A walk-in cooler is essentially an insulated box with a refrigeration system inside. Each manufacturer may have their own design, but all of them offer the same core elements to make the unit work:
Insulation:
Insulation in your walk-in cooler helps it stay cold and reduces energy costs. It prevents heat from entering the freezer or escaping it, keeping your food at safe temperatures. Manufacturers usually describe insulation quality by a number, called an R-value. The higher the R-value, the better the insulating power.
Doors:
Walk-in freezer and cooler doors should be strong, durable, and easy to open and close. They should also seal tightly to keep cold air in and hot air out. The right door will help you avoid food spoiling and reduce the risk of contaminating other products in the walk-in.
Flooring:
The floor of your walk-in freezer or cooler should be sturdy, slip-resistant, and easy to clean. It should be insulated to reduce heat transfer from the ground, as well. In some cases, walk-ins are designed without floors and require an exterior ramp to be used for carrying products in and out.
Refrigeration system:
This is the key component that cools your walk-in and controls the temperature. It consists of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant. The system is sized to fit your specific facility’s space and storage needs, so you can maximize your walk-in’s efficiency. You can choose from several options for a refrigeration system, including automatic defrosting and demand-defrosting control, which will help you save money on energy bills.