Whether you’re looking for an indoor or outdoor walk-in cooler, choosing the right location is key. Once the cooler or freezer is in place, it’s a huge pain (and expense!) to move it. So, before you make a decision, there are a few things to think about walk-in refrigerator for your home or business.
Space Requirements: What to consider when choosing a Walk In refrigerator for home or business
One important factor to take into account is the amount of space required, whether you are indoors or outdoors. Indoor walk-ins need a minimum of 6 inches of airspace over the walk-in area and 2 inches all around for proper airflow. Additionally, condensing units inside should be easily accessible for repairs and cleaning and have ample space around them. Many customers request hatches in ceilings so they can reach top mount units. If indoor space is limited or you anticipate needing more room in the future, an outdoor walk-in may be a good option. Make sure your property can accommodate the size of outdoor walk-in you require.
Is a butted or freestanding walk-in cooler right for you?
There are two main types of walk-in coolers and freezers: freestanding and butted. A freestanding walk-in cooler or freezer is a standalone structure with doors that open to the outside. A butted walk-in, on the other hand, is attached to the side of a building and has a door that opens into the building. Butted walk-ins also typically have walls that are welded to the sides of the building. One advantage of butted walk-ins is that they don’t require drip caps. Another advantage is that the door and its hardware last longer because they’re not exposed to the elements.
The location of your condensing unit can have an effect on which cooling system you choose:
The location of your condensing unit is important to consider if you want to avoid a noisy refrigeration system. Some models are designed to be quiet, but the best option is typically a remote refrigeration unit. With a remote unit, you can place the condensing unit outside of the building, regardless of where the walk-in unit is located. Condensing units also emit heat as a by-product of cooling your structure. To keep your unit running efficiently, be sure to keep it away from sources of heat like vents, fryers, ovens, or anything that could make the unit dirty or oily.
How does ambient temperature affect your Walk In cooler choice?
The average ambient temperature is an important consideration when selecting the size of your refrigeration unit. Proper temperature can also help lower operating expenses. Condensing and walk-in units designed for outdoor use are often better suited to colder temperatures, and as a result, cost less to operate than those designed for indoor use.
Wear & Tear:
Wear and tear is something all walk-in coolers have to deal with over time. However, modern panels are made out of metals that are resistant to corrosion. Even though these metals are resistant to rust, the rust-resistant coating can become scratched and damaged over time. The gaskets on the doors and panels are especially susceptible to damage when they’re exposed to elements like heat, moisture, and extreme cold. When the gaskets become damaged, they can cause leaks. These leaks can then lead to problems like icing in the walk-in area and a buildup of moisture within the panels. Additionally, the panel insulation can wear out faster due to exposure to excessive heat, moisture, and extreme cold.
The cost:
The price for an outdoor model will typically be higher than an indoor one. Outdoor units need rain roofs (or covered with or covered by an awning) as well as an outdoor condensing unit that has winter protection and winter control. For walk-ins that are outdoors, you might have to build an asphalt pad to ensure it can be erected on an even surface. If you live located in an area with lots of snow, think about getting an extra-strong ceiling to avoid damage from snowfalls that are heavy.
If you are deciding between an outdoor or indoor walk-in cooler or freezer, make a list of the pros and cons to help you decide which one is best for you.
