Finding the Right Mortuary Cooler for Your Facility
Searching for the perfect mortuary cooler for sale shouldn't feel overwhelming. Let me walk you through your options in a way that makes sense for your facility's unique needs.
When funeral directors call me, they're often surprised by the variety of cooling solutions available. From compact single-body units perfect for rural funeral homes to expansive walk-in chambers designed for medical examiners' offices, there's truly something for every situation and budget.
Here's a quick snapshot of what's available on today's market:
| Type | Capacity | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roll-In | 1-3 bodies | $5,799-$7,611 | Self-contained, 110V, no drainage needed |
| Upright | 2-4 bodies | $6,905-$21,995 | Space-efficient, digital temp control |
| Telescoping Slide Rails | 2-8 bodies | $9,812-$32,995 | Easy access, smooth handling |
| Walk-In | 10-25 bodies | $13,995+ | Large capacity, custom sizing available |
What makes a quality mortuary cooler for sale stand out from the rest? It starts with the insulation. The best units feature ratings between R-21 and R-43, depending on panel thickness. This isn't just about keeping temperatures stable—it's about energy efficiency and long-term operational costs.
I've worked with countless funeral homes who initially balked at spending a bit more upfront, only to thank me later when their electricity bills came in lower than expected month after month.
The warranty is another aspect worth considering. Most reputable manufacturers offer 15-year coverage on panels and doors, with 5 years on mechanical components. This reflects their confidence in the product's durability—something critical when you're making an investment that needs to serve your facility reliably for years to come.
As the founder of American Mortuary Coolers, I've dedicated my career to helping funeral professionals find cooling solutions that truly fit their needs. We focus exclusively on American-made products that deliver both immediate functionality and long-term value.
Want to learn more specific terminology to help with your research? Here are some useful resources:
- 10 x 12 Mortuary Cooler - Perfect for understanding larger walk-in options
- 3 Body Mortuary Cooler - Ideal for mid-sized facilities
- Walk-In Mortuary Cooler Sizes - Compare dimensions for various capacity needs
Whether you're expanding an existing facility or equipping a brand new location, finding the right mortuary cooler for sale is about balancing immediate capacity needs with future growth potential. And remember—the right solution isn't just about storing remains with dignity; it's about creating efficient workflows that serve both your staff and the families who count on you.
1-Body Roll-In Cooler – Budget-Friendly Starter
Looking for affordable mortuary coolers for sale? Our 1-Body Roll-In Cooler might be exactly what your smaller facility needs. At just $5,799, it's our most budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality or functionality.
This compact unit is perfect when space is at a premium but dignity in care remains your top priority. Designed with simplicity in mind, it accommodates a standard mortuary cot with minimal fuss – just roll in, secure, and you're set.
One thing our customers love about this model is how easy it is to get up and running. There's no complicated installation process – it plugs right into a standard 110V outlet and doesn't require any special drainage systems. True plug-and-play convenience means you can have it operational within hours of delivery.
Many rural funeral homes appreciate the optional casters we can add – they transform this already practical unit into a mobile solution that can be repositioned as your needs change. It's a small feature that makes a big difference in day-to-day operations.
Key Specs & Perks
Even though this is our entry-level model, we've made sure it's built to last. The 1-Body Roll-In features robust R-28 insulation that maintains steady temperatures while keeping energy costs down. The digital controller gives you precise temperature management with an easy-to-read display – no more guesswork about conditions inside.
We back our confidence in this cooler with substantial warranty coverage: 15 years on the panels and doors, 5 years on mechanical components, and 2 years on parts and labor. Being 100% American-made, the quality craftsmanship shows in details like the heavy-duty chrome-plated hardware that stands up to daily use.
The self-contained compressor system maintains ideal preservation temperatures between 34-40°F without requiring external plumbing connections. It's thoughtfully engineered to provide exactly what you need without unnecessary complications.
Who Should Buy
This cooler really shines for certain types of facilities. If you run a small funeral home with modest case volume, this unit offers the perfect balance of functionality and value. Removal companies find it invaluable for temporary refrigeration during transport situations.
It's also ideal for satellite clinics where space comes at a premium, or rural funeral homes working within tight budget constraints. Many of our customers also purchase this model as a reliable backup or overflow unit for busier periods.
As one of our satisfied customers, Milton Vallaire, shared: "Great Coolers with great service. We have had an excellent relationship with American Mortuary Coolers and would recommend them and their product."
The 1-Body Roll-In Cooler delivers professional-grade refrigeration in a compact package that won't break the bank. It's the perfect starting point for facilities just establishing their services or those with limited refrigeration needs who refuse to compromise on quality.
4-Body Telescoping Slide-Rail Cooler – Mid-Range Marvel
When your facility needs a perfect balance between capacity and efficiency, our 4-Body Telescoping Slide-Rail Cooler shines as the mid-range standout among mortuary coolers for sale. Priced at $21,995, this innovative unit transforms how your team works while providing ample storage in a smart, upright design.
What makes this model special? It's all in the name – those telescoping slide rails. Unlike traditional coolers where staff must awkwardly reach inside, these smooth-gliding rails extend outward, bringing the entire tray to you. Your team will immediately notice the difference in comfort and ease of access. The days of straining to reach remains stored in the back of a cooler are over.
The upright design is another thoughtful feature. By utilizing vertical space, this four-body unit maintains a surprisingly modest footprint. The sleek profile fits neatly against walls, freeing up valuable floor space in your preparation room for other essential activities. And those chrome hardware accents? They're not just attractive – they're built to withstand years of daily use.
Key Specs & Perks
The quality of this mid-range marvel goes far beyond its clever design. With R-28 insulation panels, you'll enjoy rock-solid temperature stability that protects remains while keeping energy costs reasonable. The digital controller makes temperature adjustments a breeze, displaying current conditions at a glance.
Security and visibility get equal attention here. The locking doors feature magnetic gasket seals that create a perfect closure every time. Optional LED interior lighting illuminates the entire cabinet, eliminating shadows and improving visibility during transfers.
"We upgraded to the telescoping model last year, and I wish we'd done it sooner," shares Mike, a funeral director from Ohio. "My staff actually commented on how much easier body transfers have become. Plus, the temperature holds steady even during our hot summers."
Best of all, installation couldn't be simpler. The self-contained refrigeration system plugs into any standard 110V outlet with no special drainage requirements. And your investment is protected by our comprehensive warranty – 15 years on panels and doors, 5 years on mechanical components.
Who Should Buy
This versatile unit finds its sweet spot in several settings. Hospital morgues appreciate the efficient use of space and quick access to multiple remains. Busy crematories value how the telescoping rails speed up transfers during high-volume periods.
Medium-sized funeral homes find the four-body capacity hits the right balance for their typical caseload, while still having room for unexpected situations. The ergonomic benefits make a real difference for staff who handle multiple transfers daily.
One crematory manager told us: "The slide-rail system has actually reduced our preparation time by nearly 30%. When you're handling multiple cases daily, that efficiency adds up quickly."
For facilities where workflow matters as much as capacity, the 4-Body Telescoping Slide-Rail Cooler delivers the perfect combination of thoughtful design, quality construction, and daily practicality. It's the mid-range option that doesn't feel like a compromise.
8-Body Walk-In Mortuary Cooler – Capacity King
When it comes to mortuary coolers for sale, nothing beats the sheer capacity and flexibility of our 8-Body Walk-In Mortuary Cooler. Priced at $32,995, this spacious solution is perfect for facilities that need serious storage capability without compromising on quality or accessibility.
Imagine having a dedicated 10' × 10' refrigerated room where your team can comfortably enter, arrange, and access remains without the shuffling dance required with cabinet-style coolers. No more removing one body to access another during busy periods – a workflow improvement that pays dividends during high-volume times.
One of my favorite features to point out to funeral directors is the modular panel construction. These pre-fabricated insulated panels with durable metal cladding can be assembled right on-site, making installation possible even in buildings with tricky access points. Had a change in your facility needs? No problem – these units can be disassembled and relocated if necessary.
The pallet-jack compatible flooring is a thoughtful touch that many of our customers appreciate. If you're handling heavier remains or using mechanical lifting equipment, this floor option provides the stability and durability needed for safer, more efficient operations.
Key Specs & Perks
Our walk-in coolers are built to impress with features that matter to busy funeral professionals. The R-37.6 high-performance insulation panels provide superior energy efficiency, keeping your operating costs down while maintaining perfect preservation temperatures.
We've designed these units with flexibility in mind, offering dual door configuration options that improve access based on your specific layout needs. The expansion-ready design means your cooler can grow with your business – a feature many competitors simply don't offer.
Inside, you'll find vapor-proof LED lighting with exterior switches (no fumbling in the dark), while the digital temperature control system with external display lets you monitor conditions without opening doors. Every component meets UL-NSF approval and EISA compliance under the Federal Energy Independence & Security Act.
Your investment is protected with our comprehensive warranty: 15 years on panels and doors, and 5 years on all mechanical components. The panels are ASTM E84 tested for smoke and flame spread, ensuring you meet all building and safety codes with ease.
Who Should Buy
The 8-Body Walk-In Mortuary Cooler shines brightest in facilities that handle volume:
- Large funeral homes juggling multiple cases simultaneously
- County medical examiners and coroner offices requiring dependable capacity
- Disaster-response hubs that need to be prepared for the unexpected
- Hospital morgues serving major medical centers with steady case flow
- Emergency management facilities requiring surge capacity
As Mark T., a funeral director from Ohio, told us: "Our walk-in cooler from American Mortuary Coolers has transformed our operation. During peak periods, we can now handle multiple cases efficiently without the space constraints we previously faced. The build quality is exceptional, and the temperature stability is rock-solid even during the hottest summer months."
For facilities regularly handling multiple cases or preparing for potential surge events, this walk-in cooler represents the most versatile and capacity-rich solution in our lineup. When you need space to work and store with dignity, nothing else compares.
Ultimate Buying Guide for Mortuary Coolers for Sale
Shopping for mortuary coolers for sale doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Think of this guide as your friendly companion through the decision-making process – we'll walk through everything you need to know to find the perfect cooler for your facility.
Standard Sizes & Capacities
Whether you're running a small rural funeral home or a busy county medical examiner's office, there's a cooler sized just right for your needs.
The smallest 1-Body coolers are perfect for facilities with limited space or lower case volumes. As you move up, 2-Body and 3-Body options hit that sweet spot for small to medium operations. For busier facilities, 4-Body units come in space-efficient upright or side-by-side layouts.
When capacity needs grow more substantial, 6-Body and 8-Body configurations provide ample storage, with the larger units typically designed as walk-ins. For the highest volume operations, 12-Body systems offer maximum capacity.
These capacities come in various styles to match your workflow. Roll-in designs let you transfer remains directly on a cot – no lifting required. Upright models make efficient use of vertical space, while side-load options offer horizontal access. For maximum capacity and staff comfort, walk-in coolers create room-sized environments where staff can enter and move around freely.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we deliver all these configurations nationwide across the contiguous 48 states, bringing the perfect solution right to your doorstep.
Key Features to Compare
When evaluating different mortuary coolers for sale, certain features make all the difference in performance and longevity.
Insulation quality directly impacts energy efficiency and temperature stability. Look for ratings between R-21 (standard 3" panels) and R-43 (premium 5-3/8" freezer panels). The higher the R-value, the better the cooler maintains consistent temperatures with less energy consumption.
Door sealing technology is surprisingly important. Magnetic gaskets and self-sealing doors prevent cold air from escaping, keeping temperatures steady and utility bills lower. The best units maintain precise temperatures between 34-40°F – the ideal range for preservation without freezing.
Materials matter too. Standard 26 GA Acrylume offers excellent durability for both interior and exterior surfaces. Hardware quality is often overlooked, but chrome-plated components resist corrosion in the humid cooler environment, extending the life of your investment.
For body handling, you'll choose between Speed Roller systems for effortless movement or Low-Friction Slide options that balance smooth operation with secure positioning. Each has its advantages depending on your staff's preferences and workflow.
Installation & Power Requirements
Good news: most mortuary coolers for sale are designed with straightforward installation in mind.
Almost all models operate on a standard 110V outlet – the same as your household appliances. No need for expensive electrical upgrades or special wiring. Most units are also self-contained, meaning they don't require drainage connections or plumbing modifications.
Assembly time is surprisingly quick. A typical 2-body unit takes about an hour to set up, even for those without specialized skills. Delivery options are flexible too – units can arrive pre-assembled (you'll need a forklift for unloading) or unassembled for easier delivery through standard doorways.
Just remember to allow about 12 inches of clearance around the compressor for proper ventilation. Most units operate efficiently in environments up to 95°F, though cooler ambient temperatures will improve performance and energy efficiency.
When you order from American Mortuary Coolers, we'll help determine the best delivery method based on your facility's access and equipment. For larger walk-in units, our on-site assembly services ensure everything is installed correctly from the start.
Accessories & Custom Options
The right accessories can transform a good cooler into a perfect one for your specific needs.
Body racks and trays come in various materials – stainless steel for maximum durability, HD plastic for lighter weight, or laminated materials for cost-effectiveness. Loading ramps make cot or trolley access smoother, while casters (add about $885) bring mobility to smaller units.
For improved visibility, LED lighting provides energy-efficient illumination. High-traffic facilities might benefit from stainless steel floor overlays for improved durability. Temperature alarms offer peace of mind by alerting staff to any fluctuations, while locking handles (around $220) add security for sensitive areas.
Need something special? American Mortuary Coolers offers customization for door types (wide or side-load configurations), floor types (standard, pallet jack, or heavy-duty options), and floor overlays (diamond tread plate, smooth aluminum, or stainless steel). We can even accommodate non-standard dimensions for unique spaces.
What Makes a Mortuary Cooler Different from a Freezer?
While browsing mortuary coolers for sale, you might wonder why not just use a freezer. The differences are significant and important to understand.
Coolers maintain temperatures between 34-40°F – perfect for short to medium-term preservation while keeping remains in a condition suitable for preparation and viewing. Freezers operate much colder (0°F or below), which can complicate embalming and preparation procedures.
The insulation requirements differ too. Cooler panels typically have R-values of 21-37, while freezers need higher R-values of 32-43 to maintain their colder temperatures. This affects not just the initial cost but also ongoing energy consumption – freezers use more power with longer compressor run times.
Different regulations may apply depending on whether remains are frozen or cooled, particularly for cases involving infectious disease. Most funeral homes and morgues primarily need coolers rather than freezers for standard operations, though facilities dealing with long-term storage or special cases might benefit from having both options available.
How to Finance Mortuary Coolers for Sale
Quality doesn't have to break the bank. Several financing options make essential mortuary coolers for sale more accessible for any budget.
0% down payment options let you start using your cooler immediately without large upfront costs. 90-day payment deferment gives you time to begin generating revenue before your first payment is due. For maximum flexibility, equipment leasing offers lower monthly payments with options to upgrade when your lease ends.
Don't forget about tax benefits! Section 179 potentially allows you to deduct the full purchase price in the first year, significantly reducing the actual cost of your investment.
Several lenders specialize in funeral industry equipment, including Stearns Bank N.A., First Financial, Ascentium Capital, and Geneva Capital. At American Mortuary Coolers, we can connect you with financing partners who understand your unique needs and can structure terms that align with your business goals.
Portable & Rapid-Deploy Solutions
Sometimes standard solutions don't fit unusual circumstances. For facilities needing flexible or emergency refrigeration, specialized mortuary coolers for sale offer innovative approaches.
The MERC System (Mortuary Improved Remains Cooling) uses patented direct-contact liquid cooling technology for portable remains preservation. As the manufacturer notes, it's "the first direct contact cooling system using liquid cooling technology to store human remains, and is the only human remains cooling system that is completely portable, scalable and interoperable."
For surge capacity during disasters or pandemics, refrigerated container rentals provide rapid-deployment morgue overflow storage. These units can be delivered and operational within hours rather than days – crucial during emergencies.
Budget-conscious facilities might consider CoolBot DIY solutions, which pair with standard window air conditioners to create cost-effective walk-in coolers. One customer shared: "With the 8'x12' CoolBot Walk In Cooler for about $5K, I've got capacity for twenty-five people. I've become the largest refrigeration facility for human remains in Southern California because of CoolBot. It is literally a game changer in the funeral industry."
These approaches are particularly valuable for pandemic response planning, natural disaster preparedness, temporary overflow during facility renovations, or simply as budget-friendly alternatives to traditional systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold should a mortuary cooler run?
The sweet spot for mortuary refrigeration is between 34-40°F (1-4°C). This range provides ideal preservation conditions without freezing, which can complicate embalming and preparation. Most facilities target 37-38°F as the perfect balance for preservation. Modern digital temperature controllers make maintaining this precise range remarkably simple.
Can I install it myself?
Absolutely! Most mortuary coolers for sale are designed with DIY installation in mind. Smaller units (1-4 body capacity) typically arrive either fully assembled or with panels that connect using intuitive cam-lock systems requiring minimal tools.
For walk-in coolers, the modular panel design allows for on-site assembly, though professional installation is recommended for larger units. American Mortuary Coolers offers optional assembly services if you'd prefer expert help.
Just make sure you have adequate ventilation around the compressor, access to a standard 110V outlet, level flooring to support the unit, and sufficient clearance for doors to open fully. With these basics in place, installation is straightforward.
What warranty comes standard?
Quality mortuary coolers for sale include comprehensive protection for your investment. Industry-leading coverage typically includes a 15-year warranty on panels and doors, 5-year warranty on mechanical parts, and 2-year warranty on parts and labor.
This generous coverage reflects the durability and quality of properly manufactured mortuary coolers. When purchasing from American Mortuary Coolers, all units come with this full warranty protection, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
Just remember to maintain ambient temperature below 95°F to avoid voiding the compressor warranty, follow recommended maintenance schedules, and use the cooler as intended for human remains storage. With these simple precautions, your cooler will provide reliable service for decades.
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Conclusion
When searching for mortuary coolers for sale, finding a reliable partner who understands the unique needs of the funeral industry makes all the difference. At American Mortuary Coolers, we've built our reputation on providing durable, efficient cooling solutions custom to the specific requirements of funeral homes, morgues, and medical facilities across the nation.
Our comprehensive range of mortuary coolers—from compact single-body units to expansive walk-in chambers—ensures that facilities of any size can find the perfect solution. With prices ranging from $5,799 for entry-level models to $32,995 for premium multi-body systems, we offer options for every budget without compromising on quality.
What truly sets American Mortuary Coolers apart is our commitment to customization. We understand that each facility has unique space constraints, workflow requirements, and capacity needs. That's why we offer fully customizable solutions—from door configurations and floor types to special dimensions and accessory options. Our team works directly with you to design the perfect cooling solution for your specific situation.
With manufacturing facilities strategically located across the country—including Johnson City TN, Atlanta GA, Chicago IL, Dallas TX, and Los Angeles—we provide efficient, direct-to-door delivery across all 48 contiguous states. This nationwide presence ensures timely delivery and responsive service no matter where your facility is located.
As Frank Gallo, one of our satisfied customers, noted: "From the sale to the delivery of the product, every step is made easy with American Mortuary Coolers! We've purchased walk-in coolers for all our locations!"
Whether you're opening a new facility, replacing aging equipment, or expanding your capacity, American Mortuary Coolers offers the expertise, quality products, and personalized service to meet your needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find why so many funeral professionals trust us for their mortuary refrigeration needs.