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To prevent expensive inventory from spoiling, and to adhere to cold storage safety codes, it’s necessary for many food-related businesses to operate walk-in coolers. While business owners may have concerns about the costs of running this type of equipment, it ultimately comes down to a few key factors. Luckily, the team at Refrigeration & Food Equipment in Anchorage, AK, has more than 50 years’ experience working with the restaurant industry, and they can clarify some of the more esoteric aspects of determining the operating costs of walk-ins. 

Understanding Walk-In Cooler Operating Costs 

Initial Item Temperature Is Important

The initial temperature of items placed in the unit, as well as their size, can impact the overall climate of the walk-in cooler interior. It’s best to wait for especially dense hot or warm items to cool off before placing them in the unit, as it requires more energy to bring the products down to the desired temperature.  

Insulation Helps Reduce Energy Costs

walk-in coolerInsulating residential and commercial spaces is a common practice to cut down on heating and cooling costs. Insulating the doors, flooring, and ceiling of a walk-in cooler also has energy-saving benefits. Because the material prevents cold air from escaping, there’s no need to crank the freezer controls to compensate for the loss. 

Frequency of Use Contributes to Costs 

How much foot traffic the walk-in cooler receives is a leading contributor to operating costs. Room temperature air enters the container each time the door is opened, forcing the cooling mechanism to kick into high gear to maintain the frigid environment. If the door is manual, consider upgrading to automatic. The door will always shut tightly after it’s used, reducing energy consumption and the associated costs in the process. 

If you need high-quality walk-in coolers or additional commercial refrigeration equipment for your Anchorage area business, Refrigeration & Food Equipment has an extensive selection of energy-efficient products available. To learn more about the inventory, call (907) 248-2525 to speak with a restaurant equipment sales specialist. You can also visit the company online for product details. 

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