A working commercial refrigeration unit is an absolute must when it comes to a successful business. Whether it’s a restaurant, deli, canteen, corner shop or supermarket.
But everything has an end date. And that includes our kitchen equipment.
So, should you wait until your commercial refrigeration well and truly packs in, or are there some telltale signs that it’s time to start thinking about replacing it?
Here is our expert advice on when to consider replacing your refrigeration unit.
1. When your commercial refrigeration is no longer cost-effective to repair
We all want our investments to last a lifetime. But unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
We get it. Repairing your commercial refrigerator is often the most cost-effective option. Why spend thousands on a new fridge when you can spend a couple of hundred on a repair?
Plus, many refrigeration units come with the option to purchase a maintenance plan, so any repairs within a certain amount of time are free of charge or at least discounted.
But there comes a point when repairing your fridge is no longer cost-effective and essentially costs more than the fridge is worth.
Future repairs will start coming thick and fast. So, it’s at this point you should start to consider purchasing a replacement rather than risking spoiled produce.
2. If you have an older commercial refrigerator
The average lifespan of a commercial refrigerator is around 10 years, provided it receives regular maintenance checks.
If your refrigerator is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s probably time to start looking at your options.
Moreover, having an energy-efficient refrigeration system is a priority for most commercial businesses.
You work hard for your money. You don’t want to be paying more than you should be for your energy bills.
Unfortunately, older refrigerators are especially expensive to run as they require even more energy.
So, you’ll be relieved to know that newer commercial fridges are built with energy efficiency at their forefront.
Obviously, you can keep your refrigeration energy costs down slightly anyway with simple checks – making sure the temperature isn’t set too high or too low, or by keeping the door shut as much as possible, for example.
But a surefire way to keep your monthly energy costs down is by investing in a newer energy-efficient refrigeration system.
3. When your business is growing
Knowing your business is growing is an unbeatable feeling. All your hard work, time and sacrifices have been worth it.
But now you need to make sure your kitchen equipment is up to scratch and able to cater for the new requirements.
What worked for your business a year ago might not now. You might need additional storage space for your ingredients in your restaurant or have new stock to sell in your corner shop that requires a dedicated fridge.
You don’t want to run out of ingredients halfway through a busy Sunday in a popular restaurant. Replacing your equipment with a larger alternative will help you meet your supply and demand needs.
Yes, you can just buy your new equipment when you outgrow your current equipment but preparing now for further business growth will put you ahead of the game. It also helps you avoid any issues that may occur – maybe your fridge can’t keep up with the constant changing temperature now that its door is being opened so much more for example.
Get in touch today
Ultimately, exploring your options sooner rather than later will allow you the time and freedom to find the perfect commercial refrigeration solution, without worrying about costing your business in spoiled food or closure time.
If you would like to speak to our experts about your commercial refrigeration options, get in touch today.
Simply call us on 0121 544 0555 to chat with us directly, or send us a message via email at sales@jamrefrigeration.co.uk and we’ll be in touch!
