Commercial Worktop Refrigerators
Multitasking is essential in a commercial kitchen-not just from your culinary team but from your culinary equipment, too. A worktop refrigerator combines the functionality of a commercial refrigerator with the convenience of an additional work surface.
Unlike a traditional reach-in refrigerator (large units designed for storage) or an undercounter refrigerator (offering storage beneath an existing countertop), a worktop refrigerator offers you the best option of both worlds.
A Cold Cut Above the Rest: Getting to Know Worktop Refrigerators
Worktop refrigerators are compact space-savers, similar to "chef base" units. They help maximize your work and storage space-particularly crucial in small and busy kitchens, where every inch of space is precious.
Worktop refrigerators are also extremely convenient. Your line will love having ingredients right there, at the ready. A worktop refrigerator eliminates the hassle of running back and forth from the fridge to your workspace. Everything you need is stored within easy reach.
There are plenty of advantages to having a worktop refrigerator, whether it�s the primary refrigeration unit in your kitchen or a supplemental refrigeration space to hold your most frequently used ingredients. By combining two major kitchen jobs-prep and storage-you get a piece of hardworking kitchen equipment.
Maximizing efficiency and freeing up space is necessary in small kitchens, cafes, food trucks, and other operations where every inch counts. The fridge sits beneath a metal or stainless steel top, making it easy to clean, sanitize, and maintain.
Worktop units often have convenient features like adjustable shelving, self-closing doors, and energy-efficient cooling systems. At Eleven36, we carry the top kitchen equipment brands to help you invest in your commercial kitchen with peace of mind. Find exactly what you need to keep your kitchen running smoothly and efficiently.
Fridges with Benefits: Worktop Refrigerators
There are many benefits to having a worktop refrigerator in your commercial kitchen. One of the biggest advantages is the space-saving design, of course. You get a fridge and workspace in a relatively small, compact footprint that reduces your need for additional, larger pieces.
Worktop refrigerators typically have reduced energy consumption compared to larger reach-ins and walk-ins. Even when opening and closing your worktop fridge for what feels like hundreds of times a night, the efficient cooling systems help keep everything chilled and safe.
Utility costs associated with worktop refrigeration are typically relatively low. Compared to their larger counterparts, worktop fridges can help you save while streamlining your setup. Convenience and savings make the worktop refrigerator a rockstar in fast-paced kitchens.
Because worktop refrigerators are made with durable materials like stainless steel and aluminum, they can withstand the demands of your kitchen. Not only do these top materials look great, but they�re easy to clean, easy to maintain, and easy to use.
An efficient kitchen brings in happier customers. Optimizing your kitchen space helps keep things running like a well-oiled machine with a place for everything and everything in its place. All your staff needs to worry about is making that delicious food your customers crave.
Keep Your Cool: Doors vs Drawers
Commercial worktop refrigerators are available in two different configurations: units with doors and units with drawers. Which is best? It all depends on your personal preference.
At Eleven36, we carry door and drawer refrigerator units, so you can always find the perfect fit for your kitchen. If you�re exploring the world of glass doors, solid doors, drawers, and combination units, here are a few points to help you find the best fit.
Cold, Hard Glass Doors
Glass door units are ideal for kitchens that need visual access to stored items. These refrigerators are great for front-of-the-house use. At a glance, staff can see the contents without opening the door (helping to keep that internal temperature steady).
Pros of glass doors:
- See contents at a glance.
- Attractively display products.
- Great for convenience stores and other customer-facing applications.
Cons of glass doors:
- Glass doors have slightly lower insulation and somewhat higher energy use.
- Visibility requires frequent cleaning and organizing (especially for front-of-the-house units).
Solid Cold Doors
Refrigeration units with solid doors are an excellent choice for back-of-house use. The high insulation levels keep temperatures consistent. If you need a refrigerator with quick access that can handle a lot of traffic, solid doors can stand up to frequent opening and closing.
Pros of solid doors:
- Excellent insulation makes the units energy efficient.
- Stainless steel doors are highly durable and have more resistance to damage.
- Maintains a steady temperature, even with frequent use.
- Hides clutter and eliminates the need to merchandise the unit.
Cons of solid doors:
- There�s no quick �at a glance� access-you must open the fridge to find items.
- Lack of visual access can lead to fewer impulse buys from customers.
Cold Comforts: Worktop Refrigerators with Drawers
Drawer refrigerators are favored by many because they offer easy access-something critical during busy food preparation. Many sandwich shops and salad bars prefer a drawer unit because it makes it simple to replenish items. Drawers can make your prep station more efficient.
Pros of drawers:
- Enjoy quick and easy access to ingredients.
- Helps you keep inventory organized.
- Cuts down the need to bend and reach into deep refrigeration units.
Cons of drawers:
- Like solid doors, drawers often limit your visual access to ingredients.
- Drawers often have a lower storage capacity compared to doored units.
Two-Way Chillers: Combo Refrigeration Units
Can�t decide between drawers and doors? Combo units may be the ideal answer. Get the best of both worlds with drawers and doors in a single unit. Often, combination units can be adjusted or customized to fit your needs. They�re a great option for larger restaurants and catering kitchens.
Pros of combo units:
- Offers a flexible range of storage options.
- You get the best of both worlds-drawers and doors.
- Maximize your space and organization with minimal impact on your workflow.
Cons of combo units:
- Combination units are sometimes more expensive than single-configuration units.
- The drawer and door combinations can be more complex and, thus, harder to maintain.
Eleven36 offers a wide range of commercial refrigeration units, including those with doors and drawers. We can help you find the perfect refrigeration option from the top industry brands like Hoshizaki and True Manufacturing.
Chill �Er Up: Size & Capacity
Size is always a question in a tight space. We offer size and configuration options for units to fit the needs of almost any kitchen. Explore 1, 2, and 3-door units with up to 6 shelving options. Drawer units are available with 2, 4, and even 6 drawers with different sizes. Choose a refrigerator that fits all your storage needs. Adjustable shelves make it easy to keep fresh ingredients safe and ready with the right number of shelves to hold it all.
Getting the sizing and capacity right for your worktop fridge is essential. First, consider the storage type and amount required by your kitchen. While it's better to have a little too much storage than too little, you'll want to be sure that it fits the space and doesn't create a nuisance in your workflow.
You�ll want to make sure you have essential ingredients and supplies on hand. Consider the primary use of the worktop-will it be for dessert prep, staging, garnish, or will you need to store fresh produce, prepared dishes, or larger perishable items?
Consider what goes on during your busiest "rush" hour. Do you need to keep certain items in stock and in reach? Will you need to stock the fridge with larger items or ingredients that need to be stored for a longer period of time? It may be best to go with a slightly larger model with a big worktop surface.
Brands That Are Cool as a Cucumber
At Eleven36, we�ve built our reputation on providing customers with the highest-quality commercial kitchen equipment and solutions. Reliable kitchen tools help you create the best, most delicious food possible. We partner with some of the best brands in the industry to ensure your investment is a wise one that will pay off for years to come.
In commercial refrigeration worktop units, we carry many options. Two of the leading brands we proudly offer are True Manufacturing and Hoshizaki. Both brands are well-known for their innovative design, durability, and exceptional performance.
True Manufacturing is well-known amongst professionals for its unwavering commitment to quality and efficiency. The True line of undercounter and worktop refrigerators is particularly popular, with a range of models ideal for commercial applications. With True worktop refrigerators, you'll get excellent temperature control in an easy-to-maintain package.
Hoshizaki is another industry leader in commercial refrigeration. These units are renowned for reliability and advanced technology. It's no wonder that the Hoshizaki line of worktop refrigerators is a favorite amongst chefs and kitchen managers alike. Robust construction, efficient cooling systems, and user-friendly features make Hoshizaki really stand out.
When you shop for commercial kitchen equipment, looking at brand reliability and reputation is always a good idea. At Eleven36, we carry top-tier solutions to give you peace of mind surrounding your equipment investment. Know that when you purchase our equipment, you're getting a product you can trust to enhance your kitchen's performance and efficiency.
Food for Thought: Considerations for Purchasing
When you�re looking into any commercial refrigerators, there are a lot of considerations. Here are several of the most critical points to explore before you make your decision:
- Type of Ingredients: What kind of ingredients do you plan to store in your commercial refrigerator? Perishable goods like dairy and fresh produce need consistent, cool temperatures. Prepped and packaged ingredients, garnishes, and beverages may have other storage condition requirements.
- Doors vs. Drawers: As discussed above, drawer vs. door is a big question when you choose a worktop refrigerator. Doors are often the best choice for large items and bulk storage; glass doors offer even greater access and visibility. Drawers are often perfect for those small, frequently used items. Combination units can often be an ideal solution.
- Space and Capacity: How much space do you have in your kitchen? How much storage do you need? What are your work space needs? Most kitchen staff are thrilled at the prospect of having the extra worktop space, but not if it clogs your workflow and gets in the way. Make sure you choose a unit with adequate storage capacity that won't obstruct your kitchen's workflow.
- Brand Reputation: In the culinary industry, brand reputation is everything. You'll want to choose equipment from reputable manufacturers who know exactly what they're doing. Explore industry leaders like True Manufacturing and Hoshizaki. These brands have a wide range of models with an array of features and configurations to meet the needs of any kitchen.
- Budget: Budget is always a consideration in the kitchen. Keep in mind that investing in high-quality pieces can truly save you money in the long run. By choosing the top-of-the-line, you'll reduce the need for repairs or replacement. Higher quality brands also tend to be more energy efficient, helping you save on your long-term utility costs.
The Coolest Beans: Get the Commercial Worktop Refrigerator You Need at Eleven36
If you�re looking for worktop refrigerators, Eleven36 has you covered. In addition to our worktop units, we have a comprehensive selection of other undercounter and worktop equipment for your commercial kitchen.
We carry worktop freezers, undercounter and bar-back refrigerators, traditional upright units, and much more. From attractive display cases that showcase your beautiful wares to large workhorse units for your bulk cold storage, we can help you figure out exactly the right fit for your operation.
We know commercial refrigeration equipment is a vital contributor to the success and safety of every food service business. When you need reliable solutions tailored to your specific needs, you can trust Eleven36.
We�re committed to offering excellent solutions for the culinary and hospitality industry. Have a question? Our team is here to help. Reach out today, and we�ll help you find the perfect worktop refrigeration solution for your kitchen.