Your commercial refrigerator ensures that the food at your establishment stays at a proper temperature for safe handling and consumption. Proper maintenance helps the unit work its best and last for years to come while increasing its energy efficiency and sustaining consistent operating costs. Below are three essential items to add to your commercial refrigeration maintenance checklist.

How to Maintain Your Commercial Refrigerator

1. Keep It Clean

Stay on top of spills by promptly cleaning them up. Leaving spills not only can lead to foul odors, but it can also encourage mold growth that threatens the safety of the unit and the food stored inside. You should also clean the condenser coils regularly — about once every six months. To clean the coils, unplug the unit, then use a stiff brush and vacuum attachment to remove dirt and dust buildup. Be sure to thoroughly scrub the grill cover plate before reattaching it over the coils.

2. Organize & Store Items Without Overcrowding

The air inside a commercial refrigeration unit needs to circulate the perimeter of the items stored inside to keep them sufficiently cold. When these items are packed in and crowded together, this circulation cannot occur. This may increase the temperature of the unit, forcing it to work harder and overtaxing it. Keep items organized, remove anything that isn’t in regular use, and leave about an inch of space between containers to keep everything cold without placing undue stress on the unit.

3. Inspect the Seals

The seals on the unit keep cold air inside and help the unit function optimally. Routinely inspect the seals to be sure they are not loose and are free of holes, cracks, splits, and breaks. Small areas of damage can sometimes be fixed with silicone caulk; however, if the issue continues, you should contact a commercial refrigeration professional. They’ll repair or replace the seals to guarantee an airtight seal and the continued dependability of the unit.

Since 1972, Ron Hammes Refrigeration has been offering commercial refrigeration installations, inspections, repairs, and maintenance to the La Crosse County, WI, area. They also provide a range of HVAC services, including air conditioning repair and furnace installation, as well as vent and duct cleaning. To learn more about their services, visit their website, and call (608) 788-3110 to get a quote.