To find the ideal freezer display merchandiser for your establishment, you need to consider the size that best fits your needs. Start by evaluating the available space and the volume of merchandise you plan to store in the freezer. Freezer display merchandisers come in a range of sizes, from compact countertop units to full-sized, stand-up freezers with one to three sections.

While freezer capacities are typically measured in cubic feet, the key factor to focus on is the number of shelves included. Knowing the size of the unit and the number of shelves will help you select a freezer that can comfortably accommodate all of your frozen products. Typically, each section of a merchandiser includes four shelves—so a one-section freezer will have four shelves, a two-section freezer will have eight shelves, and so on.

It’s important not to overfill your freezer. Doing so can put undue strain on the compressor, making it harder for the freezer to maintain the right temperature. If you're undecided between two sizes, opting for the larger unit might be a smarter choice, as it will provide more storage space as your business grows.

Merchandiser Doors

Your freezer display will come with one of two types of doors. Swinging doors are the most common. These doors are self-closing and latch magnetically to ensure the freezer is sealed when customers walk away. Most swinging doors can stay open past 90 degrees, allowing employees easy access for cleaning and stocking.

The alternative to swinging doors is sliding doors, which are typically available only on multi-section freezers. Sliding doors are ideal for locations with narrow aisles where swinging doors may be impractical. Both door types often come with heaters to prevent condensation from forming, which could obscure the view of your products.

Refrigeration Setup

Understanding the placement of the refrigeration components in your freezer display is crucial for performance. Most merchandisers have bottom-mounted condensing units, which offer several advantages:

• Easier access to lower shelves: Bottom-mounted units raise the bottom shelves, making it more convenient for customers to reach products without bending down.
• Simplified maintenance: Bottom-mounted condensing units are easy to access for service and repairs.
• Increased energy efficiency: These units are located away from the hotter air near the ceiling, which can help reduce energy consumption.

While less common, top-mounted condensing units can be found on smaller models or specialty units like ice merchandisers. These units are more challenging to service but benefit from being located away from floor debris. However, they may be less energy efficient since they must work harder to cool the refrigerant in the hotter air near the ceiling.

Some smaller freezers may have compressors mounted in the rear or on one side of the cabinet. These units require additional clearance to allow for proper air circulation. If you're working with limited space, choose units with front- or rear-breathing refrigeration, which do not require side clearance.

Additional Features to Consider

As you narrow down your freezer options, keep in mind these useful features:

• Marketing options: Many freezer display merchandisers include lit signage areas, allowing you to add custom graphics or signage to promote your products.
• Lighting: Most units come with lighted interiors, but models with LED lights are more energy-efficient and provide brighter illumination compared to traditional fluorescent bulbs.
• Exterior finishes: Choose a freezer with a decorative finish that complements your store’s décor.
• Bottom drains: These make it easier to clean up spills and maintain the unit. However, be aware that health codes typically prohibit storing food outside of its original sealed packaging in freezers with drains.
• Energy efficiency: To lower your utility bills, look for ENERGY STAR-certified freezers. These models have been tested and proven to be significantly more energy-efficient than standard models in the same category.

By considering these key factors, you'll be better equipped to choose the right freezer display merchandiser for your business, ensuring that it meets both your storage needs and energy efficiency goals.