Glass Chillers & Mug Frosters
Glass chillers and mug frostersare popular because the ability to provide your customers with frosted mugs can go a long way in building your brand and encouraging customers to pay another visit. More
These compact units can keep glasses or mugs cold and ready to serve under a countertop or bar.
The most common type, these have top panels that slide back for access and provide greater storage capacity than front-access units.
What to Know About Glass Chillers & Mug Frosters
Glass chillers are a great addition to any restaurant or bar interested in improving their customers' drink experiences. Most commonly available in a design that resembles other back-bar refrigeration equipment, glass frosters have one or two sections with capacities ranging from a few dozen mugs to more than 250, enabling even the busiest of locations to serve every drink in a refreshing, ice-cold glass. Adding this simple extra touch to your establishment's drink service can help your business stand out from the competition.
When deciding which model your business needs, these mug frosters are available in two access styles: front or top. Installation and capacity are the main factors in determining which you'll need, because front-access glass frosters can be placed under a countertop and generally hold fewer than 100 mugs. If you need to store a larger number of glasses for each daypart and have room for a bigger unit, you'll need to invest in a top-access chiller.
Looking for a glass chiller that doesn't require quite as much space behind the bar? Consider a table-mounted or drop-in unit that rapidly chills one glass at a time with liquid carbon dioxide, which sterilizes glasses and mugs while frosting them. Unlike one- and two-section chillers that can hold dozens of mugs or glasses, these countertop options are best suited to craft bars and other operations looking to impress with each drink. High-volume operations serving dozens of cocktails or pints of beer each hour will be better served by units that keep glasses and mugs frosted before they're needed.
Common Questions About Glass Chillers
How many sections do I need?
You can get a glass froster with either one or two sections. Sections are created with dividers inside the unit that separate different types of glasses and plates.
A glass chiller can have either a lid on the top or doors on the side. Lids allow for quick access to the frosty mugs inside, and they're ideal for high-volume bars. Models with doors tend to be smaller, and are typically installed on countertops or underneath the bar.
Which finish should I choose?
You can purchase a model in either stainless steel or laminate. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.
The classic look of stainless steel has a timeless aura that fits well with either a retro or modern decor. Because it is dent and scratch resistant, it is a durable choice for busy bar environments. However, stainless steel is more expensive. Also, it requires cleaning more frequently.
Black laminate is a less expensive option that does not show finger prints or scratches like stainless steel does. However, it is not as durable and is easier to scratch or chip.
How can I clean my glass froster?
We recommend that you perform regular cleaning and maintenance on your mug froster. It only requires a few steps to keep your model running efficiently and effectively.
- Because dust and dirt can collect on important refrigeration components, you should regularly clean the filter, coils, and fins. When these components get dirty, the system has to work harder, wasting energy and increasing the risk of overheating and breakdowns.
- The door gaskets must also be cleaned regularly. Since lemon juice can help reduce bacteria growth on them, it is recommended that you use this common substance on them. On glass chillers with side-opening doors, the lemon juice can also help keep the gaskets from cracking.