Keeping refrigeration equipment clean, safe, and operating at high efficiency is one of the top priorities for businesses and employers in the retail food industry. Failing to take care of commercial refrigerators and freezers can result in loss of merchandise, compromised food quality and, worst of all, the potential for sickened customers. Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, based in Silverhill, AL, offers a few maintenance tips for commercial refrigerator systems.

3 Ways to Keep Commercial Refrigerators & Freezers Healthy

1. Clean Refrigeration Systems Regularly

This one may seem like a no-brainer, but proper cleaning entails more than just scrubbing the outside of the equipment. Owners should rigorously clean the inside of their commercial equipment regularly to avoid the buildup of dangerous bacteria that can get inside food and potentially result in sick customers. This includes shelves, walls, and plastic doors. 

2. Maintain Mechanical Parts 

In addition to the visible parts of the refrigerator's inside, its mechanical parts also need to be cleaned regularly. These include evaporator coils, fan blades, and air vents. Clean evaporator coils and fan blades once a month, wiping off dust, dirt, and other foreign material. For the blades, consider cleaning with water mixed with detergent—never use chemical cleaners. Be especially careful when cleaning the more fragile parts of the refrigerator system. Unlike the appliance’s shelves and walls, they need to be handled with extreme care.

3. Institute Sanitation Protocol

Restaurants, grocers, and other major food retailers should give employees training on effective cleaning methods. In addition, make sure there is a consistent protocol when it comes to cleaning refrigeration equipment, so the quality of cleaning doesn't vary dramatically from one month to the next. Experts also suggest regular feedback and ongoing training. 

Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration are the most reliable cooling service professionals in Greater Silverhill. They offer HVAC and heat pump installation and repair, and they consistently deliver high-quality refrigeration products to restaurants and other food retailers in the area. As evidence of their commitment to their many commercial and residential clients, Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration even offers 24/7 emergency air conditioning repair. Check out their website to learn more about their various cooling services, or give the team a call at (251) 947-9499.