Whether you’re opening a new restaurant, upgrading a grocery store, or renovating a brewery, choosing the right commercial walk in cooler is critical to your operation. In Portland’s competitive food and beverage industry, having a properly installed cooler means better food safety, energy efficiency, and long-term savings.
Plan the Right Size and Layout
Before installation, evaluate your daily volume, storage needs, and available space. A walk-in that’s too small can hurt productivity, while one that’s too large will waste energy.
- Average Sizes: Most coolers range from 6’ x 6’ up to 12’ x 20’, depending on use.
- Access Points: Plan for convenient access near prep areas or delivery zones to reduce staff strain.
- Door Swing: Make sure there’s space for safe, easy entry—especially with carts and bulk inventory.
Portland Code and Permit Considerations
In Portland, most commercial walk in cooler installations require permits—especially if electrical, HVAC, or structural work is involved. Additional regulations may apply for fire separation, venting, or food safety inspections.
- Permit reviews often include energy code compliance and ADA access checks.
- CO2 safety monitors may be required for coolers used in beverage storage.
Flooring and Drainage Requirements
Commercial coolers need durable, sealed flooring—concrete or vinyl—with proper slopes for cleaning and drainage. In some cases, a built-in drain line must be connected to your facility’s plumbing system.
Electrical and Refrigeration Specs
Make sure your electrical panel has the capacity to handle your new cooler’s motor, lighting, and backup systems. Depending on the system, dedicated circuits or breakers may be needed.
Refrigeration systems should match the cooler’s size and use. Ask your installer about air-cooled vs. remote condensing systems to reduce interior heat and noise.
Work with a Trusted Contractor
Installing a commercial walk in cooler isn’t just a plug-and-play process—it involves site prep, coordination with electricians and HVAC pros, and ensuring your business stays up to code.
At Boss PDX, we provide turnkey commercial remodeling and equipment installation services for Portland-area businesses. From planning to permitting and final inspection, we handle it all with precision and transparency.
Request a free estimate today and let’s build your next walk-in cooler the right way—on time and on budget.
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