The restaurant industry is a very specific business where customer satisfaction is key to success. With the development of social media and the emergence of various restaurant rating apps where customers can reflect their feedback online, it is increasingly challenging for owners of these businesses. Compromises are not only being noticed, but also being publicly reflected.
In addition to a good atmosphere, good service, and quality food, the right restaurant climate is high on the list of customer requirements. That is why choosing a quality air conditioning system is particularly important to the restaurant business.
The importance of your restaurant's air conditioning
People are increasingly looking for a full experience when they go to a restaurant. They feel and see the details, even if they don't always show it. For them, a good restaurant is not only a place to eat, but also a place where they go to relax, enjoy a nice atmosphere and create memories with their loved ones.
What difference does air conditioning make to the customer experience?
The right temperature is a necessity to make your restaurant visitors feel good. They may catch a cold or simply feel discomfort throughout their stay if it's too cold. On the other hand, if it's too hot, they may feel dizzy or just fail to enjoy everything else you offer.
We'll look at all the factors you should consider when choosing an air conditioner for your establishment.
Restaurant air conditioning challenges
Restaurant conditions vary, and each space needs to be heated/cooled according to its specific characteristics. Unlike offices, restaurants have constant movement of people and the temperature in the dining and food preparation area must be consistent with everyone's health and safety. Both staff and customers need to feel comfortable. According to studies, the appropriate temperature in restaurants in the eating area ranges between 20 and 23°C. However, this cannot be assumed to be universally valid, as each restaurant has its own specific characteristics. It is best to manage different areas according to their conditions.
What can change the conditions in the zones?
● The zone close to the restaurant door is more affected by the outside environment's temperature.
● Customers may have different temperature preferences.
● The excess heat that is released when the kitchen is running at full capacity.
● The number of diners in the restaurant at any given time.
The particularities of maintaining air conditioning systems in the kitchen
Kitchens and food preparation areas are definitely the most challenging and busy. They often have the following temperature-changing elements:
· Smoke formation
· Additional heat due to cooking processes and cooking appliances
· Accumulation of high humidity
If you don't have an air conditioning system that can handle all of these conditions, your staff will not be comfortable, and productivity will decrease.
Suitable air conditioning systems for restaurants:
Wall air conditioners
The most common air conditioners for small to medium-sized spaces are wall-mounted air conditioners. They are also the easiest to install. The elongated shape of the indoor unit allows them to be installed high on the wall.
Wall-mounted air conditioners are also the most budget-friendly option. However, where you install the indoor unit is very important. Generally, it is better to be located in a central location to evenly distribute the airflow. In some cases, it is better to place two or more units to avoid hot areas in the establishment.
Cassette air conditioners
This is one of the best solutions for larger restaurants. Cassette air conditioners have a sleek and beautiful panel that distributes the air stream in four directions. They are mounted on the ceiling with most of the panel not visible, making them aesthetically pleasing to the restaurant environment.
Thanks to the air ducts, fresh air from outside can be brought into the air-conditioned space, ensuring a continuous flow of clean and healthy air.
Ducted air conditioners
The other type of air conditioning system that is well suited for restaurants and cafes are ducted air conditioners. They are also almost "invisible". While they require a larger investment, they are also the most aesthetic option. What is visible are only their small grilles on the ceiling.
It is best to have ducted air conditioners installed during construction work before the restaurant opens. If there is already a suspended ceiling, they can also be installed at a later date.
Midea offers a modern range of wall, cassette and ducted air conditioners that will help you achieve the perfect environment in your restaurant. Get in touch with our team if you need any advice.