Older commercial refrigeration systems can still deliver reliable performance — but without proper care and upgrades, they often use more energy and are more prone to breakdowns. For restaurants, grocery stores, and foodservice facilities across Nevada, improving the efficiency of aging equipment can significantly reduce utility costs and extend system life.
At Buffo’s Refrigeration, we help businesses get the most out of their existing refrigeration systems. Here are expert ways to boost efficiency and performance in older units.
Clean and Maintain Condenser and Evaporator Coils
Dirty coils are one of the most common causes of inefficiency in older refrigeration systems. Dust, grease, and debris block airflow and force the compressor to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption.
Tip: Schedule professional coil cleaning at least twice a year. Clean coils transfer heat more effectively and reduce strain on your system.
Check and Replace Door Gaskets
Over time, door seals can dry out, crack, or lose elasticity, allowing cold air to escape and warm air to enter. This constant air exchange makes your refrigeration system run longer than necessary.
Solution: Inspect door gaskets regularly and replace any that are damaged or loose. A tight seal helps maintain consistent temperatures and prevents energy waste.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Fans and Motors
Older units often use outdated fan motors that consume more electricity than modern alternatives. Replacing them with ECM (electronically commutated motors) or high-efficiency fan blades can cut energy usage while improving airflow and cooling performance.
Buffo’s Refrigeration can assess your equipment and recommend affordable component upgrades that make a big impact.
Calibrate Thermostats and Temperature Controls
Inaccurate thermostats can cause your cooler to run colder than necessary, wasting energy. Regularly calibrate temperature controls to ensure your system maintains the proper range — typically 35°F to 38°F for coolers and 0°F or below for freezers.
If your system still uses outdated mechanical thermostats, consider upgrading to a digital control system for more precise temperature management.
Maintain Proper Airflow Around Equipment
Poor ventilation around your refrigeration units makes it harder for them to expel heat. Keep at least two feet of space around condensers and ensure vents aren’t blocked by boxes or walls.
This simple step allows your system to “breathe,” reducing compressor strain and extending its lifespan.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Low or incorrect refrigerant charge can significantly reduce system efficiency. Signs of a potential refrigerant issue include long run times, ice buildup, or fluctuating temperatures.
Only certified technicians should handle refrigerant. Regular commercial refrigeration maintenance ensures levels are correct and there are no leaks that could harm performance.
Add Night Curtains or Strip Curtains
If your cooler or display case is frequently opened or exposed to warm air, installing night curtains or vinyl strip curtains helps retain cold air and reduce compressor cycles. These small, affordable add-ons can make a noticeable difference in energy savings.
Insulate and Seal
Older walk-in coolers often lose efficiency due to degraded insulation or gaps between panels. Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for cracks or worn insulation. Proper sealing helps reduce cold air loss and maintain stable temperatures with less effort.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Nothing improves the efficiency and reliability of an older refrigeration system like consistent professional maintenance. Preventative service keeps your system clean, properly charged, and running at peak performance.
At Buffo’s Refrigeration, we provide comprehensive maintenance programs tailored to your operation’s age, usage, and equipment type helping extend the life of your refrigeration investment.
Know When to Upgrade
While maintenance and component upgrades can keep older systems running well, there comes a time when replacement is the smarter financial choice. Modern energy-efficient refrigeration systems use less electricity, operate more quietly, and offer improved temperature control.
Our team can help you assess whether upgrading your current system would save you money long-term.
Schedule Service Today
Improve your system’s performance, lower energy bills, and reduce the risk of breakdowns. Contact Buffo’s Refrigeration today to schedule maintenance or request a free consultation. We proudly serve Nevada and surrounding areas with reliable commercial refrigeration service and repair.
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