Keeping drinks chilled, visible, and ready to serve is essential in any bar or hospitality setting. A commercial back bar bottle cooler not only does the job, but also helps boost sales with sleek, glass-fronted presentation.

Whether you're fitting out a pub, upgrading a hotel bar, or adding a drinks fridge to your café or event space, the right bottle cooler makes all the difference – and choosing the right model depends on space, capacity, and finish.

At Alexanders Direct, we supply high-performance back bar coolers across the UK. In this guide, we highlight the best bottle coolers for 2025 and explain exactly what to consider before buying.

Top Back Bar Bottle Coolers for 2025


Sterling Pro Green SP1HC-BK 106 Bottle Hinged Single Door Bottle Cooler

  • Capacity: 106 x 330ml bottles
  • Type: Hinged Single Door
  • Temperature Range: +2°C to +12°C
  • Energy Rating: D
  • Dimensions: W600 x D520 x H900 mm
  • Features: Fitted lock, internal LED lighting, adjustable shelves
  • Best for: Compact bar areas needing efficient bottle storage

Arctica HEF971 Hinged Single Door Black Low Height Bottle Cooler

  • Capacity: 140 x 330ml bottles
  • Type: Hinged Single Door
  • Temperature Range: 0°C to +10°C
  • Energy Rating: E
  • Dimensions: W555 x D496 x H846 mm
  • Features: Lockable self-closing door, fan-assisted cooling, LED lighting
  • Best for: Under-counter installations in bars and restaurants

Sterling Pro Green SP2HC-BH 180 Bottle Hinged Double Door Bottle Cooler

  • Capacity: 180 x 330ml bottles
  • Type: Hinged Double Door
  • Temperature Range: +2°C to +12°C
  • Energy Rating: D
  • Dimensions: W900 x D500 x H900 mm
  • Features: Fitted locks, internal LED lighting, adjustable shelves
  • Best for: Medium-sized bars requiring ample bottle storage

Sterling Pro Green SP3HC-BH 274 Bottle Hinged Triple Door Bottle Cooler

  • Capacity: 274 x 330ml bottles
  • Type: Hinged Triple Door
  • Temperature Range: +2°C to +12°C
  • Energy Rating: D
  • Dimensions: W1350 x D520 x H900 mm
  • Features: Fitted locks, internal LED lighting, adjustable shelves
  • Best for: High-volume bars needing extensive bottle storage

Arctica HEF970 Sliding Triple Door Black Back Bar Bottle Cooler

  • Capacity: 452 x 330ml cans
  • Type: Sliding Triple Door
  • Temperature Range: 0°C to +10°C
  • Energy Rating: G
  • Dimensions: W1350 x D512 x H892 mm
  • Features: Fan-assisted cooling, R600a refrigerant, LED lighting
  • Best for: Large bars and clubs with high beverage turnover

What to Look for in a Back Bar Bottle Cooler (2025 Buying Guide)


  • 1. Capacity
    Typically measured in how many 330ml bottles or cans the unit holds. Choose based on peak demand – small bars may need 100–150 bottle capacity, larger venues 250+.

  • 2. Door Type – Hinged vs Sliding
    Hinged doors offer full access but need space to open. Sliding doors are ideal for tight back bar areas with limited clearance.

  • 3. Number of Doors
    Single, double or triple door units are available. Double and triple door models improve access and maximise visibility across wider bars.

  • 4. Cooling Performance and Temperature Range
    Look for fan-assisted cooling for consistent temperatures, and a range between 0°C and +10°C to keep drinks refreshingly cold without freezing.

  • 5. Internal Lighting
    LED-lit interiors enhance product visibility and boost impulse sales – especially in dimly lit bars or front-facing areas.

  • 6. Security Features
    Many models include fitted locks, helping secure stock outside of trading hours or in event venues and open-plan areas.

  • 7. Energy Efficiency
    Energy ratings range from D to G. Higher-rated units may cost more upfront but can offer long-term savings in high-use settings. Look for eco-friendly refrigerants like R600a where possible.

Quick Buyer Checklist


FeatureRecommendedWhy It Matters
Capacity (100–300+ bottles) Yes Choose the right storage size based on peak service demand
Hinged or Sliding Doors Depends on space Hinged allows full access; sliding saves space in tight setups
Fan-Assisted Cooling Yes Maintains even temperature and quick recovery after door openings
LED Internal Lighting Yes Improves visibility and enhances product presentation
Lockable Doors Yes Secures stock after hours or during events
Temperature Range 0°C to +10°C Yes Keeps drinks chilled without risk of freezing
Energy Rating D–E or Better Yes Helps control running costs in high-usage bars

Frequently Asked Questions


What size back bar bottle cooler do I need?

This depends on your stock levels and service volume. A single door unit may store 100–150 bottles, while triple door models can hold 250+ bottles – ideal for busy bars or clubs.

What’s better: hinged or sliding doors?

Hinged doors provide easier access but need space to open. Sliding doors are ideal for compact bars or where coolers are built under counters.

How cold should a bottle cooler be?

Back bar coolers typically run between 0°C and +10°C. Aim for around +3°C to +5°C for ready-to-serve bottled drinks without risk of freezing.

Can I leave a back bar cooler on all the time?

Yes – they’re designed for continuous use. Just keep the vents clear and follow manufacturer maintenance advice to avoid overloading or overheating.

Do back bar coolers use a lot of electricity?

They can run constantly, so energy efficiency matters. Look for newer models with D or E ratings and eco refrigerants like R600a to reduce energy bills.

Need Help Choosing the Right Back Bar Bottle Cooler?


Whether you're upgrading your bar, fitting out a new venue, or just need extra chilled storage, we're here to help. Our expert team will guide you to the right cooler based on your space, capacity and finish requirements.

Browse our full range of single, double and triple door bottle coolers online or contact us for tailored advice.

Need Help Choosing the Right Equipment?


Get expert advice and make confident choices with our full range of Commercial Catering Equipment Buying Guides . Discover tips, comparisons, and top recommendations – all in one place.

Live Chat | Call Us | Send a Message