Back bar coolers are specialized refrigeration units designed to store and display beverages like beer, wine, and soft drinks in commercial settings such as bars, restaurants, and hotels, typically placed behind the bar to provide bartenders with easy access and ensure efficient service during busy operations.
Back bar fridges are typically 34” to 36” (86.36 to 91.44 cm) high refrigerators. Back bar areas are usually narrow spaces that are left unused. A well-designed back bar fridge expertly utilizes such a dead space, making it an efficient operation component.
They hold many bottles and ingredients that bartenders frequently use and save time and effort in locating and retrieving components while prepping cocktails or serving drinks. Such an addition to your kitchen can expedite order fulfillment and indirectly positively impact customer experience and satisfaction. Plus, it makes the bartender’s job significantly more manageable and reduces the need for an external storage space.
There are 7 types of back bar fridges depending on the number of doors, such as single-door back bar fridges, double-door, or the type of doors such as glass-door, solid-door, pass-through, sliding door, and placement of the unit such as undercounter. Door count defines the storage volume of the unit, while different door types offer different utilities such as increased visibility, accessibility, or insulation.
The placement of back bar fridges is considered undercounter due to their height. 11 key features you should look for in back bar fridges range from temperature control, energy efficiency, durability, construction, reliability, storage capacity, size, shelving and organization, aesthetics and display, door configurations, lighting systems, condensation management, and brands and models.
By considering your needs and circumstances and evaluating functional and aesthetic options, you can refine your search and maximize the benefits of back bar fridges for your business, such as space optimization, enhanced efficiency, improved presentation, and cost savings.
As long as the installation requirements are met (such as ventilation needs, electrical specifications, clearance requirements, plumbing considerations, and location optimization), back bar fridges can be used anywhere with a bar and a storage need.
In any case, you should take the necessary measures in terms of cleaning and maintenance, such as cleaning regularly, preventive maintenance, monitoring temperatures, inspecting seals and components, knowing about standard troubleshooting, scheduling regular servicing for long-term reliability, and having parts replacements, to increase the lifespan of your unit and get the most out of your investment.
Back bar fridges can easily be integrated into commercial bar setups and complement other bar units for a fast and efficient workflow. Regardless of the scale of your operations, analyze the initial cost, consider operating expenses, do ROI calculations, and research warranty coverages and financing options to make a wise decision about your purchase. Looking into frequently asked questions about back bar fridges can grant you additional insight into what to consider when investing.
7 Types of Back Bar Fridges
Single-door back bar fridges, double-door back bar fridges, glass-door back bar fridges, solid-door back bar fridges, pass-through back bar fridges, undercounter back bar fridges, and sliding door systems are 7 types of back bar fridges in terms of configuration and placement.
The door count indicates the storage capacity and arrangement of the unit. Double-door units are either more spacious or organized. Glass vs. solid choice depends on whether you value ease of accessibility more or increased insulation, as you can’t have both. Most back bar fridges are undercounter units, which can save even more space with sliding doors. Pass-through designs on wall-mounted back bar fridges are also excellent for businesses requiring quick service.
1. Single-Door Back Bar Fridges
Single-door back bar fridges possess a single door and a corresponding storage compartment. They are designed for small-scale operations and low-volume storage needs. You can store certain ingredients for cocktails for easy access in a single-door back bar fridge or use it to store frequently ordered types of wine and drinks.
2. Double-Door Back Bar Fridges
Double-door back bar fridges possess double doors and two joint or separate compartments, depending on the model. They offer extra storage space and smoother organization opportunities to businesses. Individual compartments are more common as they allow businesses to store wildly different ingredients in one place without risking cross-contamination and facilitate better organization of your products.
3. Glass-Door Back Bar Fridges
Glass-door back bar fridges are designed with glass doors to allow interior visibility. This way, staff members can browse the fridge’s contents without opening the door and avoid unnecessarily disturbing the interior temperature. Also, glass doors are more aesthetically appealing and a great choice if you opt for a wall-mounted model that will be visible to the customers.
4. Solid-Door Back Bar Fridges
Solid-door back bar fridges have doors made from the same material as the unit’s walls. While solid doors are less aesthetically pleasing, they offer improved insulation and minimize temperature fluctuations. They are more cost-effective regarding initial price points and energy usage than glass-door units.
5. Pass-through Designs
Pass-through designs feature two openings on opposite sides to facilitate product exchange between two workspace areas. For instance, you can fill your unit from the kitchen and retrieve the products from the bar without needing an extra staff member to facilitate the exchange. Also, you can stock your unit midday from a back area without crowding the service space.
6. Undercounter Back Bar Fridges
Undercounter back bar fridges are placed under the countertop to save space. This is the most common placement for back bar fridges since it is out of customer’s sight, quickly available to the bartender, and overall a clever use of space.
7. Sliding Door Systems
Sliding door systems are space-efficient configurations for back bar setups. If your back bar area is extra tight and you don’t have the necessary clearance for a swing door, you can opt for a sliding door and bypass this problem. However, keep in mind that sliding doors are not as energy-efficient and well-insulated as solid swinging doors since they don’t close as perfectly.
What are The Key Features to Look for in Back Bar Fridges?
Temperature control, energy efficiency, durability, construction, reliability, storage capacity, size, shelving organization, aesthetics and display, door configurations, lighting systems, condensation management, brand, and models are the 11 key features in back bar fridges. Taking these 11 features into consideration and making the right choices for your business ensures a smooth operation and longevity for your investment.
- Temperature Control: Temperature control is a crucial component of cooled storage units to ensure the integrity of your products. Digital thermostats maintain the desired temperatures, provide accurate temperature adjustments, and control back bar coolers.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency features in back bar coolers can lower your utility bills and make your practices more sustainable. ENERGY STAR certification and A+ ratings signify efficient operations and lower power consumption. You can opt for such models for improved cost savings. Ensure that your unit utilizes eco-friendly refrigerants to avoid negative environmental impact.
- Durability, Construction, and Reliability: A back-bar refrigerator’s durability, construction, and reliability should be considered before purchasing. Stainless steel is the most commonly preferred material thanks to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Paired with an antimicrobial coating, a stainless steel unit can last you for years and work without a hitch. Reliability is crucial in foodservice businesses where the unit is never unplugged, and service must go daily. Opt for a good brand with good product reviews and efficient customer support for peace of mind.
- Storage Capacity: The storage capacity of a back bar cooler depends on your capacity needs. While the height of back bar coolers is 34” to 36” (86.36 to 91.44 cm) on average, the width and depth can vary greatly and afford you much-needed storage space. Measure the space where you intend to install the unit and consider your back bar storage needs to buy the right unit for your business. The number of shelves and their organization also impact storage capacity. Know what you wish to store beforehand to opt for the best configuration.
- Size: The size of the unit depends on your storage needs as well as the available space in your back bar area. Once you nail down the size you need, you can easily find small, medium, or large units. The most common sizes for back bar coolers are 24” to 36” (60.96 to 91.44 cm), 48” to 60” (121.92 to 152.4 cm), and 26” to 40” (66.04 to 101.6 cm). You can find custom units in brands like Perlick and Continental if you need a bigger or smaller unit than the average models.
- Shelving and Organization: shelving and organization of back bar fridges may vary based on the products you wish to store. The gap between shelves and the types of shelves can be customized for your needs. For instance, you can have three wired shelves for air circulation and vertical bottle storage, or you can have no shelves and stack your bottles on each other. The latter is not recommended since cool air circulation is obstructed with stacking, but it is still a viable option if you need that extra storage space.
- Aesthetics and Display: If you plan to use your unit on the wall or the counter, you should opt for a finish and design that suits your business. Certain brands, such as Perlick and Continental Refrigeration, offer extensive customization services, such as embossing the logo of your business onto their products or using your brand colors during manufacturing. You can make more straightforward adjustments, like picking a shiny finish, if you can’t budget for a fully customized unit.
- Door Configurations: There are many different door configurations you can choose from for your unit, such as glass doors, solid doors, swinging doors, and sliding doors. Each door type has pros and cons depending on what you wish to do and what your circumstances are. For instance, a glass door can be great for display, while a solid door is better for improved insulation. Similarly, while swinging doors close better, sliding doors are a great way to save space.
- Lighting Systems: Lighting systems used in back bar fridges should be energy-efficient LED lighting. LED lighting doesn’t exude much heat and is easier on the eyes. Illuminating the interior properly will make your staff’s job easier and improve your unit’s display qualities for customers.
- Condensation Management: Condensation management is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and hygiene of back bar fridges. Excess moisture can lead to frost buildup, water pooling, and damage to stored beverages or the unit. Modern back bar fridges have features like automatic defrost systems and insulated glass doors to minimize condensation. Proper sealing around doors and high-quality gaskets also play a key role in preventing moisture from entering the fridge.
- Brands and Models: You should investigate the best brands and models for back bars in the sector to meet your specific needs and desires. True Refrigeration is highly recommended thanks to its extended warranties. Perlick is the best high-end brand for bar supplies. Atosa is a cost-effective alternative to most.
4 Benefits of Back Bar Fridges for Bars
4 main benefits of back bar fridges for bars are space optimization, enhanced efficiency, improved presentation, and cost savings. Back bar fridges are designed to be compact, efficient models to improve workflow, display the properties of your bar, and save you money in the process.
- Space Optimization: You can save space in your establishment with a back bar fridge since they are designed to utilize what otherwise would have been dead space. Plus, putting frequently used items within reach of your bartender will minimize foot traffic to and from the bar area and optimize how your staff uses the available space.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Back bar fridges improve efficiency in commercial settings by providing easy access to frequently used items at bars and offering proper storage space in narrow areas. Pass-through designs perform well in busy businesses where beverages and ingredients might need restocking during the day or where the cooler is also being used as a merchandiser.
- Improved Presentation: Back bar fridges can be displayed with a glass door and a pass-through configuration. You can fill the unit from the bar area and showcase your products to your customers at the bar and let them retrieve their picks easily.
- Cost Savings: Back-bar fridges can help you minimize costs in several areas, such as staffing, energy bills, and inventory storage. When used as a merchandiser, a back bar cooler eliminates the need for a service staff by enabling customers to access the products independently. Energy-certified units spend significantly less energy and reduce utility bills. An efficient cooler will protect your inventory from going to waste and indirectly save you money.
How to Choose the Right Back Bar Fridge for Your Bar
4 steps to choosing the right back bar fridge for your bar are assessing your needs, considering the placement of your unit, evaluating the features of potential models, and striking the right balance between style and functionality in your purchase.
Assess Your Needs
You should start by assessing your needs to figure out the size and capacity you should look for in a back bar fridge. You need to consider three specific points: the size of your establishment, the types of beverages you plan to store, and the typical customer volume. For example, a small bar with limited seating may only need a single-door fridge, while a high-traffic venue serving a wide variety of drinks might require multiple larger units with diverse storage options. Taking these into account and tailoring your choice ensures that your fridge can efficiently support your operations.
Consider Placement
Your bar’s available space and layout are critical factors when selecting a back bar fridge. Measure the area where the fridge will be placed as precisely as possible and add the ventilation allowance to determine the size and shape you can consider. Then, consider which placement option is best for you. Undercounter models are ideal for tight spaces, while pass-through or wall-mounted options work well in venues with unique layouts or quick-service requirements. Also, smaller countertop models are great for merchandising and display purposes.
Evaluate Features
Evaluate the available features on the back bar fridge models you are considering and try to look for features that enhance the performance and usability of the fridge both in terms of energy usage and staff convenience. You should look for superior insulation for maximum energy efficiency and temperature consistency.
An R-value of 25 is ideal for a back bar fridge. You’ll need advanced cooling technologies in your unit to ensure beverages are consistently kept at optimal temperatures with little to no fluctuations. Finally, you should consider storage options, such as adjustable shelving and sliding doors, to add flexibility to your operations and accommodate a range of bottle and can sizes while maximizing available space.
Balance Style vs. Functionality
You should balance style and functionality when buying a back bar fridge. Your fridge should complement your bar’s interior style and branding while delivering as many practical benefits as possible. You should apply this mentality to every component of the unit. For instance, glass-door back bar fridges are excellent for showcasing beverages and creating a visually appealing display, whereas solid-door models provide a sleek, professional look with better insulation.
Similarly, lighting options that highlight your offerings without being overly bright or distracting are great for display and browsing purposes. The unique colors and warmth of the lighting can ensure the design matches the ambiance of your bar. In short, by balancing aesthetics with functionality, you can enhance the customer experience, the appearance of your brand, and operational efficiency.
Commercial Applications for Back Bar Fridges
There are commercial applications for back bar fridges in bars and nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, sports venues, and event spaces. Back bar fridges can increase efficiency and expedite services in all these venues and positively impact your business.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Back bar fridges are essential for bars and lounges, where quick access to chilled beverages and ingredients for cocktails are crucial. Their sleek designs and glass-door options allow staff to showcase and browse drinks and ingredients while maintaining an organized and efficient workflow, even during rush hours.
- Restaurants: In restaurants, back bar fridges can store various beverages, from bottled water to soft drinks. Their compact, undercounter designs save valuable space while ensuring that drinks remain easily accessible to staff to improve service efficiency. They can also be used in open buffets and merchandisers to expedite the service.
- Hotels: Hotels use back bar fridges in multiple locations across their premises, ranging from lobbies and bars to guest lounges, to offer their guests a variety of cooled beverages. Their aesthetic appeal and customizable storage options make them versatile and suitable for different settings, such as casual bars or high-end lounges.
- Sports venues: In sports arenas and stadiums, back bar fridges are used by concession stands to keep their drinks cold and ready to serve. They easily fit under the service stand and offer a durable and high-capacity storage option for these high-traffic environments where extremely rapid service is a priority.
- Event spaces: Back bar fridges can be used in weddings, corporate events, and banquets to provide convenient drink storage and access to staff and customers. Catering companies can invest in mobile back bar fridges since these units blend into various decor styles seamlessly and offer versatile storage solutions.
5 Installation Requirements of Back Bar Fridges
5 installation requirements of back bar fridges are ventilation needs, electrical specifications, clearance requirements, plumbing considerations, and location optimization.
- Ventilation needs: Ventilation is crucial for efficiently operating back bar fridges and coolers. Cooler compressors require adequate airflow around the unit to prevent overheating. Ensure the refrigerator is placed in a location with sufficient clearance around the vents to facilitate the necessary airflow. Poor ventilation can lead to reduced efficiency, premature equipment failure, dust build-up in the vents, and potentially health hazards.
- Electrical specifications: Electrical specifications for back bar fridges typically include a standard electrical outlet, but confirming your specific model’s voltage and amperage requirements is essential. Overloading circuits or using improper outlets can damage the unit or pose safety hazards for you and your team. If your fridge has advanced features like LED lighting or digital controls, there will be extra power demand to operate the unit, and you should ensure your electrical setup can handle the additional demand.
- Clearance requirements: Clearance requirements for back bar fridges are typically 2-4 inches off the walls and ceiling. Adequate clearance is necessary for both ventilation and easy access to the fridge. All cooler units need space at the back and sides to ensure proper airflow for the compressor and space at the front for unobstructed easy access for loading and unloading. While 2-4 inches is a rule of thumb, always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for clearance specifications of your unit, especially if it is an undercounter unit.
- Plumbing considerations: While most back bar fridges don’t require a direct plumbing connection, specific models, such as those with built-in drainage systems for condensation, may need one. First, decide whether you need a unit with built-in drainage. If you don’t, then you can skip this step. Second, evaluate whether your location has plumbing access or if modifications are required to accommodate such units. Undercounter units might need additional plumbing work and integration since the countertop won’t have plumbing connections.
- Location optimization: The placement of your back bar fridge should enhance efficiency and accessibility. You should find the most optimal location to achieve these objectives. You can install it near beverage prep or serving areas for quick and easy access or under the counter to minimize movement during busy times. Ensure that the fridge is placed away from heat sources, such as ovens, stoves, or direct sunlight, as these can impact cooling performance and energy efficiency and raise your bills while reducing the longevity of your unit.
Maintenance and Cleaning of Back Bar Fridges
Maintenance and cleaning of back bar fridges should be carried out meticulously to improve the performance and lifespan of your unit and avoid health hazards for your staff and customers. There are 7 points you should consider when establishing a system. You should clean regularly, do preventative maintenance, monitor temperatures, inspect seals and components regularly, learn standard troubleshooting, schedule regular servicing for long-term reliability, and do parts replacement as needed.
1. Clean Regularly
Cleaning your back bar fridge regularly and thoroughly should be a top priority for your business to maintain hygiene, meet health codes, and improve the efficiency of your unit. Establish a cleaning schedule and assign staff members the duty of cleaning the back bar fridge periodically. During the regular cleaning runs, wipe down interior and exterior surfaces with mild soap and water, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. Don’t forget to remove and clean shelves, trays, and other removable parts to prevent dirt and residue buildup.
2. Preventive maintenance
Preventative maintenance is a common practice that extends the lifespan of commercial back bar fridges. Most business owners only call for professional maintenance services in significant malfunctions. By scheduling preventative maintenance on a periodical basis, you can get ahead of problems by spotting them early and avoiding major and unexpected malfunctions. During preventative maintenance, you should check for dust and debris build-up around the condenser coils and vents and keep them clean. Make sure that the vents are unobstructed to avoid dust build-up in the first place.
3. Monitor Temperature
Monitor the temperature of the back bar fridge regularly to ensure it remains within the desired range. Digital thermostats can easily show you the interior temperature accurately, and you can use the data from there to keep tabs on your unit. However, digital thermostats can malfunction as well so occasionally use a thermostat and compare the results to ensure that the digital system is functioning as it should.
4. Inspect Seals and Components
Door seals and gaskets are critical in maintaining the unit’s interior temperature. Inspect seals and components of the back bar fridge regularly for cracks, wear, or gaps, and replace them if necessary to avoid compromising your insulation. Also, examine key components such as fans, lights, and thermostats for signs of damage or malfunction.
5. Common Troubleshooting
Specific problems are associated with back bar fridges, and standard troubleshooting is needed for these issues. You can refer to this list if you encounter any of the abovementioned situations. Schedule for professional maintenance if the problem persists or gets worse.
- Fridge Not Cooling Properly: Check the thermostat setting, clean condenser coils, and inspect door seals for air leaks. Persistent issues may indicate a problem with the compressor or refrigerant levels. Do not try to check the refrigerant yourself, as it is required by law for a certified technician to take care of it. Refrigerants are often highly flammable and dangerous to deal with.
- Unusual Noises: Rattling or buzzing could mean loose components or a faulty fan motor. Ensure the fridge is level and nothing is vibrating against it. Call a technician if the noise continues.
- Excessive Frost or Ice Buildup: Inspect the defrost system and ensure doors close securely. Check door gaskets for wear or gaps letting in moisture.
- Water Leaks or Puddles: Clear clogged drain lines and check for condensation from high humidity or improper placement near heat sources.
- Fluctuating Temperatures: Ensure vents aren’t blocked, avoid overloading, and check the thermostat for accuracy.
- Lights Not Working: Replace burned-out bulbs or LEDs and ensure the door switch is functional.
- Fridge Not Turning On: Verify the refrigerator is plugged in, the outlet works, and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Persistent issues may require professional repair.
- Unresponsive Digital Display or Controls: Reset the unit or check the power supply. If unresponsive, the control board may need replacing.
6. Schedule Regular Servicing for Long-term Reliability
Schedule regular servicing for the long-term reliability of your back bar fridge systems. Professionals can easily spot minor issues before they snowball into massive problems and fix them. This can save you the trouble of costly repairs and help you avoid inventory loss due to unexpected breakdowns.
7. Parts replacement
Parts replacement is a common way of extending the lifespan of back bar fridges. Even if you bought the most durable unit, certain parts, such as filters, lights, fans, and door gaskets, are more delicate and prone to wear and tear. Regularly inspecting these components and replacing them as soon as possible will prevent these localized issues from impacting the rest of the unit.
Back Bar Fridge Integration with Bar Refrigeration Systems
Back bar fridge integration with bar refrigeration systems is easy, as all back bar products are designed to complement each other. Back bar fridges are designed to store bottles and cans, which can be part of a comprehensive setup and serve as an efficient storage solution for high-volume bars.
Complementing Other Refrigeration Units
Back bar fridges work alongside undercounter refrigerators and kegerators to create a well-rounded bar refrigeration system for your operations. While kegerators handle draft beer and undercounter fridges, store ingredients, or overflow stock, back bar fridges provide dedicated space for bottled and canned beverages, ensuring each unit serves its purpose effectively without overcrowding. These units work together harmoniously to accommodate your back bar-cooled storage needs.
Part of a Comprehensive Setup
Positioning back bar fridges within an optimized bar layout is crucial to make the unit part of your comprehensive setup. A thoughtfully integrated back bar fridge contributes to an optimized bar layout. You can create an efficient workflow by positioning it strategically near service areas or alongside other refrigeration units. This setup minimizes staff movement, reduces wait times, and ensures that all drinks are readily accessible during busy shifts.
Relevance to High-Volume Bars
In high-volume bars, back bar fridges are indispensable for managing the demands of large-scale operations with efficient beverage storage. Their high capacity and quick-access designs allow bartenders to efficiently store and retrieve beverages, streamlining service even during peak hours. You can ensure your business runs smoothly, even during rush hours, by diversifying your refrigerated storage spaces and utilizing space-saving compact units.
What are The Investment Considerations for Back Bar Fridges?
The investment considerations for back bar fridges are initial cost analysis, operating expenses, ROI calculations, warranty coverage, and financing options. These will help you maximize your ROI and manage your budget more effectively.
- Initial cost analysis: First, evaluate the upfront cost of the fridge and try to strike a balance between price and performance by considering features, size, and brand reputation.
- Operating expenses: Secondly, factor in energy consumption, maintenance, and repair costs. Energy-efficient models or models made from more durable materials may have a higher initial price but save you a lot of money in the long run by keeping the utility bills low and maintenance needs to a minimum.
- ROI calculations: Thirdly, gauge how the fridge will contribute to your business’s efficiency, beverage sales, and customer satisfaction. A well-chosen unit should boost profits by improving service speed and drink storage.
- Warranty coverage: Look for models with comprehensive warranties to minimize unexpected repair costs and ensure peace of mind. True Refrigeration, Beverage-Air, Hoshizaki, and Perlick offer 6-7-year warranties to show that they stand by their products.
- Financing options: Look into financing options or leasing options to manage upfront expenses while still acquiring the equipment your bar needs. Most distributors and brands have plans to support businesses through costly purchases.
FAQs About Back Bar Fridges
What beverages can I store in a back bar fridge?
You can store various beverages in a back bar fridge, ranging from beers, wines, and sodas to cocktails, cocktail ingredients, and bottled water. However, more delicate products, such as wine, might need extra care regarding temperature settings and insulation.
How do I choose between glass and solid-door back bar fridges?
Choosing between glass and solid-door back bar fridges depends on your priorities. Glass doors are ideal for showcasing beverages and enhancing visibility, making them perfect for bars focused on presentation. In contrast, solid doors provide better insulation and energy efficiency, suitable for back-of-house storage or when display isn’t a priority.
What’s the typical lifespan of a commercial back bar fridge?
The typical lifespan of a commercial back bar fridge is 8-12 years if proper cleaning and maintenance are carried out.
How often should I clean my back bar fridge?
You should clean your back bar fridge weekly to keep your unit sanitary and pass health inspections without a hitch, and you should check the seals and gaskets monthly to get ahead of any issues that might arise from them.
What is the ideal temperature for storing beer?
The ideal temperature for storing beer is between 36°F and 40°F (2°C to 4°C) to maintain freshness and flavor.
What is the difference between a bar fridge and a normal fridge?
The difference between a bar fridge and a standard fridge lies in their intended function. A bar fridge is smaller, designed for storing beverages, and often includes features like glass doors and adjustable shelving. In contrast, a normal fridge is larger and meant for various food and drinks.
What are The Investment Considerations for Back Bar Fridges?
There are four primary investment considerations for back bar fridges: initial cost analysis, operating expenses, ROI calculations, warranty coverages, and financing options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right back bar fridge ensures efficiency, convenience, and style in your bar or hospitality space. With various configurations and door types available, back bar fridges cater to diverse needs, offering flexibility in design and functionality. By considering factors like size, features, energy efficiency, and integration with existing systems, you can select the ideal unit to support your business needs.
Proper installation and regular maintenance will improve the longevity and performance of your unit and ensure that your investment pays off. Ultimately, a well-chosen back bar fridge will optimize your operations, elevate customer experiences, and contribute to the overall success of your business.
