Open Multideck Refrigerator vs Open-Front Display Refrigerator (air curtain only in body)

An open multideck refrigerator (also called a doorless store refrigerator) is a core piece of retail store equipment widely used in supermarkets, chain stores, food halls, and hypermarkets. Its distinctive design supports product holding and is part of store décor and layout.

These store refrigerators let retailers display goods within easy reach while using interior space efficiently. In modern grocery retail they are a primary tool for presentation and sales.

On the Behsarma website, drawing on our technical team’s experience in retail store equipment, we offer a practical guide to the open multideck refrigerator and doorless display format. Read on.

What is an open multideck refrigerator?

An open multideck refrigerator or doorless unit is among the newest cooling lines in retail. Advanced technology and efficient operation help both preserve product and attract shoppers. Varied designs meet different store needs.

From fresher product holding to easy customer access, the open multideck format has become essential in grocery retail. Store size, product type, and budget guide model choice. These modern units improve shopping experience and store operations.

History and evolution of air-curtain refrigerators

As cooling technology advanced, systems became lighter and more compact, with digital thermostats and modern styling. After early technical issues were solved, aesthetics, ease of use, and access gained importance. Lighter insulation in portable cold stores, for example, simplified transport.

Retail adopted doorless units with an . Studies showed shoppers preferred them because products were easier to reach. That drove rapid global adoption; today they are standard retail store equipment.

How the works

Open multideck refrigerators use advanced airflow to create an invisible cold curtain across the opening. Fans at the base draw ambient air, pass it through the refrigeration circuit, and distribute cooled air through shelf outlets over the product. Air returns to the base and the cycle repeats.

Continuous circulation keeps internal temperature stable and limits unwanted swings. The doorless design gives easy access while the cold limits energy loss—making these units a strong fit for supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Components of an open multideck refrigerator

Key parts work together for reliability. Motor and compressor compress refrigerant; gas is cooled in the condenser and flows through the expansion valve to the evaporator, where it absorbs heat and cools the cabinet. Refrigerant—often a Freon-type gas—carries heat through the cycle.

Air-handling and temperature control are equally important. Fans circulate cold air and maintain the curtain to block warm ingress. Digital thermostats and electronic boards regulate temperature; displays show current readings. Polyurethane body insulation cuts energy waste. Adjustable shelves, LED lighting, and night curtains (for off-hours) further improve performance and efficiency.

Types of open multideck refrigerator

Manufacturers offer several formats for supermarkets and hypermarkets. Upright open multideck units display product at a comfortable height. Horizontal (deck) models suit meat, dairy, and produce with open, accessible facing. Compact beverage-oriented units fit tight spaces. Single-sided decks suit wall lines; double-sided models work in aisle islands. Portable decks allow layout changes for events or temporary stores. Each type supports visibility, access, and sales.

Benefits of open multideck and doorless display refrigerators

Doorless design simplifies access and can shorten the path to purchase—customers see the full range without opening doors, which reduces fatigue and speeds selection. Less contact with surfaces can also support hygiene.

Even airflow helps hold steady temperature and limit excess moisture or drying, so produce, dairy, and meat keep longer. Open facing improves merchandising appeal. Air-curtain technology limits energy loss while keeping a comfortable cold environment for product.

Open multideck refrigerator vs glass-door refrigerator

Both are essential retail store equipment, but they differ in ways that highlight open multideck strengths. Glass-door cabinets often use less energy when closed, but frequent door openings during the day reduce cooling efficiency and cause temperature swings. Open multideck units maintain more stable conditions through continuous airflow.

Shoppers reach product without barriers, which can lift sales and reduce congestion. Visually, open decks often merchandise more effectively. Operating cost may be higher, but sales and satisfaction often offset it—why large modern stores favor open multideck lines.

Factors in choosing an open multideck refrigerator

Choosing a doorless unit requires attention to motor and cabinet quality, corrosion resistance, compressor brand and capacity, and even internal airflow—uneven cold spots shorten product life. Dimensions must match the sales floor and assortment; sturdy castors ease moves and resets. Energy-efficient models lower running cost.

Small supermarkets often need compact or upright self-contained decks. Hypermarkets and chains may need long horizontal or double-sided decks with central refrigeration for higher capacity. Behsarma can supply custom sizes to optimize space and performance.

Maintenance tips for open multideck refrigerators

Proper care extends life and efficiency. Ambient temperature should generally not exceed 27 °C; relative humidity should stay around 60% to limit frost and condensation. Avoid wetting electrical panels when cleaning.

Keep units away from heaters, strong heat lamps, and poor ventilation around the condenser. Tight, unventilated alcoves and direct cold-air drafts from room AC can raise humidity, frost load, and compressor stress. Seasonal temperature adjustments and night curtains help protect product in hot and cold weather.

Summary

The open multideck refrigerator is a leading format in retail store equipment, combining doorless access with air-curtain cooling to protect temperature and product quality. Compressor, condenser, evaporator, fans, and controls deliver reliable operation.

Key benefits of doorless display include stronger visual merchandising, easier shopping, energy savings with night curtains, and flexible sizing for many store types. Regular cleaning, ambient limits, and sensible placement are essential. Overall, open multideck units compare favorably to glass-door lines for many supermarket and hypermarket applications.

Thank you for reading with Behsarma. We hope this guide to the open multideck refrigerator was helpful. Visit the Behsarma blog for more articles and guides.