Cleaning your commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer may not be the top priority at the start of the day, but neglecting the task can lead to some big problems. From equipment strain and excessive energy consumption to increased liability due to food safety, there are many ways that keeping a dirty commercial walk-in cooler/freezer can cost you. Luckily, with regular maintenance, many of these issues can be prevented.
How Often Should You Clean Your Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer?
Depending on the nature of your walk-in cooler / freezer use, monthly, quarterly or annually cleaning may be necessary. Walk-in cooler/freezers in a medical or dietary supplements manufacture should cleaned monthly. A bakery, for example, may need to clean only once per quarter or annually.
Regardless of what’s stored, it’s a good idea to clean out your walk-in cooler/freezer on a monthly basis. Cleaning any stains with a non-abrasive cleaner, check your sensors, thermostats and make sure that your walk-in cooler/freezer is organized. Internal components should be cleaned on, at minimum, an annual basis. This cleaning will include your evaporator coils, condenser, drain lines and door gaskets.
Central Florida Store Services provides offsite temperature monitoring to its clients. We track the “vitals” of your unit, making it easier to diagnose problems before they affect your inventory.
Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer- The Exterior
Avoid the use of abrasive cleaning solutions including those with chlorine. Instead, use a washcloth or a soft brush and a combination of warm water and vinegar. You can also use baking soda paste or a steel degreaser for any grease or any “baked-on” food.
Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer- Door Gaskets
The door gaskets are very important to your unit. Dirty gaskets can lead to damage that can cause cool air to leave your walk-in cooler/freezer, costing you money and causing your food to spoil. Inspect all seals and wipe away any debris or build up with a damp soapy cloth. Replace any damaged gaskets immediately.
Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer- The Condenser Coil
One of the most important components to your commercial walk-in cooler/freezer, your condenser coil, should be cleaned at least once per month. Your condenser coil releases heat. If dirty, grime or an obstruction covers the coil, it can’t do its job and will eventually damage other parts of your unit.
Try using a wet-dry vac to clean the surface of your evaporator coil. You can clean the surface while also giving you the opportunity to blow out any dirt that may be stuck deep into the coils. Use a damp rag with soap to clean the exterior of the condenser coil.
Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer- The Drain Lines
For a commercial walk-in cooler/freezer, it’s easy for excess dirt and grime to build up in your drainage pans and tubes. Excessive build up can cause your unit to break down and the release of a pungent odor that will fill your entire kitchen. Cleaning them is as simple as cleaning any other aspect of your unit. The key here is to check for sludge build up regularly to prevent blockage.
Need a Hand Cleaning your Commercial Walk-in Cooler / Freezer?
Cleaning your commercial walk-in cooler/freezer is not a task that is difficult- but it can be meticulous and time consuming. Central Florida Store Services can take this important responsibility off your hands, leaving you to focus on more important aspects of your business. Contact us if you would like to discuss an affordable facility maintenance package to fit your unique needs.
