Key things for blast freezer

Half loads: When blast chilling or blast freezing less than a full load, space the trays out evenly throughout the cabinet. This will speed up the process and ensure the food is uniformly chilled. If possible, use a food probe to control the cycle, as this will save energy by stopping the cycle as soon as the correct temperature is reached.

Use a food probe: Using a food probe to control the blast chill cycle can save energy. To ensure the most accurate temperature readings, position the probe in the middle of the tray on the middle shelf, in the densest part of the food.

Air distribution: Having even, all round air flow not only ensures uniform chilling and minimises the risk of damaging the food but also reduces energy use.

Self-diagnostics: With any unit maintenance is key to ensuring your product runs efficiently for the life of the unit. Blast Chillers are available with self diagnostics, which mean service engineers can quickly find a fault and correct it. Maintenance reminders such as condenser cleaning lights are also invaluable in keeping your refrigeration running smoothly.

Keep it closed: Once the blast cycle has started, do not open the door, for example to add more trays of product. The food already in the unit will be subjected to warm air, while the food that is added won’t get the full blast cycle. This not only reduces the efficiency of the unit but, food safety will be compromised.

Don’t cover food: Don’t cover food in trays in the blast chiller or freezer, it will compromise the efficiency of the blast cycle. Modern blast chillers and freezers have special airflow designs, such as Williams’ AirSmart, which protect even delicate food, so there is no need to cover it.

High performance insulation: increased thermal efficiency can be achieved with improved insulation. By maintaining a constant temperature more easily, and reducing heat ingress the refrigeration unit will have to work less, therby reducing its energy use.