Common Myths About Commercial Refrigeration Debunked

Commercial refrigeration is essential for any restaurant or food business. It guarantees the freshness and safety of your delicacies. However, many myths surround commercial refrigeration. These misconceptions can lead to poor practices and unnecessary costs. 

In this blog, we will debunk some heavily circulating myths about commercial refrigeration. 

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Any Refrigerator Can Be Used for Commercial Purposes 

One of the most common misconceptions is that any product will work in a commercial kitchen. This is false. Residential coolers are designed for homes, not for the high demands of a restaurant. 

These options are built to withstand heavy use. It has larger capacities and can handle frequent door openings. Using a residential fridge in a commercial setting can lead to faster wear and tear. It may also struggle to maintain the correct temperature, risking food safety. 

Commercial Refrigerators Don't Need Regular Maintenance 

Some believe that once such a offering is installed, it doesn't need much upkeep. This is far from the truth. Regular maintenance is crucial for running the fridge efficiently, just like any other equipment. 

Without maintenance, the system can overheat or develop frost buildup. Dirty condenser coils can also cause the unit to work harder, increasing energy consumption. Routine cleaning, inspections, and servicing help prevent significant issues and extend the life of the equipment. 

Lowering the Temperature Below the Recommended Level Keeps Food Fresher 

A common myth is that setting the device temperature lower than recommended will keep food fresher. In reality, this can have an opposing impact. 

Each type of delicacy has an ideal warehousing feature. If the temperature is too low, some items can freeze and lose their texture or flavour. Freezing certain foods that should only be chilled can lead to spoilage. It's crucial to follow the prescribed temperature guidelines for each type of food. 

Leaving the Door Open for Short Periods Doesn't Affect Performance 

Many think leaving the door open for a few seconds won't impact the commercial refrigerator's performance. In a classic pantry, doors are often opened frequently and left ajar for short periods. 

Even short openings can cause the heat inside to rise. The offering will work harder to return the benchmark to the set point, which can result in higher power tariffs and lesser efficiency over time. Always make sure the door is closed properly after each use. 

You Can Store Hot Food Directly in the Refrigerator 

Another common myth is that it is fine keeping hot food straight into the appliance. This is a bad practice. Putting hot items in the cooling device can raise the internal temperature, affecting other stored items. 

These products are designed to maintain a specific heat, not cool down hot food quickly. Always let food come to the room warmth before refrigerating it. Use blast chillers to reduce temperature faster for large quantities without compromising the fridge's performance. 

Commercial Refrigerators Use Too Much Energy 

Many believe that these products consume too much energy. While it's true that they run constantly, most of the modern cooling appliances are designed with energy efficiency in mind. 

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Many units come with energy-saving features like high-efficiency compressors and better insulation. You can lower power usage by properly maintaining the unit and choosing models with energy ratings. The key is to pick the right size and type for your needs, ensuring it runs efficiently without excess energy consumption. 

More Expensive Refrigerators Are Always Better 

Some think the more expensive the commercial freezers & fridges, the better it must be. While cost can indicate quality, it isn't always the best way to choose a commercial fridge. 

It's essential to select a refrigerator that fits your business's needs, not just the most expensive one available. Look for features that match your daily operations, such as capacity, heat management, and power efficiency. High-end models are not always necessary, and you may pay for features you don't need. 

The Bigger the Refrigerator, the Better 

Bigger isn't always better when it comes to this category. Many assume that a large machine is ideal because it offers more storage space. 

However, having a refrigerator that is too big can lead to wasted energy. If the fridge isn't fully utilized, it's still using energy to cool space. It is essential to choose the perfect size for your requirements. Assess your inventory and storage requirements before selecting a size. Smaller units can save space and energy if they meet your demands. 

Refrigerators Can Be Placed Anywhere 

Some people believe that they can install such a product in any space. The location of your machine plays a big role in its performance. 

Placing such a device near heat sources, such as ovens or dishwashers, can make it harder to maintain the right temperature. Ensure that the fridge is in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Proper spacing around the unit is also important for airflow, which helps with efficiency. 

Defrosting Isn't Necessary for All Refrigerators 

Many modern commercial fridges have defrost functions, leading people to think manual defrosting is unnecessary. However, some of the titular products, especially older models, still require manual defrosting. 

Frost buildup can block airflow and affect cooling efficiency. Regular defrosting ensures that your product operates at its best. If you have a manual defrost unit, schedule regular defrosting to prevent excessive frost buildup and improve performance. 

Commercial Freezers and Refrigerators Are the Same 

Some people think that commercial refrigerators and freezers function the same way. While they share similar components, they are designed to operate at different temperatures. 

Freezers keep food at sub-zero temperatures, while refrigerators maintain the benchmark just above freezing. These systems require different maintenance practices and controls. It's essential to understand the distinction and use each appliance accordingly. 

These Cooling Systems Are Self-Cleaning 

It's a common belief that these products are mostly self-cleaning. While some have self-cleaning features like automatic defrost, this doesn't mean they require no manual cleaning. 

Dust, grease, and food debris can still accumulate on surfaces, especially around condenser coils. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the system working efficiently. Make a schedule to clean the interior, gaskets, and exterior parts to maintain hygiene and performance. For further information, visit a leading commercial refrigeration supplier & distributor like LCE. 

Setting the Temperature Extremely Low Prevents Bacteria 

Some think setting the device's temperature as low as possible will eliminate bacteria growth. While low temperatures can slow bacterial growth, it doesn't completely stop it. 

Refrigerators should be set at the optimal temperature for food safety, usually between 1-4°C. Lowering the temperature too much can cause some foods to freeze, leading to changes in texture and quality. Maintaining the correct temperature is key to balancing food preservation and safety. 

The Refrigeration System Works Fine as Long as It's Cold 

Many assume that the refrigerator works properly as long as it is cold. However, there could be underlying issues that aren't immediately noticeable. 

A machine might stay cold even if parts, such as fans or compressors, malfunction. These issues can cause the unit to consume more energy or break down unexpectedly. Regular inspections can identify these hidden problems and keep the refrigerator working efficiently. 

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Conclusion 

Commercial refrigeration is crucial for the food industry. Unfortunately, many myths exist about how these systems work. Believing these myths can lead to improper practices and higher costs. 

By knowing about the facts, you can make knowledgeable decisions about maintaining and using your titular item. Routine maintenance, proper placement, and correct temperature settings are essential for keeping food fresh and equipment efficient.