Your walk-in coolers and freezers are the lifeline of your commercial kitchen. At Canada Food Equipment, we believe small, quick maintenance tasks make more of a difference than a few big cleans every year. Whether you’re running a restaurant, catering service, or bakery, keeping your units in top-notch condition is a number one priority. Good maintenance means longer-lasting equipment, safer food, and lower energy usage. Ready to learn how to keep your commercial refrigerators and freezers in peak performance without breaking a sweat? Let’s go over some practical, straightforward tips that will make all the difference.

Keep It Clean

Interior and Exterior Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential. Think of it like brushing your teeth – it’s basic, but it goes a long way.

Inside Job: Start by emptying your walk-in cooler or freezer. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wipe down the walls, shelves, and floors. Make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies, but steer clear of abrasive cleaners that can scratch surfaces.
Outside Matters Too: Don’t forget the exterior. A simple wipe-down with the same detergent and water mix will do. Pay special attention to the door seals and gaskets. These areas can easily collect mold and mildew, which is not only gross but can also compromise the seal.

Coil Cleaning

Coils are the unsung heroes of your refrigeration system. Dirty coils however are not.

Evaporator Coils: Clean these coils every three months. Turn off the power, remove any dust and debris with a soft brush, and finish with a vacuum cleaner.
Condenser Coils: These should be cleaned at least twice a year. Just like with evaporator coils, start with a soft brush and follow up with a vacuum.

Check Door Seals and Hinges

Gaskets and Seals

Door seals (gaskets) are essential for keeping the cold air in and the warm air out. Damaged seals mean your unit works harder, using more energy and costing you more money.

Inspect Regularly: Look for cracks or tears. If you find any, it’s time to replace the gaskets.
Cleaning: Use warm soapy water to clean the seals. This helps maintain their flexibility and effectiveness.

Hinges

Loose or broken hinges can cause doors to sag and not close properly, which again lets the cold air out.

Tighten Up: Regularly check and tighten the hinges. If they’re too worn out, consider replacing them.

Monitor Temperature and Defrost Regularly

Temperature Checks

Keeping an eye on the temperature is crucial. Your walk-in cooler should stay between 35°F and 38°F, while freezers should be at 0°F or lower.

Daily Logs: Keep a log of daily temperature readings. This helps you spot any deviations early.
Alarm Systems: Consider installing an alarm system that alerts you to temperature fluctuations.

Regular Defrosting

Frost buildup can reduce efficiency and increase energy consumption.

Manual Defrost: If your unit doesn’t have an automatic defrost feature, make sure to defrost it regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.
Automatic Defrost: For units with this feature, ensure it’s working correctly and set according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Commercial Walk-In Coolers and Freezers: Keep It Organized

An organized cooler or freezer is more efficient, easier to manage, and does a lot of the work for you.

Shelving: Use wire shelving to allow air to circulate better.
Labeling: Clearly label all items and keep an inventory. This prevents you from leaving food items in the back to freeze and spoil.
FIFO System: Implement the “First In, First Out” system to ensure older items are used before new ones.

Professional Maintenance

Regular Check-Ups

Just like a car, your refrigeration and freezer units need regular professional check-ups.

Twice a Year: Schedule professional maintenance at least twice a year. Technicians can spot issues you might miss.
Repairs: Don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one. Address repairs as soon as they arise.

Energy Efficiency

Upgrading and Retrofitting

Sometimes, upgrading parts of your system can save you money in the long run.

Energy-Efficient Parts: Invest in energy-efficient fans, motors, and lighting. They might cost more upfront but will save you money on your energy bills.
Retrofitting: Consider retrofitting old units with newer, more efficient technology. This can extend the life of your equipment and improve efficiency.

A Little Goes a Long Way

Maintaining your commercial walk-in coolers and freezers doesn’t have to be a daunting task. And it definitely doesn’t require hand-and-knee cleaning every day like some may think! With regular cleaning, temperature monitoring, and professional check-ups, you can be sure your units run smoothly. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in keeping your commercial refrigeration equipment in top shape.

At Canada Food Equipment, we’re here to help you with all your commercial refrigeration needs. From new installations to maintenance advice, we’ve got you covered. Keep your kitchen running smoothly and your food fresh with our expert tips and high-quality products.

How to Maintain Your Commercial Walk-In Coolers and Freezers