How to get your commercial fridges ready for summer

Summer can be tough on your commercial fridges, as the rising ambient temperature can put extra strain on the system. As a successful business owner, you’ll know the importance of getting ready for the summer season. From stocking up on the right products to making sure you can keep them at the ideal temperatures, being prepared is crucial to success. This blog looks at the key factors to get your commercial fridge ready for the summer sun.

Summer is coming

Much as we love summer, and the warmer weather, it does place increased strain on our commercial refrigeration systems. The higher temperatures mean that your units must work even harder to regulate the temperature. Before the summer arrives, it’s worth checking and calibrating the thermostats so you can be sure your refrigerators are running at the correct temperatures, ready for summer. Having a pre-summer service on your commercial refrigerator will help ensure it’s in good working order.

Many businesses rely on their summer trade to balance out quiet winters, especially in tourist destinations, so the financial repercussions of a summer breakdown can be long-lasting. To reduce the likelihood of this happening, you should look after your commercial fridge between maintenance visits to help it keep its cool. Here are some of the things to look out for:

Clean condensers

The condenser is crucial for maintaining a steady temperature in your commercial fridge. Regular cleaning of the condensers will help to prevent a build-up of grime, which can impede its efficient running. The general advice is to clean the condenser every three to six months, so it’s worth doing it before the temperature rises, to make sure you go into the summer in good working order. Before you clean the condenser, empty the refrigerator and turn off the power. You may need to remove the grilles to reach the condenser. Brush the condenser coils with a stiff brush and then vacuum. Any grime or grease can be gently removed using a recommended cleaner or degreaser. Make sure that you put the grilles back correctly before turning the refrigerator back on.

Check those doors

Door seals are a simple yet crucial part of your commercial refrigerator. They’re vital for keeping the cool in, and keeping your produce fresh. Make sure you inspect your door seals regularly and keep them clean of any dirt and grime that could build up and prevent them from working effectively. If you discover any damage or wear-and-tear to your door seals, they’re simple and cheap to replace. If you’re unsure whether they need to be replaced, just ask. We can give you pointers on what to look out for if you are unsure.

Enjoy the breeze

There’s nothing better than a cool breeze on a hot summer’s day.

Did you know that your commercial refrigerator feels exactly the same?

In the summer, it’s even more important to check that your commercial refrigerator has sufficient room to allow airflow around it, particularly around any vents or openings. Make sure you don’t have items stored or stacked against them, and if you have items stacked near your refrigerator, ensure a gap to allow air movement. The same applies inside the refrigerator as outside. A commercial refrigerator works best when it’s 75% full, as this allows sufficient air flow in and around the unit. When you stack food and produce inside the refrigerator, ensure there’s sufficient space for good air flow, as this will help keep your items cool.

Deep clean the interior regularly

Even with strict food rotation and wiping up spills immediately, your commercial fridge’s interior needs a thorough deep clean every few weeks. Remove all food items and shelving, then wash the interior surfaces with a food-safe cleaning product diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay special attention to corners, shelf runners and drain holes where grime tends to accumulate.

For stubborn stains or ice build-up, never use sharp objects that might damage the interior lining. Instead, use warm water and a soft cloth. Once clean, dry all surfaces thoroughly before restoring the temperature and returning food items. This regular maintenance prevents mould growth, eliminates cross-contamination risks and helps maintain consistent cooling efficiency.

Fridgesmart is here to help you keep your cool this summer

We have an extensive range of commercial refrigeration available for a range of different businesses and budgets. You can take a look at our range here. If you’re looking to upgrade your current units ready for the summer or need an emergency replacement fast to keep your summer sales going, we’re here to help. We know how important choosing the right refrigeration for your business is, and our experienced and knowledgeable team are always on hand with advice and guidance. Call us today on 0115 9413640.