Although a high quality cooler can be a workhorse that performs well day after day, this does not mean that it will stay that way without regular attention. Keeping a high quality floral cooler in optimum condition requires owners to perform some general tasks to maintain the cooler as an ideal environment to keep floral merchandise fresh and attractive.
From the moment your new floral cooler arrives and goes into service, you should be thinking about setting up a yearly scheduled check-up by a trained service person. Not only is it a good idea to have trained maintenance personnel that are familiar with your floral cooler, it is the best way to stay ahead of obvious signs of trouble and less obvious things, like adequate areas of ventilation around fans.
The best manufacturers provide optimal thermostat operation ranges for their units. Once the temperature is set, owners should consistently monitor water temperature with a quality probe thermometer each morning rather than the air temperature. Even though high quality floral refrigerators are unlikely to experience thermostat inaccuracies, it’s always a good idea to get in the habit of checking the water temperature as it also provides an accurate reading of temperature. Air temperature can fluctuate with the constant opening and closing of door, but the water maintains the actual temperature much longer.
Cleaning Your Floral Refrigerators
A big part of keeping your high quality floral cooler in optimum operating condition is monthly and yearly cleaning regimens. It is good to get into the habit of weekly cleaning all surfaces of your floral cooler including the walls, floors, and shelves. It’s also important to clean the exterior surface of the unit to prevent dust and dirt buildup around it. While many florists use a mild bleach and water solution, it’s recommended to use a cleaner specifically designed for the horticulture industry.
The condensing unit of floral refrigerators should be cleaned monthly. Be sure to schedule this maintenance, as it requires turning off the power for up to fifteen minutes. A shop vac that is set so that it blows air outward works well for blowing away the accumulated dust and dirt. It is also a good idea to schedule regular cleaning of the evaporator coil (fan). Consider having this done by a professional during an annual maintenance checkup to ensure that no damage is done to the unit.
For florists and retail supermarkets who have invested in a high-quality floral cooler, maintaining it in top condition is crucial for long-term success. Regular maintenance and cleaning will ensure that your floral cooler continues to perform reliably for years to come.