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The Ultimate Guide To Walk-In Coolers & Freezers

Last Modified: 12/23/24

Walk-in coolers and freezers can extend the longevity of your degradable supplies for several weeks. Depending on the treatment, the item can seem nearly as fresh as when suppliers first made it available. Of course, storing items that degrade over time depends on what kind of preservation you want and keeping up with storage maintenance. Here’s what you need to know about these walk-in coolers and choose the best option for your home or business.

Are There Differences Between Walk-In Coolers And Freezers?

Coolers and freezers have the same overall goal: to retain the freshness of a product. The systems they use to accomplish this are similar but have different applicable uses and preservation times.

Coolers keep food, flowers, and other organic matter as fresh as possible without completely freezing them. Walk-in freezers in Burlington, NC, and nearby cities ensure you can store large amounts of perishable, high-quality items for long periods.

How Do Walk-In Coolers and Freezers Work?

These storage units use the same kind of system as an air conditioner:

  • An evaporator coil and condenser coil sit in two different sections of the system, allowing refrigerant to travel through them.
  • An internal air controller blows indoor air over the evaporator coil for the refrigerant to absorb heat energy.
  • The indoor air, now lacking heat, blows back into the desired location.
  • The coil sends the reheated refrigerant to the evaporator coil, where a fan will blow air to cool the chemical back down.

This cycle continues to release heat outside and keep temperatures low indoors. The FDA recommends that coolers or refrigerators work at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit while freezers stay at zero degrees.

Similar Systems Sometimes Means Similar Repair Needs

At Barber Heating and Air, our technicians have the training and experience needed to address common problems with walk-in freezers in Mebane, NC. As we have provided cooler and freezer repair, we’ve noticed some similarities between HVAC and refrigeration problems, such as:

  • Water leaks
  • Leaky ductwork
  • Unpleasant smells
  • Noisy components
  • Poor air circulation
  • Unwanted frost buildup
  • Inconsistent temperatures

That said, we also account for special appliance issues, tools, and working conditions. While we don’t recommend hiring a refrigeration specialist to handle AC repairs and maintenance, we do suggest working with our trained technicians who are trained in both specialities.

Moreover, the consequences of poor food and product maintenance influence more than a single household. Water leaks can cause dangerous slips and falls, while poor storage can spread foodborne illnesses. Consistent refrigeration maintenance can keep walk-in appliances and those who use them safe.

Are There Different Kinds Of Walk-in Coolers?

You have various choices when looking for walk-in coolers in our service area. Many possibilities exist, but we can sum them up into two main types: built-in and prefabricated.

Businesses obtain built-in units by hiring refrigeration experts to custom-build the space using structural tiles and insulation. Built-in systems fit precisely to client specifications, but it can be hard to change aspects of the unit later. You also can’t ever move it elsewhere.

Prefabricated units can fit into different buildings and spaces, making them easy to relocate and alter. While you cannot change some preset unit aspects, you can move the unit during construction changes or to a new building. At Barber Heating and Air, we proudly offer walk-in cooler and freezer installations and maintenance services on various kinds of systems.

Questions to Ask While Choosing Your Unit

To find the best system for your home or business, you should ask yourself several questions to reduce your options. These questions can help sort through available units and weed out ones that don’t fit your requirements.

1. Cooler or Freezer?

How do you know if you need walk-in freezers or walk-in coolers in Burlington, NC? It depends on what temperature range you will need for your products. People running a floral shop buy coolers so the flowers don’t get frostbitten and die from being at such cold temperatures. Businesses that store fish to ship to other locations often use walk-in freezers to keep the meat fresh. Restaurants and hotels may use both for their various food items.

2. What’s the Budget, and How Much Room Do You Need?

As with most things, the larger it is, the more it will cost. In this case, you should generally expect to spend more money on a larger walk-in unit than a smaller one.

You can expect one cubic foot of space to hold roughly 25 pounds of product. We recommend calculating how much product you may need at any particular time in addition to the room you’ll need to walk. You can always ask one of our technicians to help you if you aren’t sure.

3. Doors, Panels, and Floors?

Your system components can affect how much cooling power and storage you can get within your budget:

  • Insulated panels work like insulated walls in a house, helping keep the appliance and the products inside at the right temperature. Popular and efficient panel materials may cost more upfront but can save money later. Consider getting a unit with 3 ½ to 5-inch thick stainless steel, aluminum-coated steel, or aluminum panels.
  • You will need appropriate doors to keep cool air in and hot air, insects, and pollutants out. Some options include air curtains that create a wind barrier and man doors made of rigid foam and galvanized steel.
  • Most prefabricated units come with bases made using similar materials as the wall panels. However, some come without floors, able to fit with any preexisting flooring inside the building. The latter option may cost less, but the former option may provide more thorough cooling.

Call Barber To Maintain Your Walk-in Cooler

Once you’ve obtained the right unit, you’ll need to schedule regular maintenance to keep it functioning. Maintenance can include removing mold and mildew, cleaning important components, and more. At Barber Heating & Air, we help install and maintain walk-in coolers and freezers in and around Burlington, NC. With proper refrigeration maintenance, you can save on your energy expenses while keeping your products, employees, and customers safe. Call our top-notch customer support team at (336) 226-6959 to schedule an appointment or ask for advice today!

What Is A Refrigerated Trailer And How Does It Work?

Last Modified: 12/23/24

If you’ve ever wondered how perishable goods are safely transported over long distances, the answer often lies in refrigerated trailers. Also known as reefers, these temperature-controlled trailers are essential for moving goods like fresh produce, meat, dairy, and pharmaceuticals that require specific temperature conditions. With a built-in refrigeration unit powered by the truck or a separate generator, refrigerated trailers maintain the perfect temperature inside, ensuring products stay fresh and safe throughout transit. Whether you’re a business owner or a supplier, understanding how these trailers work can help you make informed decisions about transporting sensitive goods.

Refrigerated truck trailer (reefer) parked, ready to transport temperature-sensitive goods with a built-in refrigeration unit for climate control during transit

What Is A Refrigerated Trailer?

A refrigerated trailer, which is also known as a reefer trailer, is a portable unit designed to transport and store food products that require refrigeration to keep them from spoiling. They function a lot like your regular refrigerator at home but on a much larger scale. Whether you’re hosting a large event, running a restaurant, or managing a farm, a refrigerated trailer rental in Burlington, NC is the ultimate solution to meet your temporary or permanent cold storage needs.

Barber Heating & Air offers high-quality refrigerated reefer rentals in Burlington, NC to cater to these diverse requirements and make any event a smashing success.

How To Use A Refrigerated Trailer?

To utilize a refrigerated trailer effectively, you will need to first determine the precise temperature requirements for your goods. Once you have that information and the storage capacity you will require, you can start reaching out to find a reefer rental in Mebane, NC, ensuring the trailer can maintain this specific temperature.

After the trailer has been set up, you will need to regularly monitor the trailer’s temperature, ensuring it remains at the required level. For optimal efficiency, try to maintain a consistent temperature. When the conditions fluctuate too much inside the trailer, it can affect the quality of your goods and the trailer’s overall performance.

The Benefits Of Using A Refrigerated Trailer

Refrigerated trailers are not just a luxury; they are a necessity in certain scenarios. But what makes them such a valuable asset? Here, we have outlined some of the significant benefits of using a refrigerated trailer for your next event or business operation:

  • Provides scalability and flexibility
  • Ensures business continuity during emergencies
  • Cost-effective solution for temporary needs
  • Environmentally friendly

Provides Scalability and Flexibility

Every event or business operation has its unique requirements that must be met to function on a profitable scale. There are some businesses or events that need a large amount of refrigerated space, such as for a grand outdoor wedding, while others might need a smaller one for their fruit or vegetable stand at the local weekend farmers market. Refrigerated trailers come in various sizes, providing the scalability you need, and offering the flexibility to be set up wherever you actually need them, whether it is a backyard, parking lot, the beach, or even a football field.

Ensures Business Continuity During Emergencies

Emergencies and unexpected situations that result in the loss of power can disrupt your business operations. For a business that relies heavily on refrigeration, like a restaurant or grocery store, this can become catastrophic and require them to shut down or even throw away thousands of dollars in spoiled food. A refrigerated trailer can serve as a contingency plan during emergencies, such as a power outage, after a large storm, or due to equipment failure. Instead of having to shut down operations, you can transfer your perishable goods into the trailer and continue serving your customers.

Cost-Effective Solution For Temporary Needs

Investing in a permanent walk-in cooler or freezer can be costly, particularly if you only need this type of equipment for your temporary or seasonal business. Refrigerated trailers offer you a cost-effective solution where you only end up paying for the refrigeration when you actually need it. It’s an ideal option for short-term events or peak business periods, allowing you to efficiently manage your budget while meeting your cooling requirements.

Environmentally Friendly

Modern refrigerated trailers are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They often incorporate advanced insulation techniques and efficient cooling systems to minimize energy usage. When you rent a refrigerated trailer, you are making a smart choice for your business or event, while at the same time contributing to a more sustainable environment.

Deciding to invest in a refrigerated trailer rental in Mebane, NC, such as those offered by Barber Heating & Air, provides a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your event or business operation. From maintaining product quality to providing a cost-effective solution for your temporary needs, these trailers are an excellent choice that you won’t regret. Whether you’re planning an event or running a business that requires on-demand cooling, consider the advantages a refrigerated trailer can offer.

Refrigerated Trailer Services By Barber Heating & Air

Barber Heating & Air takes pride in offering exceptional refrigerated trailer rental services in Burlington, NC and surrounding areas. Our trailers come in various sizes to meet the unique needs of every customer, whether for an outdoor gathering or a large commercial operation.

Each trailer is well-maintained and tested for optimum performance before we deliver it to you. We also provide professional setup and temperature calibration to ensure you receive the best service possible. Our expert team will be available to help if you have any questions or concerns during your rental period.

Ensure The Best Event With A Refrigerated Trailer

When it comes to keeping your perishables cool, a refrigerated trailer from Barber Heating & Air can offer a flexible and effective solution. By understanding how these trailers work and how to utilize them properly, you can ensure that your goods remain at their best quality, no matter the outside temperature.

If you’re seeking a reefer rental in Burlington, NC, don’t hesitate to reach out to Barber Heating & Air. Our professional team is ready to meet your needs, offering top-tier refrigeration services and exceptional customer service. Contact us today to schedule your refrigerated trailer rental in Mebane, NC and surrounding areas!

The Ultimate Guide to Mobile Refrigeration: Keeping Your Cool on the Go

Businesses and event planners in and around Burlington sometimes need a reliable and safe way to move and store materials while refrigerated or frozen for remote events or to deal with unforeseen circumstances. 

Do you require powerful climate control away from your facility — catering a large gathering, managing a food fair or festival, transporting pharmaceuticals, or anything else that requires precise temperature control?  

Read on as Barber Heating & Air presents the ultimate guide to mobile refrigeration and how to keep your cool on the go.

What Is Mobile Refrigeration?

It’s often essential that perishable goods remain in temperature-controlled storage as they are being transported or held for use at remote locations. The most popular methods of mobile refrigeration use trailers equipped with powerful cooling systems that can manage precise temperature control.

Users can move these trailers with standard light-duty trucks properly equipped for towing. The trailer provides a perfect vehicle for door-to-door transportation and on-site storage of items that must remain under tight temperature control.

Common Applications for Mobile Refrigeration

Mobile refrigeration comes in handy in a wide range of commercial or industrial applications as well as special events. Refrigerated trailer rentals provide comprehensive solutions for:     

  • Catering service that needs extra storage during events
  • Festivals, trade shows, or outdoor events that need cold storage
  • Restaurants facing emergencies because of unexpected refrigerator or freezer breakdowns 
  • Parties and gatherings that require substantial food storage 
  • Emergency situations during power outages when critical material must be preserved

Key Features of Mobile Refrigeration

Take advantage of the significant benefits provided by refrigerated trailer rentals.  

Temperature Control 

Modern mobile refrigeration systems provide precision cooling between 0 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Whether you’re storing food, beverages, or medical supplies, you’ll maintain the proper temperature to preserve products and avoid spoilage from the door of your facility to their next destination or end user.

Transport and Flexibility 

Are you planning to transport perishable goods or need to set up a stable temporary remote location? Mobile refrigeration trailers provide substantial space and safe transportation while maintaining the preset temperature you need.

Advanced Cooling Equipment 

Modern mobile refrigeration equipment meets the highest demands for durability and reliability. With insulated walls, robust air circulation systems, and high-quality cooling units, high-quality trailers ensure stable temperature regulation. 

Refrigerated trailers operate on electricity, and in the event of power outages or problems with generators, some trailers include independent backup power systems to prevent temperature fluctuations.  

Choose Barber Heating & Air for Your Mobile Refrigeration Needs 

Barber Heating & Air offers more than just mobile refrigeration rentals. We supply peace of mind when planning a remote event that requires reliable cooling power. 

Our refrigerated trailer rentals offer complete flexibility, precise temperature control, and the equipment you need to manage a short-term event or emergency. 

We want to be the ultimate guide to mobile refrigeration when you’re ready to start exploring the benefits of this unique service. Call Barber Heating & Air today at (336) 226-6959 for a free estimate and to discuss making a reservation for the best mobile refrigeration solution available in North Carolina.

Your Trusted Partner for Commercial HVAC & Refrigeration Services

When it comes to maintaining a comfortable environment for employees and customers, businesses can’t afford to compromise on their HVAC and refrigeration systems. At Barber Heating & Air, we are proud to offer top-notch commercial HVAC and refrigeration services for businesses in and around our community. From restaurants to churches, we understand that every commercial space has unique heating, cooling, and refrigeration needs, and we have the expertise to meet them.

Who We Serve

We are honored to work with a wide variety of businesses in the area, ensuring their HVAC and refrigeration systems operate at peak performance. Some of the businesses we regularly provide service for include:

Refrigeration

Wings To Go relies on Barber Heating & Air to keep their refrigeration units running smoothly. In the food industry, the refrigeration system is critical to food safety and customer satisfaction. Our technicians ensure the refrigeration system is properly maintained and always functioning to meet their needs, from storing raw ingredients to keeping beverages cold.

HVAC Commercial Service

For Dave’s Discount Furniture, maintaining a comfortable shopping environment is key to their customers’ satisfaction. We provide HVAC services to ensure that their space is properly heated in the winter and cooled in the summer, creating a pleasant experience for customers as they browse.

  • East Side Baptist Church

HVAC Commercial Service

Churches like East Side Baptist rely on Barber Heating & Air to maintain a comfortable atmosphere during services and events. With large congregations and various activities happening throughout the week, it’s essential for their HVAC system to function optimally year-round. We perform routine maintenance and respond quickly when issues arise to keep things running smoothly.

HVAC Commercial Service

Riverdale Baptist Church also trusts us with its HVAC needs. Whether for a Sunday service or a community gathering, we ensure that their system operates efficiently to keep their congregation comfortable. Our team has extensive experience in servicing large commercial spaces like churches.

Refrigeration 

For a busy restaurant like Harrison’s Sandwich Shop, both HVAC and refrigeration are critical to daily operations. We handle the dual responsibility of maintaining their refrigeration units and HVAC system to guarantee their food stays fresh, and their dining area is comfortable for patrons.

Refrigeration & HVAC Commercial Service

La Cocina, a well-known restaurant in the area, depends on Barber Heating & Air for regular refrigeration services. With the food service industry’s strict requirements for food storage, we provide expert maintenance and emergency repairs to ensure their products remain fresh and their business stays compliant with health standards.

HVAC Commercial Service

Golfers enjoying a day on the course at Stoney Creek expect a comfortable clubhouse to relax in after their round. Barber Heating & Air services the HVAC system at the golf course’s clubhouse, ensuring a comfortable environment for members, guests, and staff.

Why Choose Barber Heating & Air for Commercial Services?

At Barber Heating & Air, we pride ourselves on offering reliable, efficient, and expert HVAC and refrigeration services to commercial clients. Our technicians are certified and experienced in handling a variety of commercial systems, ensuring that your business can operate smoothly without interruptions caused by heating, cooling, or refrigeration issues.

We also offer preventative maintenance plans designed specifically for commercial clients. With our maintenance plans, businesses can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure that their systems are always running efficiently.

Whether your business needs a new HVAC system installation, emergency repairs, or routine maintenance, Barber Heating & Air is here to help. We understand the unique demands of commercial clients and are committed to providing tailored solutions that fit your specific needs.

Contact Us Today

If you’re a business owner looking for reliable HVAC or refrigeration services, Barber Heating & Air is your go-to expert. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help your business thrive with our professional services.

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