Walk-In Cooler Installation

When you need a professional walk-in cooler installation, trust the refrigeration experts at Vortex Air HVAC. We provide complete design and installation services for businesses throughout Orem, UT.

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Top Walk-In Cooler Installation Company in Orem, UT

A walk-in cooler is a critical asset for any business that relies on bulk cold storage, such as restaurants, grocery stores, and florists. A professional walk-in cooler installation is essential to ensure its efficiency, reliability, and longevity. The team at Vortex Air HVAC specializes in the complete design and construction of custom walk-in coolers. From assembling the insulated panels to installing and calibrating the refrigeration system, we handle every detail. An improper installation can lead to energy waste, temperature problems, and costly spoilage. Trust our Orem team to build a high-performance walk-in cooler that protects your valuable inventory and supports your business’s success from day one.

Schedule now (801) 400-2422
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What Homeowners Are Saying

See why customers trust Vortex Air HVAC for professional Walk-In Cooler Installation. Our team is known for honest pricing, quality work, and reliable service from start to finish.

Mariah Clyde
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Mariah Clyde
July 26, 2025
Riley Griffin
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Riley Griffin
July 26, 2025

Super friendly and quick, would recommend!

Harrison Wilfley
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Harrison Wilfley
June 18, 2025

They were outstanding. Super responsive without talking to some robot to schedule. They shot right over to the house right away when our AC wasn't working. You want to use them for super quick and great service!

sam vawdrey
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sam vawdrey
April 17, 2025

Great company to work with! I felt like they were fair and honest. They were great at communicating with me and getting out to our place fast and working around our schedule! Will be using them again in the future!

Jackson Hill
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Jackson Hill
April 14, 2025

I HIGHLY recommend going with Vortex Air HVAC. My original heater in my house (1989) was having issues. I watched a ton of videos and did everything to get it back and working with one caveat. Vortex came and took a look and realized it was a simple quick fix. He didn't charge me anything for it after I insisted I paid him. He then proceeded to to a quick diagnostic to verify everything was working correctly for free. Fantastic customer service. That simple act has won me over as a lifetime customer.

Mason Phillips
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Mason Phillips
February 14, 2025

Very good and efficient

Martha McCoy
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Martha McCoy
January 18, 2025

We contacted Vortex Air HVAC when we were installing a vent fan above our stove. The Vortex team came out, climbed up in our attic to cut a hole in our roof to install the ducting for it. Not only did they weather seal around their work, they cleaned the entire mess and was very friendly and professional. Now every year we have them come out and prep our furnace and A/C for the seasons. Thank you Vortex Air for excellent, professional and friendly service everytime. 😁

Taylor Gladwell
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Taylor Gladwell
January 16, 2025

Great customer service and great pricing!

Lynsie Dawn
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Lynsie Dawn
January 16, 2025

Quick response time, very knowledgeable, and great pricing. I definitely will be calling vortex next time!

William Phillips
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William Phillips
September 6, 2024

I’ve waited a few weeks to post this review pending my full experience with Vortex air. Recently we had our ac go out, I had multiple big name and a few smaller companies out they all played the same game! Send a “tech” they tell me it’s bad few hours to a day later another “sales” man shows up to quote it.. I called these guys as I had just a coworker refer them. The Owner answered the phone and then showed up to my house within an hour! He then proceeded to give me all the options to even repair! He made thoughtful and valid suggestions on what we can really do to improve air quality as well. Day of install shows up and they were on time and had it all changed and running same day! Pricing was very competitive and not like getting the wind knocked out of you like all the other prices I got. 5 stars for service another 5 for the install and another 5 for the peace of mind we will have coming these next seasons. Thank you vortex!

ENERGY-EFFICIENT

We install high-efficiency HVAC systems designed to lower your monthly energy bills while keeping you comfortable.

FREE DIAGNOSTICS

We provide free diagnostics to identify HVAC problems quickly, giving you clear answers and upfront pricing before any work begins.

NO HIDDEN FEES

Our pricing is transparent and upfront. You’ll never be surprised by hidden costs or last-minute charges.

Walk-In Cooler Installation Service

Our professional walk-in cooler installation service is a comprehensive, turnkey solution for your business’s cold storage needs. We understand that a walk-in cooler is a major investment and a vital component of your operations. Our process covers everything from the initial design and site preparation to the final construction and commissioning of the refrigeration system. We are committed to building a durable, efficient, and reliable walk-in unit that is perfectly tailored to your space and your specific business requirements. Our experienced technicians ensure every phase of the project is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

The process begins with a detailed design and planning phase. Our refrigeration experts will work with you to design a walk-in cooler that fits your available footprint and meets your storage capacity needs. We will help you select the right type of insulated panels, choose a durable and safe flooring option, and decide on the best door size and placement for your workflow. We also perform a heat load calculation to determine the precise size and capacity needed for the refrigeration system. This ensures the system is powerful enough to maintain a safe temperature without being oversized and inefficient.

The first step of the physical installation is the construction of the cooler box itself. This involves carefully assembling the prefabricated, insulated wall, ceiling, and floor panels. Our technicians are meticulous in this process, ensuring all panels are locked together tightly and that all seams are perfectly sealed. A completely airtight and perfectly sealed box is crucial for preventing air infiltration and maximizing the cooler’s energy efficiency. Any small gaps or leaks can lead to a significant increase in energy consumption and can cause performance issues down the road. We build a box that is solid and completely sealed.

Once the box is constructed, we install the door. This is a critical step, as the door is the most used and abused part of any walk-in cooler. We install high-quality, durable doors with heavy-duty hinges and a reliable latching mechanism. We pay close attention to the door’s alignment and ensure that the gaskets create a perfect, airtight seal all the way around. We also install a self-closing mechanism to ensure the door does not get left open accidentally, which is a major source of energy waste. A properly installed door is essential for both efficiency and ease of use.

With the box complete, we proceed to install the refrigeration system. This consists of two main parts: the condensing unit and the evaporator coil. The condensing unit, which contains the compressor, is typically located outside or on the roof of your building. The evaporator coil and fans are mounted inside the walk-in box. Our certified refrigeration technicians will expertly mount both components and then run the copper refrigerant lines between them. We take great care in brazing the refrigerant lines to create strong, leak-proof connections.

After the refrigeration components are in place, we handle all the necessary electrical and drainage connections. We will run the proper electrical wiring to power both the condensing unit and the evaporator fans. We also install the electronic thermostat and control system. A drain line must also be installed to carry away the condensation that collects on the evaporator coil. We ensure this drain line is properly trapped and routed to a suitable floor drain, preventing any leaks or water damage. All our work is performed in strict accordance with all local building, electrical, and plumbing codes.

The final step is to charge the system with refrigerant and commission the unit. We perform a deep vacuum on the refrigerant lines to remove all air and moisture before charging the system with the precise amount of refrigerant required by the manufacturer. We then start the system, calibrate the thermostat, and monitor its performance until it reaches and holds the desired temperature, typically between 35°F and 40°F. We will not leave until we have confirmed that your new walk-in cooler is operating perfectly. Trust Vortex Air HVAC to build a cold storage solution your business can depend on.

Schedule now (801) 400-2422
Book now call now

Need Emergency refrigeration Service? We’re Available 24/7!

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Schedule now (801) 400-2422
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Common Walk-In Cooler Installation Questions

We understand that installing a new walk-in cooler is a major project for your business. Our goal is to provide clear answers to common questions about the process. Below are answers to frequent inquiries.

Determining the right size for your walk-in cooler is a critical decision that impacts both your storage capacity and your budget. The size you need depends on several factors. The first is the volume of perishable inventory you need to store at any given time. You should consider your peak inventory levels, not just your average. Think about your delivery schedules and how much product you receive in a single shipment. It is important to plan for enough space to store your products without them being over-crowded, as good airflow is essential for proper cooling.

The second factor is the type of shelving you plan to use. The layout of your shelving will affect how much usable storage space you have. You need to account for aisle space to allow your staff to move around and access products easily. A good rule of thumb is to calculate your required cubic feet of storage and then add about 25-30% to that for aisle space and air circulation. It is always better to build a walk-in that is slightly larger than you think you need, as your business may grow, and a little extra space is far better than not enough.

Finally, you need to consider the physical footprint available at your facility. We can help you design a walk-in cooler with custom dimensions to make the most of your available space. Our experts will perform a site assessment and work with you to balance your ideal storage needs with the practical constraints of your building. We can also help you think about future needs, so you are investing in a cooler that will serve your business well for many years to come.

When choosing a refrigeration system for your walk-in cooler, you have two main options: a remote system or a self-contained system. A remote refrigeration system is the most common choice for commercial walk-in coolers. In this setup, the condensing unit (the part with the compressor and condenser coil that gets hot and makes noise) is “remotely” located, usually on the roof or outside the back of the building. The evaporator coil is the only part of the system that is inside the cooler box. This setup is highly effective and has several key advantages.

By placing the condensing unit outside, you remove the heat and noise it generates from your indoor work environment. This keeps your kitchen or storage area cooler and quieter. Remote systems are also typically more powerful and more efficient, making them ideal for larger walk-in coolers and demanding commercial applications. The installation is more complex as it requires running refrigerant and electrical lines from the condensing unit to the cooler, but the performance benefits are significant. This is the standard for most restaurant and grocery applications.

A self-contained system, on the other hand, has all the refrigeration components, including the compressor and condenser, built directly into the walk-in unit itself, usually as a single unit mounted on the ceiling or a wall panel. This makes the installation much simpler and less expensive, as there is no need to run long refrigerant lines. However, because the condenser is part of the unit, it will exhaust its heat and noise directly into the surrounding indoor space. This can make them unsuitable for use inside a hot kitchen. Self-contained systems are a good option for smaller walk-ins located in a well-ventilated storage area or a basement.

Building the walk-in cooler “box” is the foundational step of the installation, and it requires precision and expertise. The box is constructed from large, interlocking panels that are insulated with a high-density foam core, typically polyurethane. These panels come in various thicknesses, with 4-inch thick panels being the standard for coolers. Each panel has cam-lock mechanisms along its edges. When the panels are joined together, we use a special tool to turn the cam-locks, which pulls the panels together to form a tight, secure, and airtight seam.

The process starts with laying down the insulated floor panels on a level surface. We then begin erecting the wall panels one by one, locking them into the floor and into each other. We take great care to ensure every panel is perfectly aligned and that all the cam-locks are fully engaged. A single poorly sealed seam can become a major point of air infiltration, which will drastically reduce the cooler’s efficiency. The corner panels are especially critical and must be sealed perfectly.

After the walls are up, we install the ceiling panels, locking them into the top of the wall panels. Once the basic box is assembled, we go back and seal every single interior and exterior seam with a bead of NSF-approved silicone sealant. This provides a secondary layer of protection against air leaks and prevents moisture from getting into the seams. We also install cove molding along the interior base of the walls to make cleaning easier and to meet health code standards. Building a solid, perfectly sealed box is the key to an efficient walk-in cooler.

The door of a walk-in cooler is arguably the most important and most frequently used component. It is the only moving part of the box and is the primary point where cold air can be lost and warm air can enter. A high-quality, properly installed door is essential for the cooler’s performance. During our installations, we use heavy-duty doors that are well-insulated and feature durable hardware that can withstand the rigors of a busy commercial environment. The door must be perfectly hung and aligned to ensure it closes smoothly and evenly.

The gasket that surrounds the door is critical. This gasket must create a complete, uninterrupted, airtight seal against the door frame when closed. We inspect the gasket carefully upon installation and ensure there are no gaps. We also install and adjust a reliable door-closing mechanism. Most walk-in doors are equipped with a spring or hydraulic closer that automatically pulls the door shut. This is a crucial feature to prevent the door from being accidentally left ajar, which would cause the refrigeration system to run constantly and could lead to product spoilage.

Safety is also a major consideration for the door. Every walk-in cooler door we install is equipped with an interior safety release mechanism. This allows anyone who might accidentally get trapped inside the cooler to open the door from the inside, even if it is locked from the outside. This is a mandatory safety feature required by law. The combination of durability, a perfect seal, and safety features makes the door installation one of the most critical parts of the entire project.

The timeline for a walk-in cooler installation can vary depending on the size and complexity of the unit, but a typical installation for a small to medium-sized walk-in cooler often takes between two to four days. This includes the time for both the box construction and the installation and commissioning of the refrigeration system. A very large or custom-shaped cooler may take longer. We will provide you with a detailed project schedule before we begin so you know exactly what to expect.

The first day is typically dedicated to the assembly of the insulated panels to construct the box. This involves laying the floor, erecting the walls and ceiling, and installing the door. Our team works efficiently to get the box built and sealed. The following days are focused on the refrigeration system. This includes mounting the outdoor condensing unit, hanging the indoor evaporator coil, and running the refrigerant and electrical lines between them. This part of the process is highly technical and must be done with precision.

The final phase of the project involves charging the system with refrigerant, performing all the electrical and drain connections, and commissioning the unit. We will let the cooler run until it reaches its target temperature and then monitor it to ensure it is cycling correctly and holding a stable temperature. We do not rush this final step, as it is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of the system. Our goal is to provide a high-quality, professional installation that is completed in a timely manner with minimal disruption to your business.

While you do not necessarily need a concrete floor, you do need a surface that is perfectly level, smooth, and capable of supporting the significant weight of the walk-in cooler and all the products stored inside it. A level concrete slab is the ideal foundation for a walk-in cooler installation. If your existing concrete floor is pitched or uneven, it may need to be ground down or have a leveling compound applied before the cooler can be installed. An unlevel floor will prevent the panels from sealing correctly and can cause problems with the door.

Most modern walk-in coolers are installed with their own integrated, insulated floor panels. These are structural panels that become part of the cooler box. Installing a walk-in with a manufacturer-supplied floor is the most common and effective method, as it ensures the entire box is fully insulated and sealed. This is particularly important for coolers located on a wood-framed floor or an upper story of a building.

In some cases, such as in a new construction building with a brand new, insulated concrete slab, a “floorless” walk-in cooler can be installed. In this design, the wall panels are sealed directly to the concrete floor. This can be a cost-effective option, but it requires the concrete slab to be in perfect condition and properly insulated to prevent heat from migrating up from the ground. Our experts will assess your specific site and recommend the best flooring solution for your walk-in cooler installation.

A heat load calculation is a critical engineering analysis that we perform during the design phase of every walk-in cooler installation. Its purpose is to determine the exact amount of heat that needs to be removed from the cooler box to maintain the desired temperature. This calculation is essential for correctly sizing the refrigeration system. A system that is too small will run constantly and will not be able to keep your products cold on hot days. A system that is too large will short-cycle, leading to poor temperature control, high energy use, and premature wear.

The heat load calculation takes into account many different sources of heat. This includes the heat that is transmitted through the walls, ceiling, and floor of the cooler from the warmer ambient air. It includes the “product load,” which is the heat that must be removed from the warm food products you place inside the cooler to bring them down to the target temperature. It also includes the “service load,” which is the heat that enters the box every time the door is opened, as well as heat from people working inside the cooler and from the lights and fan motors.

By carefully calculating all these factors, we can determine the total required cooling capacity, measured in BTUs per hour. This number allows us to select a condensing unit and an evaporator coil that are perfectly matched to the specific heat load of your walk-in cooler. This scientific approach to system sizing is a hallmark of a professional refrigeration contractor. It ensures your new walk-in will operate efficiently and reliably, maintaining a safe and stable temperature for your valuable inventory.

Yes, in almost all cases, the installation of a new commercial walk-in cooler requires permits from your local building department. This is a significant construction and mechanical project that involves several different trades. You will typically need a building permit for the construction of the structure itself. You will also need an electrical permit for the wiring of the refrigeration system and the lighting. Finally, you will need a mechanical or refrigeration permit for the installation of the refrigeration system, including the high-pressure refrigerant lines.

When you work with a professional, full-service contractor like Vortex Air HVAC, we handle the entire permitting process for you. We are experienced in working with the city of Orem and other local jurisdictions. We will prepare and submit all the necessary plans and applications to ensure your project is fully compliant with all applicable codes. The permitting and subsequent inspection process is a crucial safety step. It ensures that the cooler has been built and installed correctly and safely, which protects your business, your employees, and your property.

You should be extremely cautious of any contractor who suggests that you can install a walk-in cooler without a permit. This is a major violation and can lead to significant fines, a stop-work order, and major problems with your business license or insurance. Our commitment to a fully permitted and inspected installation gives you the peace of mind that your new walk-in cooler is built to the highest standards of safety and quality.

Get The Best Walk-In Cooler Installation Near You

Contact Vortex Air HVAC today to schedule your walk-in cooler installation in the Orem area. We offer free estimates and expert advice for your business.

Book now call now
Schedule now (801) 400-2422