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Replacing cabinets with restricted access is possible but requires careful planning and adjustments.
Here’s how it can be done:
1. Assess the Restrictions
Vehcile access: If your store is located on a busy and narrow high street a spceifci vehcile may be required
Building Access Restrictions: If there's limited access to the store (e.g., a small doorway or stairs), you might need a cabinet that canbe assembled in the space. Few suppliers offer such cabinets however we do have some on offer.
Internal Space: Does other areas of the store need to be cleared to allow access and installation. Does the cabinet need to be brought in a specific way? All things our team can support with.
2. Plan the Installation
Measure Everything: Take precise measurements of doorways, staircases, and the area where the cabinets will be installed to ensure everything fits.
Disassembly (if needed): If existing cabinets are in place, they may need to be disassembled carefully to remove them without damaging walls or flooring.
3. Consider Alternative Access
Window Access: In some cases, cabinets can be brought in through large windows if doorways are too narrow.
Lifts or Hoists: For upper floors with tight staircases, special equipment might be needed to lift cabinets into the space.
Sizes of cabinets: It may be a suitable option to have multple small cabinets rather than one larger unit. This however can be costly
4. Installation Process
Prepare the Area: Ensure the area is clear of obstacles, and protect flooring and walls to prevent damage during installation.
Something a good installation team will take on for you.
5. Post-Installation
Finishing Touches: After installation, ensure all fittings are secure, and finish any necessary touch-ups like caulking or painting.
Cleanup: Dispose of old cabinets and packaging materials properly, especially if space is limited.
Almost all waste will be disposed off by the Installation Teams and cabinet disposal can be included in your quotation.
By following these steps you can successfully replace cabinets even with restricted access.
Maintaining refrigerated display cabinets is crucial for ensuring they operate efficiently, keep food safe, and extend their lifespan. Here’s a guide to help you maintain your refrigerated display cabinets:
1. Regular Cleaning
Daily Cleaning:
Interior:
Wipe down the interior surfaces with a mild detergent and warm water. Ensure that all food residues are removed to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
Exterior:
Clean the exterior, including doors and handles, to maintain hygiene and appearance.
Weekly Cleaning:
Shelving:
Remove and clean the shelves thoroughly. This prevents the buildup of spills or food particles.
Drain Pans and Drains:
Check and clean the drain pans and drains to prevent blockages and the buildup of unpleasant odors.
Monthly Cleaning:
Condenser Coils:
Vacuum or brush the condenser coils to remove dust and debris. Clean coils are crucial for efficient operation.
(Condensor coils can be razor sharp, we would suggest having a qualified technician to do this for you)
Evaporator Coils:
Check the evaporator coils for any frost or ice buildup. If there is a significant amount, defrost the cabinet according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Temperature Monitoring
Daily Checks:
Thermometer:
Ensure that the cabinet’s temperature is consistently within the recommended range for the products being stored.
Door Seals:
Inspect door seals and gaskets for any signs of wear or damage. Damaged seals can cause the cabinet to lose cold air, leading to inefficiency.
Weekly Checks:
Automatic Defrost System:
If your cabinet has an automatic defrost system, ensure it is working correctly.
3. Maintenance of Mechanical Parts
Monthly Checks:
Fans and Motors:
Inspect fans and motors for any signs of wear or unusual noises. Lubricate moving parts if necessary.
Refrigerant Levels:
Check refrigerant levels regularly (this may require a professional technician).
Low refrigerant can lead to inefficient cooling.
Yearly Service:
Professional Maintenance:
Have a qualified technician service your display cabinet at least once a year. This service should include checking the refrigerant, inspecting electrical components, and ensuring the overall system is functioning optimally.
4. Operational Best Practices
Avoid Overloading:
Do not overload the display cabinet, as this can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.
Stock Rotation: Practice first-in, first-out (FIFO) stock rotation to ensure that older products are used first, reducing waste.
Minimize Door Openings:
Reduce the frequency and duration of door openings to prevent temperature fluctuations.
5. General Tips
Keep Cabinet Level:
Ensure the cabinet is level to avoid issues with door seals and to allow proper drainage.
Power Supply:
Use a stable and adequate power supply to prevent electrical issues that can damage the unit.
Display Arrangement: Arrange products so that they do not block airflow inside the cabinet.
Frost Build-Up:
Regularly defrost the unit if frost begins to accumulate on the evaporator coils.
Unusual Noises: Address any unusual noises immediately, as they could indicate a mechanical issue that requires attention.
Temperature Fluctuations: If you notice frequent temperature fluctuations, it might be time to check the thermostat or seek professional help.
By following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that your refrigerated display cabinets operate efficiently, maintain the quality of stored products, and have a longer service life.
Refurbishing refrigerated display cabinets onsite can involve some downtime, but the extent depends on the scope of the refurbishment and how it's managed.
Here are key considerations to minimise downtime and disruption:
1. Scope of Refurbishment Minor Refurbishments:
Cosmetic refrubishments: such as repainting, Bumper/Front panel replacment replacing door seals, or minor repairs typically involve minimal downtime.
These can often be done in sections or during off-peak hours to keep cabinets operational during trading hours.
Major Refurbishments:
Larger projects like replacing compressors, re-insulating, or overhauling the refrigeration system will require more downtime. The entire unit may need to be taken offline for a significant period, ranging from several hours to a few days.
2. Scheduling and Planning Off-Peak Hours:
Schedule the refurbishment during off-peak hours, such as overnight or during slow business days. This reduces the impact on sales and customer experience.
Phased Approach:
If you have multiple cabinets, refurbish them in phases rather than all at once. This allows you to keep some cabinets operational while others are being refurbished.
Temporary Solutions:
Consider using temporary refrigerated storage or rental cabinets to hold products while the work is being done. This ensures that your products remain in a controlled environment.
3. Type of Refurbishment Service
Onsite Refurbishment:
Refurbishing cabinets onsite typically means less overall downtime compared to sending them offsite, but it can still be disruptive, especially if the work is extensive.
Offsite Refurbishment:
If downtime is a significant concern, some businesses opt to have cabinets refurbished offsite (e.g., by rotating them out of service and replacing them temporarily). This approach minimizes disruption but may involve higher costs and logistical challenges.
4. Hire Experienced Technicians:
Use professional refurbishment services that specialise in refrigerated display cabinets refrubishment. Experienced technicians can work more efficiently, reducing the time needed for refurbishment.
Pre-Refurbishment Inspection:
Conduct a thorough inspection before starting the refurbishment to identify all necessary repairs. This helps avoid unexpected issues that could extend downtime.
5. Communication with Customers Advance Notice:
Inform customers in advance if certain products or sections of your store will be unavailable due to the refurbishment. Clear communication helps manage customer expectations.
Use temporary signage to guide customers to other available sections or provide updates on when the cabinets will be back in service.
Conclusion
While some downtime is inevitable when refurbishing refrigerated display cabinets onsite, careful planning and execution can minimize the impact on your business. By scheduling work during off-peak hours, using a phased approach, and employing professional services, you can refurbish your cabinets efficiently while maintaining a high level of service for your customers.
Choosing between remote and integral refrigerated display cabinets depends on several factors, including your specific needs, the environment in which the cabinets will be used, and your budget. Here's a comparison to help you make an informed decision:
1. Remote Refrigerated Display Cabinets
Pros:
Heat Dissipation:
The refrigeration unit is located outside the building, reducing the amount of heat generated inside the space. This helps maintain a comfortable environment, particularly in smaller or enclosed spaces.
Noise Reduction: Since the compressor and other noisy components are located remotely, the noise level inside the store is significantly reduced, creating a quieter shopping environment.
Energy Efficiency: Remote systems are generally more energy-efficient, especially in large setups, as they can be connected to a central refrigeration system that optimizes energy use.
Capacity for Large Installations:
Better suited for larger installations where multiple units can be connected to a single refrigeration system, offering greater control and efficiency.
Cons:
Higher Initial Costs:
The installation of remote systems is generally more expensive due to the need for additional piping, electrical work, and the setup of the external refrigeration unit.
Complex Installation and Maintenance: Installation is more complex and typically requires professional technicians. Maintenance can also be more complicated and costly, as it may require specialised technicians and more extensive servicing.
Less Flexibility:
Remote systems are less flexible in terms of location since the units are tied to a specific external refrigeration system. Relocating the cabinets can be difficult and expensive.
2. Integral Refrigerated Display Cabinets
Pros:
Ease of Installation:
Integral units are plug-and-play, requiring only a power outlet for installation. This makes them easy to set up and move as needed.
Lower Initial Costs:
Generally, integral units have a lower upfront cost since there’s no need for additional infrastructure, such as external condensers or piping.
Flexibility and Mobility:
Integral units can be easily relocated within the store, making them ideal for dynamic retail environments where display configurations may change frequently.
Simpler Maintenance:
Maintenance is often simpler because all components are housed within the unit itself, and repairs can be done on-site without needing to access an external system.
Cons:
Heat and Noise: Integral units release heat and noise into the store, which can increase the load on the store’s air conditioning system and create a noisier environment.
Energy Consumption:
Typically, integral units consume more energy per unit compared to remote systems, especially when multiple units are used, as each one operates independently.
Limited Capacity:
Integral units are often less suitable for large-scale installations, as each unit operates independently, making them less efficient in large numbers.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Remote Refrigerated Cabinets if:
1) You have a large retail space with multiple display units.
2) You prioritise a quiet and cool store environment.
3) You are planning for a long-term installation and can invest in the higher upfront cost for better energy efficiency over time.
4) You have the space and budget to accommodate the external refrigeration unit.
Choose Integral Refrigerated Cabinets if:
1) You need flexibility in the layout and anticipate frequent changes in the display arrangement.
2) You have a smaller space where the installation of remote units might be impractical or unnecessary.
3) You have a limited budget for the initial purchase and installation.
4) You prefer a simpler setup with easier maintenance and lower initial costs.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs, budget, and the physical layout of your store. For large-scale or long-term installations, remote systems may offer better performance and efficiency. For smaller spaces or where flexibility and lower initial costs are priorities, integral units might be the better choice.
Refrigerated display cabinets should typically be replaced every 8 to 12 years, depending on factors like maintenance, usage, and quality.
Here are a few signs that may indicate it's time to replace them:
Rising Energy Costs:
Older models tend to be less energy-efficient, which can increase operating costs.
Temperature Inconsistencies:
If the cabinet struggles to maintain a stable temperature, it may affect food safety and spoilage.
Frequent Repairs:
When repair costs start to add up, it may be more economical to invest in a new unit.
Noise:
Excessive noise from the unit might indicate motor or compressor issues that are costly to fix.
Appearance:
If the cabinet's appearance is deteriorating, it may affect customer perception in retail settings.
Routine maintenance and cleaning can extend the lifespan, but after a decade, it’s good to evaluate whether upgrading to a more energy-efficient model might be a better option.
