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Walk In Refrigerators / Freezers
If your business sells a large volume of
fresh food or other items that need to be
kept cold, you should consider the advantages
of building or buying a walk in refrigerator
/ freezer. Virtually any storage space can
be converted into a customized walk-in refrigerator
or freezer by a qualified refrigeration contractor’s
assembling the exterior shell, insulation,
interior shelving, cooling mechanism, and
drainage for condensation.
If the required refrigerated
space will not
fit within your building, you
may place it
outside. In that case, you have
several other
considerations:
- If access will be from outside, the door
must lock to prevent unauthorized access.
- If access will be from inside your building,
the refrigeration unit effectively will become
an extension that is entered through an opening
to be cut in an exterior wall.
- The unit must withstand acts of vandalism
or accidental bumps by vehicles.
- The unit must be impervious to weather, such
as heavy rain or snow.
- Local building ordinances may come into play,
such as those that restrict your ability
to add outbuildings on your property or extensions
to your main building.
For efficient and safe usage
of your walk-in
refrigerator or freezers, there
are several
considerations:
- Do not store dry ice inside. Dry ice will
deplete oxygen and create a hazard for users.
- The latch mechanism should allow someone
trapped inside to open the door and escape.
- Clearly label all items stored inside and
develop a system that makes it easy to find
the goods when you need them.
- Place rubber mats on the floors to improve traction and reduce
slips and falls from frost.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.
Before buying a unit or having a custom refrigerated
space built for you, understand the projected
operating expenses, including electricity
usage and maintenance.
Also, discuss in advance the insurance implications
with your insurer or insurance agent. A walk-in
refrigerator or freezer may create certain
hazards in the eyes of your insurer, resulting
in increased premiums; any increase may also
depend on the design that you choose. |
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