Refrigeration

Refrigeration takes many forms in foodservice operations including walk-ins, reach-ins, and display cases.

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A Guide to Undercounter Refrigeration

Undercounter refrigerators, also called lowboys, are typically used in a kitchen’s prep area and hold food at temperatures less than 45 degrees F. 

Undercounter refrigerators come in a variety of different configurations with between one and four doors, drawers or slide tops. These units are deep enough to accommodate full-size sheet pans. 

Lengths are available in 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 inches, and depths are from 24 to 34 inches. Generally, these refrigerators are 34 inches high to fit under counters, but shorter models also are available.

In terms of configuration sizes, a 1-door cooler will have 24-inch-wide doors, while a double-door cooler measures 48 inches wide. For narrower spaces, units are available with doors that are 20 inches wide. Low-profile models that provide additional storage space between the top of the cooler and the countertop are also available. Pass-through coolers are common in center islands and have doors on both sides for access from the front and back. Dual-zone units with two temperature zones store various alcoholic beverages, such as beer at 35 degrees F, white wine at between 50 degrees F and 55 degrees F, or red wine at between 60 degrees F and 65 degrees F.

Looking at construction, undercounter refrigerators are generally made of stainless steel on the top and ends. Interior materials vary depending on the model, ranging from all aluminum, a combination of aluminum and ABS plastic, or either plastic or aluminum with a stainless-steel floor. The refrigeration’s back and base are typically galvanized steel, and these units have 2-inch foamed-in-place insulation.

Those with doors typically offer a choice of solid black, stainless steel, solid black with laminate, glass with black vinyl and field laminate, glass with stainless steel, or glass with laminate over a black frame. Custom finishes may be available and include a custom wood overlay panel or frame. Door handles are full-length, classic 6-inch chrome, and black or tab types. 

Undercounter refrigeration is typically equipped with two locking and two swivel casters to prevent the unit from inadvertently rolling while in use. Leg kits can adjust the cooler’s height from 4 to 6 inches or from 6 to 7¼ inches. Also standard are one-piece magnetic door gaskets. Door locks, as well as top- and bottom-mount compressors, are also available.

Some units utilize automatic evaporator fan motor delays, which prevent condensation from developing by mixing cold interior air with ambient kitchen air. A 30-second stay-open door alarm is an option with some models. Units with high-tech digital controls can be adjusted manually to reach the desired temperature setting. Cold air distribution systems provide uniformly maintained temperature within the interior cavity. 

Other options depend on the model and may include a combination of drawers and doors, various size casters to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for a 32½-inch tall unit, a heavy-duty top for conducting prep work and a collar that enables stacking two units on top of the other. Full-extension shelves allow wine bottles to lie flat and nest, and pull out for easier access. Thermostatic controls for dual-zone units allow separate temperatures to be set for two compartments.

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