Category: Animal Facilities (mice)
Level: Silver
Author: Millard R., Richards K., Waggott A., Wilson K.
The Impact: <p>Regularly checking and correctly positioning cold‑storage equipment improves energy efficiency. Good placement, such as keeping freezers away from heat sources and ensuring adequate airflow further minimises energy demand. Reduced strain on the equipment extends its lifespan.</p>
Details
Defrosted freezers will have a prolonged life and regularly cleaning filters will allow the unit to work more efficiently
A rota should be maintained for when this was last done and when it is due to be done again
Regular inspections for ice build-up and fill levels should be continuous and where these are below a satisfactory limit action should be taken to remove ice/ re-organise samples to improve efficiency.
Cold storage units should have space around them to allow for ventilation requirements, Most ULT freezers require 6-8” (15-20cm) of space
on the sides/top/rear of the unit for heat dissipation
Units should be located away from thermostats which could cause the facility to be overcooled.
