Commercial refrigeration is employed in various business settings such as restaurants, cafes, bakeries and supermarkets. These units are custom-built to meet specific requirements and are much more potent than home refrigerators.
Energy-efficient equipment can save you money in the long run. However, to get the most from your equipment, follow these three simple maintenance tips:
Walk-in Refrigerators
Walk-in coolers are an ideal solution for businesses that require high-volume food storage. They’re popular among delis, catering services, and other commercial kitchen types.
These commercial refrigeration SA units utilise an evaporator to cool and evaporate air inside while a condenser moves heat outside. They come in self-contained, remote condensing, or multiplex configurations.
Once a cooler’s temperature reaches a certain level, a thermostat activates an automatic cooling cycle with a compressor and condenser fan. Cold air is blown from the evaporator and circulated throughout, absorbing heat as warm air is drawn back. As this warm air cools back down, so does the cooler’s temperature.
One essential feature of these units is insulation. This layer offers superior thermal resistance, helps control energy costs, and blocks heat loss and moisture build-up.
Due to these reasons, selecting high-quality insulation material is essential. Extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation is an ideal option for this task.
High-grade insulation is essential for keeping your walk-in refrigerators and freezers running efficiently and cost-effectively. Furthermore, insulated doors provide additional durability and protection from external weather conditions.
Walk-in cooler doors can be constructed of either steel or aluminium. Both materials are strong and long-lasting, though stainless steel is preferable due to its superior corrosion resistance.
These walk-in refrigerators are durable and easy to clean and maintain. However, certified technicians should inspect and clean these units once a year to guarantee they’re functioning optimally.
A walk-in cooler’s interior can be equipped with shelves, bins, and more to store perishable items. Not only that, but these walk-ins also serve as displays and merchandisers.
Reach-In Refrigerators
Reach-in refrigerators and freezers are often found in commercial kitchens, cafeterias, retail spaces, and more. Not only are they user-friendly and easy to maintain, but they come in various sizes and configurations, so you can find one that works perfectly for your space.
Refrigerators come in various door styles, such as glass and solid. Some models boast insulated glass to help keep cold air inside, while others feature vinyl or stainless steel walls and shelves for extra strength.
Selecting the ideal commercial refrigeration SA model for your business is vital to guaranteeing reliable refrigeration throughout the day. A quality unit with a sturdy build, robust doors, and an unbeatable compressor will last years.
Reach-in refrigerators come in various styles and designs to meet specific health and safety codes. These products may have a higher price point but offer additional features and upgrades.
To find the ideal refrigerator or freezer model for your restaurant or kitchen, determine its size and space requirements. Furthermore, factor in ventilation space; airflow stability is critical so your fridge or freezer doesn’t overheat and damage parts.
Another essential consideration is horsepower. Commercial refrigerators require more power to achieve cold holding temperatures when your kitchen’s temperatures increase.
Top-mounted reach-in refrigerators are perfect for dusty work areas, while bottom-mounted units work better in high-temperature kitchens (above 75 degrees Fahrenheit). You can choose single or multiple door and section configurations to keep hot air at bay.
Countertop Refrigerators
Countertop refrigerators are an efficient way to maximise space in your commercial refrigeration unit. They come with various racking systems and combinations of drawers and shelves for maximum flexibility, plus you can choose from multiple door types, like glass ones that let customers see inside or swing doors for a more traditional aesthetic.
Countertop fridges come in various sizes to fit any space, including large and small kitchens. When selecting one for your business, ensure it’s the right size.
Before purchasing a countertop refrigerator, assessing its purpose and where it will go is vital. For instance, if installing it at a checkout line or C-store drink station, opt for an easy-to-move model that won’t obstruct traffic flow.
When planning the location for your refrigerator, you’ll want to consider whether it is a permanent fixture or something removable. For example, if the fridge is behind a bar top, ensure it is easy for bartenders to access and locate it when required.
Some models utilise solid-state cooling technology, making them more environmentally friendly and eliminating the need for compressors that could create noise or vibration. Furthermore, since these refrigerators don’t need electricity, they’re more energy-efficient and cost-effective than standard models.