To save space and money, many operators build a combined walk-in cooler and freezer in one. In reality, these are essentially two distinct refrigeration units with a shared wall. Wayne Stoutner, CEO of service agency Duffy’s – AIS offers three tips on maintaining these units:

• A combined unit will have two sets of refrigeration systems, one for the cooler and one for the freezer. Regularly clean both systems for the unit to work efficiently and effectively and to maximize service life.
• Make sure gaskets for both the interior and exterior door remain in good condition. If you notice frost building up on the freezer door or excessive moisture on the cooler door, change the gaskets. Either an operator or a service agent can handle this job.
• Similarly, ensure that the hinges and automatic door closers show no signs of damage and continue to work properly. A door that doesn’t close quite right may seem minor, but over the multi-decade life of a walk-in, that poorly closing door could cost a foodservice operator big bucks in energy, repairs and service life.