Delfield vs. True Refrigeration
Delfield and True are leading commercial refrigeration companies. Delfield emphasizes efficient systems paired with custom design services, while True is known for durable construction across standard equipment categories.
Delfield vs. True: Comparison Snapshot
Delfield specializes in custom fabrication and service lines for buffet applications. True offers a broad lineup of standalone refrigeration units, including models for scientific storage and merchandising.
About Delfield
The name Delfield fuses the last names of its two founders: Paul DeLorenzo and Thomas Springfield. Founded in Detroit in 1949, the company went on to manufacture custom serving systems and fabricated equipment, including a full line of reach-ins, prep tables, heated cabinets, equipment stands, undercounters, and blast chillers. Delfield moved operations to Mt. Pleasant, Mich., in 1971 and opened a new plant in Covington, Tenn., 14 years later. Today, Delfield is one of the largest custom stainless steel refrigeration equipment manufacturers.
Key Strengths:
- Environmentally friendly GreenGenius™ refrigeration systems
- Shelley serving lines combine functionality and style
- Flexible wells, tops, shields, and additional configuration options
About True Refrigeration
True Refrigeration was founded by Bob, Frank, and Art Trulaske, who built their first upright freezer in 1946 and gradually expanded into merchandisers, prep tables, undercounters, and other categories. Based in O'Fallon, Mo., the family-owned company manufactures equipment in several production facilities across the state, distributing products worldwide. True has gained prominence as one of the top foodservice manufacturers and recently expanded production in commercial ice and residential cooking and cooling markets.
Key Strengths:
- Oversized compressors handle high-volume cooling needs
- Efficient and environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant
- Broad industry solutions and support
Key Differences Explained
Performance and Reliability
Delfield offers efficient refrigeration performance, utilizing hot gas condensate systems, variable-speed compressors, and thermostatic expansion valves in its GreenGenius systems. These systems are also found in FlexiWell™ and FlexiTop™ holding units, which can switch between hot and cold holding with the press of a button. Numerous standard models are ENERGY STAR certified, and Shelley carts feature hot-and-cold wells with the option to add individually controlled, energy-saving power wells.
True refrigerators use electronically commutated evaporator and condenser fan motors, which operate at variable speeds to improve efficiency, speed temperature recovery, and reduce heat output. They also include automatic defrost systems and high-capacity condensers. Each True product is carefully inspected and tested before completion, and more than 200 models are ENERGY STAR certified.
Design and Ease of Use
Delfield stands out for custom fabrication, enabling operators to design and build chef counters, hot food tables, display cases, pantry stations, and more. Shelley and EcoMark lines provide customizable serving solutions with adjustable counter heights that are ideal for school cafeterias or banquet settings. Delfield Specification® Line refrigerators offer easyTouch® color displays with remote monitoring. Delfield exclusively sells top-mounted reach-ins, which increase available cabinet space and reduce dust intake from the floor; however, top-mounted designs may lose performance in high-heat environments and shouldn't be installed next to cooking equipment as they can draw in grease-laden vapors.
Built with polished stainless steel and available in numerous configurations, True units fit seamlessly into nearly any kitchen. Although True lacks the manufacturing flexibility of Delfield, the brand offers numerous models with various door, drawer, and setup options. Add-on features include durable prep table cutting boards, integrated topping catchers, and easy-install merchandiser pricing strips. Every unit features bright interior LEDs, with colored lighting options for TBR/TDR bar equipment. Standard units can also be outfitted with 17 color options of durable powder coatings, and select models may include custom hardware finishes to complete an upscale front-of-house feel.
Maintenance and Durability
Standard Delfield refrigerators feature aluminum and stainless steel exteriors and seamless ABS plastic interiors with integrated shelf supports. This interior liner is easy to clean and reduces dents, chips, and corrosion. Customized models are typically made with stainless steel and may include other materials on front panels, such as tile or laminate. Ideally, refrigerator exteriors, interiors, and gaskets should be wiped down daily; drawers and lids should be inspected weekly; and drains, evaporator coils, and hinge screws should be serviced quarterly.
True condensing units are often positioned in easy-access locations and slide out for simplified maintenance. Most units have PVC-coated racks and are stainless steel inside and out with coved corners, increasing durability and cleanability. Many units are also NSF listed and include reverse condensing fan motors that blow out debris on startup, so evaporator coils may require less frequent cleaning.
Price and Value
While Delfield and True occupy the same market segment, True products are often priced higher than comparable Delfield models, supported by a reputation for durability and an industry-leading warranty. Delfield's custom fabrication cost is project determined and varies by setup, but it provides value for customers seeking adaptable serving or storage solutions.
Which Brand Is Right for You?
Delfield and True both offer reliable cold storage that fits a variety of needs, though each brand stands out in specific settings. Delfield is an excellent choice for cafeterias, school settings, hospitality buffets, or themed kitchens, offering modular customization. True is designed for high-volume performance, emphasizing premium design, efficiency, temperature recovery, and durability. It's often used in large kitchens and in catering, entertainment, and merchandising applications.
| Scenario | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| High-Volume Buffet | Delfield | Custom units accommodate operational needs, additional stations, and utility constraints |
| Busy Restaurant Kitchen | True | High-capacity units are designed for quick recovery |
| School Cafeteria | Delfield | Versatile hot or cold units support rotating menu requirements and are simple to operate |
| Bakery or Quick-Service Operation | True | Various merchandiser models improve visibility and quick access |
| Open Kitchen | Either | True features premium powder coatings and brand recognition; Delfield integrates direct service and efficient prep |
Shop Delfield & True at KaTom
KaTom offers commercial refrigerators from both Delfield and True. Find efficient, reliable, and durable units at competitive prices to outfit your operation with the best brand for your needs. Explore Delfield's drop-in units for custom holding layouts or True's large merchandisers for attractive product displays.
