How to Minimise Stock Loss While Waiting for Emergency Repairs

Protect perishables, maintain compliance, and stay calm under pressure

When your commercial fridge or cold room fails, every minute counts.

Whether you’re running a busy kitchen, a medical facility, or a retail outlet, equipment failure puts thousands of dollars in stock at risk. While ACRO offers fast emergency refrigeration repairs across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, there’s always a window of time where you must act to reduce loss.

This guide covers what to do immediately, what to avoid, and how to minimise stock loss while waiting for emergency repairs.

First 30 Minutes: What to Do Immediately

1. Keep Doors Closed

This is the number one rule. Every time the door opens, cold air escapes and internal temps rise. Assign one staff member to monitor access and log temperatures.

2. Check Temperature Logs

If you’re using temperature monitoring systems or HACCP logs, review the recent readings. If the unit has just failed, you may have a grace period before hitting danger zones.

3. Prioritise Critical Stock

Move high-value or highly perishable items (e.g., dairy, seafood, vaccines) into backup units or eskies with ice. Focus on:

Items that spoil fastest
Stock with the highest replacement cost
Regulated or compliance-sensitive goods

4. Notify Your Team

Ensure staff know the unit is down, and reinforce handling procedures. Miscommunication often leads to unnecessary door opening or mishandling of vulnerable stock.

What Not to Do During a Breakdown

Don’t try to fix it yourself — DIY repairs may worsen the issue or void warranties.
Don’t overload other fridges — Overcrowding can reduce airflow and cause further failures.
Don’t ignore compliance risks — Record actions taken and temperatures maintained for audit protection.

Medium-Term Measures (If Repairs Take Longer)

If your emergency repair is delayed (e.g., after-hours or part unavailability):

Use Portable Cold Storage
ACRO can recommend or arrange temporary cool room trailers or relocatable units.
Contact Suppliers
Some suppliers offer chilled storage or can hold your next delivery until systems are operational.
Log Everything
Keep detailed records of temperature logs, stock transfers, and disposal decisions. This helps with insurance claims and audit reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can my fridge or cold room stay safe after failing?

It depends on the ambient temperature, how full the unit is, and whether the door remains closed. A well-insulated cold room may hold safe temperatures for 1–3 hours. Use a thermometer to confirm.

Can I claim insurance for lost stock?

Yes — in many cases. You’ll need to provide temperature logs, stock lists, and details of the fault. Our service reports can support your claim.

Should I call before trying to move stock?

Yes. Our technicians can often give phone guidance to help you decide what stock is safe to keep or move — saving time and money.

Do you offer portable or backup cooling options?

We can help you with mobile cool room hire or recommend alternatives for urgent situations.

📞 Need Emergency Help Right Now?

If you haven’t already called, reach our emergency service team on 1300 227 600 — we’ll dispatch a technician or provide advice immediately.

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How to Minimise Stock Loss While Waiting for Emergency Repairs