.
  • For battery-electric vehicles, refrigeration must be included in the overall assessment of energy consumption and range.

Maintenance and service in fleet operations

Maintenance is more than a formality. Regular checks help reduce breakdowns, temperature problems and unplanned downtime.

  • Maintenance intervals should be planned according to the unit, application, operating hours, environment and the requirements in the documentation.
  • Seals, airflow, evaporator, condenser, electrical supply and controls should be checked regularly.
  • Service requests can be handled more quickly when the unit type, serial number, vehicle details, fault symptoms and photos are available.
  • Consistent documentation is particularly important for fleets, so drivers, dispatchers and workshops all use the same information.

Spare parts and technical documents

Good service depends on more than the workshop. Clear equipment identification, operating instructions and spare parts information are also essential.

  • The refrigeration system’s unit type and serial number should be easy to find in the vehicle.
  • Operating instructions and technical documents should be quickly accessible to drivers and service partners.
  • For recurring faults, structured tickets help identify causes and affected assemblies.
  • Service partners should submit complaints, warranty and goodwill cases through the portal with as much detail as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions on this topic

Which refrigeration unit is suitable for chilled goods?

For chilled goods, stable temperature control above freezing matters. The right refrigeration unit depends on cargo space, insulation, door openings, goods, stationary periods and the base vehicle.

Which refrigeration unit is suitable for frozen goods?

Frozen goods generally require more reserve capacity, suitable insulation and careful consideration of door openings, loading, outside temperature and stationary periods. The system should be designed for the specific project.

What is the difference between stationary refrigeration and refrigeration while driving?

Refrigeration while driving is designed for vehicle operation. Stationary refrigeration helps maintain temperature during breaks, loading or longer stops when the vehicle is not driving normally.

How often does a refrigeration unit need servicing?

This depends on the unit, application, operating hours, environment and current documentation. Planned, documented maintenance is important for identifying temperature problems and faults early.

Where can I get service and spare parts for CoolJet refrigeration units?

Kerstner supports service and spare parts enquiries through Kerstner Service and approved service partners. The unit type, serial number, vehicle details and a clear description of the fault help ensure prompt handling.

What information does the service team need for a technical problem?

Useful details include the unit type, serial number, VIN, registration number, mileage, operating mode, error code, temperature history, photos and a description of when the fault occurs.

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