When most people think about refrigeration, the standard home refrigerator or freezer comes to mind. However, if you’re considering opening a commercial food service business, you should also be aware of the different types of commercial refrigerators that are available. Commercial refrigeration units come in three main types, and you’ll need to be aware of the differences so that you can choose the appropriate refrigerator for your business.
Blast Chillers
Blast chillers are a special type of freezer that are designed for the food service industry. They’re designed to cool food from room temperature to less than three degrees in about 90 minutes. This helps restaurants remain in compliance with health department regulations about the amount of time that food can stand at room temperature. This also helps restaurants keep their food at the right temperatures to avoid bacteria growth.
Display Refrigerators and Freezers
Display refrigerators and freezers often have clear glass doors, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These appliances allow customers to see food products, while keeping the food at safe temperatures. If your business is dependent on customers seeing your food, you’ll likely need a display freezer or refrigerator. These work well for delis, bakeries, and grocery stores.
Tray Refrigerators and Freezers
These appliances allow you to refrigerate food on individual trays. They make an excellent addition to restaurant displays, buffet tables, or in the deli section of a grocery store. If you’ve been to a store where fresh fish, meat, or cheese was on display, it was likely resting on a tray refrigerator. If you’ll be opening a business selling prepared cold food such as salads or sandwiches, you’ll want to invest in a few tray refrigerators or freezers. They’ll help keep your food at safe temperatures while allowing your customers to peruse what you have to offer.