Successfully completing a commercial refrigeration project requires careful attention to detail. The choices you make during this process can significantly influence both the cost of the installation and its operational efficiency once it’s up and running. By considering the six factors outlined in this blog, businesses can avoid pitfalls and ensure a setup that effectively meets their cooling needs while optimizing long-term performance and reliability.
1. Project Scope and Requirements
Establishing the project’s parameters is the initial stage of any commercial refrigeration installation. The size of the refrigerator should match the space available in your business, whether it’s a restaurant, store, or cold storage facility. Measure the area where you plan to install the refrigerator, ensuring there’s enough clearance for doors to open fully and for air to circulate around the unit. A professional installer can help with precise measurements and recommend the best-sized unit for your space.
2. Refrigeration System Type
Centralized systems are often the most effective option for larger businesses with various cooling needs. For instance, a grocery store may need a walk-in cooler to store meat and produce when delivery trucks arrive, a freezer for products like ice cream, and a display case for the deli. A centralized system uses an outdoor remote condensing unit that connects to evaporator coils in multiple indoor refrigerators and freezers. This design’s advantages are that it allows for better temperature control and reduced noise inside your business. Central systems are also more accessible for maintenance because all the compressors and condensers are housed in one location. Additionally, having a centralized condenser can help save energy compared to using individual condensing units for each refrigerator or freezer. However, installing this type of custom setup is complex, adding to initial costs. They also require professional tune-ups at least twice a year.
Alternatively, packaged systems are easier to install and require less initial investment. They work best for smaller businesses where cooling demands are lower. If simplicity and ease of setup are your priorities, a packaged system might be the right fit, but keep in mind its limitations regarding scalability.
3. Air Cooled Versus Water or Glycol Cooled Systems
Air-cooled systems are generally more straightforward to install in a centralized system, resulting in a smaller initial investment. However, they often consume more energy than the other types, especially in larger setups. In contrast, water-cooled systems can be more efficient but require a continuous freshwater supply, making them prone to leaks. Glycol systems are less susceptible to this issue because glycol is more viscous than water and circulates in a closed loop within the setup. Additionally, glycol doesn’t freeze as easily as water, preventing problems during chilly weather.
By consulting with a professional, you can determine which system will provide optimal cooling, efficiency, and cost savings for your business. This expert guidance ensures that you choose the right refrigeration medium for your needs.
4. System Sizing and Load Calculation
Inadequate system size is a typical pitfall in refrigeration projects, contributing to wasted resources, higher expenses, and a shorter equipment lifespan. If you want your refrigeration equipment to work well in your business’s environment, you need to make sure you do thorough load calculations. It is essential to consider factors like insulation, lighting, the frequency of entry and exit, and any nearby equipment that generates heat. Oversizing the system causes it to cycle on and off too often, wasting energy and shortening its lifespan. Undersizing forces the unit to work harder to maintain the proper temperature, which leads to unnecessary wear and tear.
5. Location and Space Planning
In addition to making repairs and maintenance a breeze, the design of your project should maximize airflow around the components. When it comes to outdoor condensers, factors such as how much sunlight the unit receives may impact the system’s efficiency. Constructing a well-ventilated shade structure can result in significant energy savings. Alternatively, installing mechanical ventilation for indoor components will prevent overheating and increase the system’s lifetime.
6. Condensate Management
When planning a centralized refrigeration project for a business, condensate management is crucial to prevent water damage to floors and walls. Implementing a dedicated drainage system for condensate ensures efficient removal of the moisture produced by refrigeration. It also is essential for compliance with health and safety regulations.
Contact Your Local Pros
At Advanced Comfort Solutions, we have been serving home and business owners in Cheyenne, WY and the surrounding areas for over 20 years with our comprehensive service solutions. We install, maintain, and repair heating a cooling systems. In addition, we can help with your indoor air quality, sheet metal fabrication, and commercial refrigeration needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our talented team members.
