Expert Tips for Extending the Life of Your Commercial Refrigeration Equipment

Commercial refrigeration systems are essential for businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, and medical facilities. These units work around the clock to keep food, beverages, and perishable goods at safe temperatures.

A day of downtime can mean a serious hit to your bottom line, not to mention the risk to food safety and customer satisfaction.

The good news? With proper care and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your refrigeration equipment, improve efficiency, and avoid costly downtime.

Here are expert tips to keep your system running smoothly for years to come.

Regular Maintenance Checks

Like any machine, your refrigeration system needs regular inspections to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

For most commercial refrigeration systems, maintenance is recommended at least twice a year (once before peak usage periods such as summer or the holiday season). It can improve efficiency, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and keep the system running at peak performance.

Keep Coils Clean

Coils transfer heat from inside the unit to the outside air. When they become clogged with dirt, dust, or grease, the system has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature. Over time, this can lead to increased wear on components, higher energy consumption, and even system failure.

In general, you should have coils cleaned every 6 months (more frequently in dusty or high-traffic areas).

Monitor Temperature Settings

Setting the wrong temperature can strain your system, increasing wear and tear. Refrigeration units must operate within specific temperature ranges to ensure efficiency and food safety.

✅ Recommended temperature settings:

Refrigerators: 35°F – 38°F (1.6°C – 3.3°C)
Freezers: -10°F – 0°F (-23°C – -18°C)

A temperature monitoring system can help detect fluctuations and prevent overcooling or undercooling, both of which can waste energy and damage inventory.

Inspect Door Seals & Gaskets

A worn or damaged door seal can lead to air leaks, causing your refrigeration unit to work harder to maintain the set temperature. This can lead to decreased efficiency and higher energy bills.

Inspect the gaskets and seals on your refrigeration units regularly for any signs of wear or cracks. If you notice any signs of damage with the seals, replace them immediately. This is to prevent cold air from escaping and warm air from entering.

Train Staff on Proper Usage

Proper handling and care of your commercial refrigeration units by staff members can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

Encourage employees to:

• Close doors quickly and securely to prevent cold air from escaping.
• Avoid overloading the unit. This can restrict airflow, making the system work harder.
• Report any issues immediately—such as unusual noises, temperature fluctuations, or frost buildup—so technicians can address problems before they become major repairs.

Preventative Maintenance Saves Money & Extends Equipment Life

Extending the life of your commercial refrigeration equipment requires a proactive approach. By following these expert tips, you can reduce downtime, save on energy costs, and keep your business running smoothly.

Remember, your refrigeration system is a significant investment, and with the proper care, it will serve your business well for many years to come.

Need help with maintenance or repairs? Call us today at 727-386-2732 to schedule an appointment.