How to Properly Maintain a Display Fridge: A Complete Guide for Retail Stores and HoReCa

Why Proper Maintenance of Your Display Fridge Matters

A display fridge represents a significant investment for any food retail store, supermarket, or HoReCa establishment. That is precisely why regular maintenance is not merely a recommendation — it is a necessity. A well-maintained unit consumes less energy, operates at optimal parameters, and has a considerably longer service life. Neglecting cleaning and periodic checks can lead to costly breakdowns, product losses, and even penalties from health authorities.

At Modaco, a Romanian manufacturer of display fridges and commercial refrigeration equipment since 1992, we know that a quality product also deserves quality care. Here is a complete guide to help you keep your equipment in perfect condition.

Daily and Weekly Cleaning

Hygiene is the first step in maintaining any display fridge. Bacteria and mould can develop rapidly in cold, humid environments, compromising the quality of the products on display.

What to Do Daily

Wipe down interior surfaces with a clean cloth moistened with warm water and a food-safe neutral detergent.
Check for any product spillages and clean them up immediately.
Visually inspect door gaskets for food residue.
Check the temperature shown on the control panel and ensure it is within the recommended parameters.

What to Do Weekly

Deep-clean the removable shelves and grids.
Wipe down the exterior of the unit, including the control panel and handles.
Inspect the condition of the door seals and replace them if damaged.

Defrosting and Cleaning the Condenser

One of the most common causes of high energy consumption is ice build-up on the evaporator or dirt accumulation on the condenser. Both issues reduce the unit's thermal efficiency and place excessive strain on the compressor.

Defrosting should be carried out whenever the ice layer exceeds 3–5 mm. Switch off the unit, remove the products, and allow the ice to melt naturally or use a warm air blower. Never use sharp objects to remove ice — you risk damaging the evaporator.

The condenser (the metal grille at the back or underneath the unit) must be cleaned with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner at least once a month. Dust and lint accumulated on the condenser impede heat dissipation and can cause the compressor to overheat.

Checking the Door Seal and Temperature

A damaged or worn door gasket can allow warm air to enter the interior of the display fridge, leading to temperature rises and additional energy consumption. Test the seal simply: insert a sheet of paper into the closed door — if it slides out easily, the gasket needs to be replaced.

Also, continuously monitor the temperature with an external thermometer rather than relying solely on the internal display. Display fridges for dairy products and cold cuts must maintain temperatures between 2°C and 8°C, while those for ice cream or frozen products must operate below -18°C.

Scheduling Periodic Technical Servicing

Even if you carry out routine maintenance correctly, a technical service performed by a specialist is essential at least once a year. An authorised technician will check:

The level and pressure of the refrigerant.
The condition of the compressor and fan.
Electrical connections and fuses.
The operation of thermostats and temperature sensors.
The efficiency of the condensate drainage system.

Modaco display fridges are designed for durability and ease of maintenance, with easy access to technical components and spare parts available at short notice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overloading the unit — blocks cold air circulation and affects temperature uniformity.
Placing it near heat sources — cookers, ovens, or direct sunlight force the compressor to work excessively.
Using aggressive detergents — these can damage surfaces and gaskets.
Ignoring unusual noises — a sound different from normal operation may signal an emerging technical problem.

Contact Modaco for Service and Consultancy

A well-maintained display fridge means fresh products, satisfied customers, and lower costs in the long run. If you need personalised advice, genuine spare parts, or a technical service for your refrigeration equipment, the Modaco team is ready to help.

Call us now on 0727.324.787 and benefit from over 30 years of experience in the manufacture and servicing of commercial refrigeration equipment!