Is there anything I should do before I install a walk-in cooler/freezer?
The following is a list of occurences that need to be determined prior to installing a walk-in cooler or freezer.
• Space
First, you need to determine the space that will be required to place your walk-in box, including the height you will need. The most common height is 8'2".
Note: You will need at least 4.5" or more space above the box to slide the ceiling panels in place, and a minimum of 2" air space on each wall to prevent condensation and mold.
• Ventilation
Next is selecting a well-vented location for your condensing unit. The ideal location would be outdoors, typically on the roof of your building near the box.
• Electrical Power
Determining your electrical power will need to be established before an order can be placed for your condensing unit. Generally, power is available in single or three phase. For industrial accounts, 460-480 volts may be available.
The advantage of using three phase and 460-480 volts is the reduction of the amperage required for your system. Furthermore, your voltage will break down to 115 for your smaller items (lights, coild, heaters, and controls), and higher volts 208/230 for your condensing units and some defrost heaters.
• Drain Lines
An appropriate drainage location for the condensation water produced by your evaporator coil should be determined prior to your installation. Normally a copper line will attached to the bottom of your coil and then drain to your nearest floor sink. Note: drain line must slope at 1⁄4“ per liner ft. and cannot pass through a door way.
You may also drain your condensation line to a funnel or use an electrical evaporator pan. We only would recommend an electrical evaporator pan when the distance to a floor sink is impractical. However, when an electrical evaporator pan is utilized we highly recommend one with float activated sensor (see Accessories). Please note that these electrical evaporator pan units require a dedicated electrical outlet.
• Permit
You should consult your local building department and health department prior to installing your walk-in refrigerator.
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