How to clean a walk-in freezer

If your business needs to operate a walk-in freezer, ensuring it’s kept clean is essential.

In locations where food, pharmaceutical ingredients, or other degradable items are stored, poor hygiene can prove to be costly and dangerous.

A clean walk-in freezer prevents the growth of mould, bacteria, and other pathogens that may contaminate stored items. Maintaining appropriate safety standards is important to contain the risk of any foodborne illnesses spreading.

Not only that, regular cleaning also reduces the accumulation of ice on surfaces, particularly floors where, if left untouched, can create slippery surfaces.

With that in mind, understanding how to clean a walk-in freezer is critical.

What is the best way to clean a walk-in freezer floor?

The easiest way to clean a walk-in freezer is to turn off the refrigeration systems and let the room temperature rise above zero degrees Celsius (ºC).

It can then be cleaned using soap and water.

However, depending on what the room is being used for and the products stored inside, this may not always be practical.

For example, if you have a walk-in freezer containing critical stock items like food or pharmaceutical products, then you need a contingency plan for if the power is switched off.

Ideally, that takes the form of a backup system.

To clean either the walls or ceiling while the refrigeration systems are running, you can specialist cleaning products designed not to freeze at low temperatures.

How often should a walk-in freezer be cleaned?

A walk-in freezer should be cleaned regularly to maintain optimal performance, food safety, and hygiene.

On a daily basis, your freezer should be monitored for any ice accumulation on the floor and walls, removing it promptly when found.

Weekly cleaning should also be carried out. This should include a wipe-down of surfaces, shelves, and doors with a mild solution to remove any residual grime and bacteria.

Every walk-in freezer should also be given a deep clean. The schedule for this can vary, but will usually take place at least every six months if not once a quarter.

Performing a deep clean should include the floor, walls, shelves, and ceiling. Use appropriate cleaning solutions and tools to remove any stubborn dirt or ice.

Check the evaporator coils, fans, and other mechanical components for dust and debris.

A professional inspection by suitably qualified and experienced engineers should be performed at least once a year to ensure all components are in working order.

At ICE, we have carefully devised a thorough and comprehensive approach to maintenance which can be adapted to every type of refrigeration system and process cooling equipment.

Among the benefits are peace of mind that your system is examined in full, including a leak check, to ensure it complies with the relevant F Gas regulations.

What can I clean a freezer floor with?

We always recommend seeking the help and know-how of an expert when it comes to cleaning the floor of a walk-in freezer or cold room.

We provide a range of refrigeration service and maintenance packages adapted to the needs of sectors including pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and retail. Ask a team member for details.

A key element in knowing how to clean a walk-in freezer is understanding the importance of keeping the floor clean and free from ice.

Always be vigilant, removing any loose debris with a broom.

As a guide, before anybody attempts to clear ice from the floor of a walk-in freezer, they should ensure they have the relevant safety equipment and PPE – such as gloves, freezer themal suits and slip-resistant footwear.

Selecting an appropriate cleaning solution, once that’s ready to use, doesn’t freeze and melts ice build up on the walls, shelves, and floor, is really important.

That’s where we can help.

Comprehensive walk-in-freezer maintenance from ICE Ltd

Regular maintenance can address any issues leading to ice buildup in your walk-in freezer.

ICE’s experienced team can fulfil refrigeration maintenance contracts on every type of system, ensuring optimum performance and total compliance with the relevant regulations.

Want to learn more about how to clean a walk-in freezer and ensure it’s well looked after all year around? Just ask.

Contact us today and let us explain how we can help.