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When it comes to walk-in coolers, one of the most critical components is the outdoor condensing unit or OCU. Choosing the right one for your specific needs can be daunting, but with a few tips, you can ensure you get the best possible option for you. Here are some things you should consider when choosing an OCU.
An OCU works in conjunction with an indoor evaporator inside the walk-in cooler to move heat outside to cool the inside of the unit, keeping food supplies and other items properly cooled.
When it comes to condensing units, there are three main types, self-contained, remote, and multiplex.
This type of condenser is one of the more common types used because they are easy to set up and use. The name comes from the fact that the condenser and the evaporator are contained within the unit and installed in the walk-in cooler. These units are also mobile and can be moved from one location to another, making them great for renters. With everything in one place, they are also easy to clean and maintain.
On the other hand, if you have a small kitchen, the noise this unit gives off may be too much to tolerate, especially without proper insulation from noise. You also need great ventilation for these units to perform at their best. They can overheat, especially in the summertime, requiring good ventilation and air conditioning to combat the heat in the kitchen area. If you’re cranking up the AC to combat the heat, you may see a rise in your electricity bills.
A remote unit is built outside of the walk-in cooler, such as the basement or the roof of the building. With the unit being outside of the cooler, you are able to maximize the use of the walk-in cooler space, and you also eliminate the loud noise inside of the kitchen since the unit is outside of the area. You also can reduce your need for AC or ventilation since the unit is in a remote location.
Remote units do require you to build a connection between your walk-in cooler and your condenser. With the need for additional cables and requirements, a remote unit may cost more than one that is self-contained. Without a good location for the unit, you risk it suffering from damage due to external factors. Maintenance can also involve more steps since the cooler and condenser are in different locations.
These environmentally-friendly units are built indoors and use multiple condensers to operate efficiently. With multiple condensers, they can serve more than one machine within your business, reducing your need for multiple units outdoors while also reducing your carbon footprint.
Additionally, these units open up space indoors that can be used for storage. They also help to adjust your energy spending and reduce your energy spending due to their efficiency. You can also benefit from tight temperature precision when using a multiplex unit.
You will need a large piping system to set up this type of unit which comes with a lot of groundwork that can be both challenging and expensive to complete. In some cases, the piping can begin to leak, which can threaten the safety of your staff and machine performance.
The first thing you must consider when selecting a condensing unit is the size. It needs to fit in the space you have available and should provide sufficient cooling power for your walk-in cooler.
The type of refrigerant used will also play a part in determining which type of condensing unit will work best for you. Many of the OCUs available on the market today use lower-GWP A1 hydrofluorocarbon or HFC refrigerants, like R-448A and R-449A.
It’s important to keep in mind that lower-GWP A1 refrigerants have degrees of glide which can affect the sizing and selection process for the OCU. Glide can affect the system capacity, which can lead to the requirement of a larger horsepower OCU to properly meet your refrigeration load requirements.
Another important factor to consider when selecting a condensing unit is the amount of noise it will generate. Look for a unit that has been designed with noise reduction technology, so you can ensure your cooler runs quietly and efficiently. Additionally, check the compressor’s energy efficiency rating and select one that meets your needs.
The final thing to take into consideration when selecting a condensing unit is the cost. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars all the way up to several thousand, depending on what you want and need. Generally, higher-quality units cost more but offer better performance and energy savings.
By taking into account your needs and budget, you can be sure to select the best condensing unit for your walk-in cooler. With the right choice, you can enjoy cool temperatures year-round and ensure that your food products are kept safe. Don’t forget to ask a professional if you have any questions or concerns about your selection. With the proper knowledge, you can be sure to select a condensing unit that will meet your needs and provide reliable performance for years to come.
For more information on how to choose the right condensing unit for your walk-in cooler, contact Fugh Refrigeration today. Our expert team can answer any of your questions and will help you make the best decision for your needs.
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