While large grocery stores are not going away any time soon, there is a new trend taking hold in the marketplace: the small-format grocery store.

Like other companies working in the sector, Heatcraft Refrigeration Products faced a new set of DOE Annual Walk-In Energy Factor (AWEF) standards taking effect on Jan. 1 of this year.

As refrigerant regulations grow more stringent, manufacturers are beginning to offer new refrigeration architectures that utilize low-GWP refrigerants.

Emerson announced a new platform of AWEF-compliant condensing units for walk-in coolers to meet the DOE rule.

The U.S. DOE will soon begin enforcing its 2017 rule that mandates minimum energy efficiency requirements for walk-in coolers and freezers.

In this month’s troubleshooting situation, you are responding to a restaurant manager’s call for service, and the equipment is a walk-in freezer.

The article provided valuable information on maintenance and cleanliness issues related to refrigeration equipment in restaurants and c-stores.

In this month’s troubleshooting situation, you are responding to a customer’s complaint that their walk-in cooler “isn’t cooling enough.”

High temperature fluctuations, foot traffic, dirt and debris, and more can wreak havoc on units, particularly if they are not well maintained.

Store owners and managers are always looking for ways to lower operating expenses, and their refrigeration systems can be a good place to start.