How to Read and Interpret Climate Classes in Professional Equipment

When choosing refrigerators, refrigerated counters, blast chillers, or cold rooms for a professional kitchen, one of the most important technical parameters to consider is the climate class of the equipment. This indicator is often misunderstood but plays a crucial role in ensuring proper food preservation, safety, and energy efficiency.

1. What the Climate Class Is

The climate class indicates the range of ambient temperatures in which a refrigeration appliance can operate safely and efficiently. In other words, it defines the conditions for which the refrigerator or refrigerated counter is designed and tested. Choosing equipment with the correct climate class prevents compressor overload, excessive energy consumption, potential malfunctions, and preserves food quality.

2. Main Climate Classes

The most common climate classes are indicated according to EN 62552 (domestic/professional refrigerators) and CE specifications:

Practical interpretation:

• SN and N: suitable for kitchens with stable air conditioning or cool environments.

• ST and T: for hot kitchens or summer periods in areas without air conditioning, where ambient temperature can exceed 32°C.

3. Why Understanding Climate Class Is Important

1. Internal Temperature Stability
   If the ambient temperature exceeds the class limits, the appliance may not maintain proper cooling, affecting food preservation.

2. Energy Efficiency
   Operating outside the recommended range increases energy consumption and reduces compressor life.

3. Safety and Reliability
   Choosing the correct climate class reduces the risk of malfunctions and frequent maintenance interventions.

4. How to Choose the Right Climate Class for Your Kitchen

Step 1: Evaluate the Average Kitchen Temperature

Measure or estimate ambient temperature, considering:

• Ovens, stoves, and other heat sources.

• Summer periods with limited or no air conditioning.

• Kitchen size and ventilation.

Step 2: Identify the Required Class

• Up to 32°C → N or SN

• Up to 38°C → ST

• Up to 43°C → T

Step 3: Consider Safety Margins

If the kitchen experiences occasional temperature peaks, it is recommended to choose a higher class to ensure stable operation even during the hottest periods.

5. Where to Buy Equipment with the Correct Climate Class

On ristorazione-refrigerazione.it, you can find professional equipment in all climate classes, already selected to meet the specific needs of any kitchen. All products can be purchased online, with clear information on performance, capacity, and climate class.

Conclusion

Climate class is a key technical parameter to ensure efficiency, safety, and longevity of professional equipment. Understanding and correctly interpreting it allows you to:

• choose the most suitable appliance for your environment,

• reduce energy consumption,

• maintain food quality and kitchen productivity.

Investing time in selecting the correct climate class ensures a conscious, sustainable, and profitable choice for your business.