Businesses in many industries, from restaurants to those that store medical or pharmaceutical supplies, rely on commercial freezers and industrial freezers. Purchasing the right commercial refrigeration equipment is an important business decision, but it can be hard to know which freezer best suits your needs. Here are some key considerations:
Types of Freezer
Several types of commercial freezers are available. When making your choice, consider the layout of your workspace or commercial kitchen, what the freezer will be used to store and how often it needs to be accessed.
Each type is designed for specific needs.
- Upright Freezer: These freezers offer vertical storage with shelves for organization and are ideal for businesses with limited floor space.
- Display Freezer: These are designed for businesses like grocery stores, bakeries and convenience stores. They have transparent doors that showcase products and allow customers easy access.
- Chest Freezer: This option is great for businesses needing large-volume storage, but they can be harder to organize and access items.
- Undercounter Freezer: This type is great for making the most of space as it can be stored under counters. They come with different door types, from transparent glass to stainless steel.
- Walk-in Freezer: This type is suitable for large operations because it provides ample storage space. However, it requires more room and a higher upfront investment.
Industry Regulations
Depending on your industry, you may need to consider storage regulations before you buy a commercial freezer. Industries like food service and healthcare have strict regulations. To avoid potential fines or violations, be sure the unit you choose complies with local health department guidelines and industry standards.
Size and Capacity
A freezer that’s too small could lead to overcrowding and frequent restocking. One that’s too large might waste energy and space. To make the right purchase, assess how much storage space your business requires and how much space you have. Be sure to measure your space, including height, and factor in giving the unit enough room to run efficiently. If you’re wondering, “How big a freezer do I need?”, factor in the volume of items you need to store and any future growth of your business.
Budget and Quality
A heavy-duty freezer is a long-term investment. Cheaper units may have higher energy costs or require more frequent repairs. When determining your budget, balance upfront costs with long-term savings. Choose a freezer that offers durability, energy efficiency and reliable performance. Financing options may make it easier to afford a high-quality commercial freezer without a large upfront payment.
Energy Use and Efficiency
Energy-efficient models may cost more upfront but can lead to long-term savings on utility bills. Freezers with the Energy Star label can save energy and money. They are designed to consume less power without compromising performance. Here are tips for purchasing energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers. Freezers with features like self-closing doors and LED lighting further reduce energy consumption.
Temperature Requirements
Maintaining a consistent temperature keeps products fresh. Choose a commercial freezer that offers precise temperature control, so it’s easier to be sure you’re adhering to safety regulations. Some models even come with alarms that alert you if the temperature rises. Check the freezer’s temperature range and select one that suits the specific needs of your product’s temperature requirements.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Look for freezers made of durable materials that are easy to clean, for example, stainless steel. Some models also have features that make cleaning and maintenance easier, like automatic defrost. Removable shelves and easy access to the condenser coil also make for easier cleaning and maintenance. Check the warranty before making any purchases to make sure what’s covered in case of breakdowns or repairs. Read more about the importance of warranties.
Commercial Freezers to Fit Your Needs
Iron Mountain Refrigeration offers quality commercial refrigeration and freezer equipment at competitive prices with a comprehensive warranty program. We are committed to exceptional customer service and are 5-star rated for a reason! We also offer free shipping to almost every state. We have a decade of experience serving businesses across industries, so if you have questions don’t hesitate to contact us.