Not only is it important to clean a commercial refrigerator for presentation but more importantly for hygiene.
Please note: Before cleaning the refrigerator it’s important to note that it’s an electrical unit and needs to be emptied of food (preferably store the food in another cooling device), the electrical socket switched off, and the unit unplugged. This is imperative to remove the possibility of any electrical danger.
Any refrigerator needs to be thoroughly cleaned at regular intervals over time. Not regularly cleaning an entire fridge unit results in the build-up of bacterial or fungal dirt and grime. Not only is this not good for the fridge, but poses a serious health threat for any food stored in the unit. Be very wary that any food that has been in contact with grime in the fridge is at risk of being a health hazard. The basic components of a commercial refrigerator that requires cleaning are its exterior unit, door, the shelves, the door gaskets, the condenser coil and the motor or fan.
Exterior Unit & Door
The exterior of the unit needs to be wiped every day. It also requires a weekly wipe using a water and mild soap solution. The use of strong cleaning lotions (bleach etc.) must be avoided as this may affect the surface of the refrigerator unit whereby it may lose its desired interior/exterior finish. A mild soap and warm water solution will clean away any stains or dirt and dust. A glass-doored commercial refrigerator is simple to clean with a damp cloth or paper towel.
Shelves
The shelves of the refrigerator must be cleaned with warm water and mild soap solution to wipe away the dirt and the dust. Remember not to wash the shelves or the interior portions of the refrigerator with any strong solution and bleach because it will not only affect the finish of the refrigerator but also leave behind a strong odour, and chemical solution. If mixed with the food, such strong odours and chemicals will not only affect its flavour, but could also pose a health risk. Door gaskets
The door gaskets must be cleaned on a weekly basis. This can be done by soaking them in soap and water solution for thirty minutes. Then simply dry them, and reattach to the unit. However, you will need to ensure that they form a proper seal with the unit after they have been reattached.
Condenser Coil & Fan
A lot of care should be taken when cleaning the condenser coil as it is quite important to the overall refrigerator unit. It requires a monthly clean with commercial condenser coil cleaner to keep it free from dust, dirt and lint of any kind. Similarly, the fan blades and the motor should be cleaned once a month with a dry cloth and soft brush. If it is necessary to wash them with water, ensure they are completely dry before the refrigerator is switched on to prevent a short circuit.
Further Cleaning Tips
A couple of quick tips are outlined below which will help you keep it clean with ease outside your regular cleaning cycle:
– A clean sponge dosed in water and lemon juice, run through the insides of the unit and over the shelves helps remove any foul odour, and keeps the inside relatively clean between regular cleans.
– The likes of warm soapy water, a sponge and a little bit of baking soda will go a long way when wiping down any stubborn, dried-on messes or spillages. Leaving baking soda on the mess for a couple of minutes before wiping it off with a warm-soapy water soaked sponge will clean with great ease. The cleaning solution is not a health hazard, nor is it harsh on the unit’s finish, and your fridge can remain in use during the small clean.
Remember that the more frequently you clean your refrigerator, the less likely you are to experience build-up of dirt and grime, and the cleaning will be easier. Be proactive about cleaning your unit, and you’ll be thankful each and every day with a fresh, clean place to store your goods!
