What Is The True Cost Of Buying Premium Refrigeration Vs Cheaper Brands?

Initial Purchase Price

Studies & market data suggest the initial purchase price of commercial refrigeration is about 15% to 20% of its total cost of ownership. From an early age my Dad instilled a pillar in which I operate this company by "Do It Right Or Do It Twice" this saying is transferable in purchasing catering equipment if you have the luxury within doing so. Cheap brands mask huge hidden expenses through higher energy consumption, frequent maintenance, and rapid depreciation, whereas premium brands offer superior engineering that drastically cuts long-term operating costs.

Factors Cheap Brands Hide Behind Vs Premium Brands

Energy Consumption Is The Biggest Drain On Cost-Energy represents up to 60–70% of a refrigerator's lifecycle cost. Because these units run 24/7, even a small drop in efficiency can cost hundreds of pounds over a few years.

Cheap Brands: Usually lack advanced variable-speed compressors, adequate insulation, or energy-saving smart controls. Older or budget designs can guzzle up to 30% to 50% more electricity than certified models.

Premium Brands: Use high-efficiency compressors, operational as climate 5 units suitable in temperatures up to 43c vs cheaper brands ranging from 28c-35c before the machine fails. Hydrocarbon (R290) refrigerants, and superior thermal insulation to regulate temperature uniformly and significantly reduce electricity use. Coming Soon - Customer can use our Energy Saving Calculator. 

Maintenance & Part Replacements

Servicing and repairs account for 15% to 20% of the total cost of ownership. 

Cheap Brands: Built with standard, off-the-shelf components that undergo more wear-and-tear. Parts are often difficult to source, leading to longer service delays and inflated labor costs.

Premium Brands: Constructed with high-grade, durable materials (e.g., commercial-grade stainless steel interiors and robust door hinges) designed to endure heavy-traffic environments. Warranties are typically much longer, and components are easier to access for technicians.

Inventory Spoilage & Downtime

Equipment failure is a massive operational liability- Especially in current times where the cost of food has risen dramatically. 

Cheap Brands: Unstable temperature control (fluctuating more than a few degrees) can lead to spoiled perishables. A single compressor outage can result in thousands of pounds lost in wasted protein or dairy stock.

Premium Brands: Feature advanced temperature recovery (crucial for busy kitchens where doors are constantly opened) and built-in alarms that alert staff to temperature drops, safeguarding your inventory.

Lifespan and Depreciation

Cheap Brands: Often need replacing in 3 to 6 years, meaning you will buy two or three units in the time it takes a premium unit to wear out.

Premium Brands: Built to last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance, keeping your long-term capital investments predictably spread out.

How to Calculate Your True Cost

Before purchasing, use a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculation to weigh the upfront price against ongoing expenses. Many suppliers and compliance tools provide a standard formula:

If you want, let me know your typical operating environment (e.g., restaurant, bakery, retail) or the daily capacity you need to store, please contact our sales office where we can help you weigh the financial advantages of specific units or brands for your business.