Any restaurateur or grocery store owner knows the importance of an efficient commercial refrigerator. Not only does a more efficient refrigeration unit maintain a consistent temperature that keeps food and beverages cool and meats at safe temperatures, but an efficient system also helps save in energy costs. With these easy steps, you can quickly boost your commercial refrigerator’s efficiency.
All refrigeration units rely on circulation for cooling. In order for the air to circulate properly, the fan that works with the compressor and evaporator to cool the air needs to be clean and free of obstructions. Over time, dust can accumulate on the blades of the fan, which leads to decreased cooling, higher power usage, and potential breakdown, which requires a replacement of the fan. By keeping the fan clear of dust, the air can circulate as it should, keeping the unit cool without using excess power.
The coils of the evaporator in your commercial refrigerator can also become clogged with dirt and dust over time. Keeping the coils cleaned is a maintenance procedure that should be performed on a consistent schedule in order to increase efficiency and keep your unit running for years to come.
If your electric bill is higher than usual or you find that your refrigeration unit is struggling to maintain its temperature, check the seals. Like weather stripping on windows, seals are used to seal in cold air and keep hot air out. If these seals are cracked, broken, or removed, they will need to be replaced. Properly working seals ensure that a refrigeration unit easily maintains its cold temperature without raising electrical costs.
You also need to make sure that your refrigerator and its components aren’t crowded. In particular, the compressor does not need to be in a tight space. If other equipment surrounds the refrigerator, moving this equipment to provide proper ventilation can help increase the cooling efficiency of your unit. If your compressor does not have a thermal overload protector, having one installed can increase efficiency and prolong the life of your unit.
If your commercial refrigerator has difficulty hitting lower temperatures, gets too warm, or makes your electric bill skyrocket, it’s best to call in the refrigeration professionals at Bush Refrigeration to diagnose and fix the problem. While you may think that a DIY procedure will save money, improper installation and maintenance can lead to premature breakdown, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs. A refrigeration professional can perform all installation, maintenance, and repairs needed to keep your unit running efficiently from year to year.
With these easy steps, you can save money on energy costs, keep your foods and beverages at proper, safe temperatures, and avoid the time and expense of replacing your commercial refrigerator.