10 fundamental rules for the proper use of refrigerating devices
Jul 7, 2022
No device, even the one with the best technical parameters, will work properly if we do not follow the rules strictly defined by the manufacturer. Taking into account the most common problems with refrigeration equipment reported to our service, we have prepared a list of the top 10 rules for the proper use of refrigeration devices.
1. Choose the appropriate climate class
Every refrigeration device has a set of well-defined requirements for its proper operation. One of these is the ambient temperature and humidity in which it will work. The climate class of the equipment must be adapted to this. The most common classes for refrigeration equipment are:
• 3rd climatic class - devices in this class operate efficiently if the ambient temperature does not exceed +25oC and the humidity is no higher than 60%.
• 4th climatic class - this class assumes optimum ambient temperatures of up to +30 oC and humidity of up to 55%. Choosing the right class affects the efficiency of the device and, consequently, the freshness and shelf life of the products stored in it. Also important from an economic and ecological point of view is the fact that too high a temperature, in relation to the climate class of the appliance, results in higher electricity consumption.
2. Consider the optimal size of the device
The temptation to buy a larger device "in reserve" is always high, but it is not worth succumbing to it. An excessively large refrigerator, only partially filled, means an unnecessary cost of electricity and unnecessary CO2 emission to the atmosphere. You also cannot overdo it the other way, i.e. choose equipment that is too small, in which the goods will be crowded, difficult to take out and move, and - which is especially important in the case of refrigerated counters and display cases - not visible to the customer. It is good to analyze what kind and how many products will be stored in the device and adjust the capacity of the refrigerator on this basis.
3. Position the device in the right place
The place where we put the device cannot be accidental. It should also meet a number of criteria, such as good air circulation. It is not advantageous to place refrigeration devices near a ventilation outlet, as this can disrupt air circulation and make them not work properly. Upright refrigerated cabinets, counters or display cases should also be positioned away from heat sources, so keep the correct distance from devices such as ovens, cookers or warming counters. The distance from the ceiling and walls also matters, so take this into account when planning the size of your equipment. Also remember not to place refrigeration furniture in direct sunlight or exposed to dust.
4. Provide free air inlet and outlet
All air inlet and outlet vents on the device must be uncovered! Air must circulate freely, for the device to work smoothly, so never push it against the wall and don’t cover the sensitive points of the equipment. You have to leave some "breathing space” to it. Proper air circulation is one of the basic conditions for the efficient operation of any refrigeration equipment..
5. Check the power source
Before you plug in a cabinet, counter, display case or other refrigeration device to a power source, check that it is properly secured, e.g. that it is a grounded socket and that it is not damaged in any way. Be sure to refer to the instructions that attached to the device is adapted to the requirements contained in it. Never connect the device with extension cords or various types of multiple sockets!
6. Read the instructions carefully
We know that the manual is often read only when something does not work properly, but we strongly recommend that you do it according to the rules, i.e. at the very beginning. This will save a lot of stress and unnecessary costs of possible repairs. The manual contains all the information necessary for the efficient start-up and proper use of the equipment. However, if it does not resolve all doubts or if there are difficulties that it does not take into account, please contact our service department. We are happy to advise and help you solve problems with our devices. Never try to repair the device yourself! It may result in an accident, electric shock, or serious damage to the equipment. Moreover, any independent interventions in the devices result in the loss of warranty.
7. Put pre-cooled products into the appliance
Refrigerating devices are designed to keep products at a sufficiently low temperature, but they are not suitable for cooling them from high temperatures. This means that hot dumplings, for example, should not be placed in refrigerated cabinet or counter. Firstly, hot food evaporates, causing excessive frosting, secondly, it increases the temperature inside the device, which causes it to work harder - in order to lower the temperature to that set on the controller, it will have to work more intensive for a longer period of time. As a consequence, energy consumption will increase and the equipment will run faster. If this type of situation occurs frequently, it can lead to damage to sensitive refrigeration components such as the compressor.
8. Pay attention to how the goods are arranged on the shelves
The way the merchandise is arranged also influences the proper functioning of the refrigeration equipment. Above all, it should be evenly distributed, taking into account the maximum load on the shelves or display in a particular model of equipment. It should not be "crammed", as overloading refrigerated counter or cabinet with products can also disrupt the air circulation inside and thus interfere with the operation of the refrigeration system. Remember not to block any air outlet openings and to keep some space between the goods and the walls of the unit.
9. Remember to close the device door
An unclosed door means an influx of warm air from outside and thus an increase in temperature inside the refrigerator. As well as warm products being placed inside, this causes extra work for the aggregates and increased energy consumption, and in the long term can result in device malfunction. Therefore, pay particular attention to closing the door carefully and check the condition of the seals.
10. Clean your refrigeration device regularly
Dust and all deposits are the enemy of every electrical devices, including refrigeration equipment. Unfortunately, refrigerators are often placed in space where it is difficult to avoid this type of contamination, such as in the kitchen or warehouse. For this reason, they must be systematically cleaned according to the guidelines written in the instructions for each device. Particular attention should be paid to keeping the condenser clean and remembering to empty the condensate container regularly (unless the unit has an automatic condensate evaporation system).
For more detailed information on cleaning our devices, see our previous article and the service video.
If you need more information about our flower refrigerators, please call: 81 742 53 10 or write to: rapa@rapa.lublin.pl. We will be happy to help you choose the best option for you.
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