Wondering how to customize your cooler to suit your business needs? Contemplating how to chill your produce after harvest and store it till delivery? Well…a walk in cooler is just what you need. Here’s a look at how to make one.
Conventional coolers are heavy, costly, and at times ineffective too. The cost alone has prevented many from owning one. Thanks to the CoolBot, the walk-in cooler has become a viable option for businesses with a low cash flow. This innovative device has revolutionized the industry, permitting you to convert a typical air conditioner into a walk-in cooler using a CoolBot.
In turn, you’ll save money and enjoy enhanced electrical efficiency than what you can expect with a typical refrigeration unit. Various small businesses like florists etc., have switched to using these temperature-control devices, saving on their utility bills.
Also, while a conventional cooler will cost you nothing less than $2500, converting an existing air conditioner into a walk-in cooler will cost you around $600. Let’s look at how you can convert your AC into a walk in cooler.
What You’ll Need
● An AC or air conditioner
● A well-insulated room
● A CoolBot
Steps to Connect a CoolBot and an AC
1. Decide Where to Place the Walk-in Cooler
If you’re constructing a standing cooler rather than a mobile one, you’ll need to decide where you want to place it, particularly if you reside in an area with hot climate. Ensure you position it away from direct sunlight; this is crucial for energy savings.
Coolers placed in direct sunlight need about 70% more electricity than those placed in the shade. For optimal performance, you’ll want to place the cooler in a protected place.
2. Insulation
Insulation that helps lower the electricity and the cooler’s temperature. Insulation efficiency depends on the R-value. The higher it is, the more efficient the insulation. While various kinds of insulation exist for a walk in cooler, rigid foam is ideal. You’ll want to avoid fiberglass because of mold and also because it permits the leakage of cold air, leading to higher electricity costs.
3. Ensure the Room is Airtight During Insulation
Before insulation, ensure the cooler is airtight to permit it to lower temperatures and cool down quicker. Use numerous bottles of caulk and spray foam to seal cracks in every corner, and beneath the door.
4. Sheathing
You might want to install sheathing for insulation protection. The safest choice involves placing both exterior and interior sheathing.
5. Sealing the Cooler
Appropriate sealing is necessary for your walk-in cooler to operate optimally. This includes joint sealing between the floor, walls, and sealing. You should also examine the door gaskets to ensure they are thoroughly sealed.
Selecting the Right AC
While a CoolBot can function with most typical window units or mini-split AC units, you need to check the compatibility and size of the air conditioner before using it with the CoolBot.
Installing the Air Conditioner
Install the AC following these steps
● Cut a suitable-sized hole on your walk in cooler’s wall
● Place the AC into the hole
● Use some kind of insulation so you can take out the AC rather than carve it out in case you need to switch out units in the future.
CoolBot and AC Placement
When placing the CoolBot and AC, consider these tips
● Your AC will function at its best when installed such that the unit’s bottom is at eye level. Remember, cold air typically sinks, so the higher the AC’s placement, the better. This makes maintenance easier as well. Therefore mounting should take place at eye level.
● The AC and CoolBot should be side by side.
● Tilt the AC Slightly When installing the AC unit, the unit’s back should be approximately an inch lower than the unit’s front. Most ACs retain some water at the pan’s back to cool the compressor and prolong the lifespan. The tilt is significant because it prevents water from getting too far forward, and getting frozen within the unit.
Give the AC some Breathing Space
ACs require at least 2″ of overhead clearance on the back for proper venting. If sufficient room does not exist, the unit will not only overheat but also fail prematurely. Make sure you check the specifications of the unit to establish the setback needed for your model.
CoolBot Installation with AC
1. Fix the CoolBot into a typical outlet. The CoolBot uses the same amount of electricity as a cellphone charger, so you won’t need unique electrical connections.
2. Establish the labeled wires emerging from the CoolBot.
The Room-labeled wire measures the room’s temperature.
Put the FIN Sensor-labeled wire in the unit’s cooling fins at the front.
Fix the Heater-labeled wire to the unit’s temperature sensor.
3. Program the CoolBot.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to save money on a cooler, this guide will help you make your own diy walk in cooler.
