Installing a new Cooler? How to develop a plan of action.
Numerous components are needed to keep commodious walk-in freezers frigid on the inside. In addition to major parts like the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, there are smaller ones that seldom get much attention. But because these pieces can improve the performance and reliability of any unit, restaurant owners would be wise to pay attention to them. With that in mind, here are a handful of smaller parts and accessories for walk-in freezers.
Shelves
Stacking everything on the floor is not only a waste of space, but it also makes things much harder to find. In some cases, employees must remove many items from the freezer before they locate what they need. Adding extra shelving helps owners take advantage of limited freezer space. Whether they run a restaurant, convenience store, or supermarket, it will be much easier to get to specific foodstuffs if everything has its own storage area. Just don’t forget about shelf clips, labels, and other accessories that are used to ensure commercial freezers are properly and efficiently being used.
Thermometer
Most walk-in freezers have a thermostat on the outside of the door that displays the inside temperature of the unit. But because these thermostats can malfunction, it’s always a good idea to keep a backup thermometer on the inside of the freezer. This simple, inexpensive tip can save owners a fortune on spoiled product. A backup thermometer can also save store owners money on energy costs and repairs by identifying if the freezer’s temperature is lower than needed. Keeping the temperature lower than needed can force the freezer to work harder than it has to, which increases its risk of breaking down while increasing the costs of its energy usage.
Door Gaskets
Gaskets, found on the inside door of every walk-in freezer, create a seal that prevents frigid air from escaping. These inexpensive parts made out of rubber or vinyl should last for years without much worry. But when they get older, gaskets often lose their resiliency, and with it goes their ability to seal. The good news is that nearly any amateur handyman (or woman) can quickly and affordably replace this part on their own. It is also important to note that gaskets can be magnets for bacteria, mold, and mildew. As such, they should be cleaned on a regular basis.
Inside Safety Release
It might sound like an urban legend, but there have been cases of restaurant workers locking themselves in walk-in freezers overnight. With temperatures of 0 °F to -10 °F, frostbite and hypothermia can occur in only a few hours. There’s also the problem of limited air supply and dry ice fumes, which can cause asphyxiation. Fortunately, walk-in freezers now come standard with safety releases to avoid this nightmare scenario. It is important to regularly check the operation of the safety release to ensure that it is in proper working order.
Although often overshadowed by larger, pricier components, these small parts and accessories can improve the function and efficiency of walk-in freezers.
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