COMPARING TOP MOUNTED VS BOTTOM MOUNTED COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATORS

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August 6th, 2020

Choosing the ideal commercial refrigerator for your kitchen can be quite a challenge. There are numerous brands available, each with a solid reputation and many satisfied customers. While some basic factors like size, material, and cost might seem straightforward, others, such as whether to choose a top-mounted or bottom-mounted compressor, can be more complex. Manufacturers promoting top-mounted refrigerators often highlight their benefits, while those selling bottom-mounted models will emphasize their advantages as well. Understanding the pros and cons of each type can help you make the right decision for your specific needs. Here's a breakdown of the key considerations:



Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of both types of commercial refrigerators that could assist you in making the right choice for your establishment:

Top-Mount Commercial Refrigerators - Pros:

Temperature Control – Compressors generate heat, and with a top-mounted unit, this heat dissipates outside the unit rather than inside the box.

Maintenance Ease – Since the compressor is positioned off the floor, it is less likely to accumulate dust and debris, reducing the frequency of required cleaning.

Protection Against Damage – Depending on how your cleaning crew operates, a bottom-mounted unit might be more susceptible to accidental damage during cleaning, whereas a top-mounted unit remains safely out of the way.

Increased Interior Space – Unlike bottom-mounted units, there’s no need for accommodation of refrigerant lines or insulation above the condenser, providing more interior space in a top-mounted unit.

Top-Mount Commercial Refrigerators – Cons:

Higher Maintenance Needs - Grease, steam, and other airborne particles can be drawn into the unit and clog condenser coils, necessitating more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Less Energy Efficient – Heat rises, and in a busy commercial kitchen, the temperature difference between the floor and ceiling can be significant. A top-mounted unit might struggle to maintain optimal temperatures in such conditions.

Difficult Access for Service – Because the compressor is located on top, accessing it for cleaning or servicing can be cumbersome. If the entire unit needs to be removed for repairs, it might require multiple technicians, increasing maintenance costs.

Bottom-Mount Commercial Refrigerators - Pros:

User-Friendly Maintenance – No ladders are required to reach the refrigeration unit, allowing easy access for cleaning and servicing by anyone.

Low Maintenance Requirements – Airborne grease and steam do not infiltrate the refrigeration unit, resulting in less frequent coil cleaning and more efficient operation.

Improved Efficiency – The condenser operates closer to the cooler floor, ensuring more efficient cooling compared to the warmer environment near the ceiling.

Convenient Bottom Shelf Access – These units have elevated floors to accommodate the refrigeration system, making it easier to retrieve items from the bottom shelf without bending over.

Bottom-Mount Commercial Refrigerators – Cons:

Limited Interior Space - Refrigerant lines run up the back of the cabinet, and insulation above the condenser reduces the usable space at the bottom of the cabinet, decreasing the overall interior volume.

Reduced Energy Efficiency – Heat from the mechanical components can rise into the cabinet, reducing the overall energy efficiency of maintaining the desired temperature.

Potential Coil Contamination – As the condenser is positioned near the floor, it is more prone to collecting dirt and debris, requiring more frequent cleaning to maintain efficient operation.

When selecting the best commercial refrigerator for your kitchen, refer to the points mentioned above and consider the layout of your space. If your kitchen has high ceilings, the temperature variance from floor to ceiling might not be a major concern. However, if your fridge is close to a cooking station, factors like steam, grease, and airborne grease fumes should be considered. In bakeries or similar environments with lots of flour and dry ingredients floating around, a bottom-mounted unit might not be ideal. For further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at 866-613-2617, and our customer support team will be happy to guide you through the process.


top mount versus bottom mount

Keywords:

  • Commercial Kitchen Equipment

  • Institutional Kitchen Equipment

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