FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
At Newman Refrigeration Ltd, we understand that selecting and maintaining the right cooling systems is critical for food retailers across the UK, including Colchester, Chelmsford, and London. Whether you require industrial blast chillers, remote multideck chillers, or bespoke cold rooms, our team provides the service you need to keep your stock safe and your energy costs low. We are dedicated to delivering reliable solutions that meet the rigorous demands of the modern supermarket environment.
We have compiled this list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the complexities of commercial cooling and the importance of appointing a reliable refrigeration contractor. From initial design and installation to planned preventative maintenance, we are committed to supporting your business with professional guidance and high-quality service.
General Refrigeration Enquiries
What are the key benefits of using industrial blast chillers?
Industrial blast chillers rapidly reduce the temperature of cooked food, which is essential for preventing bacterial growth and ensuring strict compliance with food safety regulations. This process effectively locks in the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the product, allowing food retailers to safely extend shelf life while maintaining the highest quality standards for their customers.
How does food retail refrigeration impact product quality?
Consistent and precise temperature control is vital to preserve the freshness, visual appeal, and safety of perishable goods. High-quality food retail refrigeration systems are designed to prevent temperature fluctuations that can lead to spoilage or degradation, keeping produce, meats, and dairy products in optimal condition from delivery through to the point of sale.
What should I consider when selecting a refrigeration service contractor?
You should prioritize a refrigeration contractor with a proven industry reputation, relevant certifications such as REFCOM F-Gas, and a commitment to rapid response times. It is also crucial to select a partner like Newman Refrigeration Ltd that offers 24/7 reactive support and tailored maintenance packages to minimize downtime and protect your valuable assets.
Equipment Selection
What type of food retail refrigeration item do I need?
The specific equipment required depends heavily on your inventory type, available floor space, and sales volume. For example, large supermarkets may require extensive remote multideck chillers for customer-facing displays, while back-of-house operations might prioritize high-capacity cold rooms or industrial freezers for bulk storage and logistics.
How can I select the right item?
Selecting the correct unit involves a careful assessment of your energy efficiency goals, physical space limitations, and specific merchandising requirements. We recommend consulting with our in-house design and consultancy team, who can evaluate your specific needs and specify the most appropriate, energy-efficient solution for your retail environment.
Can remote multideck chillers improve energy efficiency in my store?
Yes, remote multideck chillers are designed to remove heat from the sales floor by locating the heat-generating condensing unit externally. This significantly reduces the load on your shop's air conditioning system and lowers ambient noise levels, contributing to a more comfortable shopping environment for customers and reduced overall energy consumption for the business.
Service and Maintenance
How should I care for my refrigeration equipment?
Daily care should include keeping condenser coils free of dust and debris, checking door seals for damage, and ensuring that internal airflow vents are not blocked by stock. However, for long-term reliability and performance, these simple in-house checks must be supplemented by a professional service schedule to address technical components and refrigerant levels.
How often does my equipment need professional maintenance?
To ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency, commercial refrigeration systems generally require professional servicing at least twice a year. Implementing a Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) agreement allows us to identify and rectify potential mechanical issues early, keeping your running costs low and preventing unexpected breakdowns.
What are the signs that I should repair or replace my refrigeration equipment?
Common indicators that a system is failing include persistent temperature fluctuations, unusual mechanical noises, leaking water, or a sudden, unexplained increase in energy bills. If your system requires frequent, costly repairs or utilises obsolete refrigerants, replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model is often the more cost-effective solution in the long run.
