Every funeral home, mortuary, and crematory requires reliable cold storage to preserve human remains with dignity and compliance. But one of the most common questions directors ask is:
👉 “Should I choose a single body mortuary cooler, or invest in a multi body unit?”
The right choice depends on your facility size, caseload, and long-term needs.
This article explains the differences between single body and multi body mortuary coolers, their costs, advantages, and how to choose the best solution. Along the way, we’ll highlight affordable, durable models from American Mortuary Equipment Company that professionals trust nationwide.
What is a Mortuary Cooler?
A mortuary cooler is a refrigeration system designed to preserve human remains at 36–38°F. These units are essential for:
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Funeral homes preparing services
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Hospitals and coroners storing decedents
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Crematories holding remains before processing
Coolers come in single body (individual use) and multi body (higher capacity) configurations.
Single Body Mortuary Coolers
Features
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Compact footprint
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Stores one decedent at a time
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Affordable entry-level option
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Fits small prep rooms or limited spaces
Pros
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✅ Lower upfront cost
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✅ Compact for small funeral homes
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✅ Easy to install and operate
Cons
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⚠️ Limited capacity (requires multiple units if case volume increases)
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⚠️ Less efficient for mid-to-large funeral homes
Best For
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Small funeral homes
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Rural facilities with low caseload
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Overflow capacity
Multi Body Mortuary Coolers
Features
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Store 2–12+ decedents depending on size
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Available in upright or walk-in designs
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Stainless steel racks for organized storage
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Long lifespan (15–20+ years)
Pros
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✅ Handles multiple cases simultaneously
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✅ Space-efficient (one unit replaces several single-body coolers)
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✅ Scalable for growing facilities
Cons
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⚠️ Higher upfront cost
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⚠️ Requires more installation space
Best For
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Medium to large funeral homes
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Hospitals and coroners
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Crematories and high-volume facilities
Upright vs Walk-In Multi Body Coolers
Upright Mortuary Coolers
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Compact vertical design
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Capacity: 2–4 decedents
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Fits into small-to-medium prep rooms
👉 Example: Model 2000-04BX 4 Body Upright Mortuary Cooler
👉 Example: Model 2000-03BX 3 Body Xtra Wide Upright Mortuary Cooler
Walk-In Mortuary Coolers
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Large, customizable chamber
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Capacity: 6–12+ decedents
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Best for hospitals, large funeral homes, and crematories
👉 Example: Model 2000-1010 10 x 10 Walk-In Mortuary Cooler
Storage Racks and Capacity Expansion
Even the best cooler needs efficient storage racks. Multi-tier systems maximize cooler space and workflow.
👉 Example: 5 Tier Stainless Steel Multi Directional Mortuary Rack (2000-5TMD-SST)
These racks are:
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Stainless steel for durability
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Multi-directional for easy loading
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Space-saving, maximizing cooler capacity
Cost Comparison: Single vs Multi Body Units
| Type | Capacity | Cost Range | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Body Cooler | 1 body | $4,000 – $6,000 | Small funeral homes, overflow storage |
| Upright Multi Body Cooler | 2–4 bodies | $6,000 – $12,000 | Medium funeral homes, compact facilities |
| Walk-In Multi Body Cooler | 6–12+ bodies | $15,000 – $35,000 | Hospitals, large mortuaries, crematories |
Which One Do You Need?
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Choose Single Body Coolers If:
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You’re a small funeral home with limited space
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You rarely need to store more than one decedent at a time
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You want an affordable entry-level option
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Choose Multi Body Coolers If:
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You handle multiple cases daily
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You need to prepare for growth or seasonal surges
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You want long-term cost efficiency
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Long-Term Value Considerations
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Durability – Stainless steel construction ensures decades of use.
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Energy Efficiency – Newer compressors reduce electricity costs.
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Scalability – Multi body units adapt better as facilities grow.
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Resale Value – Professional-grade coolers retain long-term value.
Why American Mortuary Equipment Company is the Best Choice
Unlike generic suppliers like medical-stretchers.com, we provide:
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✅ Affordable Pricing – Direct-to-director savings
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✅ Variety – Single body, upright, walk-in, and custom models
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✅ Nationwide Delivery – Fast shipping and service across the U.S.
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✅ Durability – Stainless steel, industrial-grade construction
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✅ Customization – Sizes built to fit your exact prep room
Testimonials
“We upgraded from a single body cooler to a 10x10 Walk-In Mortuary Cooler. The value and durability are unmatched.” – Funeral Director, Ohio
“Our 4 Body Upright Mortuary Cooler has been reliable and efficient. Perfect for our mid-size funeral home.” – Mortuary Manager, Texas
FAQs
Q: What’s the lifespan of a mortuary cooler?
Typically 15–20+ years with proper care.
Q: How much space do I need for a walk-in cooler?
A standard 10x10 Walk-In Cooler requires 100 sq ft plus installation clearance.
Q: Can I expand cooler capacity later?
Yes — with modular racks like the 5 Tier Multi Directional Mortuary Rack.
Q: Are upright coolers space-efficient?
Yes — units like the 3 Body Xtra Wide Upright Cooler maximize storage in tight rooms.
Conclusion
The choice between a single body mortuary cooler and a multi body mortuary cooler depends on your facility’s caseload, space, and growth plans.
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Single body units work well for small funeral homes or overflow capacity.
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Multi body units — upright or walk-in — are best for medium to high-volume facilities.
For professionals nationwide, American Mortuary Equipment Company provides affordable, durable mortuary coolers — from single body units to multi body walk-in coolers and modular storage racks.
👉 Ready to upgrade? Request a Free Quote at MyMortuaryCooler.com