When it comes to a major piece of restaurant equipment, such as a commercial refrigerator or commercial freezer, you want to take every measure to ensure that your business cooler is running at its best and that it lives as long as possible. Regular freezer maintenance can also result in considerable energy savings because commercial coolers can consume as much as half of a food service establishment’s electricity costs. Whatever makes a condenser work harder causes that number to rise.
In order to aid you from installation through years of dependable cooling, Fixwerks Corporate leads you through the following freezer maintenance checklist. This will guarantee proper upkeep and assist you in avoiding pricey service visits.
How You Can Do Regular Freezer Maintenance
Small cafes and delis may notice a significant difference after installing a commercial refrigerator. These substantial appliances have ample capacity for your whole food supply as well as all of the items you use frequently. The ability to offer a wider selection of dishes as a result of the freed up storage space you will have after installing this type of device could help your business flourish. You can choose from a number of top-notch walk-in coolers on the market right now. By making an investment in a high-quality walk-in cooler now, you can make your restaurant’s equipment arrangement stand out in comparison to your rivals.
There are several things you can do to help organize and maintain your commercial fridge.
Remove and organize one shelf at a time
Take everything out of your refrigerator in its entirety. Make sure you also take the containers out. Before you receive a new shipment of food, it is a good idea to wipe out your refrigerator. Place any objects you want to keep in a different container. Remember that you can temporarily store non-refrigerated things in a walk-in cooler as well.
Discard any food that is moldy or expired
When you are attempting to make space for additional goods to be added, perishable things can be conveniently placed to the side. Anything you think has already gone bad shouldn’t be saved. Never take the chance of injuring one of your consumers. Jars and other open containers should be thrown away unless you are certain they are still safe for consumption. Always remember to discard items when in doubt.
Clean the interior of the refrigerator thoroughly
Once empty, thoroughly clean your industrial refrigerator from top to bottom with warm, soapy water and a sponge. Try using a toothbrush to clean away any dirt or stains if you’re having problems getting them out.
Using a good sanitizer to disinfect
Mold and germs can quickly build up inside a refrigerator over time. To swiftly get rid of bacteria, sterilize all surfaces using a quality disinfectant. Use a sanitizer that is safe for food at all times.
Condenser and coil vacuum
The coils and condenser of your business refrigerator might become clogged with dust and dirt, reducing performance and making your refrigerator run slowly. Over time, if the coils and condenser are not cleaned, your refrigerator won’t operate as effectively as it should. Regularly remove any dust from the coils of your refrigerator. Debris can also be removed using a vacuum.
Your industrial refrigerator or walk-in cooler will endure for many years longer if you take proper care of it. This will ensure that you always have access to fresh, chilled meals.
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The Different Types of Freezers and Where to Place Them
Standing Freezers
Since a vertical freezer doesn’t require much floor space. Since upright refrigerators are usually taller than other varieties, accessing them is simpler. They’re also excellent for establishments with small countertops.
Chest Freezers
A form of upright freezer known as a chest freezer has a sliding door as opposed to a lift-up door. The user may clearly view what’s inside thanks to this. If you’ll be using the freezer frequently, it’s a wise decision. Compared to upright freezers, chest freezers are typically smaller. Usually, frozen meats, fish, and vegetables are stored in them.
Standalone Freezers
If you live alone or have a small apartment, a stand-alone freezer is a fantastic option. Additionally, because they require less space than a built-in refrigerator/freezer, they are ideal for families with kids. Normally, a stand-alone freezer is kept in the garage or basement.
Examining the Damage During Freezer Maintenance
Damaged components make it difficult for your cooler to function correctly and put the contents at risk. You should frequently examine the cooler for damage in addition to cleaning it. Prevention is simpler and much less expensive than having to regularly have the equipment repaired or replaced.
Here are a few ways you can prevent damage in your walk-in cooler:
- Close the door. When the cooler isn’t being accessed, the door should be closed. Propping the door open will result in a change in the interior temperature but can also damage the door gaskets.
- Clear airflow. Keep exterior condensing units clear of debris to maintain proper airflow.
- Clear coils. Ensure the coils are not blocked by boxes or produce.
- Clear roof. Do not store anything on top of your walk-in cooler as this may cause the ceiling panels to become damaged.
- Check electrical connections. A few times a year, have a service tech check all the cooler’s electrical connections to ensure they are tight. Loose wiring may result in higher use of electricity.
- Check insulation. The insulation on the suction lines needs to be intact for proper function. On a regular basis, check for signs of damage and replace the insulation as needed.
- Lubricate hinges. A noisy hinge can mean that the door isn’t closing properly. Lubricate the hinges annually to make sure they work smoothly and the door shuts properly.
- Turn the lights off. Leave the lights off when there’s no one in the cooler. Lights produce heat, so the cooler will use more energy just to maintain the proper temperature.
- Check the sweep. The door has a sweep to keep the entrance free of clutter and stop drafts. Check to see if the sweep is intact and replace it if necessary.
- Check gaskets. Damaged door gaskets won’t keep drafts out and results in the cooler using more energy to keep the desired temperature. By replacing damaged gaskets, you can keep your energy bill down and prevent spoilage.
Tips for Commercial Freezer Maintenance
Many of the freezer maintenance procedures needed to keep your walk-in cooler or commercial freezer in good condition are also necessary for those appliances. Regular cleanings, keeping the coils and evaporator free of debris, and inspecting the entire unit for deterioration are some of these duties.
However, there are a few specific upkeep requirements for commercial freezers that must be met:
1. Examine the air filters
Grease and dust from your fryers might clog the air filters in your refrigerator in a commercial kitchen, obstructing appropriate airflow. Before using a vacuum to remove loose particles, read the refrigerator’s service manual to understand how to degrease the filter.
2. Drain tubes and pans
Industrial freezers will start to build up sludge if the drain pans and tubes are overloaded. Frozen food results from the refrigerator getting too cold due to sludge buildup. You can clean the drain pans and tubes with warm, soapy water or with regular white vinegar.
3. Dry it off
If there is liquid on the shelves or floor of the refrigerator, wipe it up right away since it will cause the temperature to drop to the point where it will freeze. Make sure to clean off any moisture that accumulates on the glass of a display freezer.
The good news is that commercial freezers are built to last. If you use your cooler or refrigerator properly, it won’t need repairs too often. However, you could require routine maintenance for your appliance.
Some of the more typical issues with walk-in coolers and commercial refrigerators include the following:
- Excessive sound
Commercial refrigerators usually only produce a faint hum. Unusual noises or changes in the type or volume of sound can be an indication that a component of the device is malfunctioning.
- Crystallization
Most individuals are unaware of the fact that ice developing on your unit’s exterior is neither normal nor desirable. An issue with the unit’s insulation is what leads to outside ice crystallization.
- Door failure
Overuse can occasionally cause door gaskets and seals to wear out. If the door won’t fully close, it’s time to consider replacing the damaged component.
- Change in temperature
A fluctuation in temperature, either within or outside the appliance, signals a problem. Thermostat settings should be verified, and if they are, call your service provider to have the device fixed.
Get the Best Out of Your Freezer Maintenance with Fixwerks Corporate
You can easily maintain your freezer and extend its longevity by following these easy procedures. Contact Fixwerks Corporate if you believe you are in need of freezer maintenance or if you need to report a problem. We’ll send a qualified expert to your location right away to get your appliance back to its original state. Fixwerks Corporate, specialists in commercial appliance repair serving all clients in Singapore, can assist you with all of your business repair and maintenance requirements.
