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Opening a restaurant is exciting - but behind the scenes, critical equipment decisions can make or break your operation. One of the most important (and often misunderstood) systems is your commercial kitchen hood system. Choosing the wrong hood can lead to code violations, poor air quality, excessive heat, higher energy costs, and expensive retrofits down the road. Before you invest, here’s what every restaurant owner should consider. 1. Type of Cooking Equipment You’ll Use Not all kitchen hoods are the same and they’re not one-size-fits-all. Your hood system must match the heat, smoke, grease, and combustion byproducts your equipment produces. * Type I hoods are required for grease-producing equipment like fryers, griddles, charbroilers, and ranges. * Type II hoods are used for heat and steam only (dishwashers, ovens without grease). Installing the wrong type can delay permits or force costly changes after inspection. 2. Local Codes, Fire Marshal, and Health Department Requirements Commercial hood systems are heavily regulated. In El Paso, West Texas, and Southern New Mexico, requirements can vary by jurisdiction. Key considerations include: * Fire suppression integration (ANSUL systems) * Minimum airflow (CFM) requirements * Clearance to combustibles * Makeup air requirements * Hood size and overhang dimensions Working with a contractor who understands local code enforcement and inspection processes can save weeks even months of delays. 3. Proper Sizing and Airflow (CFM) A hood that’s undersized won’t capture smoke or grease effectively. An oversized hood wastes energy and increases HVAC costs. Proper sizing depends on: * Equipment lineup and BTU output * Hood length and depth * Ceiling height * Kitchen layout Correct airflow keeps kitchens cooler, improves staff comfort, and reduces strain on refrigeration and HVAC systems especially important in El Paso’s extreme heat. 4. Makeup Air System Integration Every cubic foot of air exhausted must be replaced. Without proper makeup air, kitchens can experience: * Negative air pressure * Doors that won’t open * Poor hood performance * Increased energy bills An integrated makeup air unit ensures balanced airflow and helps your HVAC and refrigeration systems operate efficiently. 5. Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs Today’s commercial hood systems can be designed to reduce long-term operating costs through: * Variable speed exhaust fans * Demand control ventilation (DCV) * High-efficiency motors While these options may increase upfront costs, they often pay for themselves through lower utility bills and longer equipment life. 6. Future Expansion and Menu Changes Your menu may evolve — and your hood system should be able to support it. Before buying, consider: * Adding fryers or grills later * Expanding hours of operation * Higher volume cooking Planning for growth now can prevent expensive retrofits later. 7. Installation Experience Matters Commercial hood systems aren’t just installed they’re engineered, coordinated, and inspected. A qualified contractor will: * Coordinate with general contractors and architects * Handle fire suppression integration * Prepare for fire marshal and health inspections * Ensure refrigeration and HVAC systems aren’t negatively impacted Poor installation can cause airflow problems, grease buildup, and failed inspections. Why Restaurant Owners Trust AM Refrigeration At AM Refrigeration, we work with restaurant owners, developers, and facility managers across El Paso, West Texas, and Southern New Mexico to design and install commercial kitchen ventilation systems that meet code, operate efficiently, and support long-term success. Our team understands how hood systems interact with refrigeration, HVAC, and building airflow, ensuring your kitchen works as a complete system not just individual components. Thinking About a New Commercial Hood System? Before you buy, get expert guidance. Contact AM Refrigeration to: * Review your kitchen layout and equipment * Ensure code compliance before inspections * Design an efficient, properly sized hood system * Coordinate installation with your build-out timeline 📞 Schedule a consultation today and set your restaurant up for success from day one.

For businesses and large facilities across El Paso, West Texas, and Southern New Mexico, HVAC performance isn’t just about comfort — it’s about continuity, safety, compliance, and cost control. When an HVAC system fails in a school, apartment complex, grocery store, hospital, warehouse, or commercial building, the consequences can include operational shutdowns, tenant complaints, product loss, or safety risks. That’s why understanding the difference between commercial HVAC and residential HVAC — and choosing the right contractor — matters more than most property owners realize. Commercial HVAC vs. Residential HVAC: A Critical Difference While residential and commercial HVAC systems both regulate temperature and airflow, they are designed for very different environments and demands. 1. Capacity, Scale, and Load Requirements Residential HVAC systems are designed for: * Single-family homes * Low occupancy loads * Intermittent daily use Commercial HVAC systems serve: * Large facilities and campuses * Multi-tenant apartment complexes * Schools, grocery stores, and industrial buildings * Continuous or heavy-duty operating schedules In hot desert climates like El Paso and West Texas, systems must perform reliably under extreme heat for extended periods — something residential systems are not built to handle. 2. System Design and Controls Residential HVAC systems typically include: * Simple split systems * Basic thermostats * Minimal zoning Commercial HVAC systems often involve: * Rooftop package units (RTUs) * Large-scale ducting and ventilation systems * Advanced zoning and building automation systems (BAS) * Integration with refrigeration and mechanical systems These systems must balance comfort, efficiency, air quality, and compliance — all at once. 3. Installation Complexity in Commercial Environments Commercial HVAC installations in El Paso, Las Cruces, and across West Texas frequently require: * Crane lifts and rooftop rigging * Coordination with engineers and inspectors * Compliance with commercial building and safety codes * Careful scheduling to avoid disrupting tenants, students, or customers This level of work demands specialized equipment, trained crews, and deep commercial experience. 4. Maintenance, Uptime, and Emergency Response Residential HVAC maintenance is typically seasonal. Commercial HVAC maintenance is mission-critical. Commercial facilities depend on: * Preventive maintenance contracts * Fast response times during extreme heat * After-hours and emergency service * Detailed documentation for compliance and audits In regions like Southern New Mexico and West Texas, even short HVAC downtime can escalate quickly during peak summer temperatures. 5. Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Cost Control Commercial HVAC systems play a major role in: * Energy consumption * Utility costs * Equipment lifespan * Sustainability goals Proper system sizing, maintenance, and retrofits can significantly reduce operating costs. Contractors who understand commercial systems help owners avoid: * Oversized or undersized equipment * Premature system failure * Excessive energy bills Why Commercial HVAC Experience Matters Hiring a residential-focused HVAC contractor for a commercial facility often leads to: * Improper system design * Increased downtime * Higher long-term costs * Code and compliance issues Commercial HVAC requires specialized training, licensing, safety protocols, and regional experience — especially in climates like El Paso and West Texas. Why AM Refrigeration Is the Right Commercial HVAC Partner At AM Refrigeration, commercial HVAC isn’t secondary - it’s core to what we do. We provide commercial HVAC services throughout: * El Paso, Texas * West Texas * Southern New Mexico Our team specializes in HVAC solutions for: * Large commercial facilities * Apartment complexes and multi-family housing * Schools and educational campuses * Grocery stores and food facilities * Industrial and commercial businesses We understand the operational demands of large systems, extreme heat conditions, and the importance of keeping businesses running without interruption. From installation and retrofits to long-term maintenance and emergency service, we help property owners and facility managers protect their investment. Protect Your Facility Before Problems Start If you manage or own a commercial property in El Paso, West Texas, or Southern New Mexico, now is the time to make sure your HVAC system is ready to perform. AM Refrigeration offers: ✔ Commercial HVAC inspections and system evaluations ✔ Preventive maintenance contracts ✔ System upgrades and energy-efficient retrofits ✔ Emergency service and rapid response ✔ Long-term solutions tailored to large facilities 📞 Contact AM Refrigeration today to schedule an inspection, discuss a maintenance plan, or evaluate whether a retrofit could reduce downtime and operating costs. When your business depends on your HVAC system, trust a team built for commercial-scale performance.

In El Paso, West Texas, and Southern New Mexico, extreme heat isn’t an occasional challenge — it’s a daily operating condition. Summer temperatures routinely climb well above 100°F, placing constant stress on commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems. For grocery stores, apartment complexes, schools, warehouses, and large facilities, heat-related system failures aren’t just inconvenient — they can lead to downtime, inventory loss, tenant complaints, and rising energy costs. Understanding how extreme heat impacts commercial systems is the first step in preventing costly breakdowns. Why Extreme Heat Is Hard on Commercial Systems Commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems are designed to move heat out of a building or refrigerated space. When outdoor temperatures soar, that process becomes significantly more demanding. In desert climates like El Paso, systems must work longer, harder, and more frequently to maintain safe operating temperatures. 1. Increased Compressor Load and Wear High ambient temperatures force compressors to: * Run for extended cycles * Operate under higher pressure * Work harder to reject heat Over time, this leads to accelerated wear, overheating, and an increased risk of failure — especially in aging or poorly maintained equipment. 2. Reduced Cooling Efficiency As outdoor temperatures rise: * Condenser coils struggle to release heat * Systems lose efficiency * Cooling capacity drops during peak hours This is often when businesses notice uneven cooling, warm spots, or refrigeration cases struggling to hold temperature — even though the system appears to be running constantly. 3. Higher Energy Consumption and Utility Costs Extreme heat drives: * Longer runtime * Higher electrical demand * Increased utility bills For large commercial facilities across West Texas and Southern New Mexico, inefficient or improperly maintained systems can significantly impact monthly operating expenses during peak summer months. 4. Refrigeration System Strain and Product Risk In grocery stores, cold storage facilities, and food operations, heat stress can: * Push refrigeration systems beyond design limits * Cause temperature fluctuations * Increase the risk of spoiled or compromised product Even small temperature swings can result in significant losses when large volumes of inventory are involved. 5. Increased Risk of Emergency Breakdowns Extreme heat exposes existing weaknesses such as: * Dirty condenser coils * Failing motors or fans * Low refrigerant levels * Electrical component fatigue What might be a minor issue in mild weather can quickly become a full system failure during an El Paso heatwave. How Commercial HVAC & Refrigeration Systems Should Be Prepared Facilities operating in El Paso and surrounding regions require proactive strategies designed specifically for high-heat environments. Preventive Maintenance Is Critical Regular maintenance helps: * Keep condenser and evaporator coils clean * Ensure proper airflow * Identify failing components before peak demand * Maintain efficiency under extreme conditions Preventive maintenance is not optional in desert climates — it’s essential. Proper System Sizing and Design Matter Systems that are: * Undersized * Poorly designed * Improperly installed Will struggle to keep up during extreme heat. Commercial facilities need systems engineered for local climate conditions, not generic assumptions. Retrofits Improve Performance and Reliability Upgrading: * Controls * Motors * Fans * Coils * Refrigeration components Can dramatically improve system performance, reduce energy usage, and extend equipment life — especially for older facilities in El Paso and West Texas. Why AM Refrigeration Is Built for Desert Conditions At AM Refrigeration, we understand what extreme heat does to commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems — because we work in it every day. We serve commercial and industrial clients throughout: * El Paso, Texas * West Texas * Southern New Mexico Our team specializes in: * Commercial HVAC systems designed for high-heat environments * Large-scale refrigeration systems * Preventive maintenance programs * Emergency service during peak summer demand * System upgrades and efficiency-focused retrofits We don’t apply one-size-fits-all solutions. We build systems and service plans that perform under real desert conditions. Don’t Let Extreme Heat Catch You Off Guard If you operate a commercial facility in El Paso, West Texas, or Southern New Mexico, now is the time to prepare your HVAC and refrigeration systems for extreme heat. AM Refrigeration can help with: * ✔ Commercial HVAC and refrigeration inspections * ✔ Preventive maintenance agreements * ✔ Performance evaluations before peak summer * ✔ Energy-efficient retrofits and upgrades * ✔ Emergency service and rapid response 📞 Contact AM Refrigeration today to schedule an inspection or discuss how to protect your systems from extreme heat. In the desert, preparation isn’t optional — it’s the difference between staying operational and shutting down.

Maintenance Tips Every El Paso Business Should Know

If your deli, dairy, or beverage case is running warm, product quality and shrink move in the wrong direction—fast. Below are the five most common causes we see in the field, simple checks you can do today, and when it’s time to call AM Refrigeration. We sell, install, repair, and design complete supermarket refrigeration—from single cases to full low-temp systems—so you’re covered from day one to year ten. TL;DR: Quick Checks You Can Do in 10 Minutes 1. Clear airflow: Pull product back from air discharge/return grills; remove cardboard risers. 2. Close the “air curtain”: Keep night covers closed when required; avoid fans/AC vents blowing on the front. 3. Clean the condenser coil: Brush/vacuum dust and debris (power off first). 4. Inspect door gaskets & hinges: Look for tears, gaps, or doors not self-closing. 5. Verify settings: Confirm setpoint, defrost schedule, and case controller are correct per the manufacturer. If temps don’t improve within a few hours, call AM Refrigeration—continued warm temps risk food safety and big losses. Reason #1: Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils Symptoms: Case runs constantly, still warm; cabinet or machine compartment feels hot; higher energy bills.
Why it happens: Dust, grease, and lint act like a blanket over the coil, preventing heat from leaving the refrigerant loop.
What to do: * Disconnect power. Remove front or rear grill. * Brush and vacuum the coil fins (no pressure washing). * Restore proper clearance around the machine compartment.
Pro note: If cleaning helps briefly but temps drift again, you may be dealing with a failing condenser fan motor or high head pressure—time for a tech visit. Reason #2: Airflow Problems & Product Loading Symptoms: Product near the front warms first; fogging; uneven temps top-to-bottom.
Why it happens: Open multi-decks rely on a stable air curtain. Blocking discharge or return grills, over-stacking, or cross-drafts (ceiling fans, HVAC supply diffusers, open doors) collapse the air curtain.
What to do: * Keep product below load lines and off the front ledge. * Maintain 2–4 inches of clearance in front of air returns; never tape on signage that blocks vents. * Redirect HVAC supply air away from the case.
Pro note: For persistent issues, we can add air baffles, re-balance the store HVAC near cases, or evaluate case selection for your product mix. Reason #3: Worn Door Gaskets, Hinges, or Night Covers Symptoms: Condensation/ice around doors; doors won’t self-close; visible tears or gaps in gaskets; higher run time.
Why it happens: Gaskets compress and tear with use; hinges drift; night covers wear out. Even a small gap pulls warm, moist store air into the case, icing the coil and warming product.
What to do: * Close a dollar bill in the door—if it slides out easily, the seal is weak. * Replace torn gaskets; adjust/replace hinges so doors self-close and align square. * Repair or replace frayed night covers; keep them down during off hours.
Pro note: Replacing gaskets is a fast, high-ROI fix that lowers energy use and stabilizes temps. Reason #4: Incorrect Setpoints, Sensors, or Defrost Schedules Symptoms: Temps swing hot after defrost; controller shows alarms; ice build-up on the evaporator; product soft in low-temp cases.
Why it happens: A case controller setpoint that’s too high, a bad thermistor, or a defrost schedule that’s too frequent/too long can warm the case or ice the coil.
What to do: * Verify the case setpoint and cut-in/out align with the manufacturer spec and product type. * Check defrost—number, start times, duration, and termination. Avoid defrosting during peak traffic if possible. * If temps shown on the controller don’t match a calibrated product simulator/thermometer, the sensor may be faulty.
Pro note: Modern EEVs (electronic expansion valves) and case controllers are precise—but only when programmed and calibrated correctly. We can tune these to your store’s load profile. Reason #5: Refrigeration System Faults (Fans, Ice-Bound Coil, Low Charge, Compressor Issues) Symptoms: No/weak air movement; visible ice block on the coil; short cycling; hissing/bubbling; oil stains on piping; breaker trips.
Why it happens: Failed evaporator or condenser fan motors, refrigerant leaks/low charge, restricted driers, or compressor/mechanical failures reduce capacity.
What to do (safely): * Confirm evaporator fans spin freely with power on; if not, shut down and call a pro. * If the coil is a block of ice, power down to prevent liquid floodback and schedule service—the root cause may be defrost or low airflow, not just “too cold.” * Do not add refrigerant yourself. Handling refrigerants requires EPA-certified technicians.
Pro note: We leak-check, weigh in correct charge, replace failed components, and verify superheat/subcooling so the case performs like new. Symptom → Cause Quick Reference

Whether you operate a restaurant, grocery store, convenience store, or commercial kitchen in the El Paso region, your walk-in cooler is one of the hardest-working appliances in your building. It’s responsible for preserving your inventory, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. A failing walk-in cooler can mean thousands in lost product and days of downtime. But if you know what to look for, you can catch issues early—before they become costly emergencies. ❄️ 1. Temperature Fluctuations Your walk-in cooler should stay consistently cold, usually between 35°F and 38°F. If you're noticing temperature swings or the unit struggles to maintain a set temp, it could signal a failing thermostat, refrigerant issue, or compressor on its last legs. Pro Tip: Install a digital thermometer with logging features so you can track temperature trends over time. 💧 2. Excess Condensation or Ice Buildup Water droplets on walls, pooling on the floor, or frost build-up around the evaporator coils are all signs that something isn’t working properly. This might be due to poor door seals, blocked drains, or failing fans. Don’t ignore condensation. It’s not just a maintenance concern—it’s a health and safety risk. ⚠️ 3. Unusual Noises Grinding, banging, or excessive humming usually means mechanical parts like motors or compressors are under stress. Walk-in coolers should run relatively quietly when operating normally. Act fast: These noises often precede full breakdowns. 🧊 4. Door Issues If the door becomes difficult to open/close or doesn’t seal tightly, cold air escapes and causes the system to overwork. This can lead to premature wear and higher energy bills. Inspect door gaskets, hinges, and latches regularly—and replace them at the first sign of damage. 📈 5. Rising Utility Bills A sudden spike in your electricity bill without a change in operations may be your walk-in cooler working overtime to compensate for internal issues like failing components or refrigerant leaks. ✅ Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late At AM Refrigeration, we specialize in diagnosing, servicing, and maintaining commercial walk-in coolers throughout El Paso and the West Texas region. Our certified techs can identify early signs of failure and provide fast, professional repairs that minimize downtime and protect your bottom line. 📞 Call us today to schedule a preventative maintenance check!

Managing a large property—whether it’s a multi-unit apartment complex, a retail shopping strip, or a commercial facility—comes with big responsibilities. One of the most important systems you can invest in is your HVAC system. At AM Refrigeration, we specialize in helping property owners and managers across the region upgrade and maintain high-performance HVAC systems that keep tenants comfortable and operations running efficiently. Why HVAC Upgrades Matter for Large-Scale Properties 1. Efficiency = Cost Savings Older HVAC systems can be a major drain on energy resources—especially in large buildings. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system can significantly lower utility bills and reduce your property’s carbon footprint. Newer systems are designed with smart thermostats, zoning capabilities, and variable-speed motors to deliver just the right amount of climate control without wasting energy. 2. Improved Tenant Satisfaction In apartment complexes, comfort is key to retaining tenants. An unreliable HVAC system means complaints, work orders, and vacancies. In retail or commercial properties, climate control impacts both employee productivity and customer experience. A reliable, upgraded system keeps everyone happier—and helps your business thrive. 3. Scalability and Smart Controls Today’s commercial-grade HVAC systems offer smart controls that can be scaled to meet the unique demands of larger facilities. From controlling different zones independently to monitoring usage and efficiency remotely, these systems are tailor-made for complex properties. 4. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Local codes and environmental regulations evolve constantly. An older HVAC system may not meet today’s standards, potentially exposing you to fines or safety risks. An upgrade ensures your system is compliant and reduces the chance of costly breakdowns. 5. Long-Term Investment Protection Your HVAC system is a major asset. Keeping it current and efficient preserves your property’s value and protects you from future capital expenses related to emergency replacements or repairs. Why AM Refrigeration? With decades of experience serving El Paso and the surrounding areas, AM Refrigeration is your trusted partner for commercial HVAC upgrades. We work with: • Apartment complexes • Retail shopping centers • Warehouses and industrial buildings • Large office spaces • Cold storage facilities From design to installation and maintenance, we handle it all with a commitment to efficiency, reliability, and professionalism. Ready to upgrade? Contact us today to schedule a consultation or inspection of your current system. 👇 Let’s Stay Connected! Follow us on social media for project highlights, maintenance tips, and HVAC industry news: 👉 Facebook: AMRefrigerationEPTX 👉 Instagram: @amrefrigerationelpasotx Need help now? Call us at 915.562.2122 or email us .

Supermarkets rely heavily on refrigeration systems to keep products fresh and safe for consumers. However, refrigeration also accounts for a significant portion of a store’s energy consumption. Implementing energy-efficient refrigeration solutions can lead to major cost savings and environmental benefits. With the rising cost of energy and increasing focus on sustainability, supermarket owners and managers must prioritize efficient refrigeration systems to stay competitive and reduce their carbon footprint. Key Ways to Improve Efficiency: * High-Efficiency Refrigeration Systems: Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient units can reduce power consumption while maintaining optimal cooling. Many newer refrigeration systems use advanced compressor technologies, variable-speed fans, and eco-friendly refrigerants that help minimize environmental impact. * Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance ensures systems run at peak efficiency, preventing costly breakdowns. Cleaning condenser coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting door seals can help avoid energy waste and prolong equipment lifespan. * Smart Controls & Monitoring: Advanced monitoring systems help detect inefficiencies and adjust cooling based on demand. Smart sensors and AI-driven analytics can provide real-time data on energy usage and alert store managers to potential issues before they lead to costly repairs. * Door Retrofits & LED Lighting: Adding doors to open cases and switching to LED lighting reduces energy use and enhances product visibility. LED lighting generates less heat than traditional bulbs, further reducing the strain on refrigeration units. * Heat Recovery Systems: Some supermarkets are integrating heat recovery systems that capture excess heat from refrigeration units and use it for space heating or hot water generation, further improving overall energy efficiency. By investing in energy-efficient refrigeration, supermarkets can reduce operational costs while contributing to sustainability goals. Taking a proactive approach to refrigeration management can lead to long-term financial and environmental benefits.