Food service establishments depend on their walk-in coolers to safely store food, maintain consistent temperatures, and meet the demands of the busy workday, day in and day out. The best way to ensure your walk-in is around for the long haul is to take proper care of it—namely, with regular cleanings. Below, the restaurant refrigeration professionals at Refrigeration & Food Equipment in Anchorage, AK, share five steps to cleaning your walk-in cooler.

Cleaning a Walk-In: 5 Steps to a Spotless Cooler

1. Use Soap & Water

First, fill a large bucket with soap and hot water. Avoid harsh chemical cleaning agents, as these can damage the metal surfaces of the cooler. They might cut through grease and grime, but they might also interact with the metal and destroy the entire unit. Instead of occasionally cleaning with a toxic, potentially damaging cleaning agent, aim for a more regular cleaning with good old-fashioned soap and hot water.

2. Scrub With Sponges & Rags

After submerging sponges and rags in the soap and water, give the entire walk-in cooler a thorough, vigorous scrubbing. Some areas are obviously going to need more attention than others and will require a bit more elbow grease, so be prepared to spend some time and energy on your cleaning. A soft-bristled brush might also come in handy. At least twice a year, use a self-rinsing cleaning product and hard-bristled brush to clean off condenser and evaporator coils.

3. Wipe Down Door Gaskets

The door gaskets on the cooler need to be clean and in good working order to latch and seal properly. Regularly wipe them down to make certain they're clear of debris. If the gaskets are otherwise broken or cracked, have them replaced.

4. Mop Out the Unit Regularly

If you're not already doing so, mop out the unit on a routine basis to avoid mold and deter pests. Remember to mop under shelving and in corners. Add mopping, along with wiping down door gaskets, to the daily cleanup duties of the kitchen staff.

5. Drain Lines Once a Year

Have the walk-in's lines drained at least annually. A professional restaurant refrigeration service can handle this with a minimum of stress and upheaval on your part. Schedule the cleanings in advance so you don't need to scramble at the last minute to have the lines drained. Clear, debris-free lines are a matter of health and safety.

Since 1964, Refrigeration & Food Equipment has been providing commercial refrigeration and restaurant supplies to the Greater Anchorage area. Let them help you find the right walk-in cooler for your establishment. Call (907) 248-2525, visit them online, or contact them on Facebook to learn more about their products and services.