A commercial fridge is one of the most expensive pieces of equipment that you need for your commercial kitchen or food service business. Lucky for you, there is one cost-effective solution to get the fridge you need without breaking the bank—a second-hand commercial fridge for sale.
However, remember that you’re buying a unit that is already used, which means that it may not always be a reliable purchase. That is why you should do some due diligence to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
4 Important Things to Look Into When Buying a Used Commercial Fridge for Sale
As with any purchase, you should be aware of the aspects that come with buying a second-hand commercial refrigerator. Here are four important things to look into when making your decision.
1. Age of the Unit
The age of a commercial refrigerator can be determined by its serial number. It is typically located on the back or side panel and has multiple digits that identify its manufacturing date.
Generally speaking, a fridge should last at least 10 years with regular maintenance and proper usage. If you’re looking to buy used commercial fridge units that are still reliable, then they should be no older than five to seven years as this ensures that the components are still in good condition.
2. Usage History
Commercial fridges are some of the most heavily used pieces of equipment in a kitchen. As such, you should know the usage history of the unit you are looking to buy.
Again, find out how many years it was being used and for what purpose. This will give you an indication of whether or not it has been overused and if there may be any hidden damage caused by this.
3. Maintenance Records
Regular maintenance is essential in extending the life of any commercial fridge. So, it’s important to ask the seller for records of previous work done on the unit as this will tell you if they have been well cared for or neglected. These records should provide details about any repairs that have been made, such as replacing gaskets, door seals, and other components that are subject to wear and tear. It should also include information about regular cleaning and preventative maintenance checks.
If a unit has not received regular maintenance, then there may be hidden issues lurking beneath that could end up costing you more money down the line.
4. Warranty Information
Though it’s second-hand, a used commercial fridge for sale may still come with a warranty from the seller. It will cover any repairs or replacements for parts that fail to work within a period of time as you are using it.
Also, if the unit is still under warranty from the manufacturer, this can provide you with additional peace of mind. Make sure to ask about both types of warranties to ensure that you’re getting the protection you need.
Steps for Inspecting a Second-Hand Commercial Refrigerator
Once you have found a potential second hand commercial fridge for sale to buy, it is essential to perform an inspection before you finalise the purchase. Here are the steps that you should take.
Check for Physical Damage
When checking a used fridge for sale, look for signs of physical damage or wear and tear, as this can reduce its efficiency and performance. Look for cracks, chips, dents, broken shelves and doors, rust spots, and other signs that could indicate an issue with the unit.
Test the Temperature Controls and Fan Operation
Turn the refrigerator on and set it to the desired temperature. Then, wait a few minutes before opening and closing the door to make sure that it works properly. You should also check if the fan is running, as this is an essential component of any commercial refrigerator. If there is no airflow, then this is an indication that the unit is problematic.
Listen to Strange Noises
A commercial fridge for sale that produces weird sounds or noises when you turn it on is a red flag for potential problems. If the noise persists, then there may be something wrong with the compressor or other components, and you should avoid buying it.
Look for Signs of Mould or Odour
Last but not least, take a good look around the inside of the fridge. If you spot any mould or smell any odour coming from the unit, then this could indicate that it was not properly cleaned and maintained in the past.
Wrapping Up
When looking for a second hand commercial fridge for sale, you should always prioritise quality over cost. Taking a few extra steps to check for signs of wear and tear can go a long way toward ensuring that your purchase is reliable and provides good value for money. So, do not forget to do your due diligence before closing the deal!
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