What Kind of Commercial Cooler Will Fit My Business?

Coolers in commercial kitchen

Looking for a commercial cooler for your business? Find the perfect fit with a variety of options including refrigerators, freezers, and prep tables.

No matter your specific niche in the world of hospitality or food service, some needs remain the same across the industry. The appropriate cooling hardware to hold foods at the correct temperature or to chill beverages for patron enjoyment is an essential element. Some are small and compact, while others are big and bulky — so what kind is right for your establishment?

While your work area’s specific dimensions and space constraints will ultimately dictate what purchases you can make, there is plenty of variety to consider. Let’s take a quick look at some of the main types of commercial cooling equipment to consider their best use cases and the types of spaces that will fit them best.

The Different Types of Coolers You Can Consider

Most foodservice establishments will need a range of different cooling and freezing technologies to meet their needs. Some only need a few units, while others may need a very large capacity. Depending on your specific needs, The FED can help you identify the solutions that will be the most space and cost-effective for your needs among hardware that includes the following types.

The undercounter cooler:

The perfect solution for on-line cooling storage in the kitchen, at the coffee counter, or anywhere else where staff need quick access to cold products. Small and space-saving, these coolers can fit snugly beneath counters of multiple sizes, leaving products in easy reach but also out of sight and out of the way.

The back bar cooler:

Similar in form factor to the under-counter cooler, back bar units are best at storing beverages, from soft drinks to bottled beer and more. These coolers are ideal for bars, restaurants, and other spaces where serving patrons quickly is important, but self-service is not an option.

The display refrigerator:

When self-service is an option, the display fridge is the perfect choice. Coming in many sizes, they may be short and stout to allow patrons to grab beverages quickly, or they can be quite large and open for grab-and-go functionality. Display fridges can work well even in small spaces, providing a way to draw the customer’s eye.

The commercial ice machine:

Virtually everyone needs ice for one reason or another in hospitality, but fitting an ice maker into your space doesn’t have to be a challenge. With capacities rated by the weight of daily ice production, you can find surprisingly compact units for small-scale operations that only need a smaller portion of ice each day. Likewise, they can also be quite large.

The reach-in commercial refrigerator:

Most like the traditional refrigerator, reach-ins tend to be large and less suited for cramped spaces. They are for longer-term storage, like walk-in coolers, and are best placed in a location where they can facilitate quick restocking of under-counter coolers.

Finding the Refrigeration Equipment That Makes the Most Sense for Your Business

Understanding your options is just the first step. Next comes the need to find an equipment supplier that you can trust to deliver equipment that fits your space and suits the task at hand.

With The Foodservice Equipment Depot (The FED), there’s no need to carve time from your schedule for unnecessary showroom visits and lengthy sales presentations. Instead, we offer a more direct connection to the high-efficiency commercial coolers that today’s hospitality sector demands. From back bar coolers to ice machines and everything in between, our no-hassle buying process means you can kit out your space faster and more cost-effectively. Speak with our team today to learn more about how we can help you find the best fit.

FAQ

  1. What types of commercial coolers are available?
    • Commercial coolers come in various configurations, including:
      • Refrigerators: Ideal for storing perishable items like fresh produce and dairy products.
      • Freezers: Designed for frozen goods, such as ice cream, frozen vegetables, and meat.
      • Beverage Coolers: Specifically for drinks, whether it’s bottled water, soda, or beer.
      • Glass Door Merchandisers: Showcase products while keeping them chilled.
      • Reach-In Refrigerators: Convenient for easy access to stored items.
      • Undercounter Refrigerators: Space-saving units that fit beneath countertops.
      • Mega Top Prep Tables: Combine refrigerated storage with a food prep surface.
      • Bar Refrigerators: Perfect for bars and pubs to keep beverages cold.
      • Display Freezers: Highlight frozen treats like gelato or popsicles.
      • Back Bar Refrigerators: Used in bars and restaurants to store drinks.
      • Sandwich Prep Tables: Include a prep area and refrigerated storage for sandwich ingredients.
      • Pizza Prep Tables: Keep pizza toppings fresh and ready for assembly.
      • Countertop Coolers: Compact units for small spaces.
      • Chef Bases: Refrigerated drawers for chefs’ convenience.
      • Deli Merchandisers: Display deli items attractively.
      • Self-Closing Swing Door Coolers: Energy-efficient coolers that automatically close.
      • Display Refrigeration Units: Showcase desserts, salads, or sushi.
      • Commercial Glass Door Refrigerators: Combine visibility with cooling.
      • Refrigerated Bakery Cases: Keep pastries and baked goods fresh.
      • Walk-In Refrigeration: Large-scale storage for restaurants and supermarkets.
  2. What features should I consider when choosing a commercial cooler?
    • Size and Capacity: Assess your storage needs based on the volume of products you handle.
    • Material: Stainless steel coolers are durable and easy to clean.
    • Temperature Control: Ensure precise temperature settings.
    • Energy Efficiency: Look for energy-saving models.
    • Display: Glass doors allow visibility, while solid doors provide insulation.
    • Adjustable Shelves: Customize storage space.
    • Reinforced Hinges: Sturdy hinges for heavy use.
    • LED Lighting: Enhances visibility inside the cooler.
    • Cooling Technology: Consider options like R290 refrigerant for eco-friendliness.
    • Standard Features: Check for self-closing doors, temperature alarms, and more.
  3. Where can I find reliable commercial coolers?
    • The Foodservice Equipment Depot (The FED) offers a wide range of commercial refrigerators and freezers. Whether you’re in Vancouver, Toronto, or anywhere across Canada, they’ve got you covered with high-quality products and efficient service.

Remember to evaluate your specific business needs, available space, and budget when selecting a commercial cooler. The right choice ensures product freshness, efficiency, and customer satisfaction!