A commercial display fridge is an essential investment for businesses that rely on refrigeration to keep products cool and visible to customers. A commercial display fridge is essential for any food service, like restaurants, cafés, or grocery stores. It helps keep your products fresh and of high quality. But, like all appliances, a fridge needs proper care and maintenance  to keep it functioning at its best.
Taking care of your commercial display fridge is key. This helps it run well and stay effective. This not only helps in preserving the life of the fridge but also in keeping your energy costs low and reducing the chances of sudden breakdowns. With 2025 on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to keep your commercial fridge in top shape. This blog covers the 10 most important tips for maintaining your commercial display fridge in the coming year.
1. Clean the Coils Regularly
The coils on your commercial display fridge are one of the most important components when it comes to its efficiency. The coils release heat and allow the fridge to maintain its internal temperature. When dust and debris accumulate on the coils, they lose their efficiency and force the fridge to work harder, consuming more energy.
To keep your fridge working optimally, it’s important to clean the coils every 1-2 months. You can do this by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush. The process is simple and can prevent long-term issues. Regular cleaning also helps prevent overheating, which can cause other parts of the fridge, like the compressor, to wear out prematurely.
If you’re unsure about cleaning the coils yourself, you can always contact R&R Refrigeration & Air Conditioning for a professional cleaning and service for your commercial display fridge.
2. Check and Replace Door Seals
The door seals on your commercial display fridge prevent cold air from escaping and warm air from entering. A poor door seal can cause a significant drop in cooling efficiency, leading to increased energy usage and a decrease in the fridge’s performance. Over time, door seals wear out and become cracked, especially in high-traffic areas where the fridge is frequently opened.
To check the seals, close the door on a piece of paper or a dollar bill. If you can easily pull it out, the seal isn’t tight enough, and it’s time to replace it. Replacing door seals is a relatively simple and cost-effective task that can dramatically improve the fridge’s energy efficiency.
3. Monitor Temperature Regularly
The temperature inside your commercial display fridge should always remain constant. Fluctuations in temperature can lead to food spoilage or overworking the compressor. To ensure your fridge is operating at optimal performance, check the temperature regularly. The ideal temperature for your fridge should be between 37°F and 40°F.
If you notice that the temperature is fluctuating or not staying within the desired range, this could indicate a problem with the thermostat or another internal component. Regular temperature checks allow you to catch potential issues before they become major problems.
4. Maintain Proper Airflow
A commercial display fridge relies on good airflow to maintain a consistent internal temperature. If there’s insufficient airflow, the fridge will have to work harder to cool the space, resulting in higher energy consumption and potential overworking of the compressor. Ensure that the air vents inside the fridge are not blocked by food items or other objects.
Keep in mind that overcrowding your fridge can also impede airflow. Allow enough space around products so that the cold air can circulate freely. If the fridge has adjustable shelves, make sure they are set in a way that encourages maximum airflow.
5. Regularly Defrost the Freezer Compartment
If your commercial display fridge includes a freezer compartment, you need to defrost it regularly. Ice buildup can block airflow and prevent the fridge from maintaining a consistent temperature. A thick layer of ice can also force the compressor to work overtime, leading to unnecessary wear and tear.
Defrost the freezer every 3-6 months, or when you notice a buildup of ice. The process is simple turn off the fridge, remove any products, and let the ice melt. Wipe up the water as it melts to avoid water damage. If you’re unsure how to defrost your unit, contact R&R Refrigeration & Air Conditioning to schedule a professional service.
6. Keep the Interior Clean
A clean fridge not only looks better but also functions better. Spills, crumbs, and stains on shelves can lead to bacterial growth, foul odors, and unsightly messes. Clean the interior of your fridge regularly with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could leave residues on surfaces that come into contact with food.
Be sure to clean out any expired or spoiled products on a regular basis. Dirty or old food can produce odors that may affect the taste and smell of other products. By keeping your fridge clean, you’ll improve its lifespan and prevent unnecessary odors.
7. Ensure the Fridge Is Level
A commercial display fridge must be level to ensure that it functions properly. If you tilt or unbalance the fridge, it can prevent the compressor from working efficiently. This may lead to uneven cooling or cause the fridge to overheat. An unbalanced fridge can also cause noise and vibrations, which can be disruptive in customer-facing environments.
To check if your fridge is level, use a spirit level on the surface. If the fridge isn’t perfectly level, you can adjust the legs or base until it sits evenly. Keeping the fridge level ensures the cooling system operates efficiently and reduces strain on the components.
8. Use the Correct Storage Practices
How you store items in your commercial display fridge can have a significant impact on its performance. Overcrowding the fridge or improperly storing products can block airflow and make the fridge work harder to cool everything down. Additionally, overloading the fridge can put strain on the compressor and lead to uneven cooling.
Be mindful of how you organize the items inside the fridge. Arrange products so that air can circulate freely around them. Store cold items at the back of the fridge and warmer items at the front to maintain a consistent temperature. Also, ensure that you organize items in a way that makes it easy to access them without needing to keep the door open for long periods.
9. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
While you can do regular cleaning and minor maintenance tasks on your own, it’s also important to schedule professional maintenance at least once a year. A technician from R&R Refrigeration & Air Conditioning can perform a thorough inspection of your commercial display fridge, checking for any potential issues and ensuring that everything is running smoothly.
During a professional service, the technician will clean components like the evaporator, condenser, and fan, check for refrigerant leaks, test the thermostat, and perform any necessary repairs. Regular professional maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your fridge and ensures it stays in top condition for years to come.
10. Check and Clean the Drainage System
Many commercial display fridges have a drainage system that removes excess water and condensation. If the drainage system becomes clogged, water can accumulate inside the fridge, potentially causing leaks or damage to the interior. A clogged drain can also cause mold and mildew to form, which can be harmful to food safety.
To prevent these issues, check the drainage system regularly and clean it as needed. Ensure the drain is clear and flowing freely, especially in humid environments where condensation buildup can be more prevalent. If you notice damage or malfunction in the drainage system, contact a professional to inspect and repair it.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can ensure your commercial display fridge remains in top condition and continues to serve your business for years. Proper maintenance not only improves the efficiency of your fridge but also reduces the likelihood of costly repairs and replacements. For professional service, contact R&R Refrigeration & Air Conditioning to schedule a maintenance appointment and ensure your fridge stays in excellent working order.
Taking care of your commercial display fridge will keep your business running smoothly, save energy, and improve the overall customer experience.
FAQs About Commercial Display Fridge Maintenance
Q1: How often should I clean the coils of my commercial display fridge?
A1: You should clean the coils every 1-2 months to ensure the fridge operates efficiently and doesn’t overheat.
Q2: What is the best temperature setting for a commercial display fridge?
A2: The ideal temperature for your commercial display fridge is between 37°F and 40°F for optimal cooling.
Q3: How can I tell if my door seals need replacing?
A3: If you can easily pull a piece of paper or a dollar bill from between the door and the seal, the seal is not tight enough and needs to be replaced.
Q4: Should I hire a professional for maintenance or do it myself?
A4: While you can handle basic maintenance, it’s recommended to hire a professional at least once a year to ensure that all components are functioning correctly.
Q5: Can an overcrowded fridge affect performance?
A5: Yes, overcrowding can block airflow, leading to inefficient cooling and causing the fridge to work harder, which wastes energy.
