The price of a walk-in cold room varies significantly depending on its size, materials, insulation, refrigeration system, and additional features.
This guide provides an overview of estimated price ranges, factors influencing costs, and cost-saving tips.
6 Factors Affecting Walk-in Cold Room Prices
Several factors influence the pricing of walk-in cold rooms, affecting both their initial cost and long-term operational expenses.
1. Size and Capacity
Larger walk-in cold rooms require more materials and advanced refrigeration systems, which directly increases costs. Additionally, custom dimensions, especially for specific needs or restricted spaces, can add extra expense.
2. Insulation Thickness and Material
The insulation used in a cold room is essential for maintaining the desired temperature. At LINBLE, we typically use Polyurethane (PU) or Polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation panel, known for their excellent thermal and fire-resistance properties.
Thicker insulation for cold room panels, such as 100mm compared to 75mm, offers superior temperature control but also raises the cost.
3. Temperature Requirements
Cold rooms designed for chiller purposes (-5°C to +5°C) are typically less expensive than freezer rooms, which require temperatures as low as -15°C to -35°C. Freezer rooms need more powerful compressors, thicker insulation, and advanced cooling systems, raising costs further.
Ultra-low temperature cold rooms designed for temperatures below -50°C require specialized cooling technology, making them significantly more costly.
4. Customization and Special Features
Customized features such as sliding, swing doors, and automatic closing mechanisms add to the cost. Additionally, reinforced flooring for heavy-duty use or smart controls for automated monitoring, alarms, and remote temperature control can increase the price.
5. Installation and Location
Installation complexity and location significantly affect the price. Cold rooms installed indoors are typically less expensive than those installed outdoors, as outdoor units require weatherproofing and special adjustments. Transport costs and labor charges also vary depending on the region.
6. Energy Efficiency
Investing in energy-efficient features such as high-performance compressors, LED lighting, and superior insulation can increase the initial cost. However, these energy-saving elements can help lower long-term operating expenses, making them a valuable investment over time.
Estimated Price Ranges
| Cold Room Size Type | Size (ft) | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 6×6 to 8×8 | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Medium | 10×10 to 12×12 | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Large | 12×12+ | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
5 Cost-saving Tips
To optimize costs without compromising performance, consider these tips:
1. Choose the Right Size
Avoid oversized cold rooms that consume unnecessary energy. Accurately assess storage needs to select the appropriate size.
2. Opt for Energy-efficient Features
Investing in energy-efficient refrigeration systems, LED lighting, and high-quality insulated panels can substantially reduce your long-term electricity costs. Energy-efficient cold rooms not only help the environment but also lower operational expenses by reducing energy consumption.
3. Consider Used or Refurbished Units
Purchasing pre-owned or refurbished walk-in cold rooms from reputable suppliers can be an effective way to cut initial costs. However, ensure the unit has been properly inspected and maintained before purchase to guarantee reliability and efficiency.
4. Compare Multiple Suppliers
Before making a purchase, obtain quotes from different suppliers. Comparing prices, warranty options, service contracts, and the reputation of manufacturers will help you secure the best deal while considering long-term reliability.
5. Plan for Future Expansion
If your business is expected to grow, modular cold rooms are a smart choice. These systems allow for easy expansion, avoiding the need for costly replacements as your storage requirements increase over time.