Refrigeration Equipment – refrigerator coils get dirty, the heat doesn’t go anywhere, and it takes more energy to cool the food. Regular cleaning and upkeep of refrigerator coils is inexpensive. You can do this yourself or hire someone to come in and do it.
Create a calendar with the recommended maintenance dates for all parts and equipment, including monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual checks. The schedule should note:
| Refrigerator, Freezer Sample Cleaning Chart | |||
| Parts | How Often | Materials Needed | Cleaning Procedure |
| Outside | When needed | Sponge, cloth or paper Towel, Mild Detergent | Wash with warm water and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive or harsh cleaners. Rinse and dry. |
| Outside | Yearly | Appliance wax, good auto wax, or stainless steel spray (Satin Shine) | For rust protection, wax painted metal surfaces at least once a year. Do not use wax on plastic parts. |
| Inside walls/floors/ Shelving | Weekly | Sponge, soft cloth or paper towel; baking soda or mild soap Sponge, mop (for floors), or sprayer. | Wash with warm water ?and a mild detergent or ?two tablespoons baking soda to one quart warm water. Never use steel wool or other abrasive. Rinse and dry. |
| Doorliners & gaskets | Monthly | Sponge, soft cloth or paper Towel and mild detergent | Wash with soap and warm water. Rinse and dry. |
| Condenser coil | Monthly | Vacuum cleaner | Remove louvered panel. Clean dust and lint from condenser. |
| Floors | Daily | Broom, Dust Pan | Sweep floors daily |
- when air-conditioning-equipment air filters should be changed
- when exhaust- and supply-fan bearings should be lubricated
- when thermostats on cooking and air-conditioning equipment should be calibrated