All about reach in refrigeration, from The Restaurant Source

Summary

In this video, Terry McMaster explains the basics of commercial refrigeration, highlighting key features and considerations for choosing the right unit for your kitchen. He discusses the differences between stainless steel and vinyl interiors, the importance of energy efficiency, and the advantages of bottom-mount refrigeration in cooking environments. Terry also covers various customization options, including door types and shelf configurations, and shares tips for maintaining the longevity of refrigeration units. Whether you're setting up a restaurant or looking for specialized features, this guide helps you navigate your options for commercial refrigeration equipment.

Takeaways

• 😀 Commercial refrigerators, like the 49 cubic foot T-49, offer various storage options for restaurants, with size and materials (vinyl vs. stainless steel) affecting cost and use.
• 😀 Stainless steel refrigerators are more durable but more expensive, while vinyl interiors are more cost-effective for back-of-house use.
• 😀 Easy-to-clean design is essential in commercial refrigeration, with features like coved corners and removable gaskets for maintenance and health compliance.
• 😀 Bottom-mount refrigeration units are ideal for cooking environments, as they recover more quickly in cooler, lower areas of the kitchen.
• 😀 Commercial refrigerators are built to last 10-15 years with proper care, though they endure wear equivalent to 7 years of residential use in a kitchen setting.
• 😀 Energy Star-rated units are more energy-efficient, with LED lighting now standard to reduce heat and energy costs while improving visibility.
• 😀 Self-closing doors on refrigerators offer convenience, especially in high-traffic areas where hands might be full.
• 😀 Gaskets are critical for maintaining a tight seal, and can be easily replaced or cleaned to ensure proper function and energy efficiency.
• 😀 Commercial refrigerators are significantly louder than home models due to their design for constant use, making them unsuitable for home environments.
• 😀 Customization options are available, including half doors, glass door merchandisers, and various shelving configurations to suit different kitchen needs.
• 😀 Price varies based on features and materials, with more specialized units (e.g., pizza prep units) being more expensive than basic sandwich units.

Q & A

What is the significance of the 'T-49' model name for this commercial refrigerator?

The 'T-49' refers to the 49 cubic feet of refrigerated storage space the unit provides, making it a popular choice for many commercial kitchens.

Why is stainless steel often preferred for commercial refrigerators, and what are its drawbacks?

Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion, but it can be more expensive than other materials, such as vinyl.

What is the main benefit of having a vinyl interior in a commercial refrigerator?

Vinyl interiors are more cost-effective while still providing excellent durability and ease of cleaning, making them suitable for environments where the refrigerator isn't in direct customer view.

How does bottom-mount refrigeration benefit commercial kitchens?

Bottom-mount refrigeration places the cooling mechanism at the lowest point of the unit, which is generally the coolest part of the kitchen. This helps maintain efficient temperature control and quick recovery in high-heat environments.

Why do commercial refrigerators tend to last longer in restaurant settings than home refrigerators?

In commercial settings, refrigerators are subjected to more wear and tear, which, according to manufacturers, equates to about seven years of domestic usage for every year of commercial use.

What are the drawbacks of using a commercial refrigerator in a home setting?

Commercial refrigerators are often much noisier than residential models due to their design for continuous operation in high-demand environments. Additionally, using them in a home can void the warranty.

How does the self-closing door feature of the refrigerator improve its performance?

The self-closing door helps maintain the internal temperature by ensuring the door automatically shuts tightly, which is especially useful in high-traffic kitchens where workers might leave the door open unintentionally.

What role do gaskets play in commercial refrigeration units?

Gaskets create an airtight seal around the door to maintain temperature control. They are also easy to replace or clean, ensuring the unit stays efficient and meets health department standards.

What is the advantage of LED lighting in commercial refrigeration units?

LED lighting provides better visibility inside the refrigerator without generating heat, which helps maintain the internal temperature and reduces energy consumption.

What is the purpose of the digital thermometer and diagnostic features in some commercial refrigerators?

The digital thermometer and diagnostic tools help monitor the unit's performance by alerting users to issues like an open door or malfunctioning fan, ensuring timely maintenance and preventing temperature-related problems.

Can commercial refrigerators be customized with different door options, and what is the advantage of this flexibility?

Yes, commercial refrigerators can be customized with full or half doors, allowing for more efficient use of space and minimizing energy loss by only opening part of the refrigerator when needed.