The Essential Under the Cabinet Refrigerator Guide

Let’s talk about your kitchen’s most valuable and limited resource: space. That empty area beneath your prep tables and counters is more than just dead space—it’s an opportunity. An undercounter refrigerator is designed to turn that unused real estate into fully functional cold storage, freeing up your floor for other essential equipment or creating safer, wider pathways for your staff. Instead of a bulky, standalone unit disrupting your layout, an under the cabinet refrigerator integrates seamlessly into your existing setup. This smart use of space is key to creating a more organized, professional, and productive kitchen environment, allowing you to maximize every square foot of your operation.

Key Takeaways

• Optimize Your Kitchen's Flow: An undercounter refrigerator's true value comes from its placement. Install units directly at prep, bar, or cook stations to give your team instant access to ingredients, which speeds up service and reduces kitchen traffic.
• Invest in Commercial-Grade Durability: Residential models can't handle the demands of a professional kitchen. Always choose a commercial-grade unit with stainless steel construction and a powerful compressor to ensure consistent temperatures, food safety, and long-term reliability.
• Plan for a Smooth Installation and Upkeep: Avoid common issues by measuring your space carefully—including door swing and ventilation clearance—before you buy. After installation, a simple, consistent cleaning schedule for the coils and gaskets will prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your unit.

What Is an Undercounter Refrigerator?

If you’ve ever felt like you’re playing a game of Tetris with your kitchen equipment, an undercounter refrigerator might be the piece you’re missing. Simply put, it’s a compact refrigeration unit designed to fit perfectly beneath your standard kitchen counters and prep tables. Think of it as a way to add cold storage exactly where you need it most, without sacrificing an inch of precious floor space.

These units are the unsung heroes of a busy commercial kitchen, providing immediate access to chilled ingredients, sauces, or beverages right at the point of use. Instead of your chefs making constant trips to a large walk-in cooler, they can have everything they need within arm's reach. This simple change can dramatically speed up service and reduce chaos during a busy dinner rush. Whether you run a sprawling restaurant, a food truck, or a cozy café, integrating undercounter refrigerators can streamline your entire operation. They are essential for creating efficient workstations, from the salad prep area to the bar, ensuring that your team can work faster and smarter. By placing cold storage strategically, you reduce unnecessary movement, minimize service delays, and ultimately create a more fluid and productive kitchen environment.

Key Benefits for Commercial Kitchens

The biggest win with an undercounter refrigerator is the improvement to your kitchen’s workflow. Placing these units at prep stations, on the cook line, or in your bar area means your staff can grab what they need without missing a beat. This convenience keeps the momentum going and helps maintain a smooth, efficient service. Beyond efficiency, they offer a seamless design that makes your kitchen look more organized and professional. They tuck away neatly, creating a clean, uncluttered environment. This isn't just about looking good; a well-organized space is a safer and more productive space for your team to work in.

How They Maximize Your Space

Let’s talk about space—the one thing every kitchen needs more of. Undercounter refrigerators are brilliant because they transform unused space into valuable real estate. That empty area below your counters becomes fully functional cold storage, freeing up your floor for other essential restaurant equipment or creating wider, safer pathways for your staff. Their compact size also makes them incredibly versatile. You can install one at a beverage station for drinks, in a dessert prep area for creams and custards, or at the bar for garnishes and mixers. By decentralizing your refrigeration, you can create dedicated zones that make your entire kitchen run more smoothly.

What Features Should You Look For?

Once you know an undercounter refrigerator is right for your kitchen, the next step is to pick the perfect model. With so many options out there, it helps to narrow down your search by focusing on the features that matter most in a busy commercial setting. From size and energy use to temperature precision and build quality, each detail plays a role in how well the unit will serve your team. Let's walk through the key features to look for so you can make a confident choice.

Choose the Right Size and Capacity

Before you fall in love with a specific model, grab your tape measure. The most important first step is ensuring the refrigerator will physically fit in your designated spot. Measure the height, width, and depth of your undercounter space carefully, leaving a little extra room for ventilation (we’ll get to that later). Beyond the external dimensions, think about the internal capacity you need. How much product will you store? Consider your daily prep needs and inventory turnover. Choosing the right size from the start prevents headaches during installation and ensures your new unit meets your kitchen’s demands. Our collection of commercial refrigerators comes in various sizes to fit any layout.

Factor in Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

A refrigerator runs 24/7, making it a major contributor to your restaurant's energy bill. While a standard model might have a lower upfront price, an energy-efficient unit is a smarter long-term investment. Look for models with an ENERGY STAR® certification, as these are designed to use less electricity without sacrificing performance. Over the life of the appliance, the savings on your utility bills can be substantial, directly impacting your bottom line. Think of it as a piece of equipment that pays you back over time. Investing in an energy-efficient model is one of the easiest ways to make your kitchen more sustainable and profitable.

Look for Precise Temperature Control

In a commercial kitchen, food safety is non-negotiable. Maintaining precise and consistent temperatures is key to keeping your ingredients fresh and safe for consumption. Look for undercounter refrigerators with digital thermostats that allow you to set and monitor the temperature accurately. Some advanced models even offer dual-zone cooling, which lets you create two separate temperature zones within the same unit. This is incredibly useful if you need to store different types of items, like produce and dairy, at their ideal temperatures. This level of control helps reduce spoilage, minimize waste, and ensure you’re always serving the highest quality product to your customers.

Prioritize Durable Construction

Your kitchen is a demanding environment. From accidental bumps from carts to constant opening and closing, your equipment needs to be tough. Prioritize undercounter refrigerators built with commercial-grade materials, like stainless steel interiors and exteriors. This not only withstands the daily wear and tear but also makes cleaning and sanitizing much easier. Check for sturdy shelving, reinforced door hinges, and high-quality gaskets that create a tight seal. While a residential model might look similar, it simply isn’t built for the rigors of a professional kitchen. Investing in durable construction ensures your refrigerator will be a reliable workhorse for years to come, making it a vital piece of your restaurant equipment.

Consider Extra Features and Accessories

Beyond the basics, certain features and accessories can significantly improve your kitchen’s workflow. For example, models with castor wheels make it incredibly easy to move the unit for deep cleaning underneath and behind it. Think about whether you prefer a solid door for better insulation or a glass door for quick inventory checks. Interior configurations matter, too. Do you need adjustable shelves to accommodate different-sized containers, or would drawers be more efficient for organizing specific ingredients? Some units are even designed for specific purposes, like storing wine or housing an ice maker. These thoughtful extras can make a big difference in your daily operations.

What Are the Top Undercounter Refrigerator Brands?

Choosing the right undercounter refrigerator is a big decision for your kitchen. The brand you select can directly impact your kitchen's workflow, reliability, and even your energy bills. A great brand delivers consistent cooling, stands up to the daily chaos of a commercial kitchen, and gives you one less thing to worry about. While many companies make refrigeration units, a few names consistently stand out for their quality, performance, and understanding of what a professional kitchen truly needs.

We'll walk through some of the most trusted brands in the industry, each with its own unique strengths. Whether you're looking for a seamless, built-in look, a rugged workhorse that will last for years, or a specialized unit for keeping beverages perfectly chilled, there's a brand that fits the bill. Understanding what each one offers will help you find the perfect match for your specific needs and budget. By exploring these top contenders, you can confidently select from a range of high-quality refrigerators that will serve your business well.

The Restaurant Warehouse Selection

At The Restaurant Warehouse, we carefully select undercounter refrigerators that offer the best combination of quality, performance, and value. Our collection features models with unique features and a variety of sizes designed to fit different kitchen layouts and operational demands. We focus on providing equipment that helps you improve your kitchen's efficiency and organization without stretching your budget.

Every unit we offer is chosen to withstand the fast-paced environment of a commercial kitchen, ensuring you get a reliable appliance that works as hard as you do. By focusing on trusted brands known for their durability, we help you make a smart investment. You can explore our full range of restaurant equipment to find the perfect pieces to complete your kitchen setup.

Summit Appliance

Summit Appliance is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a refrigerator that blends seamlessly into your kitchen's design. The brand specializes in built-in and recessed undercounter models that create a clean, integrated look. This is ideal for front-of-house applications, bar setups, or any kitchen where aesthetics are a priority.

Summit offers impressive versatility with its product line. You can find everything from all-refrigerator units to refrigerator-freezer combos, available in various sizes and with different door finishes to match your cabinetry and decor. Their focus on creating compact, efficient designs means you can get the cold storage you need without sacrificing valuable floor space, making them a smart solution for kitchens of any size.

True Manufacturing

When you think of durability and reliability in commercial refrigeration, True Manufacturing is often the first name that comes to mind. True refrigerators are built like tanks, designed to endure the most demanding kitchen environments and provide consistent, powerful cooling for years. They are the workhorses of the industry, known for their exceptional performance and longevity.

Investing in a True undercounter refrigerator means prioritizing long-term dependability. These units are engineered for heavy, constant use, which often translates to fewer service calls and a lower total cost of ownership over the appliance's lifespan. If your top priority is finding a rock-solid piece of equipment that you can count on day in and day out, True is an excellent choice.

Beverage-Air

For businesses where drink service is a core part of the operation, Beverage-Air is a leading brand. They offer a wide array of undercounter refrigeration options, with a special focus on models designed specifically for beverage storage. These units are engineered to hold drinks at the perfect, consistent temperature, ensuring every beverage you serve is refreshingly cold.

While they are experts in beverage coolers, Beverage-Air also produces high-quality general-purpose undercounter refrigerators and freezers suitable for any commercial kitchen. Their commitment to quality and performance makes them a go-to for bars, cafes, and restaurants that want to guarantee an ideal customer experience. Choosing a Beverage-Air unit means you're getting equipment designed for a specific, critical task.

How Do the Top Models Compare?

Once you have a list of potential brands, the real work begins: comparing the specific models. This is where you’ll weigh features, performance, and price to find the perfect fit for your kitchen’s unique needs. It’s not just about finding a refrigerator that fits in the space; it’s about finding a workhorse that can handle the daily grind of a commercial environment. Thinking through these key comparison points will help you make a smart investment that pays off in efficiency and reliability for years to come.

Compare Prices by Brand and Capacity

The price tag on an undercounter refrigerator can vary widely, and it’s usually tied to the brand name and the unit's capacity. High-end brands often market their products as "luxury" appliances, but for a commercial kitchen, durability and function should always come before designer prestige. Instead of focusing on brand names, look at what you get for your money. A larger capacity or a more robust build might justify a higher price. Your goal is to find the best value—a reliable unit that meets your kitchen's demands without unnecessary frills. Exploring a wide selection of refrigerators can give you a better sense of how price and features align across different models.

Review Performance and Energy Ratings

In a busy restaurant, a refrigerator's performance is non-negotiable. You need a unit that maintains a consistent temperature, even when the door is constantly being opened and closed during a rush. Beyond temperature stability, consider the unit's energy consumption. An Energy Star certified model might have a slightly higher initial cost, but it will save you a significant amount on your utility bills over its lifespan. Since your kitchen equipment runs around the clock, these savings add up quickly. If a high-performance, energy-efficient model feels out of reach, look into restaurant equipment financing to make the investment more manageable.

Decide Between Commercial and Residential Models

This is one of the most important decisions you'll make. While a residential undercounter unit might look sleek, it’s not built to withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen. Commercial models are designed for heavy use, featuring powerful compressors, durable stainless steel construction, and the ability to recover temperature quickly. Using a residential unit in a commercial setting can lead to premature failure, spoiled inventory, and even voided warranties. A breakdown during service can be a costly disaster. Always opt for equipment specifically built for foodservice to ensure you have a reliable piece of restaurant equipment that can keep up with your pace.

Choose Between Drawers and Doors

The final choice often comes down to how you plan to use the refrigerator. Traditional door models, which come in solid or glass options, are a familiar choice. Glass doors allow your staff to see what’s inside at a glance, minimizing the time the door is open. Solid doors, on the other hand, typically offer better insulation. Drawer units are fantastic for prep stations, providing easy, organized access to ingredients. You can slide pans directly into the drawers, streamlining your workflow and keeping everything within arm's reach. Think about where the unit will go and what it will hold to decide which configuration best supports your kitchen's efficiency.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

You’ve found the perfect undercounter refrigerator, and you’re ready to get it up and running. But a successful installation is about more than just finding an outlet. Taking a few extra minutes to plan the setup can save you from major headaches, prevent premature wear and tear, and ensure your new equipment runs efficiently for years. Let’s walk through some of the most common installation slip-ups and how you can easily sidestep them.

Measure Your Space Accurately

This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. Before your refrigerator arrives, measure the intended space—width, depth, and height—meticulously. A common mistake is forgetting to account for the unit’s door swing. You need to ensure there’s enough clearance for the door to open fully without hitting a wall, a counter, or another piece of equipment. An inaccessible refrigerator can disrupt your entire kitchen’s workflow. Measure the space, then check the unit’s spec sheet for its dimensions, including the space needed for the door to open.

Plan for Proper Ventilation

Your refrigerator’s condenser needs to breathe. Poor ventilation is a critical mistake that forces the unit to work harder, driving up your energy bills and shortening its lifespan. Commercial refrigerators generate heat, and that heat needs somewhere to go. Make sure there’s adequate space around the back and sides of the unit for air to circulate freely. Crowding it into a tight space without airflow is a recipe for inefficiency and potential breakdowns. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific clearance requirements to keep your unit cool and happy.

Check for Door Swing Clearance

Beyond just measuring the unit, think about how it will function in your daily operations. Tight door clearances that prevent the door from opening all the way are a constant source of frustration. This not only makes it difficult to load and unload items but can also put stress on the door hinges over time. Before you finalize the placement, physically mime opening the door to its full extent. Will it block a walkway? Will it bang into another appliance? Answering these questions beforehand ensures the refrigerator works with your kitchen’s flow, not against it.

Follow Electrical and Code Requirements

Every commercial kitchen has to meet specific health and safety codes, and your refrigeration installation is no exception. An inadequate site assessment can lead to serious compliance issues. Before installation, confirm that your electrical setup can handle the new unit’s power demands. Does it require a dedicated circuit? Is the outlet properly grounded and rated for the appliance’s amperage? A quick consultation with an electrician and a review of local codes can prevent failed inspections, tripped breakers, or even electrical fires. It’s a crucial step for a safe and legal kitchen operation.

Avoid Common Sizing and Placement Errors

Improper sizing is another frequent misstep. This isn’t just about whether the unit physically fits, but whether it’s the right capacity for your needs. A refrigerator that’s too small will be constantly overfilled, leading to inconsistent temperatures and food safety risks. One that’s too large wastes valuable kitchen space and energy. Think carefully about what you’ll be storing and how much of it. When you shop restaurant equipment, consider both the external dimensions and the internal storage capacity to find the perfect match for your kitchen’s demands.

How to Choose the Right Refrigerator for Your Kitchen

Picking the right undercounter refrigerator goes beyond just finding one that fits. It’s about making a smart choice that supports your kitchen’s rhythm, keeps your ingredients safe, and stands up to the nightly rush. Before you add one to your cart, think through how it will function in your specific environment. The best refrigerator is one that your team barely notices because it integrates so seamlessly into their work. Let’s walk through the four biggest factors to consider to make sure you find the perfect match for your kitchen.

Consider Your Kitchen's Layout and Workflow

Take a moment to map out your kitchen's daily operations. Where do ingredients come in? Where are they prepped? Where is the final dish assembled? Your refrigerator should support this flow, not disrupt it. The kitchen's physical layout, local health codes, and your service volume all play a role in finding the right spot. Placing a unit near a prep station can save your staff countless steps, keeping everything they need within arm's reach. Think of your restaurant equipment as a team—each piece needs to be in the right position to work effectively.

Think About Staff Accessibility and Efficiency

A poorly placed refrigerator can create a major bottleneck during a busy service. One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to account for door swing. Before you buy, make sure there’s enough clearance for the door or drawers to open fully without blocking a walkway or bumping into other staff members. The goal is to make your team’s job easier. By placing refrigerators strategically, you can create an efficient environment where your chefs can access ingredients quickly and safely, keeping service moving smoothly.

Determine Your Temperature Needs

Food safety is non-negotiable, and your refrigerator is your first line of defense. Commercial units are designed to maintain precise temperatures, even when the doors are opened frequently during a rush. Undercounter refrigerators must keep temperatures under specific thresholds to ensure your ingredients stay fresh and safe for consumption. Whether you’re storing delicate produce, dairy, or prepped meats, you need a unit you can trust to hold a consistent, correct temperature. This isn’t just about quality—it’s about meeting health code standards and protecting your customers.

Match Durability to Your Kitchen's Demands

A commercial kitchen is a demanding environment. From spills and heat to constant use, your equipment has to be tough. Look for refrigerators built with high-quality materials like stainless steel that are easy to clean and can withstand the rigors of daily service. Each unit is designed to fit various kitchen layouts and needs, ensuring it can handle the pressure of a busy operation. Investing in a durable, commercial-grade refrigerator means you’ll have a reliable appliance for years to come, and flexible restaurant equipment financing can make that investment more manageable.

Where Should You Buy Your Undercounter Refrigerator?

Once you’ve narrowed down the features and brands you’re interested in, the final step is deciding where to make your purchase. The right supplier can make all the difference, offering not just a product but also support, fair pricing, and a smooth buying process. You’ll want to find a partner who understands the demands of a commercial kitchen and can help you get the best value for your investment. Consider suppliers who specialize in commercial equipment, offer flexible payment options, and provide a transparent shopping experience, whether you prefer to buy online or in person.

The Restaurant Warehouse Advantage

We know that every piece of equipment in your kitchen needs to earn its keep. That’s why we offer a curated selection of undercounter refrigerators designed for performance and durability. Each model we carry is chosen to help you enhance efficiency and organization in your commercial kitchen, no matter the layout. Our focus is on providing top-quality equipment without the premium price tag, so you can outfit your space with reliable appliances that fit your budget. We believe that getting great equipment shouldn't be a financial burden, and our team is here to help you find the perfect unit to meet your specific operational needs.

Explore Equipment Financing Options

A new undercounter refrigerator is an investment in your kitchen's productivity, but it doesn't have to be a major upfront expense. Exploring restaurant equipment financing can help you manage your cash flow while getting the high-quality unit you need right away. Financing allows you to spread the cost over time, making it easier to afford a more durable or energy-efficient model that can lower your utility bills in the long run. This approach frees up capital for other essential business needs, like inventory or marketing, ensuring you can keep your operations running smoothly without compromise. It’s a practical way to acquire essential assets and build a stronger business.

Weigh Online vs. In-Store Purchasing

Deciding between buying online or from a brick-and-mortar store often comes down to convenience versus a hands-on experience. Shopping online gives you access to a massive selection of restaurant equipment, making it easy to compare specs, prices, and reviews from your office. Detailed product pages often list everything you need to know, including optional add-ons like castor wheels for easy cleaning and movement. While you can’t physically touch the unit, a reputable online supplier provides comprehensive information and customer support. In-store shopping lets you see the equipment firsthand, but your options may be limited to what’s on the floor. Ultimately, the best choice is a supplier who offers a detailed, user-friendly online store backed by expert service.

How to Maintain Your New Refrigerator

You’ve invested in a great piece of equipment, and now it's time to make sure it runs smoothly for years to come. Proper maintenance isn't just about keeping things clean; it's about protecting your investment, ensuring food safety, and avoiding the stress of unexpected breakdowns. A little routine care goes a long way in extending the life of your undercounter refrigerator and keeping it working efficiently. By following a few key practices, you can keep your unit in top shape, save yourself from costly repairs, and keep your kitchen operations running without a hitch.

Set a Regular Cleaning Schedule

Your undercounter refrigerator requires consistent care to perform at its best, so establishing a cleaning schedule is the first step. This isn't just for looks—it directly impacts the unit's efficiency and longevity. Start by having staff wipe down interior surfaces and door gaskets daily to prevent grime buildup. Once a week, do a more thorough clean of the gaskets to ensure a tight seal, which keeps cold air in. On a monthly basis, tackle the condenser coils. When dust and grease accumulate on the coils, the refrigerator has to work harder to stay cool, wasting energy and straining the components. A simple schedule keeps your unit hygienic and running smoothly.

Keep Air Circulating Properly

One of the easiest ways to maintain your refrigerator's performance is to ensure proper airflow. When a unit is overstuffed, cold air can't circulate effectively, leading to inconsistent temperatures and potential food spoilage. Train your team to leave adequate space around stored items. A good rule of thumb is to keep products at least an inch away from the interior walls. This simple practice allows air to move freely, maintaining an even temperature throughout the compartment. It keeps your ingredients fresh and helps the refrigerator run more efficiently, which can make a difference on your energy bill.

Prevent Common Maintenance Issues

The best way to handle a major equipment failure is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Proactive maintenance and staff training are key. Educate your team on how to use the equipment correctly and spot early warning signs, like unusual noises or temperature fluctuations. Many common issues can be avoided with regular upkeep. For peace of mind, consider a maintenance agreement with a professional service company. They can perform regular check-ups on your refrigerators and other equipment, catching small problems before they become expensive emergencies. This foresight helps reduce the risk of a major breakdown that could disrupt your entire kitchen.

Find the Perfect Refrigerator for Your Kitchen

You’ve handled the technical specs, but now it’s time to choose the undercounter refrigerator that truly fits your kitchen. This decision goes beyond temperature and capacity; it’s about finding a unit that integrates smoothly into your daily workflow and the overall design of your space. Let’s walk through the final details to ensure you select a model that you and your team can rely on day in and day out.

Choose Your Type: All-Fridge or a Combo Unit?

First, decide on the primary function of your new unit. Do you need extra refrigerated space for fresh produce and prepped ingredients, or could you use a combination of refrigeration and freezer space? An all-refrigerator model is perfect for placing near a prep station to keep key ingredients within arm's reach. On the other hand, a refrigerator-freezer combo is ideal for a bar that needs to store garnishes, mixers, and ice in one convenient spot. Thinking about your specific storage needs will help you narrow down the wide selection of available refrigerators.

Select Features That Fit Your Workflow

The right features can make a huge difference during a busy service. Drawer units, for example, offer excellent organization and quick access to items without having to bend down and search. This is a game-changer for fast-paced environments where every second counts. Also, consider practical accessories like castor wheels, which make it much easier to move the unit for deep cleaning or maintenance. When you shop restaurant equipment, look for these small details that solve real-world kitchen problems and improve your team's efficiency.

Match the Finish to Your Space

Finally, think about how the refrigerator will look in your kitchen. For most commercial settings, a stainless steel finish is the go-to choice. It’s durable, easy to clean, and provides a clean, professional look that matches other standard kitchen equipment. However, if the refrigerator will be in a customer-facing area like a café, hotel bar, or an open-concept kitchen, you might consider a 'custom panel ready' model. These units allow you to install a custom panel that matches your cabinetry, creating a seamless and integrated appearance that enhances your establishment's aesthetic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just use a residential undercounter refrigerator in my commercial kitchen? While it might seem like a way to save money upfront, using a residential unit in a professional kitchen is a mistake. Commercial refrigerators are built with powerful compressors and durable materials designed to handle constant use and recover temperature quickly after the door is opened. A residential model simply can't keep up with the demands of a busy service, which can lead to inconsistent temperatures, food safety risks, and a much shorter lifespan for the appliance.

How do I decide between a model with doors and one with drawers? This choice really comes down to how you plan to use the unit. A traditional door model is a versatile all-rounder, great for storing bottles, containers, and various prepped items. If you opt for a glass door, your staff can see what’s inside at a glance. Drawers, on the other hand, are fantastic for prep stations. They allow you to organize ingredients in pans for incredibly fast and easy access, which can significantly speed up your workflow during a rush.

Is an ENERGY STAR® certified model really worth the higher price? Absolutely. A refrigerator is one of the few pieces of equipment in your kitchen that runs 24/7, so its energy consumption has a direct impact on your monthly utility bill. While an energy-efficient model may cost a bit more initially, the savings you’ll see over the life of the appliance are substantial. Think of it as an investment that pays you back month after month, making it a smarter financial decision in the long run.

What's the most common installation mistake I should watch out for? The most critical and frequent error is failing to leave enough room for proper ventilation. Your refrigerator’s condenser coils need to breathe to release heat. If you cram the unit into a tight space without adequate airflow around the back and sides, the compressor is forced to work much harder. This not only drives up your energy costs but also puts a huge strain on the components, leading to premature breakdowns.

How do I know what size and capacity I actually need? Before you start shopping, think carefully about what you’ll be storing and where the unit will be located. Measure the physical space, but also consider your daily inventory needs. A unit that’s too small will be constantly overstuffed, which blocks airflow and creates unsafe temperature zones. A unit that’s too large wastes valuable space and energy. Review your menu and prep lists to get a realistic idea of the internal capacity that will best support your kitchen’s operations.