Discover the latest commercial upright fridge and freezer prices in Australia. This detailed buying guide covers types, energy efficiency, maintenance, compliance, and financing options to help you choose the best unit for your business. Start saving on running costs today!
Key takeaways
- Prices: Commercial upright fridges cost between $1,400 and $10,500+, while upright freezers range from $1,800 to $10,000+, depending on brand, capacity, energy rating, and features.
- Types: Available in single, double, and glass door models. Combi fridge/freezer units are ideal for saving space.
- Operation: Most use dynamic fan-forced cooling for consistent temperatures. Frost-free tech and self-closing doors are standard in newer models.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and biannual servicing recommended. Compressors and evaporators often need attention or replacement after 5–7 years.
- Energy efficiency: MEPS-rated models can cut power bills significantly. Newer fridges typically use 30–40% less energy than older ones.
- Warranties: Most units include 2–3 year parts and labour warranties, with compressor coverage often extended to 5 years.
- Compliance: Must meet GEMS and ARC standards covering refrigerants, servicing, and energy consumption.
- Financing: Common options in Australia include leasing and chattel mortgages, with rates from 4.9% p.a. for ABN holders.
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Introduction
Whether you're opening a new café, expanding a catering business, or upgrading equipment in your commercial kitchen, choosing the right upright fridge or freezer is essential for food safety, energy efficiency, and operational flow. This guide walks you through the latest pricing, types, features, maintenance, compliance, and financing options in Australia, so you can confidently select the right unit for your business.
Types of commercial upright fridges and freezers
Upright Fridges
- Single door: Compact, ideal for smaller kitchens or secondary storage.
- Double door: More capacity, commonly used in high-volume kitchens.
- Glass door: Great for front-of-house display or retail environments.
Upright Freezers
- Single or double door: Similar to fridges, but rated for frozen food storage (-18°C or lower).
- Blast freezers: Designed for rapid chilling; used in food preparation settings.
Combo Fridge/Freezer Units
- Combines refrigeration and freezing in one vertical footprint.
- Ideal for kitchens with limited space but needing both capabilities.
Commercial fridge and freezer prices in Australia
Prices vary depending on brand, size, energy rating, and build quality:
Upright Fridges
- Single door: $1,400 to $2,800
- Double door: $2,200 to $7,500
- Glass door: $1,800 to $5,800
Upright Freezers
- Single door: $1,800 to $3,500
- Double door: $3,000 to $6,000+
- Blast freezers: $4,000 to $12,000+
According to IBISWorld, the commercial refrigeration equipment market in Australia is projected to reach $1.4 billion by 2026, driven by demand in food retail and hospitality sectors.
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How they operate
Commercial upright fridges and freezers work using fan-forced (dynamic) cooling systems, ensuring even temperature distribution. Key operating features include:
- Digital controllers for precise temperature regulation.
- Auto-defrost systems to reduce ice buildup.
- Door alarms and LED lighting for improved usability.
- Heavy-duty casters for mobility during cleaning or repositioning.
Maintenance and spare parts
Maintaining your unit prolongs its lifespan and ensures safe food storage:
- Weekly: Clean shelves, door seals, and clear air vents.
- Biannually: Check refrigerant levels, inspect fans and compressors.
- Annually: Have a technician perform a full diagnostic and cleaning.
Common replacement parts and costs:
- Door gaskets: $80–$150
- Thermostats: $100–$250
- Compressors: $500–$1,200
Tip: Source parts from Australian-authorised suppliers to ensure warranty compliance.
Energy efficiency considerations
Running costs can significantly impact your bottom line:
- Choose models with MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standards) compliance.
- Look for R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant which is energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
- Newer models can consume 30–40% less energy than those built pre-2015.
Warranty and service contracts
- Standard warranty: 2–3 years parts and labour.
- Extended warranty: Up to 5 years, often covers compressor only.
- Service contracts: Optional add-ons that cover preventative maintenance.
What to check:
- Inclusions (labour, parts, callout fees).
- Availability of loan units during downtime.
- On-site versus off-site servicing.
Financing options for Australian businesses
Many Australian businesses choose to lease or finance their equipment to manage cash flow:
- Chattel mortgage: Equipment is owned from day one, depreciation is claimable.
- Finance lease: Lower upfront cost with buyout option at end.
- Operating lease: Like a rental, off-balance sheet, and tax-deductible.
Rates:
- Typically 4.9% to 7.5% p.a. for ABN holders.
- Terms range from 12 to 60 months.
Compliance and certification in Australia
Ensure your upright fridge or freezer complies with:
- GEMS regulations (Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards).
- ARC (Australian Refrigeration Council) certification for any unit using fluorinated gases.
- NSW Food Authority and Safe Food Australia guidelines for commercial food storage.
Checklist:
- Verify energy rating label.
- Ask suppliers for ARC-compliant documentation.
- Ensure user manuals and specifications are TGA-compliant where relevant.
Use-case based recommendations
Choosing the right commercial upright fridge or freezer depends heavily on your industry’s specific operational needs. Here's a breakdown of which models best suit common Australian sectors:
Cafés and bakeries
- Recommended type: Upright display fridges with glass doors and LED lighting.
- These are ideal for front-of-house display with clear visibility of stock and fast customer access.
- Must-have features include fan-forced cooling, adjustable shelves, and quiet operation under 45 dB.
Restaurants and hotels
- Recommended type: Solid-door, high-capacity fridges with GN 2/1 compatibility.
- These models are best suited for bulk storage in busy kitchens.
- Must-have features include self-closing doors, digital temperature control, and frost-free systems.
Butchers and seafood retailers
- Recommended type: Upright freezers with stainless steel interiors.
- Essential for handling high-moisture, high-fat products while maintaining hygiene.
- Must-have features include powerful compressors, corrosion-resistant shelving, and defrost timers.
Aged care and hospitals
- Recommended type: Medical-grade upright fridges or HACCP-certified units.
- Suitable for storing sensitive consumables and complying with strict health regulations.
- Must-have features include temperature logging, door alarms, and auto-close hinges.
Energy efficiency and running cost calculator
Energy use is a major cost over the life of a commercial fridge. Choosing an energy-efficient model can reduce total ownership costs significantly.
- A 600L upright fridge typically uses around 1,100 kWh per year, costing approximately $330 annually at an energy rate of $0.30/kWh.
- A 600L upright freezer may consume around 1,400 kWh annually, resulting in about $420 in electricity costs.
- Energy Star models use less energy, with some 600L units consuming as little as 700 kWh per year, costing around $210.
Payback Example:
- A high-efficiency fridge may cost $400 more upfront but can save $110–$150 annually in electricity.
- This equates to a payback period of approximately 2.7 to 3.6 years, well within a product’s 7–10 year lifespan.
To ensure efficiency:
- Look for Energy Rating Labels (mandatory in Australia for many models).
- Prioritise units with inverter compressors, LED lighting, self-closing doors, and superior insulation like cyclopentane foam.
Food safety, HACCP, and temperature compliance
Fridges and freezers used in food service must meet strict standards to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance.
Temperature Standards:
- Refrigerators must maintain a range of 1°C to 4°C.
- Freezers must remain at -18°C or below as per Food Standards Code – Standard 3.2.2.
HACCP Compliance Features:
- Units should include digital temperature displays and calibration options.
- Alarms for temperature breaches or open doors are essential.
- Data logging systems or USB download functionality support traceability.
- Interiors should be stainless steel and easy to clean, with removable shelving.
Regulatory Requirements:
- FSANZ mandates food businesses monitor and manage food temperatures.
- Some Australian councils and state regulators require periodic calibration and record keeping.
- Aged care and hospital operations may need units certified to AS/NZS 4187:2014 or approved by HACCP Australia.
Quick Compliance Checklist:
- Lockable doors: Optional
- Self-closing hinges: Recommended
- Digital thermometer: Mandatory
- Temperature logging: Strongly recommended
- HACCP sticker or approval: Required for certified kitchens
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Do I need a separate fridge and freezer, or is a combi unit sufficient?
Combi units are ideal for small kitchens with limited space, but they may offer less capacity. Separate units are better for high-volume operations.
Q2: How long do commercial upright fridges and freezers last?
Typically 8–12 years with proper maintenance. Compressors and gaskets often require mid-life replacement.
Q3: Are glass door fridges suitable for kitchen use?
Yes, especially for quick identification, but they may be less efficient than solid-door units in high-heat kitchens.
Q4: Can I install these units outdoors?
Most are designed for indoor use. If outdoor installation is required, choose a unit rated for ambient temperatures and weatherproofing.
Q5: Can I claim the cost as a business tax deduction?
Yes. Under temporary full expensing (until 30 June 2025), eligible businesses can deduct the full cost. Consult your tax advisor for specific eligibility.
Conclusion
Choosing the right commercial upright fridge or freezer is about more than just price. Consider your space, daily usage, energy efficiency, and long-term servicing needs. From compliance with GEMS and ARC standards to financing options and warranty coverage, being informed upfront ensures you invest in reliable cold storage that will support your operations for years to come.
Always compare quotes, verify energy ratings, and confirm service support with Australian-based suppliers. With proper care, your upright refrigeration unit can become a dependable workhorse in your kitchen or retail space.
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