There are plenty of compelling reasons to upgrade your commercial fridges with the most notable benefit being improved energy efficiency.
Modern refrigeration systems are designed to consume less energy compared to older models, which translates into significant savings on your energy bills.
This guide will outline the key reasons why modern refrigeration systems save on energy bills along with other benefits and how to offset acquisition costs.

Energy-efficient compressors
Modern refrigeration systems often utilise advanced variable-speed compressors, which can adjust their speed to match the cooling requirements resulting in more consistent and efficient cooling.
In contrast, older compressors typically operate at a single speed and frequently cycle on and off, leading to an increased energy consumption. Furthermore, dirt and debris can build up on the condenser coils over time, reducing the overall efficiency of older models.
Enhanced insulation and door seals
Over time, the insulation on older refrigeration units can degrade, becoming less effective at retaining cool air and losing their heat transfer efficiency. As a result, more energy is required to maintain the specified temperature.
Older or cracked door seals results in cool air escaping, forcing the fridge or freezer to consume more energy to compensate. Modern commercial refrigeration units feature high-quality insulation and tighter door seals, ensuring that your equipment operates at peak efficiency.
Improved fans and motors
Newer fridges are equipped with energy-efficient fans and motors that circulate air effectively using less power, which may help save money on your bills.
By contrast, outdated models tend to rely on older, less efficient technology that consumes far more energy. These modern advancements make it easier to optimise energy use without compromising on performance.
Sophisticated controllers
Modern refrigeration systems include controllers that dynamically manage cooling output. For example, JLA’s controllers work harder when demand is high to maintain a consistent internal temperature, ensuring your food remains safely chilled even during peak times.
When activity is low, they reduce energy use by easing off on cooling—a feature that can save up to 15% in energy costs while maintaining optimal conditions.
Advanced refrigerants
Installing brand-new commercial refrigeration systems ensures you can benefit from high performance refrigerants that are not only more environmentally friendly but also more efficient at transferring energy. These refrigerants improve cooling performance while reducing overall energy consumption, making them a smart choice for businesses seeking to reduce energy bills, as prices continue to rise.
Energy-saving door designs
Features like self-closing doors and airtight seals found in JLA’s Active Cool range are designed to prevent energy loss. With the potential for staff to accidentally leave doors open during busy shifts, this helps to maintain optimal cooling efficiency.
Additional benefits from newer systems
Modern refrigeration systems don’t just reduce energy consumption, but they also bring several other valuable benefits to your business including the following:
Fresher food for longer
Newer features, such as variable-speed compressors, help maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels, keeping your produce fresher for longer periods of time. This reduces food waste and can also improve the quality of your dishes for customer satisfaction.
Improved reliability and reduced maintenance
As fridges and commercial freezers age, their performance and reliability often decline, requiring more frequent maintenance and repairs. Investing in a new commercial refrigeration unit can save you from the stress, disruption and cost of constant upkeep and maintenance, allowing you to focus on your business with greater peace of mind.
Quieter and space-saving designs
Modern refrigerator units are designed with quieter operation and reduced vibrations, creating a more pleasant working environment. Additionally, they often feature slimmer, more space-efficient profiles, freeing up valuable kitchen space.
Easier to use
Equipped with intuitive digital displays and more precise temperature controls, installing new commercial fridges make it easier for your team to monitor and adjust settings using digital displays.
Save energy with JLA’s Active Cool commercial fridges
JLA’s Active Cool commercial fridges offer an array of benefits tailored to meet the demands of a busy kitchen:
- Compressors for high performance and energy-efficient cooling.
- Advanced coil design to minimise leaks, reduce maintenance, and enhance efficiency.
- ATEX-Approved EC fan motors for more affordable and efficient operation.
- CoolSmart controllers that instigate economy mode during low usage while maintaining optimal food safety.
- Eco-friendly refrigerants like R600a and R290, replacing older refrigerants like R134a and R404a.
- Enhanced airflow designs for improved heat exchange, both inside and out.
Offset the costs of installing new units
Upgrading your commercial fridges and freezers may seem like a significant investment, but the savings you’ll achieve in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills will help to offset the initial cost.
With JLA Total Care, you can spread the expense over manageable monthly payments, with no initial capital outlay and benefit from ongoing servicing and breakdown support, along with a pathway to lowering your carbon footprint.
For tips and advice on your commercial catering equipment, contact JLA today.