Meeting Modern Mortuary Challenges
Bariatric mortuary fridges are specialized refrigeration units designed specifically to accommodate deceased individuals of larger size, with capacities typically supporting bodies weighing up to 256 kg (40 stone). These essential units differ significantly from standard mortuary refrigerators in several critical ways:
| Feature | Bariatric Mortuary Fridge | Standard Mortuary Fridge |
|---|---|---|
| Tray Width | Up to 890 mm | 600-700 mm typical |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 256 kg (40 stone) | 150-180 kg typical |
| Door Width | 36" (915 mm) or greater | 30" (760 mm) typical |
| Construction | Reinforced rollers and trays | Standard components |
| Price Range | $18,999-$25,699 | $12,000-$18,000 |
The need for specialized bariatric mortuary refrigeration has grown significantly in recent years. As obesity rates continue to rise globally, funeral homes and medical facilities face increasing challenges in providing dignified care for larger individuals after death. Standard mortuary refrigerators simply lack the dimensional capacity and structural strength needed to safely accommodate bariatric cases.
Modern bariatric mortuary refrigeration solutions range from single-bay cabinets to walk-in coolers with specialized rack systems, all designed with the same core purpose: maintaining bodies at the optimal 2°C to 4°C temperature range while providing safe, respectful handling for staff and the deceased.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier of mortuary refrigeration systems with extensive experience selecting and installing bariatric mortuary fridges for facilities across the United States. My work with funeral homes has shown that proper bariatric equipment not only ensures dignified treatment but also protects staff from workplace injuries.
Bariatric mortuary fridge terms explained:
What Makes a "Bariatric Mortuary Fridge" Different?
The fundamental differences between standard and bariatric mortuary fridges go far beyond simply being "bigger." These specialized units incorporate several critical design elements that ensure safe, dignified storage of larger individuals while protecting staff from injury.
When you first see a bariatric unit, you'll immediately notice the significantly wider trays, typically measuring up to 890 mm × 2055 mm compared to standard trays of around 700 mm width. These extra-wide trays aren't just roomier - they're engineered to safely support bodies weighing up to 256 kg (40 stone), nearly double what standard units can handle.
But the differences run much deeper than dimensions. Quality bariatric units feature reinforced roller systems with heavy-duty polypropylene glide rollers that maintain smooth operation even under maximum load. They maintain the industry-standard 2-4°C positive temperature range with digital precision, ensuring proper preservation.
Modern bariatric units also include improved alarm systems with both audio and visual high/low temperature alerts. The thoughtful ergonomic design reduces physical strain on staff during transfers, while medical-grade stainless steel construction withstands rigorous cleaning protocols.
As Maria from Sunset Memorial in Atlanta shared with us, "Before our bariatric unit, we were constantly improvising for larger cases. The stress on our staff was unbearable. Our bariatric mortuary fridge has transformed how we handle these cases with both dignity and safety."
How a bariatric mortuary fridge safeguards dignity
The rising trend in obesity rates has created unique challenges for mortuary services. A bariatric mortuary fridge provides essential dignity through purpose-built design rather than makeshift adaptations of standard equipment.
"Dignity in death is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of body size," explains Dr. James Hoffman, a forensic pathologist who consults with American Mortuary Coolers. "When facilities use inadequate cooling equipment for bariatric cases, it can lead to accelerated decomposition, difficult transfers, and ultimately, compromised dignity for the deceased and their families."
Proper bariatric units allow for correct body positioning without compression, ensuring adequate air circulation around the entire body. They enable safe, respectful transfers with minimal handling, and provide appropriate spacing between bodies in multi-bay units.
For families experiencing the loss of a loved one with morbid obesity, knowing their family member is receiving specialized care rather than makeshift accommodations provides immeasurable comfort during an already difficult time.
Why choose a bariatric mortuary fridge over standard cabinet?
The consequences of using standard mortuary refrigeration for bariatric cases extend far beyond dignity concerns. Structural failure risks are very real - standard units simply aren't engineered to support weights exceeding 180kg, creating potential for catastrophic equipment failure that could damage both the deceased and your facility.
Temperature maintenance challenges are another critical concern. Inadequate spacing around larger bodies can create cooling "dead zones" that accelerate decomposition. There are also serious OSHA compliance concerns, as workplace safety regulations require appropriate equipment for handling heavy loads to prevent staff injuries.
Using standard equipment for bariatric cases also creates space utilization inefficiency. Attempting to use multiple standard bays for a single bariatric case wastes valuable cooler space that could serve other families.
Tom, a funeral director in Dallas, learned this lesson the hard way: "We thought we could make do with our standard cooler for occasional bariatric cases, but after a particularly challenging situation that resulted in both equipment damage and staff injuries, we realized specialized equipment wasn't optional—it was essential."
For more comprehensive information about effective body cooling solutions for all situations, visit our detailed guide.
Buying Checklist & Key Specs You Can't Ignore
Shopping for a bariatric mortuary fridge can feel overwhelming with all the technical specifications to consider. But don't worry - I've helped hundreds of funeral homes find the perfect solution, and I'm here to guide you through the essentials.
Let's talk about what really matters when you're evaluating these specialized units. Door width is absolutely critical - you'll need at least 36" (915mm) of clearance to accommodate those wider bariatric trays. Speaking of trays, look for dimensions around 890 × 2055 mm to ensure proper support for larger individuals.
"I learned this lesson the hard way," shared Marcus from Dignity Memorial in Chicago. "We purchased what was marketed as a 'bariatric-friendly' unit without checking the actual tray dimensions. The first time we needed it for a 280-pound case, we realized it was barely larger than our standard units. That was an expensive mistake."
Insulation thickness might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it's crucial for maintaining consistent temperatures. Quality units feature 50–80 mm polyurethane foam (PUF) insulation that maintains thermal efficiency while keeping energy costs reasonable.
When it comes to cooling systems, you've got two main options. Top-mounted systems are the simplest to install and work well in most environments. If you're dealing with space constraints or your facility runs particularly warm, a remote-condensing unit might be the better choice, keeping heat-generating components away from your workspace.
Modern bariatric mortuary fridges should include comprehensive alarm systems. At minimum, look for hi/lo temperature alerts and door-ajar warnings. The better models offer remote monitoring capabilities that can send alerts to your phone or integrate with your facility's existing systems.
"The biggest mistake we see facilities make is focusing solely on the internal dimensions while overlooking critical operational factors like service access and alarm integration," notes Michael Thornton, our installation specialist at American Mortuary Coolers. "A properly specified bariatric mortuary fridge should work seamlessly with your existing systems and facility layout."
Don't overlook warranty coverage when comparing options. The industry leaders typically offer up to 60-month warranties, which speaks volumes about their confidence in their product quality. This can save you thousands in potential repair costs down the line.
Installation requirements deserve careful consideration too. Most units require standard 110V or 240V power connections, but you'll also need to ensure you have drain access for defrost cycles and understand any ambient temperature limitations that might affect performance.
Finally, remember to check for adequate service access points. Your maintenance team will thank you when they don't have to disassemble half the unit to replace a simple part. Good designs provide thoughtful access panels that make routine maintenance straightforward.
By focusing on these key specifications, you'll find a bariatric mortuary fridge that not only meets your immediate needs but will serve your facility reliably for years to come. And remember, we're always just a phone call away if you need help sorting through the options.
Side-by-Side Spec Sheet
Shopping for a bariatric mortuary fridge can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. To make your decision easier, I've put together this straightforward comparison of the leading models available today.
Each of these units offers specialized features for bariatric storage, but they vary significantly in capacity, footprint, and price point. Let's look at how they stack up against each other:
| Model | Load Capacity | Temperature Range | External Dimensions (W×D×H) | Price Range | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuline NRMB1 | Single bay, 256kg | 2°C–4°C | 1140×2500×1370mm | $18,999 | 60 months |
| Flexmort Bariatric | Two bodies, 256kg each | 5°C (up to 40°C ambient) | Varies (modular) | Custom quote | 12 months |
| Mortech Bariatric Roll-In | Custom capacity | 2°C–4°C | Custom to order | Custom quote | 12 months (panels: 10 years) |
| AMC Bariatric Walk-In | Custom multi-body | 2°C–4°C | Custom from 7'3"×3'¾"×5'2" | From $18,999 | 10 years (panels), 1 year (compressor) |
| Mopec Body-Box | 2-15 bodies | 2°C–4°C | Varies by capacity | Custom quote | 12 months |
| Rago Bariatric | 1-3 berth | 2°C–5°C | Width: 1005mm (vs. standard 805mm) | Custom quote | 12 months |
"When I was helping a small-town funeral home in Georgia choose their first bariatric mortuary fridge, this comparison chart was invaluable," shares Tom, our installation specialist. "They could immediately see that while the Nuline offered the simplest solution, the AMC Walk-In provided more future flexibility for roughly the same starting price."
Notice that warranty terms vary significantly between manufacturers. Nuline stands out with their 5-year coverage, while AMC provides excellent long-term protection for their insulated panels. For many of our customers, these warranty differences become a deciding factor when making their final selection.
The modular systems like Mortech and AMC offer tremendous flexibility for facilities with unique space constraints or growing needs. One funeral director in Texas told me, "We started with a basic two-bay configuration but appreciated knowing we could expand without replacing the entire system as our needs changed."
Custom quotes often provide the best value, especially when you work with specialists who understand the unique challenges of mortuary refrigeration. Our team at American Mortuary Coolers is always available to help you steer these options and find the perfect fit for your facility's specific requirements.
Nuline NRMB1 Single-Bay Bariatric Cabinet
The Nuline NRMB1 represents the gold standard in single-bay bariatric mortuary fridges, offering a turnkey solution that combines premium construction with operational simplicity.
Key features that set the NRMB1 apart:
- All stainless-steel construction: Both interior and exterior surfaces for maximum durability and hygiene
- Top-mounted refrigeration system: Simply move into position and connect to power—no complex installation required
- Frost-free operation: Eliminates the need for manual defrosting, reducing maintenance requirements
- Industry-leading warranty: Exceptional 60-month coverage reflects confidence in build quality
- Advanced refrigeration technology: 240V operation with eco-friendly R134a refrigerant
- Comprehensive monitoring: Digital control panel with integrated alarm system and remote connection capability
- Generous tray dimensions: 890×2055mm tray included as standard
According to one hospital mortuary manager in Chicago who recently installed the NRMB1, "The combination of build quality and operational simplicity made this an easy choice. The digital monitoring system integrates perfectly with our existing facility management systems, and the stainless construction has made cleaning and maintenance remarkably straightforward."
For detailed technical specifications on this premium unit, you can Download Product Specifications Here.
Best for plug-and-play hospital upgrades
The Nuline NRMB1 single-bay bariatric mortuary fridge has found particular success in hospital settings where ease of installation and minimal disruption are paramount concerns.
Its plug-and-play design allows for installation without specialized contractors—simply position the unit, connect to a standard power outlet, and it's operational. This has made it the preferred choice for facilities upgrading their capabilities without extensive renovation.
The low-maintenance design further improves its appeal for busy hospital environments. The frost-free refrigeration system eliminates time-consuming manual defrosting, while the stainless-steel construction simplifies cleaning and sanitization between uses.
As one hospital facilities manager told us, "We were able to install our NRMB1 during a four-hour window overnight, and it was fully operational for our morgue staff the next morning. That kind of minimal disruption is invaluable in a hospital environment."
Flexmort Bariatric "Pop-Up" Mobile Mortuary
When you need bariatric storage solutions in a hurry, the Flexmort Bariatric offers something truly different from traditional bariatric mortuary fridges with its clever "pop-up" design.
Think of it as a mortuary refrigerator that travels with you. The system starts with a specially designed tent-like structure that creates a controlled environment virtually anywhere. Inside, the integrated AirCool refrigeration module maintains a steady 5°C temperature – perfect for proper preservation.
What makes this system remarkable is its capacity. Despite its portable nature, it can accommodate two bariatric bodies weighing up to 256 kg (40 stone) each. And setting it up? One person can have it fully operational in under 30 minutes without needing a single tool.
The roller-racking system makes transfers smooth and dignified, while the robust cooling technology keeps working even when outside temperatures soar to 40°C. For facilities with budget constraints or temporary needs, Flexmort offers both purchase and rental options.
"We had a pipe burst that flooded our main mortuary area last winter," shared a funeral director from Denver. "The Flexmort system saved us from a crisis. We had it delivered the next day, set up in our garage space, and continued serving families without missing a beat. It was a genuine lifesaver."
The system is designed to work seamlessly with standard mortuary trolleys, making body transfers straightforward for staff already familiar with their existing equipment.
Field response & overflow champion
The Flexmort Bariatric truly shines when disaster strikes or when facilities suddenly find themselves short on space. While permanent bariatric mortuary fridges serve most everyday needs, the Flexmort fills a crucial gap in emergency response.
Its rapid-deployment capability has made it the go-to solution for mass fatality incidents where fixed facilities quickly become overwhelmed. Emergency management teams value how quickly it can be transported and set up in remote locations that lack permanent infrastructure.
During seasonal surges or planned renovations, hospitals and funeral homes have found it provides the perfect temporary expansion of their mortuary capacity. The system has even become a valuable training tool, creating realistic environments for disaster preparedness exercises.
"When we're responding in the field, conditions are never ideal," explained a FEMA response coordinator. "The Flexmort gives us hospital-quality refrigeration capability that fits in the back of our response vehicles. We can maintain dignity and proper preservation standards even in the most challenging environments."
The tool-free assembly process means that even in high-stress situations, staff can quickly establish proper bariatric storage without specialized training or equipment. This simplicity, combined with its impressive cooling performance, has made the Flexmort an essential component in many emergency response plans nationwide.
Mortech Bariatric Roll-In Refrigerator
When your facility needs a permanent solution that can grow with you, the Mortech Bariatric Roll-In Refrigerator stands out as a highly adaptable option in bariatric mortuary fridges.
What makes the Mortech system special is its thoughtful design that anticipates real-world mortuary challenges. The extra-wide 36" door openings ensure smooth, dignified transfers of larger individuals, while the clever telescopic rack systems extend up to three-quarters of their length while maintaining rock-solid stability.
"We chose Mortech because we needed something that would work for us today but also five years from now," shares a funeral director from Boston who recently installed their system. "The modular panels mean we can actually take it with us if we ever relocate or expand our facility."
Built with NSF-certified components and OSHA-compliant safety handles that prevent accidental entrapment, the American-made quality shines through in every detail. What really sets Mortech apart, though, is their "yes, we can do that" approach to customization. Whether you need an unusual size, special configuration, or remote refrigeration systems for tight spaces, their team makes it happen.
As one medical examiner told us, "We had a challenging space with low ceilings and an awkward layout. The Mortech team designed a custom solution that fits perfectly where nothing else would work."
Future-proof scalability for expanding morgues
The beauty of the Mortech system lies in its ability to evolve alongside your facility's needs. Think of it as the "LEGO set" of bariatric mortuary fridges – flexible, reconfigurable, and built to last.
The heart of this adaptability is their innovative cantilever rack system. Unlike fixed racks, these can be reconfigured without structural changes, allowing you to adjust your storage layout as needs change. For facilities serving multiple departments, the optional pass-through capability means a single refrigeration unit can serve two separate rooms – a smart efficiency in both space and budget.
"We initially installed a four-body capacity system," a medical examiner's facility manager from Seattle told us with a smile. "Three years later, when we needed to double our capacity, we just expanded the existing unit instead of starting over. Saved us a fortune and weeks of disruption."
The redundant alarm systems provide peace of mind with multiple monitoring points, while the scalable refrigeration is intentionally sized with future growth in mind. For facilities that anticipate changing needs – which, let's be honest, is most of us these days – this future-proof design protects against premature obsolescence.
As one funeral director put it, "In this business, you need equipment that solves today's problems while anticipating tomorrow's challenges. Our Mortech system does exactly that."
American Mortuary Coolers AMC Bariatric Walk-In
For facilities requiring maximum capacity and customization, American Mortuary Coolers' AMC Bariatric Walk-In systems offer best flexibility and value among large-scale bariatric mortuary fridges.
Manufactured in our Tennessee facility, these walk-in systems feature:
- High-performance 4" urethane panel insulation: UL Class 1 rated for superior thermal efficiency
- Industry-leading warranty: 10-year coverage on panels, reflecting exceptional durability
- Flexible financing: Zero payments for 90 days on qualifying purchases
- Customizable door configuration: Position and quantity custom to your facility layout
- Simple electrical requirements: Operates on standard 110V power
- Delivery logistics expertise: Specialized handling for oversized components
- Nationwide direct delivery: Available throughout the contiguous 48 states
"The ability to specify exactly what we needed rather than adapting our processes to a standard product was invaluable," notes a mortuary manager from Columbia, SC. "Our facility has an unusual layout with limited access points, but American Mortuary Coolers designed a custom solution that fits perfectly while accommodating our bariatric case requirements."
For more detailed information about our walk-in cooler options and pricing structures, visit our comprehensive guide.
Budget-friendly custom giant
While many custom solutions come with premium price tags, American Mortuary Coolers' AMC Bariatric Walk-In systems stand out for delivering customized bariatric mortuary fridge solutions at competitive price points.
This value proposition is achieved through:
- Direct-delivery model: Eliminating middleman markups by shipping directly from our Tennessee manufacturing facility
- Optional lift-gate service: Adding just $75 for convenient delivery at locations without loading docks
- Staff-assembly option: Providing detailed instructions for facilities wishing to reduce installation costs
- Modular component design: Allowing future expansion without complete replacement
- Simplified electrical requirements: Avoiding costly electrical system upgrades in most installations
"As a county facility with strict budget constraints, we were concerned that a bariatric-capable walk-in would exceed our funding," shares a county morgue director from our Midwest Region. "The AMC system not only met our technical requirements but came in significantly under budget compared to competing quotes, particularly once we factored in the direct delivery savings."
For facilities balancing specialized requirements with budget limitations, this combination of customization and value makes the AMC system particularly attractive.
Mopec Bariatric Roll-In & Body-Box Systems
For facilities that demand the very best in precision and quality, Mopec's Bariatric Roll-In and Body-Box Systems stand at the top tier of bariatric mortuary fridges. These aren't just coolers – they're engineering marvels designed for environments where excellence isn't optional.
What makes these systems special is their incredible versatility. The fully modular panel construction means you can assemble, take apart, and relocate these units as your needs change. Whether you need storage for 2 bodies or 15, Mopec has you covered with configurations that grow with your facility.
One of my favorite features is the dual-temperature options. Imagine having both refrigeration and freezer sections in a single unit – it's like getting two mortuary solutions in one footprint. The advanced cantilever rack systems are another standout, giving you maximum storage efficiency without sacrificing accessibility.
Mopec hasn't overlooked the details either. The vapor-proof lighting is specifically engineered for mortuary environments, while the integrated dehumidification system controls moisture levels to improve preservation. And for peace of mind, the comprehensive remote alarm capability ensures 24/7 monitoring of all critical parameters.
I've spoken with many teaching hospitals and forensic facilities who've chosen Mopec systems precisely because of this attention to detail. As one forensic laboratory director from Los Angeles told me, "The level of engineering in our Mopec system gives us complete confidence in the preservation integrity. The remote monitoring capability integrates seamlessly with our building management system, providing real-time alerts to any deviation from optimal conditions."
Laboratory-grade precision & compliance
When it comes to facilities where standards can't be compromised, Mopec systems shine brightest. These aren't just bariatric mortuary fridges – they're precision instruments designed for environments where compliance and performance are non-negotiable.
The NSF-certified door components meet the most stringent health and safety requirements in the industry. The 4" high-R-value panels don't just meet thermal efficiency standards – they exceed them. For facilities with complex monitoring needs, the extensive control panel customization allows seamless integration with existing laboratory systems.
Documentation packages come standard, taking the headache out of regulatory compliance requirements. And perhaps most impressively, these units maintain temperature accuracy within ±1°C throughout the entire storage chamber – a level of precision that makes a real difference in preservation quality.
I remember speaking with a facility director from a New York teaching hospital who summed it up perfectly: "As a teaching hospital with both clinical and research requirements, our mortuary refrigeration needs are particularly complex. The Mopec system's ability to maintain precise temperatures while accommodating our bariatric cases has eliminated a significant challenge in our operation."
For facilities where regulatory compliance isn't just important but essential, and where performance documentation needs to be impeccable, Mopec's systems deliver peace of mind alongside their remarkable technical capabilities. They're the gold standard for environments where nothing less than the best will do.
Rago Standard & Bariatric Mortuary Refrigerator
When it comes to keeping things clean and simple, Rago Refrigeration really shines in the bariatric mortuary fridge market. With 45+ years of cooling expertise under their belt, they've created systems that tackle one of the biggest challenges funeral homes face: maintaining impeccable hygiene with minimal effort.
Rago's bariatric units come with some truly thoughtful features that make daily operations smoother. Their built-in germicidal UV lighting system is a game-changer, automatically sanitizing the interior between uses. This means less manual cleaning and greater peace of mind about maintaining proper conditions for the deceased.
The alarm system deserves special mention too - it provides both visual and audio alerts when temperatures drift outside the safe range, but includes a practical mute button so staff aren't constantly interrupted during services or meetings. It's these small but meaningful touches that show Rago really understands the daily realities of funeral home operations.
I recently spoke with a funeral director from Colorado who told me, "The self-sanitizing features and simplified cleaning process have been game-changers for our operation. With limited staff, the time savings and improved hygiene are tremendous advantages."
The design details really stand out too. Rago uses flush-line concealed hinges to eliminate those hard-to-clean crevices where bacteria love to hide. Their integrated waste fitting makes thorough cleaning and drainage straightforward, while the heavy-duty 75mm nylon castors ensure you can move these substantial units when needed, despite their robust construction.
For facilities needing detailed documentation, Rago offers optional temperature logging capabilities. And for those with building-wide monitoring systems, the remote alarm connection lets you integrate your bariatric mortuary fridge into your existing alert infrastructure.
Hygiene-first choice for small facilities
If you're running a smaller funeral home where your staff wears multiple hats, Rago's attention to easy maintenance makes perfect sense. Their units feature SS-304 grade stainless steel construction - the good stuff that resists corrosion and cleans up beautifully without special chemicals or excessive scrubbing.
The high-density PUF insulation does double duty, not just keeping temperatures stable but also preventing moisture from getting where it shouldn't be - which means less worry about mold or bacterial growth in those hidden spaces.
"As a small-town funeral home with just three staff members, we need equipment that minimizes maintenance demands while maintaining impeccable standards," a funeral director from Arizona shared with me. "The Rago unit's self-sanitizing features and easy-clean design have allowed us to confidently handle bariatric cases without adding staff or compromising our hygiene protocols."
I particularly appreciate their rapid-clean drain system, which makes thorough sanitization quick and straightforward. When you're a small operation, time saved on maintenance means more time caring for families - and that's what really matters.
The smooth-surface design philosophy extends throughout the unit, eliminating those annoying corners and joints that can be nearly impossible to clean properly. It's this kind of thoughtful engineering that makes Rago units stand out for smaller facilities where every minute of staff time is precious.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bariatric Mortuary Fridges
What temperature should a bariatric mortuary fridge run at?
When it comes to temperature, there's actually a pretty narrow sweet spot for bariatric mortuary fridges. You'll want to maintain a consistent 2°C to 4°C (35.6°F to 39.2°F) throughout the cabinet. This range hits the perfect balance - cold enough to significantly slow decomposition processes but not so cold that you risk tissue damage from freezing.
Temperature consistency becomes even more critical with larger individuals. Bariatric bodies can develop what we call "hot spots" - areas where cooling is less effective, potentially leading to uneven preservation. That's why quality bariatric units feature improved air circulation systems that ensure the cold air wraps completely around the entire body.
"We learned this lesson the hard way," shared a funeral director from Missouri. "Our standard unit struggled with larger cases because the air couldn't circulate properly. Upgrading to a proper bariatric mortuary fridge with improved airflow solved the problem immediately."
While standard positive-temperature refrigeration works for most situations, some facilities might consider negative-temperature bariatric freezers (-10°C to -50°C) for special circumstances or extended storage needs. But for routine care, that 2-4°C range remains the gold standard.
How much floor space does a bariatric unit require?
I get this question all the time, and the answer always starts with "it depends" - because floor space requirements vary dramatically based on what you're looking for.
For single-bay cabinet units like our popular Nuline NRMB1, you're looking at about 2.85 square meters (1140mm × 2500mm) of floor space. Two-body bariatric cabinets typically need 3.5-4 square meters, while walk-in systems start around 5 square meters for smaller units and go up from there.
But here's what people often overlook - it's not just about the unit's footprint. You need to consider the full operational space:
Door swing clearance requires an additional 1-1.2 meters in front of the unit. Service access means keeping 600-900mm clear around the sides and rear. And perhaps most importantly, you need adequate transfer space for staff to safely move bodies in and out.
As Mike, our installation specialist based in Dallas, always says: "A bariatric mortuary fridge that physically fits the space but doesn't allow for safe transfers just creates new problems instead of solving existing ones."
When we work with clients, we always create a detailed floor plan that accounts for all these factors. It's the difference between equipment that works on paper and equipment that works in real life.
Do bariatric fridges need special lifting equipment?
While the bariatric mortuary fridge itself doesn't require special equipment for installation (though they are substantially heavier than standard units), the safe handling of larger individuals absolutely does require specialized transfer equipment.
Most facilities that invest in bariatric refrigeration also wisely invest in complementary handling equipment. This typically includes bariatric-rated hydraulic lifts that safely transfer between different height surfaces, reinforced transfer boards that distribute weight during lateral transfers, and extra-wide mortuary carts providing stable transport to and from the refrigeration unit.
"The refrigeration unit is just one piece of the puzzle," explains Sarah, our equipment specialist who serves the Southeast Region. "For both staff safety and dignified handling, compatible transfer equipment isn't optional - it's essential."
I remember visiting a funeral home in Tennessee that had purchased a beautiful new bariatric unit but hadn't updated their transfer equipment. Within three months, they had two staff members with back injuries. When they added proper mechanical assistance devices, those injuries stopped immediately.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we're happy to provide guidance on compatible transfer equipment that works seamlessly with our refrigeration systems. After all, the goal isn't just keeping remains at the right temperature - it's creating a complete system that maintains dignity while protecting your staff.
Conclusion
As obesity rates continue to climb nationwide, having a proper bariatric mortuary fridge has shifted from being a specialty consideration to an essential requirement for most funeral homes and mortuary facilities. Making this investment isn't just about equipment—it's about ensuring dignity for the deceased, safety for your staff, and compliance with workplace regulations.
Throughout my years helping funeral directors select the right refrigeration solutions, I've noticed several key considerations that successful facilities prioritize:
First, think about modular growth potential. The smartest investment isn't just what fits your needs today, but what can adapt as your facility evolves. Many of our clients start with systems they can expand later, saving substantial costs compared to complete replacements.
Next, don't overlook staff safety integration. Your team deserves equipment that reduces physical strain and prevents injuries. One funeral director in Ohio told me recently, "The reinforced rollers on our new bariatric unit have eliminated the back injuries that plagued us for years with our makeshift solutions."
Ensuring compliance assurance provides peace of mind that's hard to quantify. When health inspectors or OSHA representatives visit (and they will), having purpose-built equipment that meets all relevant standards eliminates a major potential headache.
Finally, consider the return on investment beyond just the initial price tag. A quality bariatric mortuary fridge might cost more upfront but typically offers lower energy consumption, reduced maintenance needs, and significantly longer service life—often 15+ years of reliable operation.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that selecting the right bariatric refrigeration solution involves balancing technical requirements, space constraints, and budget considerations. Our team specializes in helping facilities across all 48 contiguous states find that perfect balance for their specific needs.
We don't just sell refrigeration units—we provide solutions to real challenges faced by real people in the funeral profession. Our Tennessee manufacturing facility allows us to create truly customized options while our direct-delivery model keeps costs reasonable despite the specialized nature of this equipment.
For facilities ready to explore customized mortuary refrigeration solutions that address their unique bariatric storage challenges, visit our comprehensive resource center or give us a call. We're here to help you steer this important decision with clarity and confidence.