Whether you own a restaurant or a grocery store, commercial refrigeration is essential to keeping your food products safe and consumable. If this equipment isn’t kept clean, however, it can develop operational issues or bacterial growths that put your food inventory in jeopardy. To help you better protect your perishables, here are five steps you should follow to properly clean a commercial refrigerator.

5 Steps to Cleaning a Commercial Refrigerator

1. Unplug Units

Anytime commercial refrigeration is serviced for an extended period, unplug the unit. Without power, the equipment won’t waste energy during cleaning or put your team in danger. In addition, unplugging is essential so that any accumulated frost can thaw.

2. Relocate or Dispose of Food

Next, sort through the refrigerator’s contents until the interior is empty. If an item is still good, relocate it to a cooler or another refrigeration unit so it doesn’t spoil. If an item is spoiled or expired, dispose of it properly.

3. Wipe & Disinfect the Interior

Once your commercial refrigerator is empty, spray down the interior with a disinfectant spray and wipe. This step will help kill any harmful bacteria that could contribute to food spoilage.

If there are any stuck-on stains or grime, use soap and a bristled brush to scrub it away. Next, use a clean microfiber cloth to fully dry the interior surfaces.

4. Clean the Exterior

When you don’t clean the outside of the refrigerator, dust and other debris can impair the equipment’s mechanical and cooling abilities.

As such, you should make sure to thoroughly dust and wipe down all exterior sides of the unit. Using a vacuum hose, gently remove dust from the condenser coils, which usually can be found at the back or underneath the unit. To prevent moisture problems, also be sure to empty the drainage pan found near the bottom of the refrigerator.  

5. Restock Food

Once the unit is clean, plug it back in and restock it. To prevent contamination issues, follow safe storage practices—such as by storing raw chicken on the lowest levels to prevent it from dripping onto other food. When organizing the unit, keep all baffles and fan areas clear so that cool air can travel freely.

While cleaning can help prevent refrigerator issues, it’s important to have a plan when problems do arise. That’s why businesses in Robertsdale, AL, rely on Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration. Providing commercial refrigerator support throughout Baldwin County, this cooling contractor will thoroughly inspect, tune up, and repair all types of units. If you need additional food storage, the team will also install new appliances that will keep your inventory fresh and your energy bills low. To learn more about these and other HVAC services, visit these technicians online. For assistance—including 24-hour emergency support—call (251) 947-9499 today.

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