Commercial freezers are a necessary part of many businesses. However, they can be expensive to replace once they break down. That’s why it’s important to take proper care of them and perform regular maintenance checks. Keeping your commercial cabinet in top condition will prolong its life and save you money in the long run.
Here are the top eight maintenance tips to prolong the life of your commercial freezer:
1. Clean The Freezer Surfaces Regularly
Cleaning the freezer is important, but it’s often overlooked. The buildup of dirt and dust can cause the freezer to work harder than it needs to, leading to premature wear and tear. When cleaning the freezer, be sure to unplug it first.
Remove all food and shelving. Next, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the inside of the freezer, remove any foreign material from the drainage area and flush with clean water, Finally, dry the inside of the freezer with a clean cloth. Be sure to clean the freezer regularly, at least every three months or more regularly depending on usage.
2. Eliminate Moisture Damage
One of the most common problems with commercial freezers is moisture damage. This can be caused by various things, such as leaks, condensation, and even humidity. To prevent moisture damage:
- Keep the freezer clean and dry.
- Inspect the door seals regularly for cracks or gaps. If you find any, replace the seals.
- In addition, keep the freezer away from sources of moisture, such as dishwashers and sinks.
- Ensure there is adequate airflow around the cabinet
3. Check the Temperature Regularly
Another important tip is to check the temperature of your commercial freezer regularly. You can do this by using a thermometer. The ideal temperature for a commercial freezer is between -18°C and -22°C.
If the temperature is too high, it can cause food to spoil. However, if the temperature is too low, it can cause frost buildup, increase the wear and tear of the refrigeration plant along with consuming excessive electrical energy. Adjust the thermostat accordingly if you notice the temperature is starting to drop.
4. Clean The Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat from the compressor. Over time, the coils can become covered in dust and dirt, which reduces their efficiency. Fortunately, cleaning the condenser coils is a relatively easy task.
- Locate the coils. They’re usually located at the back or bottom of the freezer.
- Use a brush or vacuum to remove any dirt and dust that had built up on the coils.
- Where possible, carefully rinsing the coils with clean water is a very effective way to clean the coils, this usually means moving the cabinet to an outside location.
Be sure to do this maintenance check at least every three months.
5. Check The Door Gaskets
The door gaskets are responsible for sealing in the cold air. If they’re damaged, it can cause warm air to enter the freezer, leading to frost buildup. To check the door gaskets, close the door and see if there’s any light leaking through. If you see the light, the gasket is damaged and needs to be replaced.
6. Replace Air Filters
Air filters help keep the air inside the freezer clean. Over time, they can become clogged with dirt and dust. When this happens, they need to be replaced. Most commercial freezers have a filter located on the back or bottom of the unit. To replace it, remove the old filter and insert a new one.
7. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are essential to prolong the life of your commercial freezer. These checks should be performed at least once four times a year more often if the cabinets are operating in dirty or dusty environments. It’d be best to inspect the door seals, gaskets, and hinges during a maintenance check. You should also check the thermostat and compressor. If you notice any problem, fix it as soon as possible.
In addition to monthly maintenance checks, you should also have your commercial freezer serviced by a professional every year. This will help ensure that your freezer is running efficiently and that there are no major problems.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the maintenance tips that you should follow to prolong the life of your commercial freezer cabinet. By taking good care of your freezer, you can avoid costly repairs, and stock losses, and keep it running smoothly for years to come.