7 Things to Know Before Buying a Commercial Refrigerator

Buying a commercial refrigerator? Learn 7 key factors — from size and door type to durability and warranty — to choose the best fridge for your business.

Buying the Right Commercial Refrigerator Matters

Purchasing a commercial refrigerator or freezer is a big investment for any business. The right choice can boost efficiency, save energy, and help you avoid costly repairs, while the wrong one can lead to headaches and downtime. Here’s what to consider before you buy.

1. Determine Your Storage Capacity

The first step is figuring out how much cold storage space your business needs.

Standard reach-in units come with one, two, or three doors.
Small cafés, coffee shops, or food trucks may only need a one-door model.
Larger restaurants, markets, and catering kitchens will benefit from two- or three-door options.

Pro Tip: Measure your available space carefully. Commercial units are bulkier than residential fridges, so double-check clearance for both the unit and delivery path.

2. Choose the Right Door Type

Door style affects durability, visibility, and insulation.

Solid Doors – Durable, better insulated, and easier to clean. Ideal for back-of-house and high-use kitchens.
Glass Doors – Perfect for customer-facing areas. Makes it easy to see products and check inventory without opening the door.

You’ll also need to decide between hinged and sliding doors. Hinged doors open fully for easy loading, while sliding doors save space in tight areas.

3. Select a Top- or Bottom-Mounted Compressor

Your environment will help determine which compressor location works best.

Top-Mounted – Stays cleaner in busy kitchens, avoids floor dust, and performs well in hot, greasy environments. Requires extra ceiling clearance.
Bottom-Mounted – Easier to service, slightly more storage space, and better for cooler, cleaner workspaces. May require more frequent cleaning.

4. Consider Durability and Materials

The build quality of your refrigerator determines how well it handles daily use.

Heavy-Duty – Stainless steel inside and out for high-volume, fast-paced kitchens. Resists rust and cleaning chemicals.
Standard-Duty – Stainless steel exterior with aluminum interior for moderate use and a lower price point.

Shelving also matters — epoxy-coated shelves are standard, while stainless steel or polymer shelving works best in high-impact settings.

5. Decide If You Need Mobility

Commercial refrigerators can have castors (wheels) or stationary legs.

Castors – Easier to move, install, and clean around. Ideal for kitchens that need flexibility.
Legs – More stability and adjustable height for uneven floors. Sometimes required in healthcare and certain institutions.

Some manufacturers include castors, while others sell them separately.

6. Plan for Installation Requirements

Before ordering, think about how your unit will be delivered and installed.

Check for stairs, tight doorways, or narrow hallways.
Ensure you have the correct electrical outlet type and power requirements in place.
Remember: the more complex the delivery, the higher the installation cost.

7. Understand the Warranty and Service Options

A warranty protects your investment and ensures long-term performance.

Compare manufacturer warranties for parts, labor, and compressors.
Ask about extended warranty options.
Consider a preventive maintenance plan from Allegheny Refrigeration to keep your unit running efficiently for years.

The Bottom Line

A commercial refrigerator is a vital part of your kitchen operation, and choosing the right one requires careful planning. By considering size, door type, compressor location, durability, mobility, installation, and warranty, you’ll make a smart investment that serves your business well.

Need expert help choosing the right fridge? Contact Allegheny Refrigeration today to get personalized recommendations and a quote.