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Commercial Refrigerator Temperatures – Keeping it Cool

October 11th, 2024

Last updated: December 10th, 2024

Commercial refrigeration plays an essential role in many industries. We instantly think of food but there are other industries where the commercial refrigerator temperature is incredibly important. Some medical items require refrigeration.

Ensuring that refrigeration systems run at the right temperature is vital for food safety, energy efficiency, and compliance with regulations. So, what temperature should a commercial fridge operate at, and how can businesses ensure their refrigerators stay in good working condition?

What Temperature Should a Commercial Fridge Be?

UK food safety regulations, set by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), explain that commercial refrigerator temperatures must sit at 8°C or lower to ensure that food is stored safely and this is seen as the cutoff. While the exact temperature can vary depending on the type of food stored, 5°C is the maximum recommended for most perishable goods such as dairy, meat, and seafood.

Businesses should aim to be well below the 8°C cutoff and some commercial refrigeration systems are kept at lower temperatures, around 1°C to 4°C, which is common for fresh produce or delicate items. For freezing units, the temperature is typically kept at -18°C or lower, ensuring that frozen food remains preserved and safe for extended periods.

To comply with UK food safety laws, it’s crucial to regularly monitor and record the fridge temperature to avoid any deviations. Failing to keep refrigeration units within the proper range could result in spoiled food, which not only leads to financial loss but also risks customer health and potential legal issues.

What Should Stay in the Fridge?

Of course, businesses that handle food also need to know the correct way to refrigerate food and what sort of things should be kept in the fridge. The commercial refrigerator temperatures can only do their job of preserving food if it is properly stored.

The items stored there should include:

  • All food with a use-by date
  • Pre-cooked dishes
  • Other ready-to-eat food such as readily prepared salads

How to Maintain the Right Temperature

Keeping a commercial fridge at the correct temperature isn’t just about setting it once and forgetting about it. There are various factors that can affect how well the unit maintains its cooling performance, so it’s important to actively monitor and maintain the fridge. Here are some tips:

Regular Temperature Checks

It’s recommended that businesses check and ideally log the fridge temperature daily whenever the fridge is in use. Ideally at the beginning and end of each day. This will help identify any potential issues early on and ensure the fridge is consistently operating at the correct level. Many modern fridges come with built-in thermometers, but using a secondary thermometer to double-check the accuracy is a wise practice.

Proper Stocking and Organisation

Overfilling a commercial fridge can disrupt airflow and cause the internal temperature to rise. Items should be organised efficiently to allow proper air circulation, especially around the cooling vents. Avoid blocking these vents, as restricted airflow can lead to uneven cooling, with some areas of the fridge becoming warmer than others.

Regular Defrosting

If the fridge has a manual defrosting function, regular defrosting is crucial to ensure that ice doesn’t build up inside the unit. An icy buildup is one of the common causes of freezer breakdowns but it may impact fridges, too. It can cause the fridge to work harder, consuming more energy and struggling to maintain the correct temperature. Regular defrosting will keep the system running smoothly.

Door Seals and Opening

The seals around the fridge door are crucial for maintaining the cool air inside. Any damaged or loose seals can allow cold air to escape, making the fridge work harder and potentially failing to maintain the correct temperature. Inspect the seals regularly for cracks or damage and replace them as needed.

Routine Maintenance and Servicing

Regular refrigerator maintenance is essential for keeping a commercial fridge in good working order. This includes cleaning the condenser coils (usually located at the back of the unit) to ensure they’re not clogged with dust or debris. Dirty coils can cause the fridge to overheat and lose its cooling efficiency.

Additionally, scheduling routine professional servicing of the unit will help identify potential issues before they escalate. A professional technician can check all aspects of the fridge and that the compressor is working efficiently. They can also inspect the fridge for any minor problems that might affect its performance.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance and checks are more than just best practices. They’re essential for ensuring a long-lasting, energy-efficient, and safe refrigeration unit. Regular inspections by staff and professionals help avoid breakdowns that can lead to food spoilage and expensive repairs. Catching small issues early, such as a faulty thermostat or refrigerant leak, can prevent major disruptions to business operations. Commercial refrigerator repairs are possible but they can sometimes be avoided with the right maintenance steps.

Keeping the fridge in good condition helps reduce energy costs. A poorly maintained fridge will need to work harder to maintain the set temperature, which increases energy consumption and costs over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also extend the life of the appliance, reducing the need for costly replacements.

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