Understanding the Need for Big Mortuary Coolers
Big mortuary coolers are essential storage solutions for funeral homes, hospitals, medical examiners, and disaster response teams that need to maintain multiple deceased with dignity and proper preservation. If you're searching for a large-capacity mortuary refrigeration system, here's what you need to know:
- Capacity Range: Large walk-in coolers can store from 9 to 50+ bodies
- Temperature Control: Maintains 35-39°F for optimal preservation
- Installation Options: Pre-assembled or modular panel construction
- Power Requirements: Standard 110V for smaller units, 208-230V for larger systems
- Typical Dimensions: From 8'x12' (25-body capacity) to 20'x20' (48+ bodies)
Large-scale mortuary refrigeration has become increasingly important as funeral homes manage fluctuating demand and seek operational efficiency. These specialized cooling systems provide the necessary space and precise temperature control to properly care for the deceased while families make arrangements.
"At Polar King, we recognize the importance and sensitivity involved in the storage of the deceased."
When selecting a walk-in mortuary cooler, capacity planning is crucial. A 20x20 walk-in mortuary cooler can accommodate up to 48 deceased on 12 four-tier end-loading racks, with additional space for 4-5 removable cadaver racks in the central walkway.
The best systems combine American craftsmanship with modern energy efficiency. Many large coolers now feature DOE-certified performance panel systems with high-density insulation, UL-approved vapor-proof LED lighting, and precise digital temperature controls.
I'm with American Mortuary Cooler, a national-level mortuary cooler supplier with extensive experience providing Big Mortuary Coolers to funeral homes and medical facilities across the United States. While we pride ourselves on our quality, other reputable manufacturers in this space include Mortech Manufacturing, Mopec, and Thermo Fisher Scientific, each offering their own approach to mortuary refrigeration solutions.
Major Competing Companies
- Mortech Manufacturing
- Mopec
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Polar King
Basic Big Mortuary Coolers vocab:
Why This Guide Matters
The funeral industry is experiencing significant growth and evolution. With changing regulations, increasing demand for services like aquamation (water cremation) and body composting, and fluctuating capacity needs due to seasonal variations and unexpected events, having adequate refrigeration has never been more critical.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've seen how regulatory pressures have increased the need for proper storage solutions. Health departments across the country are enforcing stricter guidelines for the care and storage of the deceased, making professional-grade refrigeration a necessity rather than a luxury.
Big Mortuary Coolers 101
When we talk about Big Mortuary Coolers, we're referring to substantial refrigeration systems designed with one purpose in mind: providing dignified, temperature-controlled storage for multiple deceased individuals. These aren't your standard coolers—they're spacious systems typically holding 9 or more bodies, with many facilities choosing models that accommodate 25, 30, or even upwards of 50 deceased loved ones.
You'll typically find these robust cooling systems serving the needs of busy hospitals with active pathology departments, medical examiner offices in populous regions, high-volume funeral homes serving metropolitan communities, disaster response centers prepared for the unthinkable, and mortuary science educational facilities where tomorrow's professionals learn their craft.
What makes these systems "big" goes beyond just physical size—it's about their substantial storage capacity, powerful cooling capabilities, and thoughtfully designed features that allow for managing multiple deceased with both dignity and practical efficiency. If you'd like to explore the full range of walk-in options available, we've put together a comprehensive guide here.
What Sets Big Mortuary Coolers Apart?
There's a world of difference between standard mortuary refrigeration and Big Mortuary Coolers. While a typical 2-4 body cooler might need just 7'3" x 3'6" of floor space, a large walk-in system could require 20'x20' or more. This substantial difference means careful facility planning, but the capacity benefits are tremendous.
The sophisticated multi-tier rack systems in larger coolers maximize every inch of available space. At American Mortuary Coolers, we've refined these systems to include four-tier end-loading racks (4TEL), side-loading alternatives (4TSL), flexible cantilever storage systems, and combinations of fixed and mobile racks that create optimal workflow.
Most Big Mortuary Coolers feature modular panel construction using prefabricated, precision-formed insulated panels. This smart design approach means your cooler can be easily assembled, potentially relocated if your needs change, expanded in the future, and even customized to fit unusual spaces.
Competitors like Mortech and Mopec also offer modular systems, though their panel construction and insulation specifications may differ from our approach at American Mortuary Coolers.
Main Types & Configurations
When exploring options for Big Mortuary Coolers, you'll encounter several distinct configurations:
Walk-in coolers represent the most common large-scale mortuary refrigeration solution. These room-sized units allow staff to enter and access multiple deceased stored on organized rack systems. A standard walk-in comfortably stores at least nine bodies, while our larger models can accommodate 50+ with proper rack configurations.
For flexibility in sizing and future growth, modular systems built from prefabricated panels that assemble on-site offer tremendous advantages. Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we pride ourselves on creating modular systems customized to nearly any dimension.
When disaster strikes or seasonal demand spikes, mobile coolers provide portable refrigeration on trailer platforms. These units can be rapidly deployed to emergency sites or temporarily parked at facilities during renovations or unexpected capacity increases.
Facilities with unique spaces or specialized workflows often benefit from custom-built solutions. These might include L-shaped configurations working around structural columns, split-level designs, or clever integration with existing architecture.
Based on our years of experience serving clients from our regional offices in Johnson City TN, Atlanta GA, Chicago IL, and across the nation, we've found most high-volume facilities benefit most from walk-in systems with a thoughtful mix of fixed and mobile racks.
Core Features & Components
When you're investing in a Big Mortuary Cooler, you're not just buying a box that keeps things cold. You're purchasing a specialized system designed specifically for the dignified care of the deceased.
Insulation and Panel Construction
The heart of any quality Big Mortuary Cooler starts with its insulation. Our industry-standard panels deliver impressive R-values between 25-32, with 4" thick panels being the sweet spot for thermal efficiency without wasting space.
Today's high-performance panels use 26-gauge Acrylume/Embossed finishes that resist corrosion while being easy to sanitize. For your peace of mind, proper panels should always be UL Listed Class 1 and ASTM E84 tested to ensure they meet strict flame spread safety standards.
Door Systems
The door might seem simple, but it's actually one of the most critical components of your cooler. Heavy-duty chrome-plated hinges ensure years of reliable service, while magnetic gaskets create the airtight seal needed for temperature stability.
Safety is never an afterthought—OSHA-compliant safety release handles allow emergency exit from inside the cooler, an essential feature for walk-in units.
Refrigeration Components
The cooling system is where science meets compassion. Our Big Mortuary Coolers typically feature HTPG-RUSSELL DOE-compliant condensing units paired with Air Defrost Low-Profile evaporator systems. These systems use Dual Speed EC Motors that significantly reduce energy consumption compared to older technology.
Digital controllers provide precise temperature management with easy-to-read displays and built-in alarm capabilities. For facilities in regions with extreme temperatures, low ambient controls allow reliable operation regardless of external conditions.
Competitors like Thermo Fisher Scientific and Mortech Manufacturing also offer quality refrigeration components, though they may use different brands or configurations than our preferred systems.
Interior Features
Inside your Big Mortuary Cooler, vapor-proof LED lighting provides energy-efficient, bright illumination that stands up to humidity while making identification and access easier for staff.
The storage system is equally important. Cantilever storage racks offer adjustability to maximize capacity while allowing easy access. Modern facilities also need bariatric accommodation—specialized bays for larger individuals that reflect the demographics we serve today.
Want to explore more about large cooler options? Check out our detailed guide on large walk-in coolers.
Mortuary Cooler vs. Freezer—Know the Difference
"Do I need a cooler or a freezer?" It's one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer depends on your specific needs:
| Feature | Mortuary Cooler | Mortuary Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Range | 35-39°F (2-4°C) | -5 to -10°F (-20 to -23°C) |
| Primary Use | Short to medium-term preservation (days to weeks) | Long-term preservation (weeks to months) |
| Energy Consumption | Lower | Higher (approximately 30-40% more) |
| Typical Applications | Standard funeral home storage, hospital morgues | Medical examiner offices, forensic facilities, organ preservation |
| Effect on Tissue | Slows decomposition | Halts decomposition but may cause freezer burn over time |
| Thawing Considerations | Minimal | Requires careful thawing before preparation |
| Cost | Lower initial and operating costs | Higher initial and operating costs |
Most funeral homes primarily need coolers for routine operations. If you're handling long-term storage or forensic cases regularly, a freezer might be necessary. Medical examiners and research facilities often require freezing capabilities for extended preservation.
Planning, Installation & Compliance
Getting a Big Mortuary Cooler up and running requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Let me walk you through what you'll need to consider before your new cooling system arrives.
Site Preparation
Before your Big Mortuary Cooler can be installed, you'll need a proper foundation. A level concrete pad is absolutely essential - whether that's an existing floor or a newly poured slab. These units are substantial, and they need to support not just their own weight but also the weight of multiple deceased and storage racks.
Space planning matters too. Your cooler needs proper clearance around the unit, especially near the compressor, ensures good air circulation and gives technicians the access they need for maintenance.
When it comes to power, smaller units might work with your standard 110V outlets, but most Big Mortuary Coolers require more robust electrical service - typically 208-230V/1/60 for the condenser, plus separate 115V/1/60 circuits for evaporators and lighting.
Delivery and Installation Options
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that every facility is unique. That's why we offer flexible delivery options:
- Standard delivery for facilities with loading docks and forklifts
- White-glove service providing complete delivery and installation throughout the contiguous 48 states
- Unassembled panel shipping for facilities with access challenges
While handy facility managers might be tempted to handle installation themselves, professional installation is almost always worth the investment for Big Mortuary Coolers.
Competitors like Mopec and Mortech Manufacturing also offer installation services, though their coverage areas and installation approaches may differ from ours.
Regulatory Compliance
When it comes to storing the deceased, regulatory compliance isn't optional - it's essential. Big Mortuary Coolers must meet numerous standards:
- OSHA requirements mandate safety features like interior release handles
- NSF certification ensures all components meet strict sanitation standards
- UL listings verify electrical safety
- Energy efficiency compliance with the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
Don't forget local regulations! Many jurisdictions have specific requirements for mortuary refrigeration, and these can vary significantly from one location to another.
More info about 20x20 installs
Customization & Future Expansion
One thing I love about modern Big Mortuary Coolers is how adaptable they can be to your specific needs - both today and tomorrow.
Want your cooler to match your facility's décor? We offer PMS color matching at no extra charge. Need a specific door configuration to work with your space constraints? Choose from sliding doors, bi-parting doors, lift-up doors, or roll-up insulated options.
The best part? Many of our Big Mortuary Coolers are designed with future growth in mind. Their modular panel systems can be disassembled and reconfigured as your needs change. This means you can start with what fits your current budget and expand later without starting from scratch.
Costs, Financing & Acquisition Strategies
Let's talk dollars and cents—because investing in Big Mortuary Coolers doesn't have to break the bank. The price range for these essential systems is remarkably wide, giving you options no matter your budget situation.
Cost Ranges
The financial investment for Big Mortuary Coolers spans from surprisingly affordable to substantial, depending on what you need:
- DIY solutions using CoolBot technology: ~$5,000 for an 8'×12' walk-in cooler (25-body capacity)
- Entry-level walk-in systems: $15,000-$25,000
- Mid-range systems (10'x12' to 12'x20'): $30,000-$75,000
- Premium installations (20'x20' or larger): $100,000-$150,000
Competitors like Mortech Manufacturing and Mopec typically offer similar price ranges, though their specific pricing structures and included features may differ from our offerings at American Mortuary Coolers.
Financing Options
The good news? You don't need to write a giant check upfront. We've helped funeral homes across the country find creative ways to make Big Mortuary Coolers financially accessible:
- Equipment leasing preserves your capital and often provides tax advantages
- Zero down payment and deferred payments for up to 90 days on qualifying orders
- SBA loans with favorable terms specifically designed for essential business equipment
- Tax benefits through Section 179 deductions
- State sales tax exemptions for funeral service businesses
Alternative Acquisition Strategies
Sometimes thinking outside the box leads to the best solution. Beyond traditional purchase or financing, consider these approaches:
- Rental options from companies like Polar Leasing provide temporary solutions
- Grant opportunities, especially for facilities serving rural communities or with disaster response capabilities
- Cost-sharing between smaller facilities in the same region
At American Mortuary Coolers, we work with multiple financing partners nationwide to help you find the most advantageous acquisition strategy.
When to Upgrade to a Big Mortuary Cooler
How do you know when it's time to invest in more substantial refrigeration? Watch for these telltale signs:
- Capacity strain - if you're frequently at or near capacity, or regularly seeking overflow storage
- Seasonal challenges that consistently strain your storage capacity
- Adding new service offerings like aquamation (water cremation)
- Aging infrastructure requiring frequent repairs
- Disaster preparedness needs for facilities serving as regional resources
- Improved energy efficiency of modern systems providing significant utility savings
Accessories, Tools & Real-World Success
When it comes to Big Mortuary Coolers, having the right accessories and handling equipment makes all the difference in creating an efficient, safe environment for both staff and the deceased in your care.
Essential Accessories
Body lifts are perhaps the most important investment you'll make alongside your cooler. These hydraulic or battery-powered systems can handle over 1,000 pounds, dramatically reducing the physical burden on your staff and preventing workplace injuries.
Scissor tables have become increasingly popular for good reason. Their height-adjustable design creates a seamless transfer process between coolers and preparation areas, adapting to different staff heights and work preferences.
When it comes to trays and boards, you have several excellent options:
- HD Plastic Storage Boards - lightweight and easy to sanitize
- Grade 304 Stainless Steel Trays - ultimate durability and professional appearance
- Laminated Storage Boards - economical alternative that doesn't compromise functionality
Modern technology has also improved mortuary refrigeration monitoring. WiFi Alert Systems provide real-time temperature data and instant mobile notifications if any fluctuations occur.
Competitors like Mopec and Thermo Fisher Scientific also offer quality accessories, though their specific designs and materials may differ from our offerings at American Mortuary Coolers.
Real-World Success Stories
Case Study: 48-Body Capacity Walk-In
A busy metropolitan medical examiner's office was struggling with multiple aging cooler units that were inefficient and constantly breaking down. After consulting with our team, they implemented a 20'×20' Big Mortuary Cooler with a thoughtfully designed layout: 12 four-tier end-loading racks positioned around the perimeter created a central walkway with space for 4-5 additional removable cadaver racks when needed.
This single system replaced their patchwork of older units and immediately transformed their operation. The total capacity of 48+ deceased meant they no longer needed to worry about overflow, even during their busiest periods. They reported a surprising 30% reduction in energy costs compared to their previous setup, significantly streamlined workflow for staff, improved inventory management, and most importantly, improved safety through the integrated handling equipment.
Disaster Response Solution
In another memorable project, we worked with a regional emergency management agency to create a mobile solution for disaster response. The trailer-based system we designed holds 24 deceased and includes features specifically custom for emergency deployment: a self-contained generator backup, exterior loading ramp, GPS tracking, and satellite communication capabilities.
Integrating Handling Equipment Safely
The dignity of those in our care and the wellbeing of staff both depend on properly integrated handling equipment.
Hydraulic lifts truly transform the mortuary environment by eliminating dangerous manual lifting. When designing your Big Mortuary Cooler, we can create dedicated spaces specifically dimensioned for your lift operation.
Many of our clients have adopted roll-in cots as part of their workflow. These specialized mortuary cots create a continuous transfer path between vehicles, coolers, and preparation areas, minimizing the number of times a deceased person needs to be physically lifted.
Safety features like rails and guides on rack systems prevent accidental dislodging during transfers. Perhaps most importantly, we focus on ergonomic workflow design when planning your cooler layout.
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Mortuary Coolers
How is storage capacity calculated?
When it comes to Big Mortuary Coolers, understanding true capacity is essential for proper planning. It's not just about square footage—several key factors determine how many deceased can be accommodated with dignity and efficiency.
The rack configuration forms the foundation of your capacity calculations. Most professional systems use four-tier racks, with each rack typically accommodating four deceased individuals (one per level).
Proper workflow requires adequate aisle width—typically 36-48 inches—which directly impacts how many racks can fit in your available space. Body board dimensions also play a crucial role in capacity planning. Standard trays typically measure 24-30 inches wide, but it's important to account for bariatric options which require additional space.
As a helpful reference point, you can generally expect:
- An 8'×12' walk-in accommodates approximately 25 deceased
- A 12'×16' unit typically holds 30-35 deceased
- A 20'×20' system can store 48+ deceased with optimal rack configuration
Competitors like Mortech and Mopec may calculate capacity slightly differently based on their rack systems, but these general guidelines hold true across the industry.
Do I need a mortuary freezer or a cooler?
This might be the most common question we hear from facilities planning their refrigeration needs, and the answer depends entirely on your specific operational requirements.
Big Mortuary Coolers (35-39°F) are ideal if your facility primarily handles short to medium-term storage spanning days to a few weeks. Most funeral homes with standard service timelines find coolers perfectly sufficient for their needs. These systems offer greater energy efficiency than freezers, which translates to lower utility bills over the life of the unit.
Freezers (-5 to -10°F), on the other hand, serve specific needs that standard coolers can't address. If your facility regularly handles long-term storage extending weeks or months, a freezer becomes essential. Medical examiners and coroner's offices dealing with extended investigation timelines often require freezer capabilities.
Many of our clients, particularly those with fluctuating or diverse needs, opt for combination units or install both types to accommodate varying requirements.
What maintenance keeps units running 20+ years?
With proper care, your investment in a Big Mortuary Cooler can provide decades of reliable service. We've seen units installed in the early 2000s still running perfectly today—all thanks to consistent maintenance routines.
Key maintenance practices include:
- Regular condenser cleaning (quarterly)
- Door gasket inspections (monthly)
- Temperature monitoring and logging
- Annual professional service by qualified technicians
- Proper defrost cycle management
- Drainage maintenance
- Regular panel inspection
All American Mortuary Coolers come with detailed maintenance guidelines custom to your specific model, and we offer comprehensive service contracts that take the guesswork out of keeping your system in peak condition year after year.
Competitors like Thermo Fisher Scientific and Mortech Manufacturing also recommend similar maintenance schedules, though their specific service offerings and contract terms may differ from ours.
Conclusion
When it comes to caring for the deceased with dignity and efficiency, Big Mortuary Coolers aren't just equipment—they're essential investments in your facility's future. After helping hundreds of funeral homes and medical facilities across the country, I've seen how the right refrigeration solution transforms operations.
Choosing the right system gives you something truly valuable: peace of mind. You'll have scalable capacity that flexes with your needs, whether it's handling day-to-day operations or responding to unexpected surges with professionalism. In this industry, being prepared isn't just good business—it's about serving families when they need you most.
With regulatory requirements becoming increasingly stringent, having proper refrigeration ensures regulatory compliance without the stress of surprise inspections or citations. Our systems meet or exceed all applicable codes and standards, letting you focus on families rather than paperwork.
Today's modern Big Mortuary Coolers are engineering marvels compared to units from just a decade ago. The energy efficiency improvements mean your system will maintain precise temperatures while keeping utility bills manageable.
Perhaps most importantly, Big Mortuary Coolers represent long-term value. With proper maintenance, these systems routinely provide 20+ years of reliable service. That's two decades of worry-free operation—a remarkable return on investment by any standard.
While we're proud of our offerings at American Mortuary Coolers, we recognize that competitors like Mortech Manufacturing, Mopec, and Thermo Fisher Scientific also provide quality options in this space. Each manufacturer has their own approach and strengths, and we encourage you to research thoroughly to find the solution that best fits your specific needs.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we see ourselves as more than equipment providers. We're your partners in creating solutions that work for your unique situation. Our team across the country—from our home base in Johnson City TN to our specialists in Chicago IL, Dallas TX, and beyond—brings local knowledge with national expertise.
Whether you're expanding your current facility, replacing aging equipment that's seen better days, or planning for future growth, we bring the expertise, products, and genuine support to ensure your Big Mortuary Cooler meets your needs both today and for decades to come.