Let's start with some recommendations for successfully installing and using your new appliance:

DO plan and manage your installation

From identifying your entry and exit routes and protecting floors and furniture to ensuring you have staff and equipment on hand, planning your fridge or freezer installation is worth every minute of your time. We've written a handy checklist to help you manage your fridge installation.

DO ensure adequate ventilation

Without enough space around it, your fridge won't be able to efficiently release the warm air collected from inside. This forces it to work harder to keep food cool. This will not only reduce energy efficiency, pushing up bills, but will also increase the wear on components.

DO remember to level your appliance

Your fridge and freezer should be horizontally level and, for models with a front door, slightly inclined backwards. This will prevent the door from opening accidentally and avoid uneven temperature distribution. Some models can be levelled by hand, while others will need a spanner or other tool. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions.

DO invest in an appliance thermometer

If you are storing food for public consumption, keeping it below the 'danger zone' is mandatory. While most commercial fridges and freezers have inbuilt temperature displays, we recommend having an appliance thermometer as backup. This can also help you to identify cold or warm spots.

DO defrost when needed

Even frost-free freezers will need occasional defrosting. When you start to notice significant ice build up, plan to defrost your appliance. Ideally, choose a time which suits your business workflow (e.g., when stock is low or you have spare freezer space).

Regular defrosting will help improve efficiency and maximise the lifespan of your freezer.

DO set up a formal cleaning schedule

Just because you have a new appliance, it doesn't mean that you and your staff will automatically start looking after it. To start as you mean to go on, set up a formal cleaning rota.

Make sure you keep your fridge's condenser coils free of dust with a regular wipe down and occasional vacuum. This will keep your appliance operating efficiently, reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint.

DO store frozen food in airtight packaging

Freezer burn may be harmless, but it will affect the taste and texture of your food. To avoid this common issue, be meticulous about storing frozen food in airtight containers.

Plastic boxes are a popular solution, or you can tightly wrap frozen foods in food safe clingfilm, taking care to squeeze out all air pockets.

DO use a simple labeling system

Affix large, clear labels to your stored food. Write the use by dates of each item and the date when it was first opened.

Combining this with a strict 'First In, First Out' policy is one of the best ways of optimising stock management and keeping on top of your food hygiene responsibilities

Now lets look at what to avoid when ordering, installing and using a new appliance.

DON'T be distracted by 'bells and whistles'

If you haven't yet ordered your new commercial fridge or freezer, avoid being dazzled by the latest technology. While Wi-Fi connected internal cameras might be trendy, it will benefit your business much more to ensure your appliance is well-built and a good fit for your workflow.
Manufacturers that prioritise build quality and energy efficiency will deliver machines with a long lifespan and low operating costs. Tech features such as accurate thermostats and clear temperature displays will support you in running a safe, customer-centric business.

DON'T store your fridge or freezer outside

From a space-saving point of view, it might be tempting to install your appliance in an outbuilding. Unless this building is temperature controlled, this could cause problems. Fridges and freezers are designed to operate in environments where the ambient temperature is stable. If this is not the case, your appliance will have to work harder to keep the internal temperature constant. This will lead to higher running costs and greater wear and tear.

DON'T turn your appliance on straight away

During transportation, the oil in your fridge's compressor will become shaken up, especially if it has been stored on its side. Running your fridge immediately on installation can force your compressor to run dry, potentially causing damage.

Your user handbook should tell you how long you need to let your fridge stand before turning it on (usually one to four hours). If you can't find this information, waiting for at least four hours should give the oil plenty of time to settle.

DON'T use harsh chemicals or sharp objects

Whether you are cleaning your appliance or defrosting it, treat it gently. Some mild detergent and warm water is usually enough for both internal and external cleaning, and if you do come across stubborn stains, then an old toothbrush will often be sufficient to treat them.

We have written several articles on how to clean your gaskets if water and soap doesn't do the job. These use common household ingredients rather than harsh chemicals.

When defrosting or removing food from your gaskets, avoid using sharp implements like knives or scissors as these are likely to cause damage.

DON'T store hot food in your appliance

Always bring hot food down to room temperature before storing it in a fridge or freezer. Putting it straight into your appliance will cause the compressor to work unnecessarily hard, and it will also introduce excessive moisture into the fridge. This will increase the risk of ice buildup and mould growth.

DON'T overfill your fridge or freezer

Fridges and freezers rely on a free flow of air inside to operate efficiently and distribute heat evenly. Impeding this air flow by over-stocking your appliance can lead to hot and cold spots. Blocking vents with stock can also lead to local ice build-up and damage to internal components.

When opening your fridge or freezer, always check there is space between stored items and the side and back of the appliance. Ideally, leave gaps between items too.

DON'T forget your gaskets!

Your fridge and freezer gaskets (aka door seals) are a vital component of an efficient appliance, ensuring a clear separation between the cold, dry air inside and the warm, humid air without.

Always include your gaskets in your cleaning and maintenance schedules, and quickly replace them when they become old or damaged. Keep a record of the make and model number of your appliance, as this will make it quicker and easier to source a replacement. See our service page for more details.