Tips On Cleaning Out A Refrigerated Trailer

It is essential to keep your Refrigerated Trailer in pristine clean condition. Whether transporting meats, vegetables, fruits, dairy or other goods, the risk of contamination and spreading bacteria and the food borne illnesses they cause is ever present. Thorough cleaning procedures and attention to standards can minimize the risk and keep your refrigerated trailer in peak condition for years to down the road.

Start by Gearing Up

It is essential to use the right tools when cleaning out your refrigerated trailer. Fortunately, the tools you need to use are inexpensive and easily purchased. Your kit should include a protective eye mask and rubber gloves for the driver. These minimize exposure to contaminants by keeping the driver safe from backspray and blowing debris.

You will also need to secure a heated electric power washer with a hose sufficiently long enough to reach into the deep recesses of the trailer. This is essential because a normal garden hose with spigot simply can’t deliver the pressure required to dislodge debris such as blood, fats, and other debris.

Finally, be sure that you have a solid reefer trailer broom with rigid bristles and a notched shape. This can help dislodge debris and ensures that the water is efficiently removed from the trailer during the final clean-up process before drying. It also ensures that it won’t sweep over debris that’s lodged itself deep within the grooves of the cargo floor.

Preparing for Cleaning your Refrigerated Trailer

Start by turning the refrigeration unit off prior to cleaning and removing any palettes, meat hooks, or hardware that may be located within the cargo space. This helps protect components and fixtures from damage. Any items that are removed should be cleaned while they are outside the trailer.

Once the trailer is empty, mix industrial refrigeration detergent with water within the power washer. Be careful to follow the detergent’s instructions in regard to the proper ratio to adhere to. This is crucial for ensuring a thorough clean that kills any bacteria and germs.

Cleaning the Refrigerated Trailer

Start by using a high power spray with a low heat setting. It is advisable to start on the ceiling and work your way from the front of the trailer toward the rear door.

Once the ceiling is cleaned, work your way down the walls. Again, start at the top of each wall and work your way down. Once the walls are cleaned, use the broom to sweep out the water.

Finally, once the trailer has been given a deep clean, it is important to give the trailer a thorough rinse. This step removes the final bits and particles that may have been blown about during the cleaning process. It also removes any chemical residue left by the cleaning agent.

To rinse the trailer, drain any remaining water/detergent mixture from the power washer. Refill the unit with water and set the spray to “high.” Once ready, spray from the front of the trailer towards the rear, again starting high and working your way towards the floor. Once the trailer is thoroughly rinsed, sweep out the puddles on the cargo floor and allow the container to dry.

While it takes a little bit of time to properly clean the refrigerated trailer, it is time that is well-invested. Not only will a thorough cleaning keep the trailer and components in good condition, a clean trailer won’t transport bacteria and contaminants that can spoil the cargo and cause major headaches for your company.

We look forward to working with you.

Amarillo Thermo King and West Texas Thermo King are located in Amarillo, Lubbock, and Odessa.  We have highly skilled certified technicians ready to service your refrigeration trucks. From installing new components to repairing existing units, we have the skills, resources, and experience to provide the services you need.  To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment at a specific location, Contact Us Today (for Amarillo, call (806) 376-5837 or contact via email, for Lubbock, call (806) 763-6311 or contact via email, for Odessa, call (432) 561-9792 or contact via email).  You can also visit one of our locations convenient located near you.