Refrigeration systems are the backbone of supermarket, convenience store, and restaurant operations. Because so much of their inventory must be maintained at cold temperatures, food retailers depend upon commercial refrigerators to preserve their chilled provisions and keep consumers safe. So when their refrigerator units start showing signs of age or significant malfunction, managers should consider the benefits of upgrading this crucial asset.
Depending on how much wear and tear they sustain, commercial refrigerators should enjoy an average lifespan of ten years. With proper maintenance, some high-quality models can last upwards of fifteen to twenty years. Neglecting regular inspections and repairs, however, can reduce a refrigerator’s lifespan to a mere seven years and decrease its overall efficiency during that time. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to update your cold storage.
Is it Time for a New Commercial Refrigerator?
One of the most common signs that a commercial refrigerator is on its last legs is when it has trouble maintaining a consistently cold internal environment. A sound refrigerator unit should easily keep contents between 36°F and 38°F. Therefore, temperature fluctuations can indicate that there’s a problem—especially if a unit is struggling to keep temperatures below 40°F.
Unstable internal temperatures are often caused by flaws in the sealing system, such as faulty door gaskets, worn out hinges, or damaged panel joints. This can result in cold air escaping from the refrigerator, putting increased demands on the compressor to keep the internal temperatures constant, which in turn drives up energy costs.
If the source of the leak cannot be adequately repaired, the motor will eventually become taxed to the point that the refrigerator could suddenly malfunction, potentially causing food service operators to forfeit revenue due to lost inventory. In this case, it’s best to intercept any major mechanical failure by opting for a hardware upgrade.
When faced with the choice to either pay for an expensive repair or replace a unit entirely, consider the long-term costs of each option, including the expenses that could be incurred due to excess energy use. If the repair estimate is more than half of what a new unit would set you back, it’s generally best to opt for replacement.
Investing in Energy Efficient Commercial Refrigerators
Because of the energy efficient technology used in newer commercial refrigerators, grocers should consider replacing units that are more than fifteen years old. While upgrading requires an investment on the front end, merchants can potentially save thousands of dollars each year in energy costs. Coupled with the incentive programs available, the initial investment has the capacity to pay for itself within five years.
The thought of replacing an entire battery of commercial refrigerators may seem daunting, but waiting until older models malfunction or fail can cost more in the long run. By upgrading sooner rather than later, you can avoid ongoing maintenance issues that slowly drain your budget. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the cost of spoiled inventory or the loss of regular customers if your aging units suddenly fail.
Imbera’s energy efficient commercial refrigerators are packed with top of the line features to help you save on energy costs while showcasing your cold products in visually enticing displays. To find out how our full line of commercial refrigerators can help you protect your customers and preserve your inventory, call Imbera today at 678-504-6842.
