Ice Cold, Green Bold: What to Seek in Environmentally Friendly Freezers

ByMain Auction Services, Inc

As a restaurant owner, upgrading your freezer can be a significant investment. But choosing an energy-efficient model is not only good for the environment – it’s good for your bottom line. This guide will walk you through what to look for when shopping for an eco-friendly commercial freezer, from Energy Star ratings to sustainable refrigerants. We’ll also provide tips on maintaining and operating your new freezer to maximize efficiency. Learn how to freeze responsibly at your restaurant supply OKC establishment.

Energy Efficient Compressors

The compressor is the heart of your freezer and is responsible for cooling and circulation. When evaluating energy-efficient freezers, look for models with high-efficiency compressors. These compressors consume less energy while still effectively cooling your unit. Variable speed compressors are ideal – they can adjust cooling power based on demand, using less energy during downtimes. Plus, high-efficiency compressors generally last longer than standard models. Your restaurant supply OKC sales associate can point you toward the most energy-efficient compressor options for your budget and needs.

Insulated Doors

Insulated doors dramatically improve freezer efficiency by preventing cold air from escaping whenever the door is opened. Look for freezers with doors packed with insulation, such as polyurethane foam. The door gaskets should form a tight seal when closed. Having multiple compartment doors rather than one large door can minimize cooling loss. Ask your restaurant supply OKC retailer about options to add strip curtains or air curtains to existing units to improve door insulation. Investing in upgrades like these will pay off over time in energy savings.

Energy Star Certified

Check for the EPA’s Energy Star certification when shopping for a commercial freezer. Energy Star ratings indicate electrical efficiency in comparison to non-certified models. For example, Energy Star-certified solid door reach-in freezers are at least 15% more energy efficient. Energy Star units may cost more upfront, but the long-term utility bill savings make it well worth the investment for your bottom line. Ask your restaurant supply OKC sales rep about available rebates for choosing Energy Star-certified appliances.

Sustainable Refrigerants

The refrigerant used in freezers contributes significantly to their carbon footprint. Choosing an option with sustainable refrigerants, such as ammonia or CO2, can drastically reduce environmental impact. Ammonia has no global warming potential and has been used as an effective refrigerant for over a century. CO2 refrigerant has a far lower global warming potential than conventional fluorocarbon refrigerants. When sourcing a freezer, ask manufacturers about the refrigerants and options for more sustainable alternatives. Your restaurant supply OKC provider should be knowledgeable about the latest options.

Smart Defrost Capabilities

Manual defrosting is time-consuming and adds to electric costs. Seek out freezers with clever automatic defrost cycles to maximize efficiency. Models with smart defrost track compressor runtime and only defrost when needed, rather than running on inefficient timers. This prevents energy waste from unnecessary defrost cycles while keeping the evaporator clear of ice buildup. Intelligent defrost capabilities are standard for high-end commercial freezers, but be sure to request it if you still need to be included.

Buy Used Or Refurbished

Refrain from using or refurbishing when freezer shopping. Quality-used commercial equipment can provide the same functionality at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Refurbished units direct from the manufacturer come with warranties and are stringently tested for performance and defects. Your restaurant supply OKC retailer can help you source reliable used or refurbished freezers that still offer energy-efficient operation. Consider leasing an option, too – you can reserve capital for other investments.

Proper Sizing

Choose a freezer size suited to your current needs rather than going overboard. Oversized units require more energy to run. Work with your restaurant supply OKC provider to determine the ideal capacity and features based on your menu, service style, and kitchen layout. They can assess your existing setup and forecast future needs to recommend appropriately sized options. Don’t leave extra space – use strips, curtains, or panels to shrink large freezer cavities. This improves temperature distribution and cooling performance.

Maintenance Best Practices

Once you’ve invested in an energy-efficient freezer, proper maintenance and use will keep it running efficiently. Keep condenser coils clean – dirty coils increase compressor runtime and energy consumption. Minimize open door time to retain cold air. Organize contents so items are easy to locate. Position units away from heat sources like ovens or dishwashers. Maintain door gaskets and replace worn ones that allow air leaks. With regular care, your eco-friendly freezer can maintain peak performance for years.

Smart Monitoring

Advanced freezer models have innovative remote monitoring capabilities that further optimize efficiency. Look for units that monitor temperature, humidity, door openings, and utility usage. The collected data can be reviewed to catch issues early and inform adjustments to usage patterns. Some systems provide alerts for excessive energy consumption or temperature fluctuations that help avoid food spoilage. Discuss intelligent monitoring options with your restaurant supply OKC representative to see if they fit your needs. The potential savings may justify the added cost.

Conclusion

Investing in an environmentally responsible freezer is a savvy business move for restaurants looking to save on energy costs. Sustainable features like high-efficiency compressors, insulated doors, and Energy Star ratings drastically cut utility bills compared to conventional freezers. New technologies even allow intelligent remote monitoring to refine efficiency further. When sourcing a new freezer, consult your restaurant supply OKC provider to identify the most eco-friendly and budget-friendly options. And be sure to follow best practices in maintaining your new freezer to maximize its energy efficiency for years.

Main Auction Services was founded in 1984 by current owner and president, Arnold Main. The company began as a small auction house specializing in the sale of used and new commercial restaurant equipment. Over the years, Main Auction Services has grown to become one of the largest restaurant equipment providers in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. We supply both new and used commercial kitchen equipment to businesses all over Texas. Our staff is experienced and knowledgeable in the auction industry and business management, making us your best choice for buying or selling restaurant equipment.