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Refrigerated Display Cases Are Smarter Than You Think – Here’s Why

Last month, we discussed the ways in which industrial and commercial refrigeration systems can achieve greater energy efficiency using modern components. This month, we will delve into the advancements in commercial reach-in freezers and coolers, commonly known as refrigerated display cases within the industry. We will explore how these units have been optimized for efficiency and effective cooling with the integration of the latest refrigeration technology.

Energy Efficient Components

Rigid Polyurethane Foam

Zero Zone uses 2 ½” foamed panels, the thickest in the display case industry, to insulate its display cases. These panels effectively resist heat infiltration, maintaining a colder temperature for longer periods. By reducing the need for cooling, the system conserves both energy and costs while protection your product.

Energy Efficient Fans

The fans inside refrigerated merchandisers help circulate cool air and maintain a uniform temperature. However, the fans generate heat while running. Using high-efficiency fans maximizes airflow with less heat being generated inside of the display case. The lower operating temperature of these fans reduces the amount of heat within the display case, thereby decreasing the demand on your commercial refrigeration system.

Insulated Glass Doors

Zero Zone utilizes triple-pane insulated glass units (IGUs) for freezer doors, while coolers are equipped with two-pane insulated glass units. These IGUs are filled with argon gas. Argon gas is denser than air, providing high insulating properties that increases energy efficiency and maintain optimal temperatures within the display cases.

Expanded Evaporator

Zero Zone uses a high-capacity evaporator in its display cases. This larger evaporator has a greater surface area, allowing it to absorb more heat from the refrigerated space. By enabling the refrigerant to evaporate more effectively, it reduces the workload on the compressors.

ChillBrite® LED Lighting

While LED lighting is standard throughout the industry, Zero Zone ChillBrite® LED lighting stands out with its superior efficacy. Efficacy, measured in lumens per watt (lm/W), indicates the brightness of a light source relative to its power consumption. The industry average for LED lighting efficacy is around 100 lm/W. However, Zero Zone ChillBrite® LEDs average approximately 115 lm/W, with some models achieving up to 145 lm/W. This higher efficacy translates to more light output with reduced energy consumption and heat generation.

Continuous Improvement Leads to More Effective Cooling

Uniform cooling within a display case is crucial for ensuring food safety. If there are warmer areas within the display case, products in those sections can reach unsafe temperatures. Meanwhile, the cooler side of the display case may become excessively cold as the controller attempts to balance the cooling demand. This imbalance can compromise the safety and quality of the stored products.

In addition to high efficiency fans, Zero Zone optimized the airflow design of its display cases. This design ensures precise product temperature and more consistent operation. Additionally, the large area of the evaporator ensures more uniform cooling throughout the display case, enhancing both energy efficiency and temperature precision. Our research and development team in our state-of-the-art Technology Center are continuously looking for ways to improve our designs. If you would like a tour, visit our contact us page and fill out a form.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Zero Zone has always been green, continuously implementing newer, more energy-efficient technology to ensure precise temperatures throughout the display case. For more information on the solutions we offer, visit our products page. For more information on how Zero Zone can help you maximize the efficiency of your store, fill out a form on our contact us page.