Swing vs. Slide: Choosing the Perfect Door for Your Commercial Refrigeration or Bottle Cooler.

Commercial refrigerators and bottle coolers are crucial pieces of equipment, keeping your inventory chilled and fresh. But beyond the cooling technology, a seemingly minor detail can have a big impact on functionality: the door type. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of hinged and sliding doors to help you choose the perfect fit for your business.

The Classic Swing or Hinged Door:

Hinged doors are generally less expensive than their sliding counterparts. This can be a major consideration for businesses on a budget. In addition, some hinged doors have self-closing mechanisms, ensuring a proper seal and preventing temperature fluctuations.

The Space-Saving Slide:

Sliding doors eliminate the need for a clearance area in front of the fridge, a game-changer in tight kitchens or narrow aisles. Every inch counts. With no door swinging open, sliding doors keep walkways clear, minimising congestion during busy periods. Sliding doors allow for a wider opening, making it easier to access and manoeuvre large items within the fridge. In addition, the pressure created when closing a sliding door can contribute to a tighter seal, potentially reducing energy consumption.

Making the Choice

Ultimately, the best door type depends on your specific needs. Consider these factors:

If floor space is a premium, sliding doors are the clear winner.

High-traffic areas benefit from the unobstructed access offered by sliding doors.

Hinged doors are typically more affordable if cost is a major concern.

For frequently accessed large items, sliding doors offer better accessibility.

The Takeaway

Both hinged and sliding doors have their merits. By understanding the advantages of each, you can make an informed decision that optimises your commercial refrigeration unit for both. For instance, the Sterling Pro Green SP2HC double door bottle cooler exemplifies our commitment to choice – we offer it with both hinged and sliding door options, all at fantastic prices. After all, it’s a matter of personal preference.

(Main image shows SP2HC-BS – sadly contents not included)