Commercial Refrigeration Buying Guide

Refrigeration is the backbone of any commercial kitchen. From reach-in refrigerators and freezers to prep tables, ice machines, and display cases, the cold-holding equipment you choose determines both food safety and your daily operating costs. This page lists every commercial refrigeration model in the CookBidSpecs database, with full specifications you can compare side by side.

Key specifications to compare

Dimensions and capacity. Commercial reach-ins typically range from compact 27-inch undercounter units to full-size 60-inch three-door models. Interior capacity is measured in cubic feet, and it pays to match capacity to your actual volume — an oversized unit wastes energy, while an undersized one forces constant restocking. Always measure your doorway, aisle, and final position before buying; most units ship with the door on the right, but many are field-reversible.

Electrical requirements. Most commercial refrigerators run on standard 115V/60Hz circuits, but larger models and some freezers require 208V or 230V. Verify voltage, phase, and amperage against your kitchen's available circuits before purchase. Hardwired units need an electrician; cord-and-plug models are easier to relocate.

Refrigerant and performance. Modern units use R290 (propane) or R448A refrigerant, both of which are environmentally friendlier than older R134a and R404A systems. Performance specifications include the temperature range (typically 33°F to 38°F for refrigerators, -10°F to 0°F for freezers), BTU output, and whether the unit is self-contained or remote. Remote systems move the compressor outside the kitchen, reducing heat load and noise.

Construction quality. Look for stainless steel interiors and exteriors, coved corners for easier cleaning, and durable gaskets. Door style matters too: solid doors save energy, glass doors improve product visibility for retail settings, and half-doors reduce cold loss in busy kitchens. Casters, hinges, and locks are standard on most commercial units, and a few models add self-closing doors or interior lighting.

Brands in this category

The database covers the major commercial refrigeration brands used across the United States, including True, Beverage-Air, Turbo Air, Delfield, Hoshizaki, Atosa, and Traulsen. Each has its own strengths: True is known for reliability and a strong warranty, Beverage-Air offers broad configuration options, Turbo Air emphasizes efficiency and self-cleaning condensers, and Hoshizaki leads in ice machines.

Buying used vs new

Commercial refrigeration holds up well, which makes the used market attractive — especially restaurant equipment auctions, where quality units often sell for 50-80% below retail. When evaluating a used reach-in, check the compressor age, gasket condition, and whether the unit holds temperature consistently. With the specs in this database, you can verify dimensions and electrical requirements before you bid, so you know exactly what you're buying.

Whether you're outfitting a new restaurant, replacing a failing unit, or expanding cold storage, use the specifications on this page to narrow your options, then compare models side by side before you commit.