Choosing a commercial refrigerator for a restaurant or diner is not like choosing a refrigerator for your home, as there are typically more options available for the overall configuration of a commercial refrigerator than there are for residential models. To ensure you choose the right configuration and model of commercial refrigerator for your business, note a few tips to keep in mind when shopping.

Door front

Door fronts are usually solid or glass, and each has its own pros and cons. A glass door means being able to see inside the refrigerator, so you can take a quick inventory of your goods without losing cooling. This can be a good choice for kitchens where contents in the refrigerator are constantly being accessed, as you may then need to keep consistent track of your inventory. A solid door, however, may be better insulated and easier to clean, as the solid material won't easily show fingerprints, grease and the like.

Floor for walk-in model

If you're choosing a walk-in model of refrigerator, be sure that the floor is insulated if the unit will be placed in an environment with high heat or humidity. That added heat around the unit can cause condensation to form on any areas of the refrigerator that are not insulated, and if condensation should form on the floor of the unit, this can cause a slipping hazard. This floor insulation may not be necessary for units that will be kept in a cooler environment, but be sure you invest in this added protection for walk-in models that are stored right in a hot kitchen or in other such warm areas.

Sliding versus hinged door

Sliding doors are good for smaller areas, where there may not be enough clearance to open a hinged door. Sliding doors may also mean less cooling being lost every time you access the refrigerator, as you can slide the door open just partially in order to reach inside, whereas a hinged door may need to be opened completely for adequate access.

On the other hand, sliding doors may be very cumbersome if a person needs to access both sides of the refrigerator; he or she would need to slide open one door, close it, and then slide open the other door, just to retrieve their items. This can slow down your food production line. Sliding doors are also more difficult to clean on the inside, so if your refrigerator will be in view of the customers, you might opt for hinged doors so you can always keep the equipment looking clean and presentable.