Commercial Refrigeration - Energy Saving Tips

Energy Saving tips for Commercial Refrigeration

Buying Choices

If you are buying new equipment, select energy-saving models: you’ll save running costs for the life of the machine.

Choose equipment with intelligent controllers that detect changing situations, keeping energy use to a minimum during quiet periods.

A controller with an advanced energy saving function ensures the evaporator works more efficiently – increasing performance and economy.

Consider having drawers or half doors instead of full doors – they save energy because only the relevant part of the cabinet is accessed.

Better insulation will save energy and make the refrigeration more efficient. It should be high quality, high density polyurethane, at least 75mm thick.

If possible, select a refrigerator designed for the product you are storing and set at the optimal operating temperature.

Always choose cabinets with self-closing doors or drawers and good quality gaskets that give a tight seal.

Location, Location, Location

Lowering the ambient temperature of the kitchen will provide significant energy savings.

Good ventilation will increase efficiency and maximise working life, so make sure there’s adequate space all around the equipment.

Avoid placing refrigeration next to prime cooking equipment as the heat will affect efficiency.

Always choose cabinets with self-closing doors or drawers and good quality gaskets that give a tight seal.

Day to Day

Keep doors closed whenever possible. Never prop a door open.

Keep your fridge or freezer as full as possible. The emptier the cabinet is, the harder the equipment has to work to maintain temperature...

...BUT don’t overfill the cabinet as it may block the airflow.

Stack products evenly and be aware of load limit levels for maximum airflow.Always choose cabinets with self-closing doors or drawers and good quality gaskets that give a tight seal.

Maintenance

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.

Use a reputable service company to maintain equipment regularly.

A regular maintenance programme will reduce the risk of breakdown and maximise the equipment’s working life. Remember to keep a maintenance log in line with f-gas regulations.

Check door gaskets/seals and clean them regularly.

Check self-closing doors are working properly.