Open refrigerated display cases have been standard for years—but they’re far from efficient. Retrofitting these cases with transparent doors is one of the most cost-effective ways to decrease energy expenditure from your refrigeration system, extend product life, and enhance the in-store experience. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:
1. Significant Energy Savings
Open cases lose cold air continuously, forcing refrigeration systems to work overtime. Doors cut infiltration loads by up to 80%, reducing refrigeration demand and even easing the store’s heating load in colder months. We completed a refrigerated case door retrofit for two stores in Washington that reduced their electricity bills by 27% due to the decrease in refrigeration demand.
2. Fresher Food, Less Waste
Stable, consistent temperatures inside closed cases extend shelf life for perishable items like meat and dairy. Doors also reduce spoilage and energy-intensive overcooling, and help maintain safe temperatures longer during unforeseen power outages.
3. Lower Costs, Faster ROI
Retrofitting costs about half as much as replacing cases with new equipment, while delivering comparable energy and performance benefits. Plus, reduced compressor and fan usage means fewer repairs and longer equipment life.
4. Enhanced Shopper Comfort
Open cases release cold air into store aisles, creating an uncomfortable shopping experience. Doors help contain that chill, improving overall customer comfort—especially in colder climates or during long shopping trips. A large reason why H Mart worked with Taper for a case door retrofit is to enhance shopper comfort. Not only was this achieved, but they also reduced their annual energy bill by $300,000!
5. Opportunity for Further Upgrades
A door retrofit is also the ideal time to consider other upgrades in your commercial building, such as installing LED lighting. When used in refrigerated cases and doors, LED lights reduce the amount of heat your cooling system must overcome, further amplifying the efficiency.
When it comes to retrofitting refrigerated case doors, Taper sets an industry standard for project solutions. Our team of energy experts work in tandem with your store operations to minimize disruptions, partner with trusted vendors, and find incentives to cut down on project costs. We recognize each store we work with is unique, and our start-to-finish approach prioritizes your store’s specific needs for energy and refrigeration management. Let’s start decarbonizing your building with refrigerated case doors. It all starts with a conversation– drop us a line!