How to Choose the Right Commercial Refrigerator for Your Restaurant’s Needs?

Commercial Refrigerator
20 May, 2025

You don’t hear much about commercial refrigerators, but they are like the backbone of the food service industry. That being said, a restaurateur must be informed and understand what a piece of equipment does and can bring to the table.

If you bring an incompatible commercial refrigerator, then it can complicate the way a restaurant works. Hence, all the commercial refrigerators options, from different types to sizes, needs to be considered thoroughly, such that you invest in right equipment. 

If you’re looking to invest in commercial refrigeration, this article is for you. We will discuss all the important aspects one should keep in mind when choosing a commercial refrigerator. 

Finding the perfect commercial refrigerator for your business is a tough task. As an owner, you need to acknowledge the various structures and how to maintain them to achieve maximum productivity and streamline customer satisfaction.

1. Assess your Needs

Begin by considering your restaurant’s square footage, the type of cuisine you serve, and the quantity of ingredients you require daily. It will allow you to limit products according to the size, features, and packing capacity you need.

2. Capacity and Dimensions

Understanding the size and capacity of a business refrigerator is particularly significant. This affects the product storage space and the available space within the kitchen. The refrigerator’s capacity must align with the volume of food the business routinely processes, the many customers, and the restaurant’s menu.

For instance, a small bakery serving about 50 customers a day might need a refrigerator with a capacity of 10–15 cubic feet. However, a restaurant serving around 100+ people might require a 300 cubic feet capacity refrigerator without crowding the kitchen.

3. Temperature Requirement

A piece of meat or a piece of cake, whether it is frozen or refrigerated, each one has its own temperature that prevents it from spoiling, but also the growth of bacteria. So, knowing the various temperature controls is essential for you before selecting a refrigerator.

4. Food Type and Quantity

Your decision will be based on your food for storage and the amount you want to keep. For instance, a sandwich shop may use a prep table that has chilled drawers for sandwiches. Likewise, a deli would need a refrigerator with many compartmented areas for multiple types of meats and cheeses.

5. Accessibility and Space

The layout and size of your kitchen or store will ultimately determine the kind of fridge you eventually buy for a kitchen or store. For bigger kitchens and heavy-duty units will be required, such as a big walk-in unit will be required. And if you have a small kitchen, you probably want an under-counter one so it won’t take up precious floor space.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Busy restaurants can also benefit from a refrigerator that’s easy to clean and maintain. You’ll want to find commercial refrigerators that have a self-cleaning condenser, removable shelves, and removable gaskets. In this way, you can maximize the efficiency of your refrigerator.

What Types of Commercial Refrigerators Are There For Restaurants?

The first thing that you need to realize is that not all commercial refrigerators are created equal. Each of the types will possess its features that apply in various environments, be it a restaurant kitchen or a not-so-convenient convenience store. Here’s an overview of the different types of refrigeration you will encounter in the average restaurant.

1. Reach-In Refrigerators: Ideal for most restaurants, these refrigerators are available in one, two, and three-section models, with convenient food access and adjustable precooled shelves.

2. Undercounting Refrigerators: With under-counter refrigeration, your ingredients are closer at hand when space is at a premium and your work table or counter is nearby.

3. Walk-In Refrigerators: The ability to have massive storage space with a walk-in refrigerator. Combination walk-in coolers will typically have a huge stock involving bulk food and cooked meals. They are ideal for restaurants with a lot of ingredients.

4. Display coolers: These fridges, fitted with glass doors, can occupy an ideal niche in front-of-house service, displaying products, usually drinks or desserts.

How to Balance Energy Efficiency and Affordability?

Energy-efficient fridges are not only cheaper to run, but they are also better for the planet. See how many refrigerators you can find with the BEE Star Rating from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE),  which promises maximized performance, but minimized energy. 

Energy-efficient models have better insulation and are often more precise in temperature controls so that food will stay at the proper temperatures longer. Another economic consideration is the initial and future expenses. 

Although all-prong refrigerators with LED lighting and modern insulation pay for themselves in energy savings, they are more expensive than other models. If the restaurant is working with a tight budget, there is also the option of a refurbished model being a short-term option, but remember to keep in mind the value and efficiencies.

Durability and Reliability When Considering Commercial Refrigerators

You cannot choose equipment that will not stand up to the rigors of a busy, commercial kitchen. Your refrigerators and freezers must be able to take the heavy use and occasional bump from carts or staff, or kitchen employees. 

Other crucial safety features for preventing accidents include non-slip flooring in walk-in flats and the installation of locked door handles to eliminate any chance of accidents. Durability influences a fridge’s reliability, which in turn has implications for the reliability of the consumer’s food quality.  

After-Sales Service and Warranty Plans: Protecting Your Investment

When purchasing a commercial refrigerator, you are dealing with a significant investment. The warranty and after-sales services eventually define the quality of a particular product. 

An extensive warranty will alleviate worries of possible repair costs, and good after-sales service will ensure any problems can be resolved in the shortest time possible. 

In this respect, the business will have its operations safeguarded. In contrast, owners and employees will have the peace of mind to carry out their daily tasks, relying on the refrigeration unit.

Bottom Line

Your choice of a refrigerator becomes pivotal in building the entire operation and the effectiveness of running a venture successfully. With several options to consider, the factors above deserve much attention to help you ascertain which refrigerator best suits your needs.

Riddhi Display provides an array of kitchen and refrigeration equipment customized to suit the unique requirements of the hospitality and the F&B sectors. Feel free to explore our different commercial refrigerators if you happen to own an adorable bakery or a full-blown commercial restaurant!

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