How To Deep Clean Your Commercial Undercounter Freezer: A Step-by-Step Action Plan

Practical, Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prep and Unload

• Switch Off and Unplug: Turn off the power and unplug the unit from the wall outlet to ensure safety.

• Remove All Contents: Take out all food items and place them in a nearby cold storage unit or insulated container to maintain their temperature.

• Remove Shelves and Bins:Pull out all removable shelves, bins, and drawers.

Step 2: Interior and Exterior Cleaning

• Prepare a Food-Safe Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water with a mild, food-safe detergent in a bucket. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the unit.

• Clean the Interior: Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and thoroughly wipe down the interior walls, floor, and ceiling of the freezer.

• Scrub the Shelves: Take the removed shelves and bins to a sink and scrub them clean with the same solution.

• Don't Forget the Gaskets: Use a small brush (like a toothbrush) to carefully scrub the rubber door gaskets. These are prime spots for mold and grime buildup.

• Rinse and Dry: Use a separate cloth dipped in clean water to rinse away all soap residue. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry all surfaces. This prevents ice from forming immediately.

• Wipe the Exterior: Clean the outside of the unit, paying special attention to the handles and any control panels.

Step 3: The Deep Dive (Quarterly Action)

• Clean the Condenser Coils: This is critical for efficiency. Unplug the unit again. Locate the coils (usually behind a grille at the bottom or back) and use a stiff brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove accumulated dust, hair, and grease.

• Sanitize the Drip Pan: Find the drip pan, remove it, and empty any liquid. Wash it thoroughly with hot, soapy water to eliminate mold and bacteria, then dry it completely before returning it.

Step 4: Finalize and Restock

• Put it Back Together: Place all dry shelves and bins back inside the unit.

• Organize and Return Contents: Return the food items, making sure they are properly labeled and organized for easy access.

• Plug In and Power On: Plug the freezer back in and turn it on. Monitor the temperature to ensure it reaches the correct setting.

• Pro Tip: Create a simple checklist and assign this task to a specific staff member each week to ensure consistent hygiene and maintenance.

Pro Tip: Create a simple checklist and assign this task to a specific staff member each week to ensure consistent hygiene and maintenance.

Contact Us for Expert Consultation

For more details on designing the perfect walk-in refrigerator or any commercial kitchen equipment inquiries, contact us at benny@ntsmart.com.