Energy costs are a major expense for any foodservice or retail business. Your commercial refrigeration system runs around the clock to preserve food and inventory but that constant operation also makes it one of the biggest energy users in your facility.
Fortunately, there are many simple ways to lower your utility bills, reduce wear on your equipment, and improve efficiency. The team at Buffo’s Refrigeration, serving Nevada, shares expert tips to help you save energy while keeping your products perfectly chilled.
Keep Coils Clean
Dirty condenser and evaporator coils make your system work harder to remove heat, increasing energy consumption. Regular cleaning ensures efficient heat transfer and prevents unnecessary strain on the compressor.
Tip: Have your coils professionally cleaned at least twice a year as part of your commercial refrigeration maintenance program.
Check Door Seals and Gaskets
Leaky door gaskets allow cold air to escape, forcing your cooler to run longer and waste energy. Inspect door seals regularly for cracks or wear, and replace them as needed.
Quick check: Close a dollar bill in the door — if you can pull it out easily, it’s time for a new gasket.
Maintain Proper Airflow
Good airflow is essential for efficient cooling. Blocked vents or overloaded shelves restrict circulation, causing uneven temperatures and longer compressor cycles.
- Keep items spaced out and away from vents
- Avoid stacking boxes directly against the walls
- Don’t overload the cooler or freezer
Proper organization helps your system maintain temperature more easily, saving energy over time.
Set the Correct Temperature
Many commercial coolers are set colder than necessary. Each extra degree of cooling can increase energy use by 2–4%.
- Refrigerators: 35°F to 38°F
- Freezers: -10°F to 0°F
Verify temperature settings match your product requirements and local health regulations.
Turn Off Unnecessary Lighting
Interior lights add heat to your refrigeration space, making the system work harder. Replace standard bulbs with LED lighting, which produces less heat and uses significantly less energy.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Routine commercial refrigeration service is the most effective way to improve efficiency and extend equipment life. During a maintenance visit, technicians will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect door gaskets, and ensure fans and controls are working properly.
Preventative maintenance not only saves energy but also helps avoid costly repairs and unexpected downtime.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment
If your refrigeration system is more than 10–15 years old, upgrading to energy-efficient models can yield major savings. Modern units use advanced compressors, ECM fan motors, and smart controls that reduce energy use without compromising performance.
Buffo’s Refrigeration can help you evaluate your current systems and recommend efficient, cost-effective upgrades tailored to your business needs.
Train Your Staff
Employee habits play a big role in energy use. Encourage your team to:
- Keep doors closed as much as possible
- Report temperature changes or leaks immediately
- Avoid blocking fans and vents
- Defrost freezers as recommended
A little awareness goes a long way in preventing wasted energy.
Schedule Service Today
Improving energy efficiency doesn’t just save money it protects your equipment and extends its lifespan. Contact Buffo’s Refrigeration today to schedule maintenance or request an energy-efficiency consultation. We proudly serve Nevada and surrounding areas with expert, reliable commercial refrigeration service and repair.
📞Call Us For A Free Quote 775-782-8204 | Buffos-Refrigeration.com