Choosing the right cooling setup for your walk-in cooler or freezer.
When designing a walk-in cooler or freezer, the refrigeration system you choose has a big impact on performance, efficiency, and cost. At U.S. Cooler, we manufacture high-quality walk-ins compatible with a wide range of refrigeration systems—whether you need a simple plug-and-play setup or a large-scale, remote configuration.
This guide explains the most common types of systems, where they work best, and which U.S. Cooler walk-ins are designed to work with them.
Self-Contained Refrigeration Systems
What it is:
Self-contained units combine the compressor, condenser, and evaporator in one factory-assembled package. These systems are typically mounted on top of or alongside the walk-in.
Best for:
- Small to medium walk-ins
- Indoor installations with good ventilation
- Quick and simple setups
Benefits:
- Easy to install and maintain
- Cost-effective
- No field assembly required
Product Compatibility:
✔ Compatible with FastCooler quick-ship models
✔ Ideal for indoor U.S. Cooler walk-ins under 10’x10’
✔ Commonly used in convenience stores, bars, and quick-service restaurants
Remote Refrigeration Systems
What it is:
Remote systems separate the condenser/compressor (placed outside) from the evaporator coil (inside the walk-in). Refrigerant lines connect the two.
Best for:
- Larger coolers and freezers
- Indoor walk-ins where heat/noise reduction is needed
- Outdoor walk-in installations
Benefits:
- Quieter and cooler indoor environments
- Greater efficiency in high-demand applications
- Easier service access for technicians
Product Compatibility:
✔ Fully compatible with all custom U.S. Cooler walk-ins
✔ Recommended for outdoor walk-ins, large storage units, or locations with space constraints
✔ Often used in restaurants, grocery stores, food warehouses, and schools
Pre-Assembled Remote Systems (PARS)
What it is:
PARS units are factory-assembled systems where the evaporator and condensing unit are mounted on a common rack, pre-wired and pre-charged for easier installation.
Best for:
- Medium to large walk-ins
- Installers who want the performance of remote systems with simpler setup
- Rooftop or back-of-building installation areas
Benefits:
- Reduces installation time and complexity
- Pre-tested system ensures compatibility
- Maintains remote system performance
Product Compatibility:
✔ Works with all custom walk-ins from U.S. Cooler
✔ Great for commercial kitchens, cafeterias, and small distribution centers
Multiplex Systems
What it is:
A multiplex system uses a central compressor rack to cool multiple walk-ins or cases throughout a facility. It’s a complex, large-scale setup.
Best for:
- Supermarkets and large retail stores
- Cold storage warehouses
- Food manufacturing or processing facilities
Benefits:
- Consolidated maintenance
- Lower total energy usage
- Centralized refrigeration management
Product Compatibility:
✔ Fully supported with custom-engineered U.S. Cooler systems
✔ Ideal for multi-box installations, grocery chains, and foodservice distribution centers
Choosing the Right System for Your Application
Every refrigeration system has strengths depending on your environment and budget. U.S. Cooler works closely with customers to build walk-ins that meet your exact specs—whether you’re looking for a compact indoor cooler or a multi-box setup for high-volume storage.
Our panels, doors, and accessories are compatible with leading refrigeration brands and system types, and we’re happy to coordinate with your installer or equipment supplier to ensure proper fit and performance.
Need Help Specifying a System?
Contact our team today for guidance on choosing the right refrigeration system for your walk-in. We’ll help you find the right fit based on your box size, usage, and location—and make sure it’s built to last.
