Why DOE Compliance Matters
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) has a very strict set of energy efficiency standards for walk-in coolers and freezers to help reduce energy waste, set minimum performance levels and ensure a level playing field for manufacturers. For end customers, meeting DOE requirements offers peace of mind the product is being manufactured to meet energy codes.
For walk-ins, the Department of Energy regulates by component and not a single unit, from insulated panels to doors and refrigeration equipment. DOE certifications are done by third party validation along with rigorous testing and compliance ensuring that the product performs as claimed.
DOE Compliance for Insulated Panels
Insulated panels make the primary foundation of creating a walk-in cooler or freezer, providing the thermal performance needed to maintain consistent temperatures and drive energy efficiency. The DOE establishes minimum insulation performance standards for panels (not just for walls but also ceilings and doors) based on whether it is a walk-in cooler or freezer.
Panels for each cooler and freezer must meet a certain R-Value and reduce energy consumption. All panels must be tested using DOE standardized methods to verify compliance and performance.
At KPS Global®, our insulated panels are engineered and tested to exceed DOE requirements, ensuring consistent performance and long-term thermal integrity.
Every type of panel created by KPS Global is manufactured for durability, precision and compliance. Our panels reduce your operational risk and ensure peace of mind knowing you meet all DOE requirements with KPS Global.
DOE regulations and listings are periodically updated and public websites may not always reflect up to date information. The best practice is to confirm compliance directly with the manufacturer and request DOE certification documents for verification. Any certified manufacturer can provide this documentation easily.
DOE Compliance for Glass Doors and Man Doors
Glass display and man doors are a key part of energy efficient walk-in coolers and freezers. DOE standards set requirements for U-Factor and anti-sweat heater power consumption for man doors. DOE standards for glass display doors include set requirements on energy use related to defogging systems. These requirements ensure that both man doors and glass doors maintain insulation quality while minimizing unnecessary power draw. DOE compliant doors help reduce condensation, improve temperature consistency and lower operating costs.
KPS Global designs and manufactures all walk-in cooler and freezer doors, each built to exceed current DOE requirements for energy efficiency and performance. For glass doors, we partner exclusively with industry-leading, DOE-certified manufacturers who share our commitment to quality, reliability and meeting regulations.
KPS Global works only with reputable and DOE certified suppliers to ensure consistent performance, safety and aesthetic integrity across every project. With KPS Global, every complete solution is fully compliant with DOE certification standards, giving you total confidence in performance and compliance.
Because DOE requirements evolve, always verify compliance directly with the manufacturer and request supporting documentation to confirm certification status.
Risks of Using Non-DOE Certified Products for Walk-in Coolers and Freezers
Choosing to use non-DOE compliant components creates significant operational and financial risk as it could cost you significantly more than using a DOE certified manufacturer. These issues can surface during installation, inspection or post-installation audits and can lead to substantial project costs including:
- Failed Inspections: During Department of Energy, state or local inspections, non-compliant panels or doors can result in project delays, mandatory replacements or shutdowns until compliance is verified.
- Project Delays and Retrofits: If noncompliant materials are discovered during or after installation, systems may need to be reworked or re-certified, increasing costs and downtime.
- Regulatory Penalties: The Department of Energy enforces compliance through audits and fines. Selling, installing or operating noncompliant equipment can lead to civil penalties and reputational damage.
- Higher Energy Costs: Noncompliant materials typically have lower thermal performance, causing refrigeration systems to work harder and consume more energy.
- Warranty and Certification Issues: Using components that do not meet DOE standards can void manufacturer warranties and compromise UL, NSF or other third-party certifications.
- Reduced Equipment Lifespan: Increased system strain from inefficient components can cause premature wear on compressors and refrigeration units leading to higher maintenance costs.
Choosing noncompliant products introduces unnecessary risk across the project. For companies managing multiple stores, facilities or jobsites, going with DOE-certified products is essential for efficiency, consistency and peace of mind.
You Are Protected with KPS Global
When you partner with KPS Global, you gain more than a manufacturer, you gain a trusted partner committed to your success. Our products are engineered and verified to meet DOE requirements, and our team stays ahead of evolving regulations, so you do not have to. From panels and doors to complete walk-in’s, we deliver proven performance and documented compliance.
Every KPS Global solution is backed by decades of testing, engineering expertise and a commitment to helping customers operate efficiently and safely. With KPS Global, you can move forward knowing your walk-in coolers and freezers are built for quality, compliance and long-term value.
Our in-house engineering team can promptly provide our DOE certifications to any customer upon request.
Helpful Resources for DOE Compliance
To support informed decision making and reduce compliance risk, the following resources provide guidance from the U.S. Department of Energy and applicable federal regulations. These sources are intended to be helpful references, not the sole basis for decision making.
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Learn more about federal energy efficiency standards, certification requirements and compliance expectations on the official U.S. Department of Energy website. - Code of Federal Regulations – 10 CFR Part 431
Review the federal regulations governing energy conservation standards for commercial and industrial equipment, including walk-in coolers and freezers, under 10 CFR Part 431. - DOE Compliance Certification Database for Walk-in Coolers and Freezers
Verify whether specific products and manufacturers are DOE certified by searching the DOE Compliance Certification Database, which contains walk-in coolers and freezer parts that have certification reports submitted to the DOE.- Note: DOE web pages and listings can lack the most updated information, so we recommend confirming requirements with the OEM Manufacturer.
