When it comes to scientific research, your results depend largely on the integrity of your samples. They need to be properly maintained to achieve accurate, reliable results. One of the best ways to do this is by using a thermo scientific freezer—also known as a lab freezer. It plays a crucial role in keeping pharmaceutical, chemical, and biological materials viable, so selecting the proper model plays a significant role in your success. With an understanding of the factors at play—storage needs, temperature range, energy requirements, and product features, you can make a sound decision. Here’s what you should take into consideration when shopping for laboratory freezers.
Understand Your Storage Requirements
Don’t even start browsing until you have a grasp on all the types of samples you’ll need to store. Let’s take a glance at the three primary types of samples you’ll probably be storing and what they’ll require.
- Biological Samples: These encompass bacteria, plasma, DNA and RNA, and require ultra-low temperatures—equal to or lower than -80ºC (-112ºF).
- Chemical Samples: Since many chemicals have combustible properties, they may require a thermo scientific freezer that offers protection against fires and explosions.
- Pharmaceuticals: These require specific temperatures to maintain their efficacy, so look for a freezer that prioritizes temperature precision.
Speaking of temperatures, let’s discuss the different degree ranges offered by laboratory freezers:
- Standard: These generally operate at around -20ºC (-4ºF) and are a good option for storing general samples.
- Ultra-Low Temperature: Able to maintain temperatures ranging from -80ºC to -86ºC (or -112ºF to -122.8ºF), these freezers are important for storing sensitive biological samples for long periods of time.
- Cryogenic: These are required for storing highly sensitive applications such as materials for stem cell research, as they operate at temperatures below -150ºC (-238ºF).
Consider the Freezer Type
There are different benefits offered by different types of freezers, so it’s important to take this factor into consideration when trying to choose the right model. Let’s take a look:
- Upright Freezers: These provide easy access to samples, as well as shelving options that help with organization. Be aware, however, that temperature fluctuations are common because of the frequency of door openings.
- Chest Freezers: These provide more stable temperatures, good energy-efficiency ratings, and higher storage capacity, but have considerably more bulk; it can also be difficult to access samples that are near the bottom.
- Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers: These laboratory freezers are ideal for storing biological specimens for long periods of time, but be prepared to perform relatively frequent maintenance to maintain optimal performance.
- Explosion-Proof and Flammable Storage Freezers: This is necessary if your laboratory is handling volatile chemicals, as a lack of sufficient storage for such chemicals is a serious safety risk.
Evaluate Capacity and Space Constraints
Realizing you don’t have anywhere to put all your samples can bring your research momentum to a screeching halt, so it’s in your best interest to find a lab freezer that has plenty of storage capacity. Take stock of your inventory levels and plan your purchase accordingly. You’ll likely need no more than 10 cubic feet of storage for limited samples, but high-volume research will necessitate storage of over 25 cubic feet.
There’s more to consider than capacity alone, however. A unit with adjustable compartments and shelves will provide versatility and organization options. And finally, make sure your chosen lab freezer will fit in the space you’ve designated for it.
Energy Efficiency and Operational Costs
Your laboratory uses a lot of power, so it’s important to do what you can to minimize that usage—especially if your laboratory is operating with multiple freezers. While shopping around, be on the lookout for freezers with good ENERGY STAR® ratings. These models offer energy-saving features that can reduce your long-term costs.
It’s important to note that a high energy rating doesn’t necessarily mean the unit will function properly. That’s why combining this rating with other research on performance is key to choosing a model that will truly serve your needs while keeping costs low.
Features and Technology to Look For
These days, almost every lab freezer has a combination of features that enhance usability and security. It’s up to you to choose one that offers the features important to your research.
- Digital Temperature Controls: These controls give you the ability to ensure precise temperature settings and minimize fluctuations.
- Alarm Systems: If something is malfunctioning, the issue needs to be resolved as quickly as possible. Alarm systems will alert you the moment an issue or anomaly is detected so you can respond accordingly.
- Backup Power Options: Prolonged lack of power can ruin every sample within a freezer, so backup functionality is crucial for keeping these samples viable if there’s a power outage.
- Smart Connectivity and Cloud-Based Monitoring: Reliability is increased thanks to remote access and real-time monitoring capabilities.
Maintenance and Longevity
If you want to maximize the lifespan of your thermo scientific freezer and enjoy ideal performance, maintenance is a necessity. Make sure you’re operating on a regular cleaning schedule to maximize airflow and prevent ice buildup. Additionally, keep an eye on your freezer’s temperature readings and make any necessary setting tweaks. For the more involved repairs that may become necessary, for a variety of reasons, it’s recommended that you invest in a professional maintenance agreement. This will save you money on repairs when they’re needed and reduce equipment downtime, so your research isn’t disrupted and your samples aren’t ruined.
Choose the Lab Freezer That Fits Your Needs
There are several considerations to make when choosing a lab freezer—features, maintenance needs, temperature requirements, capacity, and more. When you evaluate all these factors, you’ll have a better understanding of what kind of unit is best suited for your lab and research. If you’re looking for a place that offers numerous options, you’re already there. Our offerings of laboratory equipment are unmatched. Get in touch and equip your lab with everything you need!
