Hope I am not repeating something here, but I didn't see it anywhere.

I am working on starting a home based business. One of the things I have to do is get a dedicated refrigerator/freezer.

Does a small version (less than 30" wide) commercial exist. Is a commercial one a necessity or a luxury? Can they be had used. Do you have a brand you like. What should I be looking for...help!

Eventually I will need a new oven as well, but lets see what I can do about the fridge first.

I've seen a home-based cake business in someone's basement with a regular fridge/freezer (and it was old). I think as long as the temperature gauges work correctly and the temps are consistent with food safety standards, you won't need to invest in a commercial grade fridge.

p.s. She also had a regular stove/oven and it was old too. In fact, she had about a 5x5 kitchen space to do the cooking and then storage space in another room for supplies. She had no problem whatsoever in getting approved by the health dept. for many years, about 8 years in a row. It was amazing but true.

Your best resource would be your local health authority despite what I've told you already. They will have the final say on your kitchen. Good luck!