Commercial refrigeration systems play a crucial role in the food service industry, whether you are selling milk at a convenience store or serving meals at a restaurant.
Proper food storage is necessary for ensuring customer safety which requires having a solid and reliable commercial refrigeration unit.
However, nothing lasts forever, and at some point, you may have to consider replacing your refrigeration equipment.
But how do you know when it’s time?
At Advantage Refrigeration, we take refrigeration seriously. To help you avoid costly repairs and lost business, here is your guide to understanding commercial refrigeration and when it’s time for an upgrade:
What is Commercial Refrigeration?
Commercial refrigeration refers to cold storage equipment that is used in commercial settings such as supermarkets and restaurants.
The term refers to commercial refrigeration options such as walk-in freezers and reach-in fridges.
Overall, commercial refrigeration allows businesses to keep prepared foods and meal ingredients cold and fresh for safety and convenience.
Commercial versus Residential Refrigeration: What’s the Difference?
The most notable difference between commercial and residential refrigeration is the size. A residential fridge has ample space to feed you and your family, while a commercial refrigerator requires more space to keep food for up to 100 people daily.
Apart from the refrigerator’s volume, there are other differences that are worth taking into consideration:
Commercial Fridges Are More Powerful
Commercial fridges require more cooling power in order to keep large amounts of food and food products cold.
Plus, commercial fridges are designed to chill food more quickly than residential fridges.
This is necessary for the food business due to strict guidelines and regulations involving food storage and food temperature.
However, residential fridges are usually more energy-efficient because they don’t have to constantly run at maximum output.
Commercial Fridges Have a Utilitarian Layout
Residential fridges typically feature multiple shelves and compartments so the homeowner can easily organize and divide food and food products.
Commercial fridges usually have only 1-2 shelves maximum in order to make stacking and storing food easier to access.
Commercial Refrigeration Repair Considerations
Because of the differences between commercial refrigerators and residential refrigerators, they require specific knowledge when it comes to carrying out repairs.
A technician who can repair residential fridges may not have the know-how to tackle a commercial unit.
This is why contacting the right refrigeration technician is vital to ensure that repairs are done quickly and properly – especially in the food business, where delays in service can cost a business thousands of dollars!
Progressing to Commercial-Grade Refrigeration
Many small businesses have no problem getting started with residential-styled refrigerators, but what do you do when you’ve outgrown smaller pieces of equipment?
If you are in the market for a commercial refrigeration system, here are some things to keep in mind:
The Right Size
The first step in upgrading to a commercial refrigeration unit is to determine the right size for your commercial space.
If you choose a unit that is too small or too big, the system may end up overworking itself and wear out sooner rather than later.
The Right Space
You should also consider where you are placing your new commercial fridge. Your system will need enough space to properly ventilate and allow airflow between the heat exchange coils.
If you are installing a commercial refrigeration unit in a kitchen, keep it away from cooking equipment that emits heat. This can affect the cooling process.
Energy Efficiency
In order to cut down on your bills, it’s worth looking at commercial refrigeration systems that are energy efficient.
Check for these features:
- Programmable thermostats
- LED lighting
- Motion sensors for lighting systems
- High-efficiency compressors
- Smart motor systems
- Timers for defrost cycles
Signs You Should Get a New Commercial Fridge
The last thing you want is for your commercial refrigeration unit to quit overnight!
Apart from proper maintenance, you can prevent this occurrence by recognizing the signs of failure before the system actually fails and replacing the unit right away.
Here are the signs you should look out for:
Leakage and Frost Buildup
Old and worn-out seals on your commercial refrigeration system can allow water and air to leak from the unit. This excess water can lead to frost buildup.
Leaks and frost indicate that the unit is not cooling properly, and this can cause a serious problem with keeping food cold and fresh.
Spoiled Food and Foul Smells
When your commercial refrigeration is not operating properly, you may notice that food is spoiling before its expiration date. This can lead to foul smells developing inside the fridge.
Odd or Loud Sounds
Odd sounds, like constant and unusual clicking, can indicate that your commercial fridge’s condenser fan is malfunctioning.
This type of malfunction can cause the refrigerator to shut off, leading to food spoilage and health issues.
Increased Energy Costs
Have you noticed your energy bill increasing over time? This may be caused by a refrigeration system in need of replacement.
When issues, such as flaws in the sealing system, cause the temperature inside your commercial fridge to fluctuate, this results in increased energy costs.
Constant Repairs
A good commercial refrigeration system should last you up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
However, if you find that you are paying for frequent repairs, it may be time to replace it.
Commercial Refrigeration Repair and Maintenance – Call the Experts!
At Advantage Refrigeration, we believe that preventative maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your commercial refrigeration system.
This is why we offer exceptional commercial refrigeration maintenance and repair services to ensure peak performance and longevity when it comes to your cooling equipment.
So if you’re ready to keep your commercial refrigeration in tip-top shape or are curious about its current state, our team of certified technicians is ready to help you out!
