If you are in the business of transporting perishable goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals, having a refrigerated van is essential. However, purchasing a brand new refrigerated van can be expensive. A cost-effective alternative is to convert a standard van into a refrigerated one. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about refrigerated van conversion.
First and foremost, you will need to choose the right van for conversion. While any van can be converted into a refrigerated one, it is important to take into consideration the size of the van, the insulation requirements, and the cooling system needed to maintain the desired temperature. Popular choices for refrigerated van conversion include Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram Promaster.
Next, you will need to decide on the type of insulation to use for your refrigerated van. The most common types of insulation used in refrigerated van conversions are polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam. Polyurethane foam is more expensive but offers better insulation properties, while polystyrene foam is more cost-effective but slightly less efficient in terms of insulation.
After insulation, the next step is to install the cooling system. The two main types of cooling systems used in refrigerated van conversions are direct expansion systems and eutectic systems. Direct expansion systems use a refrigerant to cool the inside of the van, while eutectic systems use a eutectic plate that is cooled overnight and releases cold air to maintain the desired temperature throughout the day.
It is important to ensure that the cooling system you choose is powerful enough to maintain the desired temperature inside the van, especially during hot summer months. Factors such as the size of the van, the insulation used, and the type of goods being transported will all play a role in determining the cooling capacity needed for your refrigerated van.
In addition to the cooling system, you will also need to install a temperature monitoring system in your refrigerated van. A temperature monitoring system will help you keep track of the temperature inside the van and ensure that your perishable goods are kept at the optimal temperature at all times. This is crucial for businesses that transport temperature-sensitive goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals.
Aside from the technical aspects of refrigerated van conversion, you will also need to consider the interior layout of the van. Depending on the type of goods you will be transporting, you may need to install shelving, hooks, racks, or drawers to organize and secure your cargo during transit. It is important to plan out the interior layout of your refrigerated van to maximize storage space and ensure efficient loading and unloading of goods.
Lastly, it is important to work with a reputable and experienced van conversion company to ensure that your refrigerated van conversion is done correctly and safely. A professional van conversion company will have the expertise and knowledge to install the necessary components, such as insulation, cooling system, and temperature monitoring system, to meet your specific needs and requirements.
In conclusion, converting a standard van into a refrigerated one is a cost-effective and practical solution for businesses that transport perishable goods. By choosing the right van, insulation, cooling system, and interior layout, you can create a customized refrigerated van that meets your unique transportation needs. Working with a professional van conversion company will ensure that your refrigerated van conversion is done correctly and efficiently. With proper planning and execution, you can have a fully functional refrigerated van that will help you transport your goods safely and efficiently.