Refrigeration Guidelines
Colsec & Refrigeration
Colsec manufactures and installs the coldrooms – we are not a refrigeration contractor.
Every coldroom requires a suitable refrigeration system to maintain the required temperature. There are two main options:
- Packaged refrigeration units (monoblocks)
- Remote refrigeration systems.
Colsec can supply and install packaged refrigeration (monoblock) solutions in-house.
Where packaged units are not practical, we work alongside a large number of refrigeration contractors throughout the UK and are more than happy to:
- Work with an existing refrigeration contractor that you already have on board.
- Recommend a local refrigeration specialist for you to contact directly.
- Liaise with a local refrigeration company on your behalf to offer a turnkey solution.
Monoblock
Refrigeration
Self-contained refrigeration unit installed onto the coldroom.
Available options include
wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted.
Colsec can supply and install.
Remote
Refrigeration
Evaporator inside -> pipework -> external condenser unit.
Requires specialist installation to meet F-Gas requirements.
Installed by refrigeration contractor.
Packaged Refrigeration
Monoblock Refrigeration Units
Monoblocks are self-contained refrigeration units and can provide a straightforward solution for suitable coldroom applications.
Colsec can supply and install monoblock refrigeration units as part of your coldroom project. We can advise on the suitable unit based on the required holding temperature, ambient conditions and installation requirements. Available as wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted.
Things to Consider
| Holding temperature | Designed primarily to maintain the required room temperature, not to reduce the temperature of warm products. |
| Ambient temperature | Designed to operate with an ambient temperature of up to 25°C. |
| Ventilation | Adequate ventilation must be provided around the refrigeration unit. |
| Power supply | An appropriate electrical supply is required, depending on the unit selected. Details will be provided with any quotations. |
| Condensate drainage | A suitable drain is required near the unit, either by gravity or using a condensate pump. |
Outside these criteria? A remote refrigeration system may be more appropriate. Colsec can work with your refrigeration contractor or liaise with a suitable local refrigeration company on your behalf. Alternatively we can recommend local refrigeration companies we have worked with previously for you to contact directly.
Warranty & commissioning
Monoblock Unit Warranty
Packaged refrigeration units can be supplied with either of the following options:
Supply & Fit
Colsec will supply and fit the refrigeration unit to the coldroom. Electrical connections and commissioning are carried out by others, such as a site electrician or your refrigeration contractor.
Commissioning
Colsec will supply and fit the refrigeration unit to the coldroom, connect it to an existing power supply, and commission and configure the unit ready for operation.
Warranty
Monoblock refrigeration units are supplied with a 12-month parts-only warranty, subject to the full warranty terms and conditions.
We strongly recommend that a refrigeration service provider is engaged to provide ongoing service and maintenance for the monoblock and associated equipment. A first-year service can be included where required, or an existing maintenance agreement can be used.
Full warranty terms and conditions are available on request.
Refrigeration Companies
For Refrigeration Contractors
Colsec regularly works with refrigeration companies throughout the UK.
We supply the coldroom construction and associated products for your projects. We manufacture and install modular coldrooms, bespoke coldstore structures, insulated panels, doors and associated components, while you supply and install the refrigeration system.
Already have a refrigeration project and need a coldroom?
Talk to our team about your requirements.
Coldroom Operation
Keep the door closed
Keeping the coldroom door closed as much as possible helps prevent condensation and ice build-up caused by warm air entering the room.
When the door is left open, warm air containing moisture is pulled into the coldroom. This raises the room temperature and can cause condensation to form, or ice formation in freezer rooms.
The refrigeration system then has to work harder to maintain the required temperature, resulting in increased energy consumption and potentially affecting the unit’s ability to operate as designed.
Secondary barriers can be used to reduce the amount of warm air entering the coldroom, and the colder air from escaping. PVC strip curtains are the simplest option and can be included as an optional cost on any quotation.
