How to get your ice cream display freezers ready for summer
Your ice cream season will begin in full force soon, but only if your ice cream display freezers are ready to meet the demand.
27 March 2025
How to get your ice cream display freezers ready for summer
As winter gives way to spring and the first hints of warmer days appear, it means ice cream season is quickly approaching.
While your customers might not be craving your frozen treats just yet, as an ice cream vendor, now is the perfect time to prepare for when those hot summer days arrive.
Your ice cream season will begin in full force, but only if your ice cream display freezers are ready to meet the demand.
Here at TEFCOLD, we know that a successful ice cream sales season requires preparation well before the temperatures climb. Here’s a quick guide to ensure your ice cream display freezers are primed and ready for the busy months ahead.
Start With A Good Clean
Start with a thorough clean. Whether you’ve used your ice cream freezer through winter or not, they quickly accumulate ice build-up. Spills and drips also accumulate if you’ve used your freezer over the colder months (for ice cream or something else). Cleaning and defrosting them means avoiding the potential impacts on the unit’s performance and hygiene.
Unplug the freezer from the wall. Use warm, soapy water and a cloth to clean the inside and the door seals, avoiding anything abrasive. Don’t forget to focus on those hard-to-reach spots, including the drain tray and surrounding areas. Ice cream remnants often lurk there. While you’re looking at the seals, check for any tears or brittleness. If you notice any problems, replace them. A small investment here could save you money on energy bills and costly repairs later.
Perform a system check and regular maintenance
Once you’ve finished cleaning your ice cream display freezers, it’s time to check if they’re working correctly.
Ice cream should stay just below -18°C for the best texture and taste. Check the temperature is set correctly and working well. If you suspect you have a malfunction, bring in a professional.
Listen to or watch the ventilation fans inside the unit (if fitted). They help keep the temperature and humidity inside the freezer consistent. If you notice any unusual sounds or changes in airflow, investigate further.
Next up, inspect your cooling system. Dust and gently clean the condenser coils at the back and listen for any unusual noises (or lack thereof) from the condenser coil’s fan. You should hire a professional to replace these components if anything seems off.
Finally, check the compressor. If it’s making strange noises or not running properly, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. Running diagnostics now can prevent an expensive breakdown when you need the freezer most. If you notice any issues, call in an expert for repairs.
Otherwise, you’re good to proceed with the next steps.
Optimise your display for maximum impact
Your ice cream display freezer is designed to be just that – a ‘display’. It should be something that catches the attention of any customer and drives them to impulse buy. So, it must be eye-catching. Here are a few tips to help you create the perfect ice cream display:
Consider where to put your ice cream display freezer. Avoid putting ice cream freezers near entrances or windows as this can result in solar gain and decreases efficiency. Also avoid putting your freezers too close to anything hot such as fish and chip ranges.
Put the most popular flavours at the front and ensure they’re easy to reach. If your display freezer isn’t as deep and comes with multiple compartments, arrange the flavours neatly, ensuring everything is visible.
If a particular flavour or product isn’t selling well, swap it out for one you believe will perform better.
Prepare for the unexpected
Your ice cream display freezers are ready. Bring on summer.
But even with the best preparation, Murphy’s Law dictates that things can still go wrong especially when you least expect it. Freezer breakdowns, power cuts and human error (like leaving the doors open) are always risks during busy periods, so have a backup plan ready, just in case.
Know where you can organise temporary storage options like rented freezers or invest in a storage cabinet. Another option is partnering with a local food business for emergency storage. And keep your service provider’s contact information easily accessible and ensure your staff know where to find it.
While some emergencies, like power cuts, are unavoidable, there are plenty of steps you can take to keep your business running smoothly. For example, schedule your staff to perform regular maintenance and hire a professional to do a detailed service just before the season arrives.
Take the time to explain the ‘first in, first out’ (FIFO) stock rotation method to your staff to prevent spoilage. Also, appoint dedicated employees to monitor the temperatures of your ice cream display freezers during high-demand periods. Even a tiny temperature spike could ruin your stock.
Investing in a modern freezer with built-in temperature monitoring features and alerts is a good idea. If your unit doesn’t have one, plenty of aftermarket options exist. But, honestly, it’s probably easier to just upgrade to a new one.
Let TEFCOLD help you get ready for the summer rush
It feels like it’s been a long winter, and spring and summer are starting to show signs of appearing. Get your ice cream display freezers ready for the upcoming rush, and you’re sure to capitalise on market demand and boost your sales. We also offer plenty of options for ice cream distributors.
Here at TEFCOLD, we hold a vast range of ice cream display freezers. If your freezers are showing their age, now’s the time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient, cost-effective model. With over 50 years of industry experience and a nationwide reputation for reliability, we provide equipment that businesses like yours trust to perform under pressure.
Check out our range and let us help you get ready for the most profitable ice cream season of the year.