HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD QUALITY COMMERCIAL FRIDGE
If you run a restaurant, cafeteria, or another type of food preparation service, you need a commercial refrigerator that you can rely on. The refrigerator you choose should not only preserve the quality of your food but also promote expedient service and cut down on food spoilage.
Here are some things to consider when determining which commercial refrigerator is right for your kitchen:
Types of Commercial Refrigeration
There are many different commercial refrigerators on the market that vary in shape, size, and function, and range from compact under-counter refrigerators that provide quick access to walk-in freezers that are the size of an entire room.
Single and Multiple Door Reach-In Refrigerators and Freezers
These refrigerators provide quick access which ultimately translates to faster service. They are placed near the cooking area or the food prep area. You can use them to store prepared meats, produce, plate garnishes, and other key items you will use throughout the day.
Roll-in Refrigerators and Freezers
These are located in the prep area and have an empty cavity where roll-in racks can be placed. This is convenient because it allows you to prepare food, load it onto racks and roll it into the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for buffets and catered events.
Pass-through Freezers and Refrigerators
These are placed between the kitchen prep area and stocking stations, and the contents of the fridge can be accessed from either side of the fridge. These are great for institutions that serve a large body of people like schools and healthcare facilities. Pass-through freezers and refrigerators are available in one, two, and three-section designs.
Walk-in Coolers and Freezers
These units are located in the receiving area. This is where bulk items are stored and frozen items are delivered directly to the walk-in freezer. This type of freezer is a great choice for kitchens that store plenty of fresh and frozen stock.
Undercounter Refrigerators and Freezers
These are conveniently located in the prep area and sit neatly underneath the counter to maximize space, making them ideal for pizzerias and sandwich shops.
Door Type
There are two types of doors: swing doors and half doors:
- Swinging doors stay open once it has been opened, which is great if you are loading or unloading stock.
- Half doors are swing doors that are divided into two sections. These are a good option because they preserve energy and are great at keeping the internal temperatures of the fridge consistent.
Additional Features to Consider
Door material – You have the option of selecting a solid door or a glass door. Both have benefits and disadvantages.
- Solid doors are easier to clean, provide better insulation than glass and have better energy efficiency. The drawback is that you won’t be able to see the contents of your fridge.
- Glass doors allow you to see what’s inside the fridge without opening the door. This cuts down on the need to open the door resulting in more cold air being retained. The drawbacks include reduced insulation when compared to solid doors and more frequent cleaning.
Glass doors allow you to see what’s inside the fridge without opening the door. This cuts down on the need to open the door resulting in more cold air being retained. The drawbacks include reduced insulation when compared to solid doors and more frequent cleaning.
Contact Us
If you need assistance when choosing the right commercial fridge for your business, call the experts at Antarctic Refrigeration. Our team of professionals will be happy to help find the perfect fit for your business.
