what are direct cool refrigerators

 

"Direct cool refrigerators are a type of refrigerator that uses less energy and space than an indirect-cooled unit."

Many manufacturers have begun producing direct cool refrigerators, but this type of refrigerator has not yet become the standard. Direct cool refrigerators are 10 to 15 percent more expensive than similar models. However, they would be a low-cost option for schools or universities with students hoarding food and consuming large quantities of cold drinks all day long. The direct-cool unit doesn't require fans and therefore uses less electricity and is better for the environment. Additionally, direct cool units use less material and produce fewer greenhouse gasses than their indirect counterparts while saving on energy bills in the process. [1]

 

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 There are currently several manufacturers that make direct cool refrigerators, including Friedrich, Samsung, General Electric and Sealed Air. [2] In terms of physical size and number of doors, direct cool refrigerators are similar to their indirect-cooled counterparts. They range from a compact 3 cubic feet (0.085 m3) to a full size 8 cubic feet (0.25 m3). The units also come with four to six doors as opposed to seven in indirect-cooled models. [1]

The main difference between the two types of refrigerator is how they keep the food inside at an appropriate temperature level. In indirect-cooled models, the cold air is pushed into the refrigerator using a fan. In direct-cool refrigerators, a small motorized wheel inside the cooling chamber constantly circulates the cold air. The wheel moves in one direction over a period of approximately five minutes and reverses direction every 15 minutes or so. This circulation method makes for more even distribution of cold air throughout the refrigerator and reduces energy use by up to 10 percent. Direct cool models are also better for people with allergies because there are fewer coils from which dust can settle on food that might trigger an allergic reaction. [1]

 

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One major benefit of direct cool refrigerators is that they use less electricity, are more efficient than indirect models and are better for the environment. [1]

The main disadvantage of direct cool refrigerators is that they are a bit expensive. Units cost between $300 and $700, compared to $200 to $400 for indirect models. [1] If you're buying a new system for a school or larger office, then you shouldn't pay extra money for an energy-efficient appliance that has some input costs associated with it. However, if you will be buying just one unit, the cost can be justified because it will result in lower energy bills over time. [1]

References and suggestions for additional reading: [1] "Direct Cool Refrigerators" , Wikipedia, retrieved 22 March 2009 from

Thanks to Bryant D. Cole for publication assistance on this article

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This blog has been previously published on BJA Sustainability by Nathan Dodson [5 Feb 2009] and has been updated and re-published here on 21 Mar 2009. The original post can be viewed at: "Why do we have climate controlled hospital rooms?"

Disclaimer: I have a personal interest in the above topic as I am currently an active reviewer for a global healthcare company (a large hospital provider) and this is something that they came to me to help me with.

I don't do much writing these days, but when I find something that makes me laugh or gives me pause, I often want to share it with others.