Walk-in refrigerators and freezers are essential to any commercial kitchen or food-service operation. They provide additional storage capacity, as well as more efficient temperature control for a variety of goods. But what is the average cost to run a walk-in refrigerator and freezer?
According to the US Energy Information Administration, the average cost of commercial electricity in Pennsylvania is 10.69 cents per kilowatt hour. This will vary depending on the size of the refrigerator and freezer, as well as other factors. Generally speaking. However, a walk-in refrigerator or freezer utilizes approximately 0.7 to 2.5 kWh per hour (depending on the size).
Based on this information, it will cost an average of 7 to 25 cents per hour for commercial electricity to run a walk-in refrigerator or freezer. Many walk-in refrigeration systems are designed to run 80% of the time or roughly 16 to 18 hours per day.
Remember that these are rough estimates, and your exact numbers may vary based on various factors.
Factors that Can Affect the Operating Costs of Your Walk-in System
In addition to the size of your refrigerator or freezer, a few other factors can affect how much it costs to run.
The age of your unit is an essential factor. Old and inefficient units use more electricity than newer models with better insulation and energy-efficient components. The location and amount of natural light can also play a role in the temperature of your unit and, thus, how much it costs to run.
The type and quantity of food stored in the unit also matter. Storing many warm items will cause the temperature inside the unit to rise, which can lead to increased electricity usage.
Finally, you should maintain your walk-in refrigerator or freezer properly. Poorly maintained units may need to maintain the temperature more efficiently, leading to higher energy bills. Regularly check seals and service motors, and inspect insulation to ensure your unit runs at its best.
It’s important to remember that these costs can be reduced by using energy-efficient solutions and equipment. This includes ensuring the door seals are properly maintained, utilizing efficient motors and compressors, and using natural lighting when possible.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your walk-in refrigerator and freezer run as efficiently as possible while saving money on energy costs in the long run.
Choosing the Right Walk-in Unit
When selecting a new walk-in refrigerator and freezer, it is important to consider the cost of running them in the long term. In addition to the initial purchase price, you should factor in operating costs such as energy use and maintenance requirements.
By factoring these costs into your decision-making process, you can ensure you get a unit that will provide you with the best value in the long run.
Call Fugh Refrigeration Today for Walk-in Cooler or Freezer Installation
Whether you need a unit installed in a new location or want to upgrade your current walk-in system, our expert team can help! We will work with you to select the perfect system for your operations and expertly install the unit to ensure it works efficiently. Contact us today to learn more!
About The Author
Ben Lutz is the owner of Fugh Refrigeration, has decades of experience in the HVAC/R industry, and has managed many heating, cooling, and refrigeration technicians over the years.
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