Different Types of Commercial Refrigeration

The concept of keeping items cool is one that's used across several different industries and formats, and multiple different unit types might be utilized depending on the need here. From varying sizes to different specific models that serve direct purposes, there are numerous options for commercial refrigeration and freezer needs.

At Dick Kearsley Service Center, we provide a huge range of commercial refrigeration services, including repairs, installations and everything in between. While a full list of every different type of commercial refrigeration unit would take days to lay out here, let's go over a few of the most common broad categories for commercial refrigeration, all of which we're happy to provide service on for any major brand.

Commercial Refrigerator + Prep Table Setup

One of the most common refrigeration setups found in industries like restaurants and supermarkets is the combination of a commercial refrigerator and an adjacent preparation table. The refrigerator typically has two doors, or one door with multiple compartments that can be separated depending on the food items to be stored in each.

This setup allows for easy access to both the items being refrigerated as well as space to prep the food before it's added into any dish. It also keeps food at a controlled temperature and prevents cross-contamination, which is essential to serving safe and delicious food.

Reach-In Freezers

Reach-in freezers are a great option for establishments that need to store large amounts of frozen items in a confined space. These units typically have two doors, one of which can be opened independently of the other, and they range greatly in size depending on the cold storage needs. Reach-in freezers are particularly useful for restaurants that offer frozen food items like fries or fish sticks, as well as for supermarkets with more expansive options for frozen foods.

Bar Refrigeration Units

Another common cold storage setup can be found in bars, where they typically use smaller refrigeration units that are great for storing bottles and cans. These units are made specifically with the bar setting in mind, as they come with plenty of shelves that can store several cases of beverages at once.

In addition to taking up less space than a standard commercial refrigerator/freezer setup, bar refrigeration units are also designed to stay open even when items are being taken in or out of the unit. This allows for easy access during busy periods and prevents customers from having to wait for drinks as people search through a larger refrigerator/freezer.

A similar type that some would include in this category is the wine bottle cooler, which is designed to keep wine at an optimal temperature and can be used either in the bar or restaurant setting.

Below-Counter Refrigeration

In many settings, whether we're talking about a kitchen, a bar, or even a retail store, there can be a need for cold storage but limited space. This is where below-counter refrigeration units come in handy. These are small refrigerators that are built into the countertop and can be used to store items like drinks, snacks, and ingredients without taking up much room.

For instance, a restaurant might use one of these units to store ingredients for dishes, or a retail shop could keep drinks on hand for customers.

Cold Merchandizing

Further still, many entities - even those that aren't directly part of the food or beverage service industry - might find a need for cold storage. Cold merchandizing units are designed to keep items at an optimal temperature while on display, and they can be found in places like convenience stores or other retail shops.

These refrigeration units come in various styles and sizes, allowing customers to conveniently see what products are on offer and choose from them. For example, let's say you're in a store and you want to buy a cold drink. With these merchandizing units, you can walk up to the unit, select your item, purchase it, and enjoy it without having to wait any longer.

Commercial refrigeration is an essential element in many industries that require temperature control for food or beverage items. Whether it's a restaurant, supermarket, convenience store, or more specialized setting like a bar or retail shop, there are plenty of ways to use refrigeration and freezer units in order to keep items at the desired temperature. By understanding the different types of commercial coolers that can be used for this purpose, businesses can ensure that their customers have easy access to safe and delicious food.

For more here, or to learn about any of our appliance repair or related services, speak to our team at Dick Kearsley Service Center today.