Commercial refrigerators are vital for the success of a business, so it’s important to conduct regular maintenance to keep them running well and doing their job. Fortunately, there are a number of fridge maintenance tips you can turn to that will prolong the life of your unit.
Frequently Clean Interior and Exterior
Fridge maintenance is necessary. It’s recommended that you conduct a thorough cleaning of both the interior and exterior of your commercial refrigeration unit once or twice a week. Start by clearing out the items from the fridge and temporarily moving them into a cooler.
Once clear, scrub the unit with soap and water or a vinegar-based solution and soak any removable shelving. When it comes to the exterior, use a blend of warm water and a detergent or vinegar mix during any routine cleaning. You need a proper degreaser for stainless steel to remove any caked-on grease and food.
Regularly Clean Condenser Coil
Condenser coils are prone to dust and dirt build-up, which can affect performance over time. You need a brush with stiff bristles to remove the dust.
Finish up with either an air compressor or heavy-duty vacuum to remove any remaining debris.
Check Area by Evaporator Coil
Evaporator coils are necessary to absorb heat as the warm air moves through our refrigeration system, which helps cool the unit’s interior.
It’s important to regularly inspect the area surrounding the coil to ensure it’s clear of debris. If the airflow is blocked in any capacity the coil can freeze and water can start to leak.
Check Gaskets
Door gaskets are important components of commercial refrigeration. If there are any cracks or splits, the door may not seal properly. This will allow for cool air to seep out through the door which creates ineffective cooling inside.
If you plan on replacing the gasket, check the user guide and replace it with the manufacturer’s recommendation. Even if the gasket is in working order, it’s important to clean it often to preemptively avoid damage. If you’re in a kitchen that uses grease often, you’ll want to clean your gaskets even more frequently.
Check Air Filters
The air filters in commercial units tend to collect grease and dust. If you put off replacing your unit’s filters, it can build up and begin affecting the way your fridge ventilates. Use a shop vacuum to suck away any loose debris and dust.
When it comes to grease, find a powerful degreaser to get the job done. But refer to the user manual to learn how to properly degrease a filter.
Clean Drain Pans and Tubes
Sludge and slime will certainly build up over time when it comes to commercial refrigeration systems. We want to avoid this as it can cause a freeze in the unit. It’s important to consistently inspect any tubing and the drain pan – it can overflow with sludge and other moisture, which can lead to unpleasant smells.
Cleaning the pan once a month with soap and water or a vinegar blend will help to keep things running smoothly.
Contact the Pros
Those are some simple measures you can take to keep your commercial fridge operating at its best. But if you come across a problem you can’t handle, call the experts at Antarctic Refrigeration for more information on our services.