Finding the best commercial display refrigerator to meet specific requirements is a lengthy process, with various factors to consider.
Commercial display fridge needs may vary depending on the type of business and industry sector. Some businesses may require a glass-door fridge with an airtight lid to store ice cream, while others need a display counter fridge to display chocolates.
This blog discusses all factors to consider when choosing the best display counter fridge to optimally meet the needs of any business.
Popular Types of Commercial Display Refrigerators
It is essential first to understand the difference between various types of commercial display fridges.
- Reach-in Display Fridges
Reach-in display fridges are upright fridges with glass doors. They have multideck chillers, single-deck fridges, and sliding doors.
These fridges have adjustable shelves, LED lighting, temperature control, and other features.
Reach-in display fridges are perfect for small spaces, self-service, and storing and displaying beverages, packaged snacks, dairy products, and sandwiches.
- Open Display Counters
Open-display counters are fridges with open-air shelves or glass sneeze guards. They are perfect for assisted service and display ready-to-eat meals, deli meats and cheeses, salads, cooked food, etc.
They are convenient for small street restaurants as they have adjustable shelves and refrigerated bases.
- Bar Refrigerators
Bar refrigerators are compact refrigerator units designed for under-counter placement. They have compartments for specific drinks, such as wines, beers, or liquors.
Bar refrigerators are versatile for different business settings thanks to multiple compartments, sliding doors, LED lighting, etc. Restaurants, bars, cafes, etc., can use them for various purposes.
- Freezer Merchandisers
Freezer merchandisers are fridges that look similar to chest freezers. They have a glass lid so users can see what’s inside.
A freezer merchandiser is an effective way to exhibit frozen products. Wire baskets are strategically placed to hold the merchandiser in the freezer. Countertop freezer merchandisers are an ideal choice to enable impulsive buys.
Store and display various items, from ice cream to frozen and packaged items.
How to Buy the Best Display Fridge: Factors to Keep in Mind
- Display Fridge Requirements
When deciding between different display fridges, first establish the fridge’s purpose for business operations.
Ask the following questions:
- What products will be displayed?
- Where will the fridge be displayed in the retail space or commercial kitchen?
- Is the display fridge a long-term or short-term investment?
- What features are required?
- Budget
Establish a budget for a new display fridge which considers the above requirements. To solidify a budget, assess the following factors:
- Research the market to understand pricing
- Evaluate various models based on features
- Compare diverse brands
Assessing these factors will help to determine a budget range. Remember that a budget is only a round figure. Always prepare for 10% flexibility on any budget.
- Assess Space Availability
Space is a huge factor to consider when buying a fridge. For many small businesses, space availability for a new fridge is often limited. Large fridges are usually not an option.
Aim to efficiently utilize all available real estate on the retail floor or inside the commercial kitchen. Finding a new display fridge that fits into the available space without compromising capacity can be challenging.
- Choose Energy Efficiency
Choosing a fridge that will cost little on monthly energy bills is essential.
Refrigerators run all day and use electricity 24/7. Clients open display fridges multiple times a day to grab items.
Look at energy savings options and features. Compare various brands and models before purchasing.
Choose a fridge that consumes the least energy while providing the best performance.
- Maintenance and Repair Assistance
Commercial refrigerators require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning. Regular maintenance and service are necessary but may also become costly. Be sure to assess the maintenance and service support offered by various brands. Speak with customer service personnel to learn more about the maintenance support they offer.
- Look for Customization Features
Customization options may be necessary depending on various business requirements. Search for a fridge that offers adjustable shelving, lighting options, specific temperature zones, etc. Not all brands offer customization options. Search for such display refrigerators with the help of various local communities, online groups, or even fellow business owners.
- Consider Aesthetics
The appearance of the display refrigerator is essential for some businesses, especially those in retail, where the visual appeal of the products is crucial.
The lighting and display options make fridges aesthetically pleasing, like the ice cream display freezer, and attract clients to buy displayed items.
Compare various brands and their options before deciding. Visit the websites of leading brands to understand their aesthetics, performance, etc.
- Noise Levels
Some display fridges make noise. While some are quiet, others are not. If the fridges make a lot of noise, clients may be annoyed.
Be sure to check and compare the noise levels of different fridges.
Noise is crucial if the establishment is a quiet diner or shopping center.
- Customer-Friendly Delivery and Installation
All businesses face delivery and installation challenges when buying large appliances, such as a display counter fridge. Ensure the fridge provider offers easy and hassle-free delivery and installation.
As a fridge needs to be delivered with great care and installed professionally, the best people to do it are the brand itself.
Inquire about delivery and installation details before settling on a provider.
Depending on business needs, pay attention to these factors to find the right flower, confectionery, or ice cream display freezer. Research all options, consider business-specific needs, and consult industry professionals for guidance.
Reading reviews online and seeking recommendations from other businesses can also help make a better decision.
Are Used Display Refrigerators Worth Purchasing?
Refurbished commercial fridges and display units are an excellent option for businesses looking for maximum value for their investment.
The advantages of using refurbished refrigerators are plenty:
- Refurbished fridges are more affordable than buying a new one.
- Refurbished fridges replace outdated or inefficient components
- Refurbished fridges reduce waste and the environmental impact.
- Refurnished fridges are thoroughly tested, repaired, and cleaned to operate flawlessly.
- Refurbished fridges come with a warranty. There is no need to worry about something going wrong with the fridge during the warranty period.
Choosing a suitable commercial refrigerator is a challenge. However, with the proper research and consideration of price and requirements, along with diverse factors like customization, service, delivery, energy efficiency, etc., businesses can find the display counter fridge that is most suitable for their needs.
Find a variety of such refrigerators at Ancaster Food Equipment, including used refrigerators from leading brands like True.
Ancaster offers timely delivery, installation, and service assistance.