Anyone looking to purchase a walk-in cooler must consider two key things: what you will be storing and the amount of space you have to work with. Here are some topics you should consider when selecting a walk-in cooler:
Types of Walk-In Coolers
There are two types of coolers you’ll typically be able to choose from:
- Nominal (Sizes are Fixed)
- Custom (Exact Specifications)
Needs
When choosing a walk-in, you need to determine the amount of items you will need to store. For example, a single cubic foot of storage space can hold approximately 28 lb. of food. Prior to ordering your cooler, you will need to carefully consider the type of items you will store, the frequency of supply delivery, and temperature requirements.
Space
Next, you will need to consider where will you install the walk-in cooler. Is it going to be indoors or outdoors? Indoor walk-in coolers and freezers often present challenges surrounding space constraints, as space is limited. Outdoor installation often isn’t as limited in terms of space, but it will require you to choose a cooler designed for outdoor use and ensure the area is well-prepped for installation.
Here are some of the other elements to consider that may affect your cooler’s size and space:
- Panels
- Insulated panels will help the walk-in cooler maintain the right temperature. Most are made with 24 to 26 gauge galvanized steel, aluminum, or aluminum-coated steel, or stainless steel. The panels range from 3 1/2 inches to five inches thick. Inside the panels is an insulating foam for energy efficiency. It is important to pay attention to the materials used and to search for panels built with high-quality insulation materials. Doing so will ensure DOE and other local government regulations are met.
- Floors
- There are walk-in cooler models with and without floors. The insulation material for floors is the same as the wall panels, but typically a heavier gauge metal is applied, depending on traffic and use expected on the floor.
- Door
- Access points need to be determined so the appropriate solution can be recommended to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. Potential solutions include man doors, air curtains and glass doors.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. KPS Global can help you with your walk-in cooler needs. We design, manufacture, and install insulated panel solutions for various industries. Contact us today at kpsglobal.com.
