Introduction
A refrigerated unit is the heart of any temperature-controlled transport or storage system. Whether used in refrigerated trucks, reefer containers, cold rooms or insulated vehicles, a reliable refrigerated unit ensures the safe delivery of perishable goods.
This guide explains what a refrigerated unit is, the different types available, cooling capacity options, working principles and essential maintenance tips to ensure long-lasting performance.
What Is a Refrigerated Unit?
A refrigerated unit is a cooling system designed to maintain a specific temperature range inside a truck body, container or room. It continuously removes heat from the insulated space and circulates cold air to keep products fresh, chilled or frozen.
Refrigerated units are commonly used for:
- Refrigerated trucks
- Reefer containers
- Cold rooms
- Portable cold storage
- Insulated vehicles
How a Refrigerated Unit Works
A refrigerated unit operates using a similar mechanism to an air conditioner or a cold room system. It consists of four major components:
1. Compressor
Compresses refrigerant gas and pushes it through the system.
2. Condenser
Releases heat absorbed from inside the container to the outside environment.
3. Evaporator
Absorbs heat from inside the refrigerated space and produces cold air.
4. Expansion Valve
Regulates refrigerant flow and controls cooling intensity.
The cycle repeats continuously to maintain the set temperature.
Types of Refrigerated Units
1. Truck Refrigerated Units
Mounted on commercial vehicles for transporting chilled and frozen goods.
Widely used brands include Thermo King and Carrier.
Suitable for: Perishables, frozen food, pharmaceuticals.
2. Container Refrigerated Units
Used in reefer containers with high cooling efficiency.
Ideal for long-distance transport and portable storage.
3. Standalone Cold Room Units
Designed for cold rooms or storage chambers.
Available in split units, monoblock units and low-temperature systems.
4. Electric Refrigerated Units
Runs on electric power instead of diesel.
Preferred for indoor warehouses, silent zones and energy-efficient operations.
5. Diesel Refrigerated Units
Used for heavy-duty or long-distance transport.
Ensures consistent cooling even when the vehicle is off.
6. Multi-Temperature Units
Provides two or more temperature zones inside a single truck or container.
Used for transporting mixed products like frozen and chilled items together.
Cooling Capacity of Refrigerated Units
Cooling capacity is measured in BTU, HP or Kcal/hr. The right capacity depends on:
- Container or truck size
- Insulation quality
- Type of goods
- Required temperature
- Outdoor weather conditions
General cooling ranges include:
Chilling Applications (0°C to +10°C)
For fruits, flowers, dairy, beverages, bakery products.
Freezing Applications (0°C to -18°C)
For frozen foods, poultry, meats.
Deep-Freezing Applications (-18°C to -25°C)
For seafood, ice cream, pharmaceutical items.
High-capacity units are required for large trucks or areas exposed to high ambient temperatures.
Applications of Refrigerated Units
- Food and beverage transport
- Pharmaceutical logistics
- Cold storage warehouses
- Reefer trucks and containers
- Agriculture and dairy industry
- Meat and seafood transport
- Online grocery and quick commerce
- Catering and hotels
- Chemical and laboratory supply chain
Maintenance Tips for Refrigerated Units
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure peak cooling performance and prevent breakdowns.
1. Clean Condenser Coils Regularly
Dust buildup reduces cooling efficiency.
2. Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant can cause temperature fluctuations.
3. Inspect Doors and Rubber Seals
Air leakage leads to high load on the unit.
4. Clean Evaporator Fins and Drain Lines
Ensures smooth airflow and prevents ice buildup.
5. Monitor Compressor Temperature
Overheating may indicate mechanical issues.
6. Service by Professionals Every 3 Months
Ensures long unit life and uninterrupted performance.
Benefits of High-Quality Refrigerated Units
- Stable temperature performance
- Better fuel and energy efficiency
- Longer lifetime of perishable goods
- Reduced operational costs
- Improved supply chain quality
- Lower spoilage and wastage
Why Choose DSL Reefer Container for Refrigerated Unit Installation?
DSL Reefer Container offers professionally built insulated containers and refrigerated truck bodies compatible with all major AC units.
We provide:
- Refrigerated truck body installation
- Reefer container manufacturing
- Thermo King/Carrier AC unit setup
- PUF insulated panels & cold room solutions
- Custom-built refrigerated systems
Our products ensure durability, high performance and long-term reliability.
FAQs
1. What is the ideal temperature for a refrigerated unit?
It depends on the product type. Chilled goods need 0°C to +10°C, frozen goods require 0°C to -18°C and deep-freeze products require -18°C to -25°C.
2. Which brand is best for refrigerated units?
Thermo King and Carrier are the most commonly used brands due to performance and reliability.
3. How long do refrigerated units last?
With proper maintenance, a refrigerated unit can last 7 to 12 years.
4. Can refrigerated units be used for portable cold rooms?
Yes, monoblock and split-type units are ideal for portable cold rooms.
5. What is the cost of a refrigerated unit?
Cost depends on capacity, brand and application. Contact DSL Reefer Container for exact pricing.
Contact DSL Reefer Container
For refrigerated unit installation, insulated containers or cold room solutions:
Call: 78400 09602
Website: https://dslreefercontainers.com/
Get customised solutions for your cold chain requirements.