Undercounter Fridge Freezer Side by Side For Busy Commercial Kitchens
Undercounter dual temperature fridge freezers that can be used side by side make a great solution for commercial kitchens. There are numerous styles to choose from with framed glass, stainless steel swing doors, as well as panels ready models.
These undercounter fridges can be placed beneath counters or between cabinets in order to keep food, drinks or other ingredients for meal preparation easily accessible. Make sure you know the dimensions required for clearance from the countertop, particularly when the refrigerator is front or side-breathing.
Capacity
Undercounter fridge freezer models offer plenty of storage space. They are ideal to store a variety of foods that are ready to cook. A majority of dual-temp units come with freezer compartments for food items that must stay cold. They are ideal for kitchens with a lot of traffic or with small space.
The size and position of your kitchen will help determine the best model for you. If you host guests at your home bar, a dual-zone cooler would be the ideal choice. A refrigerator drawer under the counter is the best option for big families who need more storage space for food items.
Be aware that refrigerators under counter may have some limitations due to ventilation requirements. Install them at least six inches from the back of any cabinet or counter to allow for proper airflow. Some cabinets have vents on the sides or back that can't be placed against a brick wall. Others have front-breathing vents and have fewer restrictions.
Some models are designed to fit into the counter space, with a sleek look that resembles a 24- inch base cabinet. You can customize the drawer fronts and handles to match any decor. These cabinets are ADA conforming, and many come with panel-ready designs that allow you to alter the door opening according to your needs.
Convenience
Apart from giving a stylish look that complements any kitchen, undercounter fridge freezer side by side refrigerators offer the convenience of easy access and storage. They are especially beneficial in small kitchens, as they can be used to store food items. They can also serve as a second refrigerator in outdoor grilling spaces and areas. These dual temperature undercounter fridges can be installed in garages, bars cellars, basements, or garages to store condiments, drinks, and buffets for parties.
These slim refrigerators are available in different sizes, so you can pick the best one for your home or office. Some models have built-in water dispensers and ice machine.
While the minimalist design of a side by side refrigerator might be ideal for those who want to save space, it could limit the amount of refrigerated capacity you have. The freezer side is longer than the fridge, so the larger trays or packages or leftovers, they will not fit. This could be a problem for some people who are planning to use these refrigerators as a primary refrigerator for the kitchen or for those who live in smaller homes and apartments. If this is an issue for you, think about an alternative fridge freezer under counter.
Energy efficiency
Side-by-side refrigerators often offer the most affordable design than French door models. Some are ENERGY STAR-certified and are more energy efficient than refrigerators with top and bottom freezers. Look for refrigerators that have an "kWh rating" on the label for energy. This will inform you how much electricity they use per year.
Generally, side-by-side refrigerators come with storage options like adjustable shelves and door bins that give you flexible storage solutions. Some models also have one or two produce drawers along with a deli drawer and a butter keeper. Some come with two icemakers that can make cubed and crushed ice. Some have advanced ice makers features, such as slow-melting ice spheres that can be added to drinks which would otherwise be less watered by cubes of traditional size.
There are side-by-side fridges in a variety of finishes and designs, including stainless steel or black. The most sleek models are fingerprint- and smudge-resistant which makes them easier to clean.
Think about the amount of food that you keep in each compartment of your fridge, the kind of food items you purchase, and the frequency with which you open the door when you are shopping for a side by side refrigerator freezer. This will help you select the best option for your household. Quincy Bulin, a writer who writes about home and products has contributed to this article by studying refrigerators based on size capacity, price color/finish, certifications and other factors.
Design
These commercial refrigerator-freezer combos are very well-liked because they can be positioned under counters already in place. This makes them a great alternative for businesses that don't have enough space to house upright refrigerators and freezers of a full size but still need a space for storing ready-to-cook or pre-cooked ingredients. They are typically available in two- or three-section models and each section has an additional refrigerated and frozen compartment.
These units can have front doors made of stainless steel or tempered glass, giving them the appearance of a normal fridge. Some are panel ready, meaning they can accept a custom door panel to fit the style of the cabinets in your kitchen. Drawers are another option, with some having a drawer that offers both fresh and frozen storage, while others only have one drawer of each type.
If refrigerator side by side intend to use the fridge in the counter and freezer side by side for food preparation, be sure that it's marked as such. If not, you could end having a scratched or damaged surfaces that harbor bacteria.
Other options for refrigerator or freezer storage in commercial kitchens include walk-in refrigerators and reach-in freezers, merchandising refrigerators, freezers as well as worktop refrigerators and freezers. Burkett provides a variety sizes for each of these refrigeration units, so you can choose the best fit for your business or restaurant.