Your commercial refrigeration unit is likely one of the most important assets of your business. It is a critical piece of equipment that can cost you a fortune if it goes down. Proper commercial refrigeration maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your unit.
In the competitive food service industry, prioritizing commercial refrigeration maintenance is crucial to prevent breakdowns, minimize energy costs, and maintain food safety standards.
In between the service visits, you need to perform routine upkeep to get the best from your commercial refrigeration. Here are some simple commercial refrigeration maintenance tips
Regular cleaning
You should maintain a strict cleaning schedule for your commercial refrigeration unit. A thorough interior and exterior cleaning is necessary once or twice a week. Remove all items, place them in a temporary refrigerator, and then clean the shelves and surfaces. Use only a soft sponge or brush and a mild vinegar solution to clean the unit. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers. Wipe the unit dry before you start using it again.
Clean the condenser and evaporator coils.
It is important to clean the condenser coils regularly they tend to get dirty and may accumulate debris. This can create an insulating layer, which can lead to overheating. So, you should clean the condenser coils regularly depending on the make and model and other conditions that can affect how much debris they accumulate. Similarly, you should keep the evaporator could clear from any blockages as they can affect the performance of the equipment. Regular cleaning of evaporator coils is even more important if they are located near cooking equipment.
Inspect the seals
Over time, the door gaskets can become torn or damaged. When this happens, it will not be able to prevent warm air from seeping into the refrigeration. The unit will not be able to maintain the right temperature, and it can spoil the food. It can also lead to the build-up of mold and bacteria within the unit. So, it is important to inspect all the door gaskets and look for any signs of damage. It should seal well, and there should be no debris deposited on it.
Replace the air filter.
Just like your air conditioner and furnace, your commercial refrigeration also comes with air filters. A buildup of debris can prevent air from ventilating the unit properly. So, you should clean the air filter regularly, removing any dust or debris that is clogging it. It is also important to degrease the air filters at regular intervals. However, it is a task that is best left to the professionals.
Clean the drain pans and tubes.
Commercial refrigeration units tend to accumulate a lot of sludge in the drain pans and tubes. Clogged brain tubes and overflowing drain pans can emit a bad smell. It can also cause the defrosting system to overflow. So, it is necessary that you clean the drain pan and pipes regularly using soap solution.
Clean the ice maker
This is probably the most neglected part of any refrigeration unit. However, it is important to understand that it can accumulate mold and bacteria, which can pose a health hazard. Empty the ice maker and the ice bin, drain all the water from the water pan, and press the “wash” button. You can add manufacturer-recommended cleaning agents. Rinse well and wipe it dry before using it.
How can these commercial refrigeration maintenance tips help your business?
By implementing these commercial refrigeration maintenance tips, you can enhance the longevity of your equipment, reduce costly repairs, and ensure your refrigeration system operates at peak efficiency. Remember, regular maintenance and proactive care are key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and preserving the freshness and safety of your stored products. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your commercial refrigerators running smoothly and your business running successfully.
While there are things you can do to keep your commercial refrigeration operating at its peak efficiency, its routine maintenance is best left to the professionals. If you are looking for routine maintenance or repair of your commercial refrigeration, get in touch with us now.