Plan your purchase ahead of time

The worst time to think about buying a new commercial fridge or freezer is when
your existing one has packed in. The added time pressure could make you more
susceptible to manufacturer sales pitches or less likely to spend time weighing the
pros and cons of different models.

If an existing fridge or freezer is operating inefficiently or is approaching the end of its
natural lifespan, start researching today following our tips below.

Balance capital outlay against operating efficiency and build quality

Every business has to work within its budget, but it is often the case that a more
expensive appliance will very quickly pay for itself over the following years.

Checking a fridge or freezer's energy rating is important. An appliance with an A
rating on the energy label, or that is Energy Saving Trust recommended, will use less
electricity than a lower rated one. This can add up to significant savings on your
commercial utility bills.

Durability is also paramount. You wouldn't install a domestic fridge in a high volume
commercial kitchen, so make sure that the build quality of your appliances warrant
the commercial label. Fridges and freezers made from stainless steel are often a
good choice because they last longer and are easier to clean.

Prioritise optimal workflow over bells and whistles

From AI-powered internal video cameras to fridges which light up when you knock
them, appliance manufacturers are constantly pushing the boundaries of technology.
While some of these features may be useful for your business, it is often simpler
design factors that can improve workplace efficiency.

For example, ergonomic door handles and quiet compressors can improve the
experience of kitchen employees, while adjustable shelving can enable you to alter
the interior of your fridge to manage fluctuating storage needs.
For high risk environments, precision temperature control will be important.

Size does matter

Choosing the right sized commercial fridge or freezer means striking a balance
between maximising capacity and optimising workflow. While it may be tempting to
opt for the largest fridge available, this could end up reducing the efficiency of a low
volume business through over-stocking. A giant fridge could even cause a physical
obstruction that hampers the movement of staff and product into and out of the
storage area. On the other hand, a small under counter fridge may be harder to
access and manage in a busy workplace.

Always ensure adequate space around your fridges and freezers for ventilation. As a
guideline, make sure there is at least 5cm gap on every side of your appliance
(including on top).

Compare energy efficiency ratings

Most new fridges and freezers are very energy efficient, keeping your costs and
carbon footprint down. It is unlikely that a new appliance will have anything other
than an A-rating on the energy label, but you can ensure that you are maximising
energy efficiency by choosing a model that is recommended by the Energy Saving
Trust.

If you are buying a used fridge or freezer, check when it was rated. The scale used
on energy rating labels was reset and simplified in 2021, so a second hand
appliance may not be as energy efficient as the label suggests.

Protection and maintenance

To maximise the lifespan of your new commercial fridge or freezer, you will want to
ensure it is regularly serviced. Do you have an existing service plan you can add
your appliance to? We recommend researching your options to find the best deal for
your business circumstances. For example, it might be worth considering a more
expensive premium if the plan includes an emergency 24/7 repair line or a
replacement appliance should yours break down.

Also, think about how easy it will be to carry out general cleaning and maintenance.
For example, a fridge with top mounted condenser coils may be easier to access
than one where the coils are underneath. Some modern fridges have an outer skin
that will help keep your coils protected from dust and dirt.

How much will replacement parts cost?

Factor in the cost of any parts not included in your warranty or maintenance plan.
For example, how much would a replacement door seal cost you, and how long
would it take to arrive? If you have several fridges and freezers, you could benefit by
having your door seals added to our Gasket Asset Register Service. Contact us for
more information about the benefits of doing this.