How Much Does a Small Cold Room Refrigeration Unit Cost?

The price of a small cold room refrigeration unit (also commonly referred to as a refrigeration set) varies widely. Depending on the capacity (HP), configuration completeness, and brand, the price per unit typically ranges from RMB 3,000 to RMB 20,000.

To give you a clearer idea, here is a reference price table for common small refrigeration units currently available on the market:

 Reference Prices for Common Small Refrigeration Units

Capacity (HP)   Common Voltage   Compressor-Only Price (Reference)   Full Set Price (Reference, incl. Condenser/Evaporator, etc.)

1.5 HP   220V   Approx. RMB 2,900   Approx. RMB 5,100

2 HP   220V   Approx. RMB 2,900   Approx. RMB 6,100

3 HP   220V / 380V   Approx. RMB 4,100   Approx. RMB 7,900–8,200

4 HP   220V / 380V   Approx. RMB 4,600   Approx. RMB 9,300

5 HP   380V   Approx. RMB 5,300   Approx. RMB 10,100–10,400

6 HP   380V   Approx. RMB 6,100   Approx. RMB 10,900

| 8 HP | 380V | - | Approx. RMB 18,900 |

(Note: The above prices are reference prices for standard domestic brands; actual transaction prices may fluctuate with market conditions.)

3 Key Reminders When Purchasing a Refrigeration Unit

Distinguish Between "Compressor-Only" and "Full Set"

   When buying a refrigeration unit, always clarify what is included in the quoted price. Many low-priced options (e.g., RMB 2,000–3,000) are often just the compressor unit. For actual installation, you will also need a condenser, evaporator (unit cooler), copper tubing, electrical control box, etc. Purchasing a complete, fully assembled set will save you a lot of hassle.

Match the Capacity (HP) to Your Cold Room Size

   The capacity of the refrigeration unit must not be chosen arbitrarily; it must match your cold room size and temperature requirements:

   1.5 HP–2 HP: Typically suitable for micro fresh-keeping rooms within 10 square meters.

   3 HP–5 HP: Suitable for conventional small cold storage or freezer rooms of approximately 20–40 square meters.

   If the capacity is too small, the cold room will cool slowly, consume more electricity, and may even fail to reach the set temperature. If it is too large, it will waste equipment capacity and cause frequent start-stop cycles.

Impact of Brand on Price

   The above prices are mostly for leading domestic brands (such as Copeland, etc.). If you choose an imported high-end brand (such as Bitzer from Germany, etc.), the price for the same capacity is typically 40%–50% higher than domestic units, but the advantages include smoother operation, lower noise, and relatively fewer failures.

We recommend that before purchasing, you first determine the length, width, and height of your cold room and the type of goods you intend to store. Send these details directly to refrigeration equipment suppliers, and let them recommend the appropriate capacity and provide a complete quotation. This way, you are less likely to make a mistake.

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