As labs work to make more sustainable purchasing decisions, cold storage equipment raises some of the toughest questions. What’s the true long-term cost of ownership? How quickly does temperature recover after door openings? What type of refrigerant does it use? And how is temperature monitored?
While some newer ULT freezer models have made substantial efficiency gains, these benefits can be undermined by real-world variables, such as frequent door openings, unstable ambient conditions, improper sample loading, and downstream energy consumption.
Labs also face a lack of transparency and standardization across products and brands, making it difficult to fully assess and compare environmental impact. ENERGY STAR certification and the ACT label are helping to fill this gap by offering independently verified performance and lifecycle data.
This compendium of resources provides strategies for minimizing energy consumption, maintaining cold storage performance, and interpreting third-party labels with confidence. Whether you’re planning your next equipment purchase or looking to optimize existing systems, these resources will help you make informed decisions that balance performance, sustainability, and cost.
Download this compendium to learn:
- How ULT freezer design influences energy use, temperature recovery, and long-term sustainability
- Day-to-day practices that improve cold storage efficiency and protect sample integrity
- How to calculate the total cost of ownership
- How to interpret ACT labels
- What to expect from upcoming changes to ENERGY STAR standards