Hussmann Deli Case Cleaning
When it comes to cooling meats, salads and everything in between, Hussmann is one of the best in the business. Its line of commercial deli cases and merchandisers is used in a wide variety of supermarkets and grocery stores. For optimal performance, it's recommended that these units are cleaned at least once a week. Below are Hussmann deli case cleaning instructions for Specialty Horizontal Merchandisers.
This guide applies to the SHM series models:
Supplies You’ll Need
- Non-abrasive cleaning tools
- Mild cleaning detergent
- Vacuum
- Vacuum wand attachment
- Vacuum brush attachment
- Flathead screwdriver
Weekly Cleaning Instructions
Follow these weekly Hussman deli case cleaning instructions to maintain your equipment and keep it safe to use:
- Step 1. Remove product and debris – Take all food and other product out of the merchandiser. Make sure to remove loose debris as well. This helps avoid clogging in the waste outlet.
- Step 2. Store product in a cool area – Place all the food and product in another refrigerator or cooler.
- Step 3. Disconnect electrical power – Unplug the power cord and disconnect power to the unit.
- Step 4. Clean under the step pan – While wearing protective gloves, use a small screwdriver to gently pry off the front grille from the step pan. Next, use a non-abrasive cleaning tool and mild detergent to clean the step pan.
- Step 5. Clean all the interior surfaces – Use hot water and mild dish soap to clean surfaces thoroughly. Never use steam or high-pressure hoses to clean the interior. Both can destroy the unit's sealing, causing leaks and poor cooling. Replace the step pan.
- Step 6. Clean the fan plenum – Lift the hinged fan plenum. Then, hook the chain in the rear panel, securing the plenum while cleaning. Make sure to limit cleaning or rinsing water from coming in direct contact with the fan motors.
- Step 7. Clean the thermometer – Unscrew the thermometer from the mounting bracket and the sensing element from its clip. Clean the element with water and a mild detergent. Thoroughly rinse and dry.
- Step 8. Clean the evaporator pan – Remove any dirt and debris that’s accumulated in the evaporator pan with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Note: Self-contained models only.
- Step 9. Clean the stainless steel and all exterior surfaces – To clean the stainless steel surfaces, use a soft cloth with warm water and a mild detergent. Always polish with the grain of the steel. After wetting, wipe surfaces dry with a separate cloth.
- Step 10. Let the unit dry and restart – Allow the unit to air dry before reloading and resuming operation. Once it's completely dry, turn the power back on to start up the merchandiser.
Monthly Cleaning Instructions
You’ll want to clean the coils and remove any scratches at least once a month to keep your Hussman deli case in tip-top condition.
Cleaning the Coils
If you notice the coils are excessively dirty, you may need to clean them more frequently to avoid strain on the compressor and excessive energy consumption. Use a vacuum cleaner, wand attachment and a soft non-metallic brush to remove any dirt and debris that may have accumulated during the month.
Note: If there’s ice buildup on the coils, this means that the refrigeration and defrost cycles are not working as they should be. Please contact an authorized service technician to help remedy the issue.
Warning: Never bend the coils or use sharp objects that could puncture the coils.
Removing Scratches from the Bumper
You can remove scratches from the bumper by using steel wool to smooth out the area. Once finished, clean the bumper and polish the surface with vinyl or car wax to restore its glossy finish.
Bi-Yearly Cleaning Instructions
Clean the discharge honeycomb once every six months to maintain deli case performance.
- Step 1. Remove the honeycomb – Remove the honeycomb from its retainer by compressing it with a flathead screwdriver.
- Step 2. Clean and dry the honeycomb – First, vacuum the honeycomb with a soft brush attachment. Then, use mild soap and warm water to remove any additional dirt and debris. Make sure all honeycomb cells are dry before returning it to its retainer.
- Step 3. Replace the honeycomb – In reverse order, reinstall the honeycomb.
- Note: If the honeycomb is damaged during cleaning, you’ll have to replace it with a new one before powering the unit back on.
What to Avoid When Cleaning
When cleaning the unit, make sure DO NOT use:
- Bleach, abrasive cleaners and scouring pads – These can mar the finish of the unit.
- Salt-based cleaners – These can cause pitting and rusting of the stainless steel finish.
- Coarse paper towels on coated glass – These can scratch the glass.
- Ammonia-based cleaners on the acrylic – These can damage acrylic parts.
- Solvent-, oil- or acidic-based cleaners on the interior – These can stain and damage interior surfaces.
- High-pressure water hoses – These can destroy the unit's sealing, causing leaks and poor cooling.
- Steam – Like high-pressure hoses, this also can destroy the unit's sealing, causing leaks and poor cooling.
Looking for more maintenance tips? Check out our selection of Hussmann manuals for guidance.