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AvantcoModel 178Z1RGHC

Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator

4.04.0 out of 5Commercial·$3,500+ (MSRP $3,800)
Shop at AJ Madison
Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator

Quick verdict

The Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator is a 21.3 cu. ft. commercial refrigerator from Avantco in the premium tier. At 763 kWh/year it draws roughly 20% more than the class median — expect a higher monthly operating cost. Our reviewers rate it 4.0/5 — best for family sized households.

Best for

  • Restaurants and food service
  • Convenience stores
  • Bars and cafes

Key specs

Capacity
21.3 cu. ft.
Dimensions
29.0" × 81.7" × 31.4"
Annual energy
763 kWh/year
Ice / Water
No ice · No water
Wi-Fi
No

Our Review

The Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator is a 21.3 cu. ft. commercial refrigerator from Avantco Refrigeration, built for 24/7 duty cycles in restaurants, c-stores, and food-service environments. Not a residential appliance — but a useful reference point if you're spec'ing a commercial kitchen.

What it's built for

Commercial refrigerators run harder and longer than residential units. Expect a heavier compressor (Avantco Refrigeration's typical commercial-grade unit), stainless interior, casters or leveling legs, and NSF-style construction for health-code compliance.

Bottom line

If you operate a food-service business and need a 21.3 cu. ft. reach-in, this is in the right category. Pair it with a service contract and you'll get years of trouble-free operation.

Full Specs

Capacity
Total capacity
21.3 cu. ft.
Fresh-food17.0 cu. ft.
Freezer4.3 cu. ft.
Dimensions
Width
29.0"
Height81.7"
Depth31.4"
Depth (with handles)33.9"
Energy
ENERGY STAR
Yes
Annual energy use763 kWh/year
Est. annual cost$122
Features
Ice maker
No
Water dispenserNo
Wi-Fi connectedNo
Smart featuresNo
Door styleCommercial Reach-In
Finishes availableStainless Steel
Noise level

Pros & Cons

+Pros

  • Commercial-grade compressor rated for 24/7 duty cycles
  • NSF-style construction for food-service compliance
  • ENERGY STAR certified — lower operating cost than uncertified peers

Cons

  • Designed for commercial spaces — depth and noise levels are not kitchen-appropriate
  • Requires dedicated electrical and clearance specs that home kitchens rarely meet

Rating Breakdown

Overall
4.0
Value
4.0
Reliability
4.3
Features
3.5
Energy
3.7

Where to Buy

RetailerCurrent Price
AJ MadisonSee retailerShop at AJ Madison
WebstaurantStoreSee retailerShop at WebstaurantStore

Prices and availability vary by region. We may earn a commission on purchases at no cost to you — see our disclosure & methodology. Affiliate relationships do not influence ratings.

Frequently asked questions

Will the Avantco 178Z1RGHC fit a 36-inch opening?+
The Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator is 29.0" wide. With the recommended ~0.5" side clearance, it will fit a standard 36" opening (33.9" depth with handles).
How much does the Avantco 178Z1RGHC cost to run per year?+
At the U.S. average electricity rate (~$0.16/kWh) and the model's rated 763 kWh/year, expect roughly $122 in annual operating cost.
Is the Avantco 178Z1RGHC ENERGY STAR certified?+
Yes — the Avantco Refrigeration 178Z1RGHC 21 cu. ft. Commercial Refrigerator is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it meets EPA energy-efficiency requirements for its category.
Does the Avantco 178Z1RGHC have Wi-Fi or smart features?+
No, this configuration is not Wi-Fi connected. If app control or remote diagnostics matter to you, look at Wi-Fi enabled models in the same price tier.
Does the Avantco 178Z1RGHC have an ice maker and water dispenser?+
No ice maker; no through-the-door water dispenser.

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