
Master-Bilt Refrigeration News & Product Information
Spend Less on Food With Optimized Refrigeration
Updated 7-14-21
With the rising cost of food, restaurant owners and other foodservice professionals need to make sure they are getting the most bang for their buck. While there are many ways to stretch a food budget, avoiding spoilage ranks at the top. And one of the best ways to protect perishables is making sure refrigeration equipment is functioning at its peak.
Helpful Features
Today there are certain features built into most refrigeration equipment to help prevent spoilage. Electronic controllers, for example, have built-in alarms to warn when reach-in doors are left open or when inside temperatures exceed a set point. These controllers are a standard component in numerous models these days. If a service issue arises, controllers display error codes to enable a technician to quickly resolve the problem and avoid prolonged downtime.
Controller types range from the built-in cabinet controllers to more elaborate ones typically used in walk-in coolers and freezers. These walk-in systems are usually optional and provide user control over a wide range of settings. Software loaded on each controller allows users or technicians to monitor data and program setpoints over the internet. Constant data access makes it possible for users to gauge a walk-in refrigeration system’s performance and ward off potential issues before they happen.
Walk-in entry doors equipped with adjustable hinge plates can also be re-aligned when needed by loosening hinge screws, shimming and leveling the door and tightening the screws back.
Other Tips
In addition to utilizing spoilage-reducing equipment features and options, here are a few more pointers:
- Cleaning a cabinet or merchandiser’s condenser coil at least once every three months will reduce wear on the compressor and prevent refrigeration system failure.
- Make sure there are no cold air leaks around cabinet or walk-in doors and that door gaskets are not split or otherwise damaged. Most gaskets are easily removed and replaced if necessary.
- If walk-in entry doors have to be open for long periods, consider installing vinyl strip curtains or doors to help keep cold air inside.
- Make sure walk-in coolers and freezer refrigeration systems are properly sized for the application. For example, if users are frequently adding items in the walk-in that are at room temperature or higher, make sure the refrigeration system can handle the load of the extra heat introduced by these items.
Foodservice professionals face countless challenges every day but, by selecting the right refrigeration equipment and performing occasional preventative maintenance, they can ease one of the biggest worries: food costs.