7 Years: Industry standards have shown that after 7 years, it is less expensive to replace a lab or commercial refrigerator than it is to repair it.

2 Times per Day: It depends on what the facility is storing. However, some items are very sensitive and can result in a massive waste if not stored at the right temperatures.  Asking staff to check the temperature twice a day and write down a single temperature is a token gesture. The standards are even written around the 2-hour/4-hour rules. At the very least, it should be every 2 hours.

A minimum/maximum thermometer should be used on all lab/commercial refrigerators.

Of course, I am going to recommend that they use a refrigerator system that already has a temperature tracker. If the facility is not looking to replace their line of refrigerators, then they should at least have a temperature device that will log and alert if the temperature is too far out of range. After all, it’s not the maximum temperature that is critical, but how long it has been above 5°. Only a temperature logger can provide an accurate portrayal of what has happened.

As of January 1, 2010, virgin HCFC-22, HCFC-142b and blends containing HCFC-22 or HCFC-142b may only be used to service existing appliances. Consequently, virgin HCFC-22, HCFC-142b and blends containing HCFC-22 or HCFC-142b may not be used to manufacture new pre-charged appliances or appliance components or to charge new appliances assembled onsite. For further information on the phasedown of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b, see:

http://www.epa.gov/ods-phaseout/phaseout-class-ii-ozone-depleting-substances

Even though there is no immediate need to change, HCFC-22 supply will decline and prices may rise. When you transition, you have three choices: (1) convert your existing system, (2) buy a new one, or (3) continue to operate your existing system. If you choose to convert, confirm with your equipment supplier that the system is retrofitted to use an ozone-friendly, SNAP-approved refrigerant, and that all system components are compatible with the new refrigerant. Buying a new, more efficient system may require more money initially, but may reduce your electricity bill and save money over time.

Liebherr: Liebherr has been using green refrigeration worldwide since 1993. Liebherr has been diligent in providing quality products and energy-efficiency, all while being proactive in releasing less harmful gasses into the ozone.

24 Months: Liebherr has a 3 to 5-year warranty on entire closed refrigeration system — not just the compressor, like most other manufacturers.

All the Above: With bottom compressors, there’s no worry of the condenser fan pulling in dust or debris from the floor and clogging the coils.

Heat from the system doesn’t rise right into the commercial cooler, which can mean more efficient operation.

Since the condenser, compressor, and evaporator are all together at the top of this type of commercial cooler, there’s no need for refrigerant lines to be built into the back of the box. That not only means they’re more accessible for service, it also means you get some-extra cold storage space.

Having the compressor on top of the cabinet maximizes the space inside. With a bottom-mount refrigerator, insulation must be installed above the refrigeration system, which takes up space. Users also have to rely on the top shelves, which are harder to reach and more difficult to see. A top-mount refrigerator has lower top shelves, which means they’re easier to put to use.