Commercial refrigerator cleaning tips

For most people, cleaning isn’t the most exciting task on the to-do list. We completely understand. However, when it comes to your commercial refrigerators, regular cleaning is vital. It’s about much more than aesthetics. Without regular cleaning, you’ll end up with risks to equipment efficiency, unit longevity and even food safety.

So, cleaning is pretty important. This blog post explores some commercial refrigerator cleaning tips for you and your staff, helping you maximise your investment and provide delicious, healthy food to your customers.

Why does regular commercial refrigerator cleaning matter?

First of all, let’s talk about why you should make cleaning a priority.

A well-maintained fridge keeps your food safe, holding it at temperatures low enough to dramatically slow or stop the growth of damaging bacteria. It also helps your equipment run smoothly.

On the other hand, neglecting to clean refrigerators naturally leads to nasty spills and stains, unpleasant odours, costly repairs and perhaps even encounters with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) – a costly hit to your brand’s reputation.

Nobody wants any of that.

Regular cleaning ensures you maintain a hygienic internal and external environment while extending the lifespan of your fridge. It’s a win-win.

How often should I clean my commercial refrigerator?

We’ve already established the importance of regular cleaning. But how regular? What does that mean, exactly?

Well, different parts of your fridge require varying cleaning frequencies. Below is a general outline of what you might consider, although your specific business may need a bespoke approach:

• Daily – wipe down frequently touched surfaces (common touchpoints) like handles, shelves, frames and glass fronts. It’s a simple process involving disinfectant and a quick run around. Although it’s straightforward, this goes a long way in preventing the spread of germs.
• Weekly – set time aside for a more thorough clean once a week. Remove shelves and drawers from the units and give them a deep clean. Sanitise the interior surfaces (the inside walls, including around the fans and lights). Use soapy water to clean the door seals. You might be surprised how much dirt can accumulate in a week.
• Monthly – once a month, set time aside for mechanical maintenance cleaning. Dust off the condenser coils and clean the evaporator fans to keep your fridges running at peak efficiency.
• Yearly – consider bringing in a professional technician to service all your units. Identifying and repairing problems before they become more serious is always the most cost-effective approach, and experts know this field better than anyone.
• Regarding cleaning products, focus on two things: food-safe and non-abrasive. The last thing you want is to inadvertently spray the food you’re holding with harsh chemicals that could linger on surfaces and affect the taste of your dishes.

A step-by-step cleaning process for your refrigerators

Here’s a step-by-step process for you and your staff to get your commercial fridge sparkling clean.

• Turn the fridge off – keep safety and energy efficiency in mind. Unplug the refrigerator before you start cleaning. There’s no need to try to get it to cool down a space while you’re working away.
• Remove the shelves and the drawers – take the shelves and drawers and wash them in a dedicated sink with warm soapy water. Rinse them off and let them dry completely.
• Sanitise the interior – use your food-safe, non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down all the interior surfaces. Corners and crevices hide the most bacteria and dirt, so don’t neglect these.
• Clean the exterior surfaces – wipe down the outside of the fridge with disinfectant. Use glass cleaner or white vinegar to remove smudge marks from glass doors or fronts. Use soapy water to clean out the door seals. A clean seal goes a long way in ensuring fridge efficiency and leak prevention.
• Tackle spills and stains – bring out the bicarb if you encounter specific spills, such as sticky syrups or oily substances. Bicarbonate of soda mixed with water works wonders. Apply it, scrub it gently and rinse it with water before drying it.
• Focus on critical components – ensure the fridge is switched off and unplugged. Dust the condenser coils and clean the evaporator fans. Once these are clean, you’ll know your refrigerator is operating as efficiently as possible (provided it has no underlying problems).

Other tips for your commercial refrigerator cleaning process

Make your fridge cleaning routine as smooth as possible by considering these tips:

• Use the right tools – microfibres and muslins, soft brushes, gentle sponges and a good vacuum are, in most cases, all you’ll need.
• Choose low-traffic times – clean during quieter periods to minimise customer disruption and ensure thorough cleaning. Many organisations clean near or after the official closing time at night.
• Always prioritise safety – double-check that the unit is switched off at the wall before cleaning. Ensure it’s completely dry before restocking it with produce. This helps maintain a safe environment and keeps everything fresh and delicious.

How can Fridgesmart help?

Keeping your commercial refrigerator clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With the proper routine, products and techniques, you’ll maintain a safe and efficient space for your food.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Fridgesmart. We’d be delighted to help you solve your refrigeration conundrums or provide you with a new, top-of-the-range model at competitive rates. With free, friendly experts on hand to assist you whenever you need, we love helping your business thrive. And with exceptional warranties and delivery options, we’ll do everything possible to make your commercial refrigeration journey as straightforward as possible.