Commercial refrigeration and ice machines are essential investments for any serious UK food business. From busy restaurants and hotel kitchens to local pubs and cafés, these robust cooling systems keep ingredients fresh and drinks perfectly chilled. With capacities ranging from compact under-counter units to walk-in cold rooms, and built from professional-grade stainless steel, they're designed specifically for the demands of catering environments. After 50 years in the business, we've seen how the right refrigeration transforms kitchens—working brilliantly alongside commercial ovens and food prep equipment to create efficient workflows that boost productivity and reduce waste.
Commercial Fridges
Keep food fresh and service running smoothly with reliable refrigeration. From upright fridges to prep counters and multidecks, these units are built for fast-paced kitchens, shops and cafes.
Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines for Restaurants & Catering
Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals
Key Features and Benefits
Powerful Cooling Systems Commercial-grade components maintain precise temperatures even in hot kitchens.
Rapid Recovery Door opened repeatedly? No bother—temperature recovers quickly during service.
Heavy-Duty Construction Robust stainless steel build withstands daily kitchen battles.
Digital Temperature Control Set exact temperatures for different food types—perfect precision.
Energy Efficiency Modern units use up to 40% less energy than older models—slashes bills.
Food Safety Compliance Maintains HACCP standards with accurate temperature control.
High Production Capacity Ice machines produce 20-500kg daily—never run short during rushes.
Easy-Clean Design Removable parts and antimicrobial surfaces—keeps hygiene simple.
Essential Buying Considerations
Capacity and Size
Measure available space precisely—include ventilation clearance for efficiency.
Calculate minimum storage needs—400-600L for small cafés, 1000L+ for busy restaurants.
Ice production should match peak demand—about 1.5kg per customer in hot weather.
Power Source and Usage
Check your power supply—larger units may need three-phase electricity.
Consider climate class ratings—Class 4 and 5 units handle hot kitchen environments.
Balance ice machine water usage with water filters for quality results.
How Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines Work
Commercial refrigeration equipment operates using a clever cooling cycle that removes heat from inside the cabinet. A compressor pressurizes refrigerant gas, which then flows through condenser coils where it releases heat and liquefies. This liquid refrigerant expands through an expansion valve, rapidly cooling before entering the evaporator coils inside the unit. As warm air passes over these cold coils, heat transfers to the refrigerant, cooling the cabinet interior. Ice machines work similarly but with an additional freeze cycle—water flows over a super-chilled evaporator plate or cylinder where it freezes, then a harvest cycle releases the formed ice cubes or flakes into a storage bin. Brilliant engineering delivering perfect cooling!
Trusted Insights from Liam Sinclair
Refrigeration Specialist
13+ years experience
"When it comes to commercial refrigeration, consistency is king—don’t skimp on quality or you’ll be defrosting more than just your freezer. And for ice machines? Clean them regularly or risk serving cubes with a side of complaints!"
Top Tips for Using Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines
To maximize your refrigeration investment, organise contents for airflow—overcrowding blocks circulation and wastes energy. Clean condenser coils monthly to prevent overworking and extend equipment life. Keep ice machines descaled with quarterly maintenance using food-safe cleaners, and always position units away from heat sources like ovens and grills. For refrigerators, check door seals regularly—a failing gasket can increase energy usage by up to 25% and compromise food safety.
Benefits of Using Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines
Extended Food Freshness Preserves ingredients longer—reduces waste and costs.
Optimized Service Always-ready ice and chilled products—speeds up service.
Speed Professional ice machines make cubes 3x faster than domestic units.
Durability Commercial refrigerators typically last 7-10 years with proper maintenance.
Versatility Some models offer multiple ice types—cube, nugget, flake—for different drinks.
Savings Energy-efficient models save up to £400 annually on electricity.
Expert Insights on Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines
Having supplied refrigeration systems to thousands of UK businesses over five decades, we've gathered valuable insights. 'The smartest investment is a unit with 20% more capacity than you think you need,' advises Mark, our refrigeration specialist. 'Kitchens grow busier, menus expand, and you'll appreciate that buffer during summer rushes.'
Pros: Reliable cooling, long service life, consistent food quality.
Cons: Higher upfront costs, requires regular maintenance, space considerations.
Who Needs Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines?
Restaurants Essential for ingredient storage and drink service—the backbone of your kitchen.
Hotels From breakfast buffets to bar service—keeps guests refreshed round the clock.
Cafés Perfect for chilled drinks, fresh milk, and dessert display—boosts your menu options.
Pubs & Bars Keeps beverages perfectly chilled and ice always available—essential for busy nights.
Real-World Success with Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines
The Waterfront, a bustling seafood restaurant in Brighton, was struggling with unreliable refrigeration that threatened their fresh catch quality. After fitting our commercial-grade units paired with a high-output ice machine for their seafood displays, they transformed their operation. 'We've cut waste by nearly 40% and improved our display presentation,' the head chef tells us. 'The consistent temperature control in our prep stations makes service smoother, and customers rave about our perfectly chilled oysters and cocktails!'
FAQs
What size commercial refrigerator do I need for my restaurant?Calculate 10-12 cubic feet per staff member for a good starting point.
How often should commercial refrigeration be serviced?Professional service every 6 months keeps your unit running efficiently.
Can commercial ice machines be plumbed directly?Yes, most professional models connect directly to water supply with filters.
How much ice production does a busy pub need?Plan for 1-1.5kg per customer during peak service periods.
Are energy-efficient refrigerators worth the extra cost?Absolutely—they typically pay for themselves within 2-3 years through lower bills.
What's the difference between commercial and domestic refrigeration?Commercial units have stronger compressors, better insulation, and faster recovery times.
Looking for Equipment by Business Type?
Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.
We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.
'Our kitchen runs like clockwork now with reliable refrigeration that never misses a beat!'
JJamesHead Chef, The Kingfisher, Bristol
'The ice machine keeps up even on our busiest nights—absolutely worth every penny!'
LLucyBar Manager, The Copper Kettle, Glasgow
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines?
Trusted Supplier 50 years supplying top-quality cooling equipment—we know what works.
Fast Delivery Free nationwide delivery—get your kitchen cooling sorted quickly.
Best Price Promise Found it cheaper? We'll match any genuine quote—simple.
Expert Guidance Specialist advice on sizing, features, and maintenance—just ask.
Ready to Explore Commercial Refrigeration & Ice Machines?
Browse our comprehensive range of commercial refrigeration and ice machines designed for UK catering businesses. With expert guidance, fast delivery and our best-price guarantee, you'll find the perfect cooling solution for your operation!