Walk-in coolers are essential in any business environment. Perishable food can be stored or packaged in enclosed, refrigerated storage areas. Commercial walk in coolers are often used for medium-term cold storage, with normal refrigerators providing both short- and long-term storage. Walk-ins, like any refrigeration system, feature an evaporator inside and a condenser outside to keep heat travelling outside while storing coolness within.
Walk-in cooler installation may appear to be a difficult process, but with the appropriate team of pros, it can be made simple. We understand how complex this process may be for a layperson, which is why Alturas Contractors have educated our personnel to respond to all of your demands and inquiries by commercial walk-in cooler installation on your preferred floor type.
What is a Commercial Walk-in Cooler?
A walk-in cooler serves exactly as its name implies: it functions as a space for storing refrigerated food items both before and after preparation. With significantly more capacity than a typical cooler, it is ideal for accommodating large quantities of food for storage.
Types of Commercial Walk in Coolers
Pre-Manufactured or Custom Made Walk In Cooler
All of the standards for commercial walk-in coolers are met by our pre-fabricated walk-in coolers. It has sturdy locking panels that allow the boxes to expand when extra room is needed. Commercial walk-in cooler installation and box costs are cheaper than customized walk-in cooler installation and box costs.
Custom-Built walk-in cooler installation
Typically manufactured using structural tiles on walls and floors, this one is made and installed to our customer’s specifications. Apart from walk-in cooler installation Los Angeles, we also offer walk-in cooler repair Los Angeles and HVAC maintenance.
Indoor or Outdoor Walk in Cooler
Walk-in coolers are essential in any business environment. Perishable food can be stored or packaged in enclosed, refrigerated storage areas. Walk-in coolers are often used for medium-term cold storage, with normal refrigerators providing both short- and long-term storage. Walk-ins, like any refrigeration system, feature an evaporator inside and a condenser outside to keep heat travelling outside while storing coolness within.
Refrigeration System Placement
Top Mount Walk-in Coolers
- The refrigeration system is mounted on top of the cooler.
- Minimizes the risk of dirt and debris entering the system.
- Easier access for maintenance.
Side Mount Walk-in Coolers
- A refrigeration system is installed on one side of the cooler.
- It is useful when there are height restrictions.
- Allows for easier maintenance access from the side.
Remote Refrigeration Walk-in Coolers
- The refrigeration system is located in a separate area, often outside the building.
- Reduces heat and noise within the storage space.
- Ideal for businesses with limited interior space.
Features to Look for When Choosing a Commercial Walk-in Cooler
Choosing the right commercial walk-in cooler is crucial for businesses in the food service industry to ensure food safety, energy efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness. Here are key features to consider when selecting a commercial walk-in cooler:
Size and Capacity
- Determine the size of the cooler based on your storage needs.
- Consider future growth and expansion when choosing the capacity.
Insulation
- Opt for high-quality insulation to ensure temperature stability and energy efficiency.
- Common insulation materials include polyurethane and extruded polystyrene.
Door Design
- Choose doors with proper seals to prevent cold air leakage.
- Look for self-closing doors to maintain temperature control.
- Consider options like glass doors for visibility without opening the door.
Floor Type
- Select an appropriate floor type based on the products stored (e.g., smooth, non-slip surfaces for easy cleaning).
- Ensure the floor is designed to handle the weight of stored items and equipment.
Temperature Control System
- Invest in a reliable temperature control system with accurate and consistent temperature settings.
- Consider systems with alarms for temperature fluctuations.
Energy Efficiency
- Choose a cooler with an energy-efficient design to reduce operational costs.
- Look for models with high-efficiency compressors and evaporators.
Lighting
- Opt for LED lighting inside the cooler for better visibility and energy efficiency.
- Ensure the lighting is strategically placed for uniform illumination.
Shelving and Racking
- Consider adjustable shelving to accommodate different-sized items.
- Choose durable and easy-to-clean materials for shelves.
Condensing Unit Location
- Select a cooler with the condensing unit either attached to the cooler or remotely located for better ventilation and noise control.
Ease of Maintenance
- Look for features that simplify cleaning and maintenance, such as removable panels and easy-access components.
Durability and Construction
- Choose a unit with a robust construction, including corrosion-resistant materials for a longer lifespan.
- Consider the environment in which the cooler will operate and select materials accordingly.
Compliance with Regulations
- Ensure the cooler complies with local health and safety regulations.
- Look for models that meet energy efficiency standards.
Warranty and Support
- Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
- Consider the availability of customer support and maintenance services.
Brand Reputation
- Choose a reputable brand with a track record for producing reliable and high-quality commercial refrigeration equipment.
Benefits of a Commercial Walk-in Cooler
Increased Storage Capacity
- Commercial walk-in coolers provide a significantly larger storage capacity compared to standard refrigerators, allowing businesses to store larger quantities of perishable goods and ingredients.
Enhanced Food Safety
- Walk-in coolers maintain consistent and precise temperature control, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and ensuring that food items remain at safe temperatures to meet health and safety regulations.
Optimized Organization and Accessibility
- The spacious and organized interior of walk-in coolers allows for the efficient organization of perishable items. Adjustable shelving and ample space make it easy for staff to access and manage inventory, reducing the risk of spoilage.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
- Many commercial walk-in coolers are designed with energy-efficient features, such as high-quality insulation and advanced temperature control systems. This results in lower energy consumption and operational costs over time.
Versatility for Various Businesses
- Walk-in coolers are versatile and suitable for various businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, catering services, and more. They can be customized to meet specific needs, such as different temperature zones or storage requirements, making them adaptable to diverse operations.
Maintenance, Longevity & Walk In Cooler Repair
Consider scheduling periodic maintenance from an HVAC specialist to extend the life and efficiency of your walk-in fridge. Walk-in coolers and freezers may store a significant amount of merchandise, which can be lost if the cooler breaks down. Follow these DIY maintenance tips at the very least to avoid an unexpected walk-in cooler repair:
- Keep dirt out of door seals and repair them as they get worn.
- Clean and sanitize interior surfaces regularly to minimize corrosion.
- Use coil cleaning at least once a year to keep condenser coils clean and unclogged.
With proper care, your walk-in cooler should last for at least 15 years. As previously stated, insulation degrades and loses its efficacy over time. Older walk-in refrigeration systems lose efficiency with time, and it is typically suggested that a unit be replaced every 15 years. Newer systems (about 2020 and after) are getting more efficient and constructed to endure longer, so they may survive longer than 15 years.
Why should you hire Alturas Contractors for Walk in cooler Installation?
Alturas’ team is professional in installing all sorts of professional refrigeration equipment. We handle anything from commercial walk-in cooler installation Los Angeles to various types of refrigeration installation. The team at Alturas Contractors are experienced in the installation of various types of professional refrigeration equipment.
Common FAQs about Commercial Walk in Coolers
What is a commercial cooler?
A commercial cooler is a self-contained or remote-condensing unit that uses a vapour-compression refrigeration system and is designed for food and beverage storage, to keep products at a consistent temperature to maintain their quality
What is standard-size walk-in cooler?
Walk-ins can be as small as 5’x5′ and as large as needed. Most standard sizes, ie 6’x 6′, 6′ x 8′, 8′ x 8′ and 8′ x 10, are available from most manufacturers within a short amount of time.
Do you need a floor in a walk in cooler?
Walk-in coolers do not always require a floor, but it depends on where the walk-in will be installed.
How much does a commercial walk in cooler cost?
It costs around $1,000-$5,000
What are walk-in coolers used to store?
Walk-in coolers are used to store perishable items like fresh produce, dairy products, meats, beverages, and other temperature-sensitive goods in commercial settings such as restaurants, grocery stores, and food distribution centres.
