Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer guide reveals 7 best units for 2025 with buying tips, energy-saving advice, and answers to top questions for U.S. food businesses.
Introduction: Why a Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Is Vital for Your Business
In the foodservice and retail industries, the need for reliable cold storage goes far beyond convenience—it’s a matter of safety, efficiency, and profitability. A commercial refrigerator and freezer is more than just a cooling appliance; it’s a core piece of equipment that safeguards your inventory and supports day-to-day operations.
From restaurants and cafes to supermarkets and bakeries, businesses depend on cold storage systems to preserve perishable goods, reduce food waste, and comply with safety regulations. Unlike residential models, a commercial freezer and refrigerator is engineered for higher performance, larger capacity, and round-the-clock usage.
Choosing the right setup—whether a walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer for bulk storage or a commercial refrigerator and freezer combo for dual-functionality—can significantly affect your energy usage and product longevity. The right unit not only preserves freshness but also enhances your staff’s workflow by making stored items more accessible and organized.
As consumer expectations evolve and competition tightens, investing in high-quality commercial refrigeration equipment is no longer optional—it’s essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top-rated commercial size refrigerator and freezer models of the year, followed by a comprehensive buying guide to help you make a smart, long-term investment.
Choosing the Right Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer
Selecting the ideal commercial refrigerator and freezer isn’t just about dimensions or brand names—it’s about aligning equipment capabilities with your business goals. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to understand the various types and their functions.
Types of Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers
Reach-in Units
A staple in most commercial kitchens, reach-in refrigerators and freezers offer easy access and versatile storage. These are ideal for line cooks and prep stations that require quick access to frequently used items.
Undercounter Models
For businesses with limited space, undercounter commercial freezer and refrigerator units offer compact cooling without sacrificing functionality. These are great for bars, food trucks, or tight kitchens.
Walk-in Refrigerators and Freezers
When dealing with high-volume storage, a walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer provides unmatched capacity and organization. Often found in hotels, large restaurants, and warehouses, they offer custom shelving and temperature zones.
Display Freezers and Merchandisers
Perfect for retail environments, glass-door display freezers help attract customers while keeping products visible. Brands like frigidaire commercial refrigerator and freezer and kenmore elite commercial refrigerator and freezer offer stylish, energy-efficient solutions for front-of-house applications.
Combo Units
A commercial refrigerator and freezer combo unit combines the best of both worlds, giving you chilled and frozen storage in one body. These are perfect for small businesses aiming to save space while maintaining functionality.
Key Factors to Consider
Storage Capacity
Your daily operation volume should dictate the size. For example, a 36 cu.ft commercial size refrigerator and freezer may suffice for a café, but a high-traffic restaurant may need 49–54 cu.ft models.
Energy Efficiency
Look for Energy Star-rated commercial units to reduce long-term utility costs. Modern options like the kenmore pro commercial refrigerator and freezer prioritize sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Temperature Control
Precision is critical. Digital thermostats and auto-defrost systems help maintain consistent cooling. Models offering separate controls for fridge and freezer sections ensure product safety.
Build and Durability
Go for stainless steel interiors and exteriors. Units built for commercial use should have reinforced corners, self-closing doors, and industrial-grade compressors.
Accessibility and Layout
Adjustable shelving, ergonomic handles, and door configurations (like side-by-side commercial refrigerator and freezer) can streamline kitchen operations.
Top 7 Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Units of 2025
1. WESTLAKE 48″ Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Combo – 36 Cu.ft Reach-In, Stainless Steel
For growing restaurants, bakeries, and bars, the WESTLAKE commercial refrigerator and freezer combo offers the perfect balance of storage, cooling precision, and long-term durability. This side-by-side commercial refrigerator and freezer boasts a robust stainless steel frame and a fan-based cooling system that ensures even temperature throughout.
Key Features
- 36 Cu.ft capacity with dual compartments for fresh and frozen storage
- Heavy-duty stainless steel exterior for industrial-grade resilience
- Solid doors with tight insulation to maintain temperature
- Reliable fan cooling system for uniform airflow
- Ideal for restaurants, bars, and convenience stores
Practical Use
This unit is perfect for fast-paced kitchens that need quick access to both fresh produce and frozen meats. Whether you’re prepping for a breakfast rush or storing weekly deliveries, the WESTLAKE combo adapts easily to daily demands.
User Insight
“We installed this combo unit in our small café. The sleek design, silent operation, and consistent temperatures are a game changer. It fits our needs better than any used commercial refrigerator and freezer we tried before.”
2. VEVOR 24” Undercounter Freezer Fridge – 2-Drawer, 4.87 Cu.ft, Waterproof, Dual-Zone
Ideal for tight spaces, the VEVOR undercounter commercial freezer and refrigerator combo offers smart dual-drawer design, allowing separate temperature settings in each compartment. This makes it a flexible option for chefs who need ingredients sorted by zone.
Key Features
- Two drawers with different temperature settings
- Waterproof build suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- 4.87 Cu.ft compact storage without sacrificing versatility
- Sleek stainless steel construction for modern kitchens
- Quiet compressor with energy-saving technology
Practical Use
Great for undercounter installation in bars, salad stations, or small commercial kitchens. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for mobile caterers or kiosks.
User Insight
“We’ve used this unit for catering outdoor events. It’s durable, easy to transport, and the temperature separation helps keep meats and desserts at just the right chill.”
3. NUTRIFROST 21 Cu.ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator Freezer – Frost-Free, LED Display
Designed for mid-size operations, the NUTRIFROST commercial refrigerator and freezer side by side unit combines style with functionality. With its frost-free feature and digital LED display, this unit reduces maintenance while maximizing usability.
Key Features
- 21 Cu.ft capacity for balanced refrigeration and freezing
- Two-door side-by-side design for better organization
- Frost-free cooling system – no manual defrosting
- Digital LED display for real-time temperature monitoring
- Perfect for kitchens, offices, and commercial-size food storage
Practical Use
Ideal for medium restaurants and offices needing a sleek but spacious cold storage solution. Works well as a commercial refrigerator and freezer for home in large residences too.
User Insight
“Our restaurant loves how user-friendly this model is. From frozen meats to fresh produce, it stores everything perfectly without any ice buildup—way better than our older commercial refrigerator and or freezer unit.”
4. PremiumLevella PRFIM1257DX Glass Door Display Refrigerator – 12.5 Cu.ft, With Automatic Ice Maker
This unit isn’t just about storage—it’s about visibility and presentation. The PremiumLevella commercial beverage cooler is a top-tier display refrigerator with a built-in automatic ice maker, making it ideal for customer-facing spaces.
Key Features
- 12.5 Cu.ft capacity designed for beverage display and merchandise
- Glass door for visibility and marketing appeal
- Built-in automatic ice maker for added utility
- Elegant black exterior, perfect for modern cafés or convenience stores
- Durable enough for high-traffic commercial freezer and refrigerator combo use
Practical Use
Perfect for front-of-house in a juice bar, gas station, or deli, this model promotes impulse buying by showcasing cold drinks clearly.
User Insight
“This display fridge keeps our drinks cold and our profits up. It looks fantastic and the ice maker saves so much time. Better ROI than any used commercial refrigerator and freezer we’ve had before.”
5. Kalifon 54” Reach-in Commercial Freezer – 49 Cu.ft, 2 Door, Fan Cooling
If your priority is freezing large volumes, the Kalifon commercial size refrigerator and freezer is your powerhouse. With 49 Cu.ft capacity and a fan cooling system, it’s built to meet the needs of fast-paced foodservice environments.
Key Features
- Massive 49 Cu.ft capacity with 8 adjustable shelves
- Stainless steel exterior and dual solid doors
- Efficient fan cooling technology for temperature uniformity
- Heavy-duty construction designed for long-term commercial use
- Ideal for restaurants, shops, and industrial kitchens
Practical Use
From frozen meats to bulk desserts, this freezer handles it all. The size and durability also make it suitable for small warehouse storage or walk-in alternative refrigeration.
User Insight
“Game changer for our pizzeria. We can finally store in bulk without worry. It’s like a walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer, minus the build-out costs.”
6. Aceland ARF-48B Combo Refrigerator and Freezer – 36 Cu.ft, Double Door, Commercial Grade
The Aceland commercial refrigerator and freezer combination is built for flexibility and power. With a 36 Cu.ft reach-in capacity, this double-door unit is ideal for fast-moving commercial kitchens that demand consistent cooling and high-volume storage.
Key Features
- Dual compartments for fresh and frozen goods
- Strong stainless steel construction with ergonomic handles
- High-efficiency fan cooling system for even air circulation
- Adjustable interior shelving to maximize storage options
- Suited for restaurants, bars, retail shops, or residential use
Practical Use
Whether you’re running a food truck or a full-scale kitchen, this unit’s versatility supports a wide range of applications. It can also function as a reliable commercial refrigerator and freezer for home in larger households.
User Insight
“The Aceland combo fits perfectly in our kitchen layout. The dual doors are super convenient, and temperature stays consistent. Definitely better value than hunting for a used commercial refrigerator and freezer.”
7. WESTLAKE 48” Upright Commercial Refrigerator – 36 Cu.ft, Reach-in, Fan Cooling
This unit is a specialized commercial size refrigerator only (no freezer), crafted to deliver reliable cooling for perishables in any commercial setting. With its upright reach-in format, it’s ideal for front-line operations needing rapid access and high storage capacity.
Key Features
- Spacious 36 Cu.ft capacity optimized for refrigerated storage
- Two solid doors with reinforced hinges and tight sealing
- Durable stainless steel body with a modern finish
- Integrated fan cooling system for precise temperature control
- Excellent for restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and institutional kitchens
Practical Use
Great for high-volume food service setups where refrigeration—not freezing—is the main concern. Works perfectly as a backup cooler for walk-ins or secondary prep stations.
User Insight
“This commercial refrigerator and freezer alternative keeps our veggies, sauces, and dairy cool without fail. The upright design makes it easy for our staff to restock and organize inventory quickly.”
Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Capacity (Cu.ft) | Cooling System | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WESTLAKE Combo 48” | Refrigerator & Freezer Combo | 36 | Fan Cooling | Restaurants, Bars, Shops |
| VEVOR Undercounter 24” | Undercounter Dual-Drawer | 4.87 | Dual Temp Zones | Indoor/Outdoor, Bars, Kiosks |
| NUTRIFROST Side-by-Side 21 Cu.ft | Side-by-Side Refrigerator Freezer | 21 | Frost-Free | Medium Kitchens, Offices, Homes |
| PremiumLevella Display 12.5 Cu.ft | Glass Door Display Refrigerator | 12.5 | Display + Ice Maker | Cafés, Gas Stations, Retail |
| Kalifon Reach-in 54” | Reach-in Commercial Freezer | 49 | Fan Cooling | High-Volume Restaurants, Warehouses |
| Aceland Combo 36 Cu.ft | Reach-in Refrigerator & Freezer Combo | 36 | Fan Cooling | Restaurants, Retail, Home |
| WESTLAKE Upright 48” | Upright Reach-in Refrigerator | 36 | Fan Cooling | Cafés, Kitchens, Institutions |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer
Investing in the right commercial refrigerator and freezer can make or break the efficiency of your food business. Whether you’re outfitting a busy restaurant kitchen or upgrading your deli’s cold storage, there are several factors that demand close attention.
1. Determine Your Storage Needs
Start by evaluating the volume of food you need to store. If you’re storing bulk items, consider a walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer. For smaller kitchens, a commercial freezer and refrigerator combo or undercounter unit may be more appropriate.
2. Consider Available Space
Measure your installation space carefully. Side-by-side commercial refrigerator and freezer models are great for narrow but tall spaces, while reach-in units suit traditional layouts. Always account for door swing clearance and ventilation needs.
3. Prioritize Energy Efficiency
Choose models with Energy Star certification or inverter compressors. These energy-efficient commercial refrigerators reduce electricity bills and support long-term savings. Brands like frigidaire commercial refrigerator and freezer are known for eco-conscious options.
4. Evaluate Cooling Technology
Opt for models with advanced fan cooling systems and digital thermostats. Precise temperature control ensures food safety and extends shelf life—particularly important for items like dairy, seafood, and meat.
5. Build Quality and Durability
Look for stainless steel exteriors and reinforced hinges. A durable commercial size refrigerator and freezer should withstand daily wear in a fast-paced environment. Don’t overlook door gaskets and caster wheels for maintenance ease.
6. Flexible Interior Layout
Adjustable shelves and customizable compartments improve organization. Some units offer drawers or sliding trays, making them ideal for storing various item sizes—from sauce containers to frozen meats.
7. Specialized Use and Placement
If your fridge will be customer-facing, consider a glass-door display unit with merchandising potential. For outdoor or multipurpose use, waterproof or weather-resistant models like the VEVOR undercounter freezer are ideal.
8. Budget and Warranty
Don’t just look at upfront cost—factor in lifespan, energy consumption, and warranty coverage. A unit from a reliable brand like kenmore elite commercial refrigerator and freezer might cost more initially but pays off in reliability and support.
9. New vs Used Units
While tempting, a used commercial refrigerator and freezer may lack energy efficiency or warranty protection. If budget is tight, opt for refurbished models with verified service records.
10. Think Long-Term
Choose a model that will scale with your business. Consider expansion, new menu items, or higher foot traffic down the line. It’s smarter to invest in a slightly larger unit now than to replace an undersized one later.
Benefits of Using Commercial Refrigeration Equipment
A high-performance commercial refrigerator and freezer is more than just a storage unit—it’s a strategic asset for your food business. From improving food safety to optimizing operations, the right system delivers measurable benefits across the board.
Ensures Food Safety and Compliance
Health inspections in the USA require strict temperature regulations for perishable items. A reliable commercial freezer and refrigerator helps maintain ideal storage conditions, preventing bacterial growth and spoilage. Features like digital thermostats, frost-free systems, and separate cooling zones ensure compliance with FDA and local health codes.
Increases Storage Capacity and Organization
With customizable layouts and high-volume capacity, a commercial refrigerator and freezer side by side or combo unit helps streamline workflow in the kitchen. Adjustable shelves and compartments allow staff to locate ingredients faster, boosting prep efficiency during peak hours.
Reduces Waste and Operational Costs
Consistent temperature control means longer-lasting inventory. You’ll throw away fewer spoiled goods, saving money in the long run. Plus, energy-efficient units like the frigidaire commercial refrigerator and freezer reduce electricity usage—an important factor in long-term budgeting.
Enhances Customer Satisfaction
For front-facing areas like delis and cafes, a clean and well-lit glass-door display freezer improves product visibility. Customers are more likely to make impulse purchases when beverages and ready-to-eat items are attractively displayed.
Adapts to Different Business Needs
From walk-in storage for bulk buyers to commercial size refrigerator and freezer for home chefs, these units are adaptable to different business models and industries. Whether you’re running a juice bar, bakery, or institutional kitchen, there’s a model built to fit your needs.
Builds Long-Term Operational Stability
Brands like kenmore pro commercial refrigerator and freezer offer industrial-grade compressors and warranties that ensure longevity. Fewer repairs mean less downtime—and less interruption to your business.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer
What is the difference between a commercial and residential refrigerator and freezer?
A commercial refrigerator and freezer is built for heavy-duty use, offering larger storage capacity, more durable construction, and quicker temperature recovery compared to residential models. They are designed for frequent door openings and constant operation, making them essential in high-traffic kitchens and retail environments.
How often should I clean my commercial refrigerator and freezer?
To ensure optimal performance and hygiene, it’s recommended to clean your commercial freezer and refrigerator every 1 to 3 months. This includes wiping down interior surfaces, cleaning condenser coils, and checking door seals. For walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer setups, weekly floor cleaning and monthly system checks are ideal.
Are there energy-efficient options available?
Yes. Many modern units, including models from frigidaire and kenmore elite, are designed as energy-efficient commercial refrigerators. Look for Energy Star labels and features like LED lighting, inverter compressors, and auto-defrost systems to save on utility costs over time.
Can I use a commercial refrigerator and freezer at home?
Yes, if you have sufficient space and power capacity. Many users opt for a commercial refrigerator and freezer for home use in garages, basements, or outdoor kitchens. Just ensure proper ventilation and voltage compatibility.
Should I buy a used commercial refrigerator and freezer?
A used commercial refrigerator and freezer may offer upfront savings, but be cautious. Always verify the condition, brand reliability, and warranty status. If budget allows, consider new or refurbished models with verified service histories.
What size commercial refrigerator and freezer do I need?
This depends on your operation. A small café may need a 36 Cu.ft combo, while large restaurants might require a 49 Cu.ft reach-in freezer or a commercial refrigerator and freezer side by side. Consider daily inventory volume, restocking frequency, and available space.
Conclusion
Choosing the right commercial refrigerator and freezer is not just a purchasing decision—it’s a long-term investment in your business’s success. Whether you operate a small coffee shop or a high-volume restaurant, the right refrigeration solution ensures food safety, improves operational flow, and enhances customer satisfaction.
With options ranging from undercounter drawer freezers to walk in commercial refrigerator and freezer setups, there’s a unit designed for every scale and style of operation. Brands like Kenmore, Frigidaire, and WESTLAKE continue to lead with innovation, durability, and energy efficiency—ensuring you get maximum return on your investment.
As you weigh your options, remember to consider storage needs, energy consumption, and layout. And if you’re expanding or upgrading, prioritize models that grow with your business.
Don’t wait for breakdowns or spoilage to act—invest in a reliable commercial refrigeration system today to safeguard your inventory, reduce waste, and keep your kitchen running smoothly. Since you have read the entire article, you can view this article: Pasta Cooker: 7 Best Picks That Will Change Your Cooking
