Choosing the Best Commercial Refrigeration for Your Business

Reach-in Refrigerators

Reach-in refrigerators are essential for storing perishable items like dairy, meats, and cooked products at safe temperatures. To help choose the best reach-in for your business, prioritize door configuration, interior shelving options, and ease of access to frequently used items.

Benefits and features of reach-in refrigerators:

• Storage Capacity: Available in 1-3 sections to accommodate varying storage needs.
• Functionality: Designed for easy access to chilled items, these units are suitable for high-volume operations and quick retrieval of stored items.
• Key Features: Bottom-mounted compressor models are ideal for high-heat kitchens, while top-mounted compressor units are ideal for cleaner areas.

Walk-in Coolers

Walk-in coolers are room-sized refrigerators designed for storing large quantities of perishables and are perfect for high-volume businesses. When selecting the best walk-in cooler, think about door size and type, customization needs, and the climate of your storage area.

Benefits and features of walk-in coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Typically range from 4 to 12 feet wide, providing ample space for bulk storage.
• Functionality: Provides easy access and efficient storage for large quantities of perishable goods; ideal for businesses with high inventory turnover.
• Key Features: Custom sizes available, durable exteriors, energy-efficient options, and user-friendly door configurations (hinged or sliding doors).

Salad, Sandwich, & Pizza Prep Tables

These refrigerated food prep tables combine cold storage with prep space for frequently used ingredients, improving workflow in kitchens. To choose the best prep table, consider surface material durability, number of compartments, and how it would integrate with your kitchen layout.

Benefits and features of prep tables:

• Storage Capacity: Includes top storage for ingredients and bottom drawers or cabinets for additional supplies. Each type of prep table can be identified by the depth of the cutting board attached to it.
• Functionality: Designed for quick access to refrigerated ingredients; ideal for delis, sandwich shops, and pizzerias.
• Key Features: Insulated cabinets, efficient cooling systems, and easy-to-clean surfaces.

Undercounter Refrigerators

Undercounter refrigerators provide extra cold storage in compact spaces, ideal for bars, break rooms, cafes, hotel rooms, or small kitchens. When choosing the best undercounter refrigerator, focus on storage versatility, door type (hinged or sliding), and your kitchen’s workflow needs.

Benefits and features of undercounter refrigerators:

• Storage Capacity: Available in 1-3 sections, offering a small but efficient storage solution.
• Functionality: Perfect for locations with limited vertical space that need additional storage for beverages, ingredients, or snacks.
• Key Features: Swing doors or drawers, energy-efficient compressors, ADA-compliant models, and compact designs for space-saving.

Glass Door Merchandisers

Glass door merchandisers are designed to display chilled drinks and packaged goods in a retail setting and to promote impulse sales. For the best merchandiser, consider display visibility, temperature control accuracy, and energy-saving features.

Benefits and features of merchandisers:

• Storage Capacity: Features adjustable shelves for customizable storage of beverages, dairy, or prepackaged foods. Available in one to three sections and with three to four shelves.
• Functionality: Ideal for convenience stores, grocery stores, and cafes that want to showcase their refrigerated products.
• Key Features: LED lighting for product visibility, energy-efficient cooling systems, and glass doors for easy product viewing. Sliding or swing open doors available.

Open-air Coolers

Benefits and features of open-air coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Available in vertical or horizontal configurations; designed for high-traffic areas.
• Functionality: Provides easy access to chilled items; perfect for bakeries, delis, cafes, and grocery stores.
• Key Features: Ideal for merchandising grab-and-go products, with options in vertical, horizontal, and island configurations; available in self-contained and remote compressor models to suit different needs.

Back Bar Coolers

Back bar coolers keep beverages chilled and accessible for bartenders in busy bar settings, ensuring quick service. To choose the best back bar cooler, focus on bottle storage capacity, ease of access for fast refills, and finding a unit that fits in your space.

Benefits and features of back bar coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Typically accommodates bottles and cans, available in several sizes to suit different bar setups. Each section generally is 24 inches wide and accommodates approximately 144 bottles.
• Functionality: Ideal for bars, pubs, and restaurants needing efficient beverage storage and quick access.
• Key Features: Glass doors for visibility, adjustable shelving for easy organization, and energy-efficient cooling.

Bottle Coolers

Bottle coolers are designed for efficient storage and cooling of bottles and cans, typically without the need for display. When choosing a bottle cooler, consider the size of your beverage selection, desired energy efficiency, and how it fits within your operation's layout.

Benefits and features of bottle coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Available in various sizes depending on your service volume. Some can hold over 1,000 bottles.
• Functionality: Keeps beverages chilled at optimal temperatures for quick access.
• Key Features: Top access or side doors, energy-efficient compressors, and insulated lids to maintain cold temperatures.

Chef Bases

Chef bases combine a worktop surface with refrigerated storage, creating a functional prep station that enhances kitchen workflow. To find the best chef base for your commercial kitchen, focus on surface strength, the number and type of storage drawers, and how the unit integrates into your kitchen’s existing workflow.

Benefits and features of chef bases:

• Storage Capacity: Refrigerated drawers with independent temperature controls for storing meats, vegetables, and frozen foods.
• Functionality: Supports kitchen equipment like griddles, fryers, and mixers while keeping ingredients at safe temperatures.
• Key Features: Marine edge for easy cleaning, insulated drawers, and durable worktop surfaces to streamline kitchen operations.

Worktop Refrigerators

Worktop refrigerators offer refrigerated storage combined with a sturdy prep surface, creating a complete workstation for commercial kitchens. To choose the right worktop refrigerator for your operation, consider the size of your workspace, needed storage capacity, and the durability of the work surface under heavy use.

Benefits and features of worktop refrigerators:

• Storage Capacity: Available in 1- to 3-section models, providing ample refrigerated space for ingredients and tools.
• Functionality: Ideal for businesses without existing countertop space, as it offers both prep and storage solutions.
• Key Features: Drawers for food pans, doors for larger containers, and optional backsplashes for cleanliness.

Drop-in Coolers

Drop-in coolers are built into countertops for merchandising snacks, chilling produce, or storing items like cheese and dressings. To choose the right drop-in cooler for your business, consider the cooling capacity, ease of integration with your existing countertop, and energy-saving features to reduce costs.

Benefits and features of drop-in coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Typically designed to hold food pans, with different configurations based on your needs.
• Functionality: Provides efficient cooling or display for grab-and-go items; perfect for retail or cafeteria foodservice lines.
• Key Features: Available in ice-cooled, cold-wall, or forced-air models; can be permanently installed in countertops.

Countertop Refrigerators

Countertop refrigerators are compact and versatile, ideal for small spaces like office breakrooms, convenience stores, delis, or gas stations to boost impulse sales. For the best countertop fridge, focus on your existing space, the needed storage capacity, and how energy efficiency for long-term savings.

Benefits and features of countertop refrigerators:

• Storage Capacity: Available in various dimensions, usually with at least two adjustable shelves for flexible storage.
• Functionality: Suitable for small operations or businesses requiring countertop space for storing chilled items.
• Key Features: Sliding doors, pass-thru access, and energy-efficient compressors for optimal performance in tight spaces.

Draft Beer Systems

Draft beer systems are essential for serving cold beer directly from kegs, offering customers a rotating selection of freshly chilled brews. To choose the best draft beer dispenser for your business, consider the number of needed taps, the available space for installation, and the ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Benefits and features of draft beer systems:

• Storage Capacity: Can hold between 1 and 5 kegs, with larger models designed for up to 12 taps.
• Functionality: Allows bars and restaurants to serve cold draft beer efficiently with minimal downtime between kegs.
• Key Features: Multiple tap configurations, cooling systems designed for optimal beer storage, and energy-efficient systems to maintain low temperatures.

Commercial Wine Coolers

Commercial wine coolers store wines at optimal temperatures, preserving quality for restaurants, bars, and hotels. To choose the right wine cooler for your business, focus on capacity, precise temperature control, and the how the cooler fits within your designated storage space.

Benefits and features of wine coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Available in full-size models (holding 20-200 bottles) and compact undercounter units.
• Functionality: Dual-zone models provide independent temperature controls for red and white wine storage. The recommended serving temperature for red wines is between 53 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit, while white wine should be served between 44 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Key Features: Elegant designs, LED lighting, and compact sizes that fit beneath countertops or as freestanding units.

Bakery Display Cases

Bakery display cases are essential for showcasing and preserving the freshness of baked goods like cakes, pies, and pastries. When selecting the best bakery case, think about temperature control, display visibility, and the ability to accommodate various-sized baked goods.

Benefits and features of bakery display cases:

• Storage Capacity: Available in full-service (employee-only access) or self-serve configurations, often featuring multiple levels for display.
• Functionality: Helps preserve baked goods while also making them easily visible to customers in cafes, bakeries, or grocery stores.
• Key Features: Dual temperature zones, customizable shelving, and glass-front displays for visibility.

Deli Cases

Deli cases are essential for displaying deli items like meats, cheeses, and sandwiches while keeping them at safe temperatures. For the best deli case, consider which layout provides optimal access, your storage capacity, and the unit's cooling efficiency to maintain food safety.

Benefits and features of deli cases:

• Storage Capacity: Available in 1- to 4-level models to suit different product volumes.
• Functionality: Ideal for self-service or full-service setups, depending on your business's needs.
• Key Features: Straight or curved glass options, glass or opaque side panels, and dual-zone models with hot and cold sections.

Sushi Cases

Sushi cases display prepared sushi while maintaining freshness and quality. To choose the right sushi display, consider the ideal temperature range, visibility for customers, and the layout to accommodate different types of sushi.

Benefits and features of sushi cases:

• Storage Capacity: Units vary in size but typically offer enough space to showcase multiple sushi rolls.
• Functionality: Keeps sushi at ideal serving temperatures (34-38°F) while allowing for easy access and replenishment.
• Key Features: Glass fronts, LED lighting for visibility, removable trays for cleaning, and rear sliding doors for easy access.

Milk Coolers

Milk coolers keep cartons chilled and organized, making them ideal for cafeterias and schools. To choose the best milk cooler for your business, focus on capacity, the ease of access for high-traffic areas, and its energy efficiency.

Benefits and features of milk coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Sized by crate capacity, with units typically holding 64 half-pint cartons per crate.
• Functionality: Ensures milk is stored at the correct temperature for safe consumption, with easy access options.
• Key Features: Top-access lids, side doors for higher traffic, and heavy-duty racks to store milk cartons securely.

Glass Chillers

Glass chillers are designed to frost mugs and beer glasses, enhancing the presentation of your drinks and the customer experience. When choosing the best glass chiller, consider cooling time, capacity, and the space available for installation.

Benefits and features of glass chillers:

• Storage Capacity: Typically holds between 76 to 286 mugs, based on 10-ounce mugs.
• Functionality: Chills glasses to enhance drink presentation, especially for beer and cocktails.
• Key Features: Top or front access, stainless steel or black laminate finishes, and efficient cooling systems.

Blast Chillers

Capable of rapidly pulling food temperatures down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below in just a few hours, blast chillers are an important food safety tool. When selecting a blast chiller, think about cooling speed, capacity to handle high volumes, and ease of operation to streamline your kitchen processes.

Benefits and features of blast chillers:

• Storage Capacity: Ranges from 3 to 40 full-size pans, depending on the model.
• Functionality: Best for rapidly chilling food, helping preserve freshness, and preventing bacterial growth. Ideal for large-scale operations.
• Key Features: Chilling and freezing functionality, efficient cooling systems, and the ability to handle large batches of food.

Medical Refrigerators

Medical refrigerators are designed for storing sensitive materials like medications, lab samples, and vaccines. For the best medical refrigerator, consider temperature accuracy, safety features such as alarms or locks, and your inventory needs.

Benefits and features of medical refrigerators:

• Storage Capacity: Available in refrigerator, freezer, and dual models to suit various medical storage needs.
• Functionality: Ensures precise temperature control for sensitive materials, essential for healthcare and laboratory settings.
• Key Features: Hospital-grade green-dot plugs, temperature alarms, and optional locking mechanisms for added security.

Floral Coolers

Floral coolers are designed specifically for displaying fresh-cut flowers in optimal conditions. To choose the best floral cooler, focus on temperature control, humidity levels, and the size of the cooler to accommodate your inventory.

Benefits and features of floral coolers:

• Storage Capacity: Available in 1- to 3-section configurations, depending on your space and business size.
• Functionality: Extends the lifespan of fresh-cut flowers by maintaining temperatures between 33-38°F.
• Key Features: Glass or sliding doors, 360-degree viewing options, and energy-efficient cooling systems.