When planning cold storage for your business, one of the first questions to answer is whether you need a walk-in cooler, a walk-in freezer — or a combination of both. While they may look similar, coolers and freezers are built for very different applications. Here’s a breakdown, based on U.S. Cooler’s product lineup.
Temperature is the Key Difference
- Walk-In Coolers maintain temperatures typically between 35°F and 41°F. They’re perfect for storing fresh foods like produce, dairy, beverages, and flowers.
- Walk-In Freezers operate at 0°F and below, making them essential for storing frozen foods like meats, seafood, and ice cream.
Panels and Insulation
U.S. Cooler walk-ins are built using modular, cam-locking panels with foamed-in-place polyurethane or extruded polystyrene insulation.
Both coolers and freezers use 4-inch thick panels that provide excellent insulation and help maintain the required temperature with energy efficiency.
Floors and Doors
One key design difference:
- Coolers can often be installed without a floor if placed on an concrete surface.
- Freezers require an insulated floor to prevent frost buildup beneath the unit.
Both units are equipped with high-quality, gasketed doors, but freezer doors often include additional features like heater wires and pressure relief ports to prevent icing and ensure smooth operation.
Refrigeration Systems
Coolers and freezers are paired with refrigeration systems designed to operate efficiently at their specific temperatures. U.S. Cooler offers a wide range of refrigeration solutions, including preassembled and remote systems, to meet diverse application needs.
Combo Units: Two-in-One Efficiency
For businesses needing both refrigeration and freezing, U.S. Cooler offers combo walk-in units. These feature separate cooler and freezer sections with their own doors, walls, and refrigeration systems — delivering maximum flexibility and space efficiency.
Why Choose U.S. Cooler?
U.S. Cooler walk-ins are built in the USA with a focus on quality, durability, and performance. Features include:
- Modular, cam-lock panel construction for fast assembly
- High R-value insulation for superior thermal efficiency
- Airtight seals with panel gaskets
- Custom sizing and finish options to meet unique needs
With decades of experience, U.S. Cooler delivers walk-in solutions trusted by businesses across industries.
Let’s Build Your Walk-In
Whether you need a cooler, freezer, or combo unit, U.S. Cooler is here to help. Contact us for expert advice.
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