Blast chillers and shock freezers

Blast chillers and shock freezers are critical components of many commercial kitchens, especially those in restaurants, food service establishments, and supermarkets. These units are designed to rapidly cool food products to preserve their quality, texture, and nutritional value. By chilling food quickly, shock freezers help avoid the development of bacteria and other pathogens, guaranteeing food safety and extending shelf life.  

In this guide, we'll cover the essential maintenance tips that will help keep your shock freezer running efficiently. Whether you are responsible for a small kitchen or a large food production facility, these tips can extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure it operates at optimum levels. 

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Why is Shock Freezer Maintenance Important? 

  1. Regularly Clean the Interior and Exterior

Maintaining your commercial equipment is one of the most straightforward but crucial maintenance tasks. Dirt, grease, and food residue can quickly accumulate on the unit's interior and exterior, affecting performance and hygiene. 

How to clean the interior: 

  • Empty the appliance: Remove all food products and ice buildup before wiping the interior. 
  • Wipe surfaces: Use a sponge or soft cloth with hot water and a mild soap to clean the offering's walls, shelves, and other surfaces. 
  • Disinfect: After rinsing with detergent, sanitise the surfaces with a food-safe disinfectant. This step will help prevent bacterial buildup, which could affect food safety. 
  • Check for ice buildup: Ice can accumulate inside the product, especially if opened frequently. Make sure the vents and evaporator coils are cleared of ice and frost. 

How to clean the exterior: 

  • Wipe the outside: Use a sterilised cloth to remove dust and dirt from the outer surfaces. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean areas where dirt accumulates, like vents and the condenser coil. 
  • Inspect gaskets: Regularly check the rubber seals (gaskets) on the door. These gaskets ensure that the item remains airtight. Wipe them down with a cloth and inspect for any signs of wear or cracks. If the gaskets are damaged, replace them immediately to avoid energy loss. 
  1. Check and Wipe the Condenser Coils


Condenser coils are tasked with expelling heat from the refrigerant. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on the coils, resulting in the unit functioning harder to maintain its temperature, which can result in increased energy consumption and a shortened lifespan of even the best blast chiller and chest freezer. 

How to clean the condenser coils: 

  • Locate the coils: The condenser coils are typically found on the back or underside of the shock freezer. For their exact location, refer to your appliance's user manual. 
  • Turn off the unit: Unplug the shock freezer before rinsing to ensure safety. 
  • Use a vacuum cleaner: Use a brush attachment to clean the coils and remove dust and debris gently. Try not to bend or ruin the coils. 
  • Use a coil cleaning brush: If there's significant dirt buildup, gently scrub the coils with a coil cleaning brush. Do not use harsh chemicals or harsh tools, as they could damage the coils. 

  1. Ensure Proper Airflow and Ventilation

For your shock freezer to function correctly, it needs adequate airflow around it. Poor ventilation can cause the equipment to overheat or fail to maintain the desired temperature. 

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Tips for maintaining proper airflow: 

  • Keep the area around the equipment clear: There should be enough space around the appliance to allow for air circulation. This step typically means leaving several inches of space around the unit, especially near the condenser and vents. 
  • Inspect ventilation fans: The chiller fans are responsible for airflow. Regularly check the fans to ensure they work smoothly and are not obstructed by debris. If they are dirty or malfunctioning, they should be cleaned or replaced. 

  1. Inspect the Refrigerant Level

The refrigerant in your small blast chiller and shock freezer is crucial for its cooling capabilities. If the refrigerant level is too low, the unit will struggle to reach and maintain the proper chilling temperature, impacting the product's food safety and energy efficiency. 

How to check the refrigerant level: 

  • Monitor the temperature: Check the shock freezer's internal temperature. If it's not reaching the ideal temperature, it could indicate low refrigerant. 
  • Call a professional technician: Checking and refilling the refrigerant is not a task for beginners, as it involves specialised knowledge and equipment. If you suspect an issue with the refrigerant, reach out to a qualified repairperson to check the system. 

  1. Monitor the Thermostat and Temperature Settings

Your shock equipment's thermostat regulates its cooling cycle. If the thermostat malfunctions, the product may not operate at the correct temperature, leading to food storage and energy efficiency issues. 

Tips for thermostat maintenance: 

  • Test the thermostat: Regularly test the offering's temperature settings to ensure the appliance maintains the correct temperature. Most shock equipment should be set between -18°C and -25°C (-0.4°F to -13°F). 
  • Calibrate if necessary: If the temperature seems off, it could be time to recalibrate the thermostat. Consult your appliance's manual for guidance, or have a technician assist with the calibration. 

  1. Check the Drainage System

Blast chillers and shock freezers for sale often have a drainage system that removes water from melted ice or condensation. If this drainage system becomes clogged, water can accumulate inside the chiller, leading to performance issues and potential damage to the equipment. 

How to maintain the drainage system: 

  • Inspect the drain regularly: Check the drain at the bottom of the unit for any blockages or buildup. 
  • Clean the drain: If you notice debris or ice buildup, use a small brush or a pipe cleaner to clear it. You can also clear the drain with hot water, ensuring the system is clear of clogs. 

  1. Test the Door Seals

The door seals or gaskets are crucial for keeping the product airtight. Damaged or dirty seals can lead to temperature fluctuations, making the offering work harder to maintain the required chilling conditions. 

How to check and maintain door seals: 

  • Inspect the seals for wear: Check the door seals for cracks, tears, or any other signs of damage. If the seals are compromised, cold air will escape, and the product will consume more energy. 
  • Clean the seals: Wipe the seals down with a wet fabric to remove debris or food particles. If they are filthy, use mild soap and water to clean them. 
  • Perform the "dollar bill test": Place a dollar bill between the door and the chiller body to check the effectiveness of the seals. Close the gate and try to remove the bill. If the bill slides out too quickly, it may be time to replace the door seals. 

Conclusion 

Maintaining your blast chiller and shock freezer ensures it operates efficiently, preserves food safely, and lasts for years. Following these maintenance tips and performing regular checks can prevent common problems, reduce energy consumption, and avoid costly repairs. If you're unsure about any of these tasks or face persistent issues, don't hesitate to consult a professional technician to guarantee the longevity and trustworthiness of your industrial appliance.