Walk-in coolers are essential for any restaurant, from upscale fine dining establishments to local cafes. Whether you're building a new eatery or upgrading your kitchen, selecting the cooler is a crucial decision that'll impact your operations for years to come. Below are a few factors to consider when making this purchase.

What Should You Think About When Buying a Cooler?

1. Storage Space

In general, having a little too much space is always better than a crowded cooler. When calculating your storage needs, assume you'll need at least 1.5 cubic feet of cooler space for each meal served daily. So, if you usually serve 250 customers a day, you'll need a cooler with at least 375 cubic feet of storage.

2. Size

An undersized unit will cycle more frequently, putting extra wear on your equipment and causing frequent breakdowns. However, a walk-in cooler with more power than you need may pull too much humidity out of the air, resulting in icy floors and spoiled food. Having a professional evaluate your needs will help ensure you get the right cooler for your restaurant.

3. Location

Once your walk-in cooler is installed, moving it is both expensive and difficult, so decide in advance where it'll go. Indoor coolers are more convenient for your staff, but you may have to reinforce the flooring, while outdoor units will only need a rain roof and a refrigeration cap. Knowing where your cooler will be installed also helps narrow down your options and prevents unexpected expenses later.

4. Quality

Some walk-in coolers may be less expensive initially, but the long-term operating costs often make low-quality equipment much more expensive. Since this is such a significant investment, research the reliability and reputation of each brand you're considering before committing to a product.

Since 1964, Refrigeration & Food Equipment Inc. has provided restaurants throughout Anchorage, AK, with the best equipment in the industry. They only sell the highest-quality walk-in coolers on the market, and they’ll help you select the perfect unit for your restaurant. Visit their website for more information on their commercial refrigeration options, get more expert tips on Facebook, or call (907) 248-2525 to speak with a member of their team today.