Practical steps to improve refrigeration efficiency

There’s a common misconception that there’s little you can do to improve the efficiency of your refrigeration system. Many think you simply install it and run it and that it performs in a set or given way over time, with little difference between one system and the next.

But refrigeration efficiency is as variable as the efficiency of a family car which changes from one car to the next and depends on the design of the engine, operational conditions and how well it is looked after.

Refrigeration efficiency is measured in terms of the Coefficient of Performance (COP) - the ratio of cooling energy supplied to the amount of electrical energy used. It varies according to:

System type and design, for example, refrigerant gas and compressor type.
Operational parameters and control settings.
Cooling temperature.
Ambient temperature.
Cleanliness of system.
Refrigerant quantity.
Lubricant quantity.

In an AHDB Potatoes funded project*, refrigeration systems were tested to establish their efficiency and what could be done to improve them. The range of efficiencies as stated by their COP was 1.6 to 4, in other words, a variation of 2.5 times from best to worst.

So, there is great potential to improve the efficiency of some refrigeration systems and it pays to have your system checked out to assess its current performance. Often you can make positive changes with some simple, low cost “re-tuning”.

There is also more than just sound economic and environmental reasons to carry out an inspection –it is in fact,a legal requirement.

The latest guidance on Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (FGG Regulations) can be found here.

Both sets of regulations place importance on ensuring equipment is as efficient and well maintained as possible. Most of their requirements can be met by ensuring your system is kept in good condition and annually checked for leaks, energy efficiency, and correct operation.

So, an inspection every year or two will both ensure legislative compliance and show what you can do to keep your refrigeration system working efficiently, saving both energy and money.