Kitchen

What to Consider When Buying a Commercial Refrigerator

October 23, 2025

Interior view of commercial refrigerator with organized shelving.

What to Consider When Buying a Commercial Refrigerator

Summary: Choosing the right commercial refrigerator can make or break your kitchen’s efficiency. Here’s your complete guide—covering capacity, space, refrigerator types, multi-compartment options, cost vs. value, popular brands (including medical-grade), and long-term ownership.

When it comes to outfitting a commercial kitchen, few purchases are as critical as your refrigerator. This is the backbone of food storage, safety, and efficiency. At Aldevra, we help customers make informed decisions by focusing on the details that matter most.

If you’re in the market for a new commercial refrigerator, here’s what to consider:

1. Capacity and Space

Refrigerators come in many sizes—from compact undercounters to massive walk-ins. Before buying, ask yourself:

• Daily Volume: How much food needs storage at peak times?

• Menu Variety: More ingredients = more space required.

• Future Growth: Will your operation expand in the next few years?

• Kitchen Layout: Will the unit fit through doors, under counters, and allow enough clearance for ventilation?

Tip: It’s better to size slightly larger than to outgrow your unit within a year.

2. Types of Commercial Refrigerators

Different operations call for different refrigerator designs. Here are the most common options:

• Reach-In Refrigerators – One to three doors, the most common style.

• Undercounter Refrigerators – Compact, space-saving, fit under counters.

• Worktop Refrigerators – Combine prep counters with cold storage.

• Walk-In Refrigerators – Bulk storage rooms with customizable shelving.

• Display Refrigerators (Glass Door) – Showcase grab-and-go items.

• Bar / Back Bar Coolers – Narrow units for bottles, kegs, and mixers.

• Chef Bases – Refrigerated drawers topped with cooking equipment.

• Specialty Refrigerators – Blast chillers, prep tables, and pass-thru models.

🧊 Comparison of Refrigerator Types

Type	Best For	Typical Size Range	Pros	Cons
Reach-In	General kitchen storage	1–3 doors (24″–78″ wide)	Easy access, versatile, many configurations	Takes up floor space, limited bulk storage
Undercounter	Small kitchens, bars	27″–72″ wide	Space-saving, fits under counters	Lower capacity, not ideal for bulk storage
Worktop	Prep stations	27″–72″ wide	Doubles as prep space + storage	Limited storage volume
Walk-In	Large operations, bulk storage	Customizable (6′×6′+)	High capacity, customizable shelving, scalable	Higher upfront cost, requires installation & space
Display (Glass Door)	Customer-facing sales	Single to 3-door units	Increases sales, attractive presentation	Less insulation, higher energy use
Bar / Back Bar	Bars, breweries, event venues	24″–72″ wide	Designed for bottles & kegs, compact design	Limited temperature range options
Chef Base	Cooklines with equipment on top	36″–108″ wide	Storage + equipment stand, improves workflow	Lower capacity, less versatile than reach-ins
Specialty (Blast Chiller, Prep Table, Pass-Thru)	Niche needs (bakeries, catering, institutional)	Varies widely	Increases efficiency for specific tasks	Higher cost, specialized use
Multi-Compartment / Dual-Temp Units	Kitchens with limited space but varied storage needs	27″–78″ wide	Refrigerator + freezer in one, dual zones, drawers or split doors, flexible storage	Higher cost, more complex maintenance, slightly less capacity per section

3. Multi-Compartment Options

Many refrigerators now feature multiple compartments or temperature zones, such as:

• Dual-Temperature Units – Refrigerator + freezer in one.

• Split Doors – Access one section at a time to reduce energy loss.

• Drawer Units – Keep ingredients organized at prep stations.

• Convertible Compartments – Switch between fridge/freezer as needed.

👉 Why it matters: These options save space, boost efficiency, and cut energy costs—ideal for busy kitchens with limited floor plans.

4. Energy Efficiency

Refrigeration is one of the largest energy draws in a kitchen. Look for:

• ENERGY STAR® Certification

• LED Lighting

• Thick insulation

• Smart controls with digital monitoring

Efficient units cost more upfront but deliver savings every month.

5. Cleanability and Maintenance

Food safety depends on easy upkeep. Choose units with:

• Removable gaskets

• Rounded interior corners

• Stainless steel construction

• Accessible condenser coils

Preventive maintenance twice a year (or quarterly in high-volume kitchens) extends equipment life.

6. Compliance and Safety

Make sure your refrigerator is:

• NSF Certified for food safety

• FDA code-compliant for temperature ranges

• Acceptable to your local health department

7. Warranty and Service

Before buying, ask:

• What’s covered (parts, labor, compressor)?

• How long is coverage?

• Is local service support available?

A cheaper refrigerator without strong warranty support can cost more in downtime.

8. Cost vs. Value: Spend More or Save Now?

The biggest dilemma buyers face is upfront savings vs. long-term value.

• Lower-cost units: 5–8 years lifespan, basic warranties, more repairs.

• Higher-quality units: 10–15 years lifespan, stronger warranties, lower maintenance, ENERGY STAR®.

⚖️ Cost vs. Value

Factor	Lower-Cost Refrigerator 💲	Higher-Quality Refrigerator 💎
Upfront Price	Lower purchase price	Higher purchase price
Lifespan	5–8 years	10–15 years
Warranty	1 year parts/labor	Up to 5 years parts/labor
Energy Efficiency	Often lower	ENERGY STAR® certified
Durability	Lighter-duty construction	Heavy-duty construction
Maintenance Costs	Frequent repairs	Fewer repairs, lower costs
Total Cost	Higher over time	Lower over time

👉 Bottom line: Spending more upfront often means fewer headaches and more savings later.

9. Popular Commercial Refrigerator Brands

Some of the most trusted names in foodservice refrigeration include:

• True Refrigeration – Durability, made in the USA, long warranties.

• Turbo Air – Energy-efficient, self-cleaning condensers, mid-market friendly.

• Delfield – Strong in prep tables and custom solutions.

• Continental Refrigerator – U.S.-made reach-ins and undercounters.

• Hoshizaki – Leader in ice machines plus dependable refrigeration.

• Atosa – Budget-friendly stainless-steel options popular with restaurants and food trucks.

10. Medical-Grade Refrigerators

Beyond kitchens, refrigeration is critical in healthcare and lab environments. Medical-grade refrigerators are designed for strict compliance and safety:

• Temperature Precision – Holds tight ranges (±1°C) for vaccines, medications, and samples.

• Continuous Monitoring – Digital displays, alarms, and data logging.

• Security – Locking mechanisms and restricted access.

• Compliance Standards – Often CDC, FDA, USP <797>/<800> compliant.

• Construction – Faster recovery after door openings than foodservice units.

When to Choose Medical-Grade

• Pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals.

• Laboratories storing sensitive specimens.

• VA or DoD healthcare facilities with strict compliance needs.

👉 Tip: Foodservice refrigerators are not acceptable for medical use—medical-grade is required for compliance and patient safety.

✅ Commercial Refrigerator Buyer’s Checklist

Before you buy, make sure you’ve answered these key questions:

📏 Size & Capacity

• Does it meet your current and future storage needs?

• Will it fit through doorways and into your kitchen space?

• Is there enough clearance for ventilation?

🧊 Type & Layout

• Which type best fits your operation?

• Reach-In

• Undercounter

• Worktop

• Walk-In

• Display / Glass Door

• Bar / Back Bar

• Chef Base

• Multi-Compartment / Dual-Temp

• Do you need drawers, split doors, or dual-temperature zones?

⚡ Efficiency & Compliance

• Is it ENERGY STAR® certified?

• Does it meet NSF and FDA food safety standards?

• Will it pass local health department inspections?

🧽 Cleanability & Maintenance

• Are gaskets removable and corners rounded for easy cleaning?

• Is the interior stainless steel?

• Are condenser coils accessible for service?

🔧 Service & Support

• What does the warranty cover (parts, labor, compressor)?

• How long is the coverage?

• Is there local service support available?

💲 Cost vs. Value

• What’s the total cost of ownership (energy, maintenance, downtime)?

• Am I buying the cheapest unit—or the one that will last the longest?

🏆 Brands & Options

• Have I compared top brands (True, Atosa, Turbo Air, etc.)?

• Do I need medical-grade refrigeration for compliance?

📦 Accessories & Add-Ons

• Extra shelving kits, pan racks, or drawers?

• Casters for mobility?

• Thermometer probes or water filters for ice-making units?

👉 Pro Tip: Answering these questions before you buy will save you money, time, and stress down the road.

11. FAQs

Q1: How long does a commercial refrigerator last?

10–15 years with proper care.

Q2: What temperature should it be set at?

35–38°F, never above 40°F.

Q3: How often should it be serviced?

At least twice a year; quarterly for busy kitchens.

Q4: What’s the difference between commercial and residential?

Commercial = higher capacity, faster recovery, easier cleaning, safety compliance.

Q5: Is ENERGY STAR® worth it?

Yes, units pay for themselves in energy savings.

Q6: Can I install one myself?

Professional installation is recommended.

Q7: Do I need NSF certification?

Yes, for public foodservice operations.

Q8: What accessories should I consider?

Shelving kits, casters, locks, thermometer probes.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a commercial refrigerator isn’t just about what fits in your space today—it’s about capacity, type, compartments, efficiency, compliance, and long-term value. At Aldevra, we help customers weigh all of these factors so they get equipment that performs reliably and delivers a true return on investment.

Ready to explore your options? Contact Aldevra today for expert guidance, competitive pricing, and support that doesn’t stop after the sale.