Cleaning And Maintenance On Commercial Refrigeration

Introducing our comprehensive guide to maintaining and cleaning the exterior, interior, and essential components of your refrigeration unit. Proper care and regular maintenance are essential for the longevity and optimal performance of your appliance.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a clean and hygienic environment, enhance energy efficiency, and prevent potential issues that may arise from neglect. Our step-by-step instructions will help you maintain the integrity of your refrigeration unit, promote food safety, and maximise its lifespan. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to keep your refrigeration unit in top shape.

Exterior

To clean the exterior of your refrigeration unit, use a clean cloth dampened with an appropriate soap and water solution to wipe down the doors and sides. Carefully wipe off dust, grease and gunk from the covers that protect the condenser.You should also check for any debris, boxes or other equipment that may be blocking airflow to the appliance. Air flow is essential to the motor for maintaining temperatures.The appliance should not be placed in a room with excessive temperatures, poor ventilation or amongst other appliances that create excessive temperatures.

Interior

For the interior of the appliance an appropriate soap and water solution will do the trick. Be sure not to leave any puddles of water behind. It's a good idea to dry with clean tissue and leave the door open for a few minutes to allow air flow to complete the drying process.

Harsh chemicals tend to harm the metal surface and gaskets over time. However if mildew or mould is present make a diluted bleach and water mixture and, whilst wearing rubber gloves, wipe affected areas gently with a clean cloth or soft bristle brush.Finish by following the interior clean steps above.

Door Gaskets

Inspect the doors on a regular basis to ensure the seals are functioning well. A door that doesn’t seal will allow warm air to enter causing a buildup of condensation as well as make it difficult to cool the cabinet.

Door gaskets can be easily cleaned by wiping them down with an appropriate soap and water solution and clean cloth. If there are any tears make sure to replace them as soon as possible to prevent possible damage to the compressor. If damaged the gasket should be replaced quickly to prevent any damage to the door or over-exertion of the condenser.

Condenser Coil

The most important thing you can do for your appliance is to keep the condenser coil clean. The condenser coil itself should be cleaned at least once a month to keep free of dirt and dust buildup.

A great way to clean this part of the unit is to use a wet-dry vac. This allows you to clean the surface while also giving the ability to reverse the flow of air and blow out dirt that may be embedded deeply in the coils. The outside can just be wiped off with a clean damp cloth.

Condensers can be difficult to get to on some units. They are often found behind a cover on the top or bottom of the unit. Some appliances may have side mounted refrigeration so look for the removable covering on the front or side panel on those models.

Drain Lines & Servicing

Cleaning your drain lines can be a very long process. Once a year it’s best to have a trained professional clean your drain lines checking that they are not clogged with debris or mould. An annual planned service and inspection will prolong the life of your appliance and also help to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and unexpected faults occurring which can be costly and time consuming.

Quick Tips

• Make sure to read the operation manual for your unit. It will tell you how often that particular machine needs to be cleaned and how to clean it. The manual is your best friend.
• Before using anything beyond soap and water to clean your refrigeration, be sure to remove food and food containers.
• Before cleaning always remember to unplug the unit for your own safety; condensers, drain lines, and evaporators can easily become damaged so if you are unsure call the professionals.
• Clean from the top down! Start at the ceiling, and work your way down the interior walls and shelves to the floor.

Whilst cleaning commercial appliances it's good practice to remove any parts that are designed to detach and, if applicable, soak for 30 minutes in hot water and mild sanitiser to kill additional bacteria and germs.Rinse and dry thoroughly before repositioning in the appliance. We DO NOT recommend putting them in the dishwasher.

If all else fails, email us or call for assistance  - 0800 093 8343 and one of the team will be delighted to help.