14
Size matters — Capacities and space
• To determine the size of freezer needed, users
look at the capacity and how many racks and
sample boxes it can store.
• A current trend is for freezers to have pull-out
drawers, especially in large capacity freezers.
But drawers and heavy inventory racks can
make it dicult to reach and access the
top compartments of the freezer for some
technicians. In order to help alleviate this
problem, some manufacturers oer options to
access drawers from the side, making it easier
to open and locate and return samples.
• The exterior size of a ULT freezer is of
importance when considering capacity and
eciency. Energy consumption per cubic foot
is higher for small freezers when compared to
large freezers, but it may not be the primary
factor when selecting a freezer.
• Labs with limited space often use freezers
which are smaller based on size constraints.
Energy costs become important for users in
university or research settings, and many opt
to purchase large freezers and share the space
between groups in order to minimize energy
consumption and look for the largest capacity at
the lowest price possible per vial to determine
the most ecient way to produce frozen vials.
• Users should consider if a mixture of strategies
combining total eciency as well as local
needs may be suitable.
• How long the samples will remain stored
in the freezer is also an important factor.
Most ULT freezers are designed to reach a
consistent set point and last that way for
more than a decade.
Where the freezer will be
located matters
• The location in which a freezer will be placed
is important in determining the size and
which model will be used.
• Whether the freezer will be located alone,
or within a group of freezers is also a matter
for consideration.
• Regional considerations, such as average
air temperature, should be considered if a
freezer will be located in a space without
climate control.
• Freezers need proper ventilation so the
warm air can reach the return registers. A
minimum space of 8” (203 mm) on top and
clearance of 5” (127 mm) on the sides and
back should be maintained.
Temperature sensor location
