Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Display Fridges

By Author: Leading Catering
Total Articles: 18
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Display fridges are essential for supermarkets, convenience stores, cafes, and restaurants. They keep food and beverages fresh and enhance product visibility to attract customers. However, improper use can reduce efficiency, increase energy consumption, and even spoilage. Many business owners unknowingly make mistakes that affect the performance and lifespan of their display fridges.

This article will talk about common blunders to avoid when using display fridges and how to maintain them properly for optimal performance.

1. Overloading the Fridge

One of the most common mistakes is overloading the display fridge with too many products. While maximising storage space is a good idea, excessive stocking can block airflow, leading to uneven cooling.

Why It’s a Problem:

Poor Air Circulation: Cold air cannot circulate properly, causing some items to stay warmer.

Increased Energy Consumption: The fridge works harder to maintain the set temperature, leading to higher electricity bills.

Product Spoilage: Perishable items may not stay fresh due to inconsistent cooling.

How ...
... to Avoid This Mistake:

Follow the recommended load capacity for your fridge model.

Leave space between products to allow cold air to flow evenly.

Rotate inventory frequently to guarantee the first usage of older items.

2. Blocking Air Vents

Air vents are crucial in circulating cold air inside the display fridge. Blocking them with food items or packaging materials can disrupt the cooling process.

Why It’s a Problem:

Uneven Cooling: Some areas of the fridge may become warmer than others.

Compressor Overload: The cooling system works harder, leading to premature wear and tear.

Food Safety Risks: Perishable goods may not be stored at safe temperatures.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Keep vents clear and unobstructed.

Arrange items so that air can circulate freely around them.

Regularly check the vents for dust or debris buildup.

3. Setting the Wrong Temperature

Incorrect temperature settings can result in food spoilage or unnecessary energy consumption. Some users set their commercial display fridge too cold, while others keep it too warm.

Why It’s a Problem:

Too Cold: This can cause items to freeze, leading to unnecessary waste.

Too Warm: Perishable food may spoil faster, posing health risks.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended temperature settings.

Frequently check the internal temperature with a thermometer.

Adjust settings according to the type of products stored (e.g., dairy and meat require lower temperatures).

4. Frequent Door Opening

Constantly opening and closing the fridge doors can result in temperature changes, making it tougher for the unit to maintain a stable cooling environment.

Why It’s a Problem:

Temperature Instability: Warm air enters, causing the refrigerator to work harder to cool down again.

Increased Energy Usage: The compressor runs more frequently, increasing power consumption.

Condensation Build-up: Excess moisture can lead to frost formation inside the product.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Train staff to minimise unnecessary door openings.

Plan product refilling and restocking efficiently.

Use self-closing doors if available.

5. Poor Cleaning and Maintenance

Ignoring regular cleaning and upkeep can result in hygiene issues and reduced performance. Dust buildup, dirty shelves, and clogged drains can impact the refrigerator’s efficiency.

Why It’s a Problem:

Bacterial Growth: Unclean appliances can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to food contamination.

Foul Odours: Spilled liquids and rotting food can create unpleasant smells.

Mechanical Issues: Dust and dirt can clog the condenser coils, reducing cooling efficiency.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

After you buy display fridges online, clean the product interior and exterior regularly using mild detergents.

Wipe up spills immediately to prevent mould and bacteria buildup.

Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to check for potential issues.

6. Placing the Refrigerator in a Hot Area

The location of the display refrigerators plays a crucial role in its efficiency. Keeping it in direct sunlight or near heat sources can make it work intensely.

Why It’s a Problem:

Excessive Heat Exposure: Increases the internal temperature, making cooling less effective.

Higher Energy Bills: The product consumes more power to compensate for the heat.

Shortened Lifespan: Overworking the compressor can lead to premature breakdowns.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Keep the refrigerator away from stoves, ovens and direct sunlight.

Ensure proper ventilation around the unit.

Install curtains or blinds if the refrigerator is placed near a window.

7. Using an Improper Power Supply

A display option requires a stable and appropriate power supply to function efficiently. Using the wrong voltage or plugging it into an overloaded circuit can cause electrical issues.

Why It’s a Problem:

Power Fluctuations: This can cause the compressor to malfunction.

Circuit Overload: This may lead to electrical failures or fire hazards.

Frequent Breakdowns: An appliance running on unstable power may suffer from operational failures.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Use a dedicated power outlet for the appliance.

Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the correct voltage requirements.

Do not use extension cords, as they may not offer stable power.

8. Ignoring Warning Signs

Many times you shop display fridges online and they show early signs of malfunction, but many users ignore them until the problem worsens. Strange noises, inconsistent cooling, or water leaks should never be overlooked.

Why It’s a Problem:

Delayed Repairs: Small issues can turn into major breakdowns.

Increased Repair Costs: Ignoring early signs can lead to expensive fixes.

Food Waste: Products may spoil if the refrigerator stops cooling correctly.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Try to focus on strange noises or performance-related problems.

Check for excessive frost buildup or water leaks.

Schedule regular inspections to catch problems early.

9. Not Organising Products Properly

Proper organisation inside display equipment ensures better cooling efficiency and enhances the overall presentation. Messy arrangements can block airflow and make it harder for customers to find what they need.

Why It’s a Problem:

Inconsistent Cooling: Some new or second-hand display fridges may receive more cold air than others.

Poor Customer Experience: Customers may struggle to find products quickly.

Increased Spoilage: Items hidden at the back may expire unnoticed.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Arrange similar items together for better visibility.

Use labels to make it easier for customers to find products.

Implement the FIFO (First In, First Out) method to prevent expired stock.

10. Failing to Check Door Seals

The rubber seals (gaskets) around the equipment doors are vital in maintaining an airtight closure. Damaged or loose seals can let warm air in, reducing cooling efficiency.

Why It’s a Problem:

Air Leaks: Cold air escapes, causing temperature fluctuations.

Higher Energy Consumption: The refrigerator works harder to maintain the right temperature.

Food Safety Issues: Spoilage risk increases due to inconsistent cooling.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Frequently check door seals for any damage or wear and tear.

Clean seals with warm, soapy water to remove dirt buildup.

Replace damaged gaskets immediately to maintain optimal cooling.

Conclusion

A well-maintained display fridge is essential for keeping products fresh, reducing energy costs, and providing an attractive display for customers. Businesses can ensure their display offerings function efficiently by avoiding common mistakes such as overloading, blocking air vents, setting incorrect temperatures, and neglecting maintenance.

Regular cleaning, proper product organisation, and routine inspections can extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs. Investing time in proper refrigerator management will save money and ensure the best quality products for your customers.

for more information please visit here - https://leadingcatering.com.au/commercial-refrigeration/display-fridge.html