When planning a commercial space in a store, cafe or supermarket, one of the key issues becomes not only the dimensions, but also the weight of the installed equipment. Display refrigerator is a massive unit that has a significant impact static and dynamic effects on the floor covering. Errors in load calculations can lead to damage to the floor, difficulties during transportation and even problems when accepting the object by fire departments.
Many business owners are surprised to learn that an empty cabinet can weigh half as much as the same unit filled with products and refrigerant. Accurate weight depends on many factors: the volume of the internal chamber, the type of compressor used, the housing material and, of course, the number of shelves. In this article, we will look in detail at how the weight of equipment is calculated and what you need to pay attention to when ordering.
Understanding the physical characteristics of equipment is necessary not only for logistics, but also for proper operation. An incorrectly selected installation location without taking into account the load-bearing capacity of the floors is a direct path to emergency situations. Let's look at the technical nuances that are hidden behind the dry numbers in the specification.
Factors influencing the weight of the equipment
The main factor determining base weight the display case is the volume of cooled space. The more liters the chamber holds, the thicker the thermal insulation walls should be and the more powerful the compressor group. Manufacturers use various types of polyurethane foam for insulation, the density of which also contributes to the overall weight of the structure.
The second important aspect is the type of refrigeration unit. Embedded systems are typically heavier than remote systems due to the condenser and fans inside the case. In addition, the material of manufacture plays a role: stainless steel AISI 304 is much heavier than painted galvanized steel or aluminum, but it is more durable.
⚠️ Attention: When calculating the load on the floor, keep in mind that the weight of the refrigerant (freon) in the system can reach several kilograms, and in winter the weight of the equipment increases due to the formation of condensation in drainage systems, if not The correct withdrawal is organized.
Do not forget about additional elements. Backlighting, electronic control units, glass doors with triple glazing - all this adds kilograms to the final figure. Dynamic load When opening doors should also be taken into account when designing sales areas.
Average weight depending on the type of display case
All refrigeration equipment can be classified according to the type of installation, and each type has its own characteristic weight ranges. Horizontal freezers (stalls) are often heavier than vertical cabinets of the same volume due to the design of the case and the thickness of the insulation required to maintain low temperatures.
Vertical wall displays, popular in supermarkets, have a complex air circulation system. Their weight is distributed over a narrow supporting area, which creates a high coverage. Island display cases, which can be accessed from all sides, require a reinforced frame, which also increases their weight. point pressure for coverage. Island display cases, which can be accessed from all sides, require a reinforced frame, which also increases their weight.
- 🧊 Horizontal chests: from 40 to 120 kg depending on the volume (from 200 to 600 liters).
- 🚪 Vertical cabinets: from 80 to 250 kg for models with one or two doors.
- 🏪 Open wall cabinets: from 150 to 400 kg, the heaviest due to the air curtain system.
- 🍰 Confectionery display cases: from 100 to 200 kg, often have glass sides that reduce the overall weight.
Specialized models for meat and fish stand out. They often feature powerful evaporators and fans, making them heavier than their standard vegetable or beverage counterparts. When choosing an installation location, always check the passport data of a specific model Polar, Carboma or Ilsa.
Table: Approximate weight of popular models
For ease of calculations, we present average data on the weight of equipment of various sizes. Please remember that actual weight may vary depending on the year of manufacture and configuration.
| Equipment type | Volume (liters/length) | Empty weight (kg) | Weight with product (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated chest | 350 l | 65 kg | 180 kg |
| Refrigerated cabinet | 700 l | 110 kg | 350 kg |
| Wall display case | 1250 mm | 180 kg | 450 kg |
| Confectionery display case | 1100 mm | 140 kg | 290 kg |
| Chest freezer | 500 l | 85 kg | 250 kg |
As can be seen from the table, the weight of a refrigerator filled with products can exceed the weight of an empty one by 2.5–3 times. This is critically important to consider when installing on the second floors of buildings or on podiums. Load-bearing capacity The structure must have a safety margin of at least 20%.
It is also worth noting that the weight may vary depending on the type of refrigerant. Modern green gases may have different densities, although their impact on overall weight is small compared to the weight of metal and insulation. However, when disposing of old equipment, this parameter becomes important.
The influence of filling and loading on the load
Many entrepreneurs forget that operational weight is not a constant. It changes throughout the day: in the morning the display case is fully loaded, in the evening it is partially empty. However, the floor must withstand the maximum load. Products, especially meat and fish products, have a high density and significant mass.
In addition, the shelves and trays themselves in which the goods are stored also weigh a lot. Metal grates, glass trays and plastic gastronorm containers add another 10-15% to the total mass. If you plan to use heavy ceramic dishes for display, this also needs to be included in the calculations.
⚠️ Attention: Even distribution of the load is a key factor. Concentrating all the goods in one corner of the display case can lead to skew of the compressor or deformation of the case, even if the total weight does not exceed the norm.
There is a concept of “peak load” when loading goods. At this moment, maximum pressure is applied to the floor. Engineers recommend designing retail outlets to ensure 100% occupancy of all refrigeration units at the same time. This will provide a margin of safety in case of expansion of the range.
☑️ Checking the readiness of the floor for installation
Transportation and installation requirements
Delivery of heavy equipment requires special equipment. A standard freight elevator in a residential building often has a lifting capacity limit of 400-500 kg, which allows you to carry a display case, but may not be enough for a group of equipment. Rigging work must be carried out by professionals with the appropriate equipment.
During installation, it is important to provide access for maintenance. The display case cannot be moved close to the wall if required by the manufacturer's instructions. The gap is necessary for air circulation around the condenser. Violation of this rule leads not only to breakdown, but also to overheating, which can be dangerous.
For installation on soft surfaces (linoleum, carpet), it is recommended to use special pads under the support legs. This will prevent the covering from pressing through and ensure stability. Adjustable supports allow you to compensate for uneven floors, but they create an even more point load.
How to calculate the load on one leg?
Divide the total weight of the filled refrigerator by the number reference points. Usually there are 4 or 6 of them. If the weight of the display case is 300 kg, then there are about 50-75 kg per leg. Check whether the coating can withstand such pressure (usually a support area of at least 5x5 cm is required).
Specifics of industrial and specialized models
Industrial refrigerators for warehouses and wholesale warehouses are distinguished by their gigantic dimensions and weight. Blast freezers can weigh several tons. Their installation often requires a separate foundation or reinforcement of the first floor floors. Here you can no longer get by with household scales; engineering calculations are required.
Specialized display cases for drinks (beer columns) have their own specifics. The weight of bottles and kegs is very large, so the frame of such cabinets is reinforced. Static load floors in bars and restaurants are often underestimated, which leads to sagging of wooden floors on the second floors of historical buildings.
When choosing equipment for retro lofts or buildings with wooden floors, it is worth considering lightweight models with external cold. In this case, the heavy compressor unit is taken outside or into a technical room, and the display case itself becomes much lighter.
Is it possible to install a heavy display case on a balcony or loggia?
Installation is possible only if the balcony has a capital design and a design load of at least 400 kg/sq.m. Ordinary balconies in Khrushchev-era buildings may not support the weight of even an empty display case plus the weight of food. Consultation with a structural engineer is required.
Does the weight of a display case affect electricity consumption?
There is no direct effect of weight on electricity consumption. However, heavier models often have better insulation and more powerful yet efficient compressors. The main thing is the correct setting of the thermostat.
How to transport a refrigerator if it does not fit into the elevator by weight?
Special lifting belts and loader services are used to climb the stairs. It is important not to tilt the unit more than 45 degrees so that oil does not enter the refrigerant circuit.
Do you need to remove the doors when weighing for transportation?
Removing the doors can reduce the weight by 10-20 kg and make it easier to carry through narrow doorways. However, this requires tools and caution so as not to damage the hinges.
Where can I find the exact weight of my model?
The exact weight is indicated in the technical data sheet of the product (section "Main technical characteristics") or on the nameplate (metal plate) on the back wall of the unit.