Walk-In Coolers

Common Types and Configurations

• Indoor Walk-In Cooler: Installed inside a building, typically in a kitchen, storage room, or back-of-house area. The most common configuration for restaurants, hotels, and foodservice operations that need large cold storage within their existing facility.
• Modular Walk-In Cooler: Built from prefabricated insulated panels that are assembled on site. Modular units can be configured to fit different room shapes and sizes, making them a flexible option for operations with non-standard spaces.
• Custom Size Walk-In Cooler: Built to specific dimensions using modular panel systems. Used when standard sizes don't fit the available space or when a larger-than-standard cold storage footprint is needed.
• Top Mount Walk-In Cooler: Features a refrigeration unit mounted on top of the cabinet. Top mount systems keep the compressor out of the storage space and tend to perform better in hot kitchen environments.

What to Look at Before You Buy

• Size and Capacity: Know how much you need to store and how often you restock. Too small and you are always restocking. Too big wastes energy and floor space. Most suppliers can help you choose the right size.
• Refrigeration Capacity: The system must match the size of your walk-in and the temperature of the room where you install it. If the compressor is too small, it will not keep up, especially in hot kitchens or outdoors.
• Panel Insulation Rating: Thicker panels mean better insulation and lower energy bills. Make sure the panels fit your climate and the temperature difference between inside and outside.
• Floor Configuration: Use a built-in insulated floor or your existing concrete. Floorless units need a sealed concrete base. Built-in floors are easier to move and install but add height.
• Shelving Layout: Plan your shelving before you install. Good shelving keeps things organized, improves airflow, and lets staff find what they need fast.
• Walk-In Cooler Temperature: Most walk-ins run between 35°F and 38°F. Make sure your unit can hold temperature when fully loaded and in your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a walk-in cooler?

A walk-in cooler is a big refrigerated room you can walk into to store and grab product. It's built for bulk storage and handles more volume than a reach-in or undercounter fridge. You'll find these in restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, and anywhere that needs to keep a lot of perishable product cold every day.

What temperature should a walk-in cooler be set at?

Set your walk-in cooler between 35°F and 38°F. Health codes usually require food to be kept at 41°F or below, but staying in the 35°F to 38°F range gives you a buffer and helps food last longer. Check with your local health department for any specific rules based on what you're storing.

What is the difference between a walk-in cooler and a walk-in freezer?

A walk-in cooler keeps food cold, usually between 35°F and 38°F. It's for fresh ingredients, drinks, dairy, produce, and prepped foods. A walk-in freezer holds product at 0°F or below for long-term frozen storage like meat and seafood. Some places use a combo unit with separate cooler and freezer sections, each with its own door and refrigeration system.

Related Categories

• Reach-In Refrigerators
• Undercounter Refrigerators
• Commercial Freezers
• Worktop Refrigerators

Shop by Brand

• Atosa
• Coldline