Do’s and don’ts when choosing a commercial refrigerator
This short guide runs through the do’s and don’ts when choosing a new commercial refrigerator.
21 August 2025
Your commercial refrigerator is the silent workhorse of your kitchen or store.
It’s unappreciated and unnoticed until something goes wrong. And if you’re finding yourself in that situation, it might be time for a new one. A better, more reliable one. One that makes things more cost effective in the medium to long run too.
But with so many options out there, where do you start? We’ve put together this short guide to give you a few starting points. Read on to learn more about the do’s and don’ts when choosing a new commercial refrigerator.
Do calculate capacity for peak periods
Identify your busiest service window. If you serve 100 meals an hour on Mother’s Day or Easter, your fridge must handle that load without compromise. Then add 10% to 20% to account for growth. Underestimating capacity can lead to overcrowding, loss of stock through waste, and missed sales.
So, map the types of stock you hold, such as meat, dairy, drinks, sauces, etc, and choose dual-zone or multi-door models if you handle a wide range.
Then fit the fridge to your space. Sliding doors are best suited for tight spaces, while hinged doors work well in open layouts. In short, plan for pressure, not quiet days, because that’s when you’ll be relying on your commercial fridge even more.
Don’t ignore energy efficiency in cost analysis
A low purchase price may conceal high operating costs. Check each fridge’s energy rating and annual consumption carefully. For example, a B-rated unit might easily use 20% more power than an A model. Since a refrigerator runs 24/7, multiply that difference by 8,760 hours a year to see the real cost impact on your energy bill.
And energy isn’t the only ongoing cost you need to consider. Compare maintenance needs and service contract costs to determine the most suitable option for your needs. A fridge with cheaper parts and reliable support often saves more over its lifespan than one with a lower upfront price.
Do check manufacturer reliability and warranty terms
Supplier reliability makes a difference when things go wrong. Ask if the manufacturer provides good support and quick call-outs, or get in touch with the supplier who sold you the unit. Find out how quickly spare parts are available and how long repairs usually take. In catering, retail and hospitality, time is money.
Warranties are important, but take the time to check that the warranty covers the most critical components. Door seals, compressors and electronic controls tend to be the most strained parts and are most likely to fail first. Look for a provider with good warranty cover.
Don’t neglect ventilation requirements
Good exterior ventilation helps your fridge work well and avoids unexpected breakdowns. Every manufacturer includes minimum clearance guidelines to ensure air flows freely around the unit. If a refrigerator sits too close to walls, cabinets or other equipment, the air can’t move around the condenser coils. As a result, the compressor must work harder, drawing more electricity, which ultimately results in higher costs for you.
Before purchasing, review the ventilation specifications to ensure your space is suitable. If your kitchen is tight on space, consider models designed for limited airflow or those with built-in ventilation features.
Don’t forget about potential installation costs
Getting your commercial fridge up and running sometimes takes more than just plugging it in. This becomes particularly relevant when you’re fitting a refrigerator into an area that didn’t originally accommodate one. Often, commercial fridges require a sturdy, level floor to sit on, especially if you’re on an upper floor or an uneven surface. You’ll also want proper drainage to keep things clean and dry.
Then there’s any extra electrical work to consider to ensure your kitchen can safely handle the fridge’s power demands. Delivery, moving the refrigerator into place, and setting it up might also add to the total. All in all, installation expenses can sometimes end up being as much as the fridge itself. It’s a good idea to factor these in early and discuss all installation costs with your supplier to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Do verify temperature range and regulatory compliance
Chilled goods must be stored between 0°C and 5°C. Frozen items should be at or below -18°C. Ensure the fridge you choose can maintain these temperatures, even when fully stocked.
Look for models designed to support HACCP compliance and that meet hygiene and food-safe design standards. They should be marked with ‘UKCA’ (or ‘CE’, the European standard, if you’re buying a preowned model from before 2023). Finally, it must include clear temperature monitoring so you can easily prove compliance during inspections or audits.
Don’t forget sound levels in customer areas
If your fridge sits near customers or along a service pass, you need to pay attention to its noise level. Most models list their decibel levels, so look for units under 50dB to keep things calm and avoid interrupting conversations or the atmosphere. A quieter fridge helps create a better experience for your guests and makes life easier for your staff by reducing noise and the stress it can cause during a busy shift.
Do use a decision matrix for clear comparison
A decision matrix can help you compare fridge models based on the factors that are most important to your business. List your key points (such as those below), then score each fridge against them.
This approach makes it easier to find the fridge that best fits your needs, rather than focusing solely on price. It also provides clear, objective reasons to support your choice when discussing it with your team or managers. Create a decision matrix table including the following (and any other criteria relevant to your organisation), then score each fridge on:
- Capacity required at peak
- Door style and clearances
- Temperature zones
- Energy rating and annual kWh
- Warranty and service contract terms
- Installation requirements
Don’t oversize your unit needlessly
It might seem safer to go for the biggest fridge, thinking it’ll handle busy times easily. But an oversized unit wastes energy when it isn’t full, takes up more space and costs more to buy and run. It can also take longer to cool properly, which may affect the texture and safety of your food. As mentioned near the start of this article, the best approach is to size your fridge based on your peak demand, plus a little extra for growth.
How can TEFCOLD UK help?
At TEFCOLD UK, we don’t just supply fridges. We guide you through every step, from choosing the right model to expert installation and ongoing support.
If you want commercial fridges that work as hard as you do, built to fit your kitchen and run with you on your busiest days, get in touch with our team. We’ll get to know you and provide tailored solutions to your needs, making your upgrade straightforward and reliable. Plus, we have plenty of affordable and comprehensive warranty and service solutions.
So what are you waiting for? Get in touch today for an obligation-free chat, and let’s help you find your perfect commercial refrigerator. You can also request a website log in here.