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The lifespan of a ULT Freezer and what you should consider if you have an older model.
Just how long has your laboratory used the current Ultra Low Temp Freezers in your facility?
Ultra-Low Temp Freezers are used to store highly sensitive samples and therefore must be extremely reliable machines. Because of the time needed to store these samples, these freezers are typically used non-stop, over long periods of time. Much like anything used constantly over time, repairs and maintenance are needed. Older Low-Temp freezer models could be costing you even more money when it comes to energy savings, repairs and upkeep. Continue reading below to find out why a keeping an old ultra low temperature freezer around may be costing you even more than replacing your freezer with a brand new PHCbi Ultra-Low Temp Freezer.
Things to consider when using an old ULT Freezer:
How often is the ULT freezer opened and closed throughout the day?
Frequent door openings can cause constant temperature fluctuations which puts extra stress on the freezer’s compressors. This can cause older models to struggle with maintaining temperatures and can also result in total freezer failure. If your model was manufactured prior to 2013, you may have issues finding repair parts as they may no longer be in production.
Is your older low-temp unit consuming energy at an alarming rate?
Since they run non-stop, it’s been found that older freezers are normally the largest consumers of a laboratories electricity. ULT freezers have come a long way in regards to development, even within the past 5 years. New ULT models produced today, specifically PHCbi brand, are designed with refined thermal insulation and with an
updated invertor control technology to help counter this expense.
Just how Eco-friendly is your older ultra-low temp freezer?
ULT freezers adopted Hydrocarbon (HC) refrigeration much later than even household fridges/freezers and air conditioning units. Freezers that use older style refrigerants contribute to climate change and actually require a once-a-year check-up. Switching to a newer model can help play a little part in the battle against climate change. This will also make your lab more Eco-Friendly. This will also allow you to concentrate more on your work rather than equipment maintenance.
The ULT freezer model that your lab originally purchased was most most likely a reliable and top-notch unit at one point in time. With the development in low-temp freezer technology over the years and with attempts to make these units more eco-friendly, reliable and energy efficient, upgrading to a brand new model could potentially help you save time, money and ultimately save your sensitive samples.
