Efficiency in refrigeration systems in Delaware reduces wear and tear and makes your utility bills more manageable for your restaurant or shop. The good news is there are more options for efficient commercial appliances, and even if you are not ready to upgrade, there are steps you can take to help older equipment run better. If you are looking to promote efficiency at your establishment, here are five tips to follow:
- Choose Energy Star: This endorsement is not limited to the appliances you keep at home. Restaurant suppliers also maintain a variety of Energy Star freezers, refrigerators and even beverage services in their inventories. If you purchase an Energy Star freezer, you can save as much as 50 percent per year on utilities. Depending on your energy demands, that adds up to $1,000 to $2,500 each year. Standards for Energy Star increase incrementally through the years, so appliances only become more efficient. If you are looking to upgrade, look for the Energy Star endorsement and prepare to save money!
- Reconsider location: The best way to help a freezer or refrigerator run better is to keep it away from heat. If you have a cooling appliance right next to a commercial oven, it will need to work harder to maintain temperature. That costs more in utilities and makes your freezer wear out more quickly. If you can, move these appliances into an area with the least sunlight and away from stoves, ovens and other heat producers. While this may not be entirely in your control, it will make a difference if you have a choice in location.
- Consider the blast chiller: When you have a recipe that involves cooling food quickly, the natural inclination is to use the freezer for this job. However, this is a great way to make it break down sooner and turn it into a prime example of inefficiency. Hot food in a freezer makes it work harder, and it will take longer to return to a desired temperature—especially if you have a busy night where many people order that particular dish. A blast chiller is made to cool food, and it will do the job better. Consider purchasing one to spare your freezer.
- Purchase a door alarm: Another energy killer is leaving doors open on refrigeration equipment. Well-meaning employees who want to work quickly often prop the doors open as they fill it or remove multiple ingredients. This causes cold air to escape and can even compromise food integrity, in addition to raising your power bills. To discourage this practice, install an open-door alarm. This small step will reduce waste, promote efficiency and encourage better habits from employees.
- Watch the temperature: Energy Star models come with a digital thermometer. That makes it easy to check settings frequently and assure the correct temperature is maintained. Low settings make the condenser run longer and waste power. Setting the temperature too high risks spoiled food. Being able to monitor the temperature accurately makes a big difference in keeping food safe and preserving your freezer. Even if you have an older model with an analog thermometer, you can keep an eye on it and track how it runs.
Commercial Equipment Service works for its customers by keeping refrigeration systems in Delaware running smoothly and efficiently. Call us today for repairs, sales and installation services.