Nick Griffiths
Any business that requires substantial refrigeration space with convenient access is likely to require a cold room. Restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmaceutical companies, among many others, all use cold rooms of different sizes and with different capabilities as an essential component of their operations. Many companies will have various requirements when it comes to cold rooms with a range of factors impacting the overall cold room installation cost.
Whether or not a cold room is cost-effective for a business will depend on several key considerations. This might include the size, design, and specific requirements of the installation. A cold room should be considered as a long-term investment, with the initial costs being recouped over time.
A cold room will maintain product quality and preserve goods while ensuring convenient access.
With concern over rising energy costs and the impact of climate change, cold rooms have become more energy efficient, reducing operational costs.
The cold room installation cost will vary depending on its size, location and capabilities. A small to medium-sized cold room will typically range from £5,000 to £15,000. In the case of large and more complex installations, these costs can rise to £30,000 or more. This total will include the cost of materials and labour. Other elements, such as advanced temperature control systems, will all add to the overall cost.
The cold room installation cost for smaller-scale cool rooms or walk-in refrigerators can start from around £3,000 to £7,000. These will typically be businesses with less demanding refrigeration needs.
Read our guide on everything you need to know about cold room installation
There are several factors that influence the overall cold room installation cost. These will typically include:
The design and specification of the cold room will have a significant impact on the overall cost. Bespoke cold rooms tailored to specific requirements will generally be more expensive than prefabricated models but are likely to be more efficient to run. They are also likely to be better suited to the operational requirements of the business.
The choice of materials in the cold room construction will be a key factor in the overall cost. High-quality insulation materials will provide better thermal efficiency and have a higher initial cost. This should be set against the reduction in running costs that they are likely to deliver. By investing in durable, high-quality materials you can enjoy lower maintenance costs and better energy efficiency over the service life of the cold room.
To ensure that the cold room is set up correctly and operates as efficiently as possible, your cold room should be installed by a professional team. Labour costs for professional installation can vary depending on the complexity and size of the installation. Installation can add £1,000 to £5,000 to the overall cost.
It’s possible to build a cold room yourself, and DIY installation can reduce labour costs, but it does carry risks. Improper installation can lead to inefficiencies that increase energy consumption and the potential for breakdowns. For commercial purposes, professional installation is recommended to ensure reliability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs can ensure that a cold room will last between 10 to 20 years. The longevity of the cold room will depend on the quality of materials, the installation process, and the correct level of maintenance.
Key maintenance tasks for a cold room involve regular cleaning, monitoring, and periodic servicing. The surfaces should be kept clean to prevent mould and bacterial growth. Temperatures should be regularly checked and recorded to ensure they remain within the required range.
Components such as doors, seals, and insulation should be periodically checked for any signs of damage or deterioration. Regular professional servicing of the refrigeration system should be carried out to reduce the risk of breakdowns and to maintain their efficiency.
Professional cold room installation from ICE
At ICE Ltd, we have nearly 9 decades of experience when it comes to bespoke refrigeration equipment. Our expert team can design, supply, install, and maintain your cold room, ensuring that it performs consistently and is fit-for-purpose.
Contact us to find out more about professional cold room installation and how it can benefit your business.