How Much does a Walk in Freezer Cost to Run

David Harris

Technical Director, NCS

Costs involved to run a Walk in Cold Room

Walk-in freezers are essential for many businesses, including restaurants, supermarkets, and food processing facilities, offering substantial storage capacity for perishable goods. However, one of the critical considerations for these businesses is the operational cost of running a walk-in freezer. Understanding these costs can help businesses budget effectively and identify potential areas for savings.

1. Factors Affecting the Cost
2. Calculating the Running Costs
3. Reducing the Running Costs
4. Conclusion

Factors Affecting the Cost

Size of the Freezer: Larger freezers consume more electricity due to the greater volume that needs to be kept at low temperatures.
Insulation Quality: Better insulation reduces the energy needed to maintain the desired temperature, thereby lowering running costs.
Temperature Setting: Lower temperatures require more energy. Standard walk-in freezers typically operate at around -18°C, but the exact setting can vary based on the stored goods.
Usage Patterns: Frequent opening and closing of the freezer door allow warm air to enter, increasing the energy required to cool the interior back to the set temperature.
Ambient Temperature: Freezers located in warmer areas or in direct sunlight will use more energy than those in cooler, shaded areas.
Age and Efficiency of the Unit: Newer models are generally more energy-efficient than older units. Energy ratings can provide a good indicator of this.

Calculating the Running Costs

To calculate the running cost, we need to consider the following:

Electricity Consumption: Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. A typical walk-in freezer may consume anywhere between 15 kWh to 40 kWh per day.
Electricity Rates: In the UK, the cost of electricity for commercial users can range from 10p to 15p per kWh, depending on the supplier and the specific plan.

For a simplified calculation, let’s assume an average walk-in freezer consumes 25 kWh per day and the electricity rate is 12p per kWh:

Daily Cost: 25 kWh/day * £0.12/kWh = £3.00/day
Monthly Cost: £3.00/day * 30 days = £90/month
Annual Cost: £3.00/day * 365 days = £1,095/year

Reducing the Running Costs

Businesses can implement several strategies to reduce the operational costs of their walk-in freezers:

Regular Maintenance: Ensuring the freezer is well-maintained can improve efficiency. This includes cleaning the condenser coils, checking door seals, and ensuring proper airflow around the unit.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Models: Investing in modern, energy-efficient models can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
Improve Insulation: Upgrading insulation can minimize heat ingress, thereby reducing the workload on the cooling system.
Optimise Usage: Minimizing the frequency and duration of door openings can help maintain the internal temperature more efficiently. Installing strip curtains or air doors can also help.
Monitor and Manage Temperature: Using a temperature monitoring system can ensure the freezer operates within optimal parameters without unnecessary energy usage.

Conclusion

The cost of running a walk-in freezer in the UK can vary widely based on several factors, but a typical range can be between £1,000 to £1,500 per year for a medium-sized unit. By understanding these costs and implementing energy-saving measures, businesses can manage their expenses more effectively while ensuring their perishable goods are stored safely. Regular maintenance, investment in energy-efficient models, and optimizing usage patterns are key strategies in reducing these operational costs.