In labs where sensitive samples, reagents, and biological materials are handled, cold storage plays a critical role in preserving their integrity. Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers are essential for labs conducting advanced research, ensuring that vital samples—ranging from vaccines to DNA—are stored safely for long-term use.
The demand for ULT freezers continues to rise, fueled by growth in key areas like:
With so many factors influencing the need for these freezers, finding the right one for your lab can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the available options, understand what ULT freezers are, and explore key considerations for making an informed purchase.
Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers, distinct from cryogenic freezers, are essential in any lab that requires long-term storage of sensitive biological samples. These freezers operate between -50°C and -86°C, providing a much colder environment than standard freezers.
ULT freezers are used to store a variety of materials, including:
Given that many labs store samples worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, reliable cold storage is critical. But beyond reliability, factors like price, energy efficiency, storage capacity, noise levels, and physical space in the lab should also be considered. Poor storage conditions can lead to the loss of valuable samples, resulting in significant operational disruptions.
Pricing for ULT freezers depends on voltage, box capacity, and cubic footage, with costs ranging between $8,000 and $20,000. These figures can vary based on the manufacturer and whether the unit is new or used.
Choosing the right ULT freezer for your lab can be daunting, given the wide array of available options and features. ULT freezers come with different finishes, touchscreen interfaces, alarm systems, refrigeration cycles, and compressors.
To simplify your decision-making process, it’s helpful to start by understanding the most common types of ULT freezers:
Upright ULT freezers are similar to the upright models found in most restaurants or used for long term food storage. They are available in one door and two-door configurations, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your available lab space and workflow.
They are the ideal option when there isn’t a lot of available floor space, but there is plenty of room in the area to allow for the doors to open out. This is especially helpful for labs that utilize many shelves and overhead compartments along walls.
Some upright models offer an automatic defrost option. Many include built-in shelves and racks.
ULT chest freezers are similar to residential or commercial deep freezers. They take up more floor space but open up from the top, with the freezer door on top acting as a lid. Inside the freezer, you can place racks and boxes to make storage and organization easier.
A walk-in freezer is needed in rare situations where an extensive sample collection has to be maintained across a high number of individual ULT freezers. Walk-in freezers allow professionals to walk in and out on an as-needed basis to access the samples. With this approach, the staff is limited to the amount of time they can remain in the freezer.
Some standard operating procedures should be in place to ensure the safety of all professionals who must enter. Access to the freezers themselves should also be limited so the freezers can recover after being exposed to warmer air.
You can also find benchtop freezers designed to sit on a counter. If you don’t need a lot of storage space, you may also consider under-counter models.
You have several options for sourcing ultra-low temperature freezers, including purchasing directly from ULT freezer manufacturers, exploring lab auctions, or opting to lease. Here are some well-known manufacturers that offer high-quality ULT freezers:
Although we're biased, as a leasing company, it'd be remiss of us to point out that leasing ULT freezers is a cost-effective and practical option for labs looking to save on upfront costs and extend their cash runway. Leasing agreements at Excedr include maintenance and repair services, reducing the long-term burden of ownership, and access to a wide network of partners that offer a variety of services designed for biotech startups, middle-market biotechs, and large pharmaceuticals.
After narrowing down the type of ULT freezer and manufacturer that fits your lab’s needs, it’s essential to think critically about the following factors:
Integrating your new ULT freezer into your lab’s operational processes will require careful planning. Here are a few key considerations:
With so many ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers available on the market, it can be challenging to balance the needs of your laboratory with cost and value. It’s crucial to carefully evaluate the factors that matter most—such as price, energy efficiency, storage capacity, and location within your lab—before making a decision.
Leasing a ULT freezer can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing outright. By leasing, you can save on upfront costs and maintenance expenses while still ensuring you have access to high-quality lab equipment. At Excedr, we provide leasing options that make it easier to acquire the equipment you need without the financial burden of ownership.
Whether you need long-term storage, short-term flexibility, or custom solutions, leasing offers the benefit of reduced risk and operational support. Get in touch today to explore our leasing program and find the perfect ultra-low temperature freezer for your lab’s needs.
