Budget Factors That Builders Consider When Designing Cold Storage Warehouses
Cold storage builders in California deal in the installation, design, and maintenance of cold storage warehouses. They consider a few important things when coming up with a budget for the job. The popularity of cold storage warehouses continues to increase as the demand for fresh products rises.
From the outside, cold storage facilities seem like big cold boxes. However, they are a lot more complex. They require lots of investment and effort in design and operation. Builders strive to promote maximum efficiency at the best price. The design phase is one of the most important steps.
The general design depends on the nature of the product that is being stored and how long it may require storage. Other important considerations include:
1. Energy Efficiency
This is one of the top considerations when designing a cold storage warehouse on a budget. Energy is an ongoing expense, and without proper planning, the cost can reach thousands of dollars every month.
Many builders recommend the use of packaged refrigeration units rather than central stations as they are more affordable. Rooftop ammonia units are some of the most energy-efficient options.
To improve efficiency, builders place high-temperature rooms in the south of the facility. Low-temperature rooms go to the Northern end.
2. Roofing and Thermal Needs
The cost of energy in cold storage warehouses is always fluctuating since the demand is not constant. It is, therefore, essential to build a thermal efficient vapor barrier. Builders must consider the following:
- Roof membrane selection
- The thickness of insulation for walls, floors, and roof
- Low-temperature doors
3. Refrigeration
The efficiency of a refrigeration system depends on
- Compressor Selection
- Variable frequency drives
- Condenser selection
- Air unit and evaporator
- Motors
The choices should match your operational demands and maximize return-on-investments.
4. Electrical Utilities
Think about the consequences of power loss in your cold storage warehouse. If you aren’t prepared, you may incur major loses. Some of the most important things to consider are the need for a standby generator and the reliability of your local electrical utility. All cold storage facilities should consider investing in backup generators. Even inland facilities that do not anticipate power outages can benefit from an emergency generator.
5. Refrigeration Controls
Consider using automation features to improve the efficiency of refrigeration controls. With the advancement in technology and the need to reduce labor costs, automation is the solution.
Even though it may initially seem like an expensive investment it saves lots of money in the long run.
One of the biggest challenges when hiring cold storage builders in California is maximizing the return on investment. Performing a cost-benefit analysis ensures that you are not throwing your money down the drain with your new facility.
Consider asking for help from Hansen Cold Storage Construction if you have any questions about your cold storage facility design. We have been in the business since 1989 and handled many projects. We have a good reputation and have been featured in lots of publications including Forbes, The Sun, PR Newswire, Los Angeles Times, Area Development, and The Seattle Times. We are a family-owned business that pays attention to the needs of our clients. We take pride in offering high-quality services at fair rates. Contact us today and ask for more information.
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