Laboratory Freezer - FZ Series

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Laboratory Freezers

How Do Laboratory Freezers Work?

Laboratory freezers play a crucial role in preserving biological samples, reagents, and other temperature-sensitive materials in research, medical, and pharmaceutical laboratories. These freezers utilize a compression refrigeration cycle, similar to household refrigerators and air conditioning systems. This cycle is made up of four main components – a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator.

How Cold are Laboratory Freezers?

Most standard laboratory freezers operate at temperatures ranging from -10°C to -40°C. However, ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers are capable of reaching extremely low temperatures, typically ranging from -20°C to as low as -86°C or even lower, depending on the model and application.

How Do You Clean a Laboratory Freezer?

Cleaning a laboratory freezer is vital to maintaining a sterile and contamination-free environment for storing samples and research materials. Cleaning a laboratory freezer includes:

• Prepare the Area: Prior to cleaning, remove all samples, materials, and inventory from the freezer, ideally putting them in a temporary unit or another freezer.
• Defrost the Freezer (if necessary): If the freezer has built-up ice or frost, defrost it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Remove Shelves & Drawers: Take out any removable shelves, drawers, or trays from the freezer. Clean them separately using warm, soapy water and a mild, chemical-free disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly.
• Clean the Interior: Using a soft cloth or sponge, rigorously wipe down the interior surfaces of the freezer with a solution of warm water and a mild detergent or disinfectant. Make sure to clean corners, crevices, and door seals where debris can easily accumulate.
• Disinfect: After thoroughly cleaning, use a disinfectant solution recommended for laboratory use to disinfect the interior surfaces of the freezer. Be sure to disinfect door handles, control panels, and any other frequently touched surfaces.

How Often Should Laboratory Freezers Be Defrosted?

The frequency of defrosting laboratory freezers depends on a variety of factors, including the type of freezer, its usage patterns, and the physical buildup of frost or ice. The following are some general guidelines regarding defrosting a laboratory freezer:

• Self-Defrosting Freezers: Self-defrosting freezers have a built-in mechanism that automatically removes frost building during regular operation, without any interruption. However, it is still recommended to monitor these freezers for any excessive frost or ice buildup.
• Manual Defrost Freezers: Manual defrost freezers should be defrosted whenever the buildup of frost or ice becomes significant, typically every few months depending on usage and how frequently the freezer is opened and closed.
• Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the ideal defrosting procedures and frequency. These could include specific instructions based on the design and specifications of the freezer.