Everything You Need to Know About 10x18 Mortuary Coolers
The Ultimate Mortuary Cooler Solution for High-Volume Facilities
A 10 x 18 mortuary cooler is a specialized walk-in refrigeration unit designed specifically for the preservation of human remains in funeral homes, hospitals, and medical examiner facilities. Here's what you need to know:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 10 feet × 18 feet (180 square feet) |
| Capacity | 12-18 bodies depending on rack configuration |
| Temperature | Maintains 38°F (3.3°C) optimal preservation temperature |
| Construction | 4-inch polyurethane insulation with R-value of 8.49 per inch |
| Rack Options | Telescopic or roller rack systems for efficient body storage |
| Energy Efficiency | High-density insulation for maximum temperature stability |
When planning a mortuary facility, choosing the right refrigeration system is critical for both operational efficiency and dignified care of the deceased. The 10 x 18 mortuary cooler represents an ideal balance between capacity and floor space, providing approximately 180 square feet of storage area that can accommodate 12-18 bodies depending on your chosen rack configuration.
These walk-in units are constructed with durability in mind, featuring 4-inch thick, foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation that delivers exceptional temperature stability. This construction not only ensures proper preservation but also maximizes energy efficiency – a critical consideration for facilities operating 24/7.
Unlike smaller upright units, a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler offers the flexibility to handle surge capacity during emergency situations while providing comfortable working space for staff. The walk-in design allows for efficient body transfer and reduces the physical strain associated with lifting and moving remains in confined spaces.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we're a national-level supplier specializing in American-made 10 x 18 mortuary cooler solutions that combine reliability with customization options to meet the unique needs of funeral service professionals across the country.
Basic 10 x 18 Mortuary Cooler glossary:
Comparing the 10x18 Walk-In to Other Mortuary Cooler Solutions
When you're investing in refrigeration for your funeral home or medical facility, understanding how a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler stacks up against alternatives is crucial. Let's explore how this mid-sized walk-in compares to other options in our product line.
Upright mortuary cabinets offer space efficiency but with limited capacity. While these units work well for facilities handling fewer than 100 cases annually, they simply can't match the capacity-to-footprint value of a walk-in solution. As one of our customers from a rural funeral home told us: "We started with a 3-body upright, but as our service area expanded, upgrading to a walk-in was the best decision we made."
Walk-in coolers of different dimensions provide flexibility based on your specific needs. Our smaller 8' x 10' units work well for facilities with space constraints, while larger 12' x 20' coolers serve high-volume operations. The 10 x 18 mortuary cooler hits that sweet spot for many mid-sized funeral homes and county medical examiners.
Modular walk-in options give you the flexibility to expand as your needs grow. With our cam-lock panel system, you can actually start with a smaller unit and expand it later, rather than replacing it entirely. This makes a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler a smart long-term investment, even if your current case volume doesn't yet demand that capacity.
Pros & Cons Snapshot
Every mortuary refrigeration solution comes with tradeoffs. Here's what you should know about the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler:
The capacity advantage is significant - with proper rack configuration, you can store 12-18 bodies in a relatively modest footprint. This provides both everyday efficiency and crucial surge capacity during unexpected events. The footprint, while requiring dedicated space, delivers exceptional value per square foot compared to multiple upright units.
Cost considerations are important too. While the initial investment is higher than for upright cabinets, the per-body storage cost is actually lower for walk-ins. Plus, the operational efficiency and reduced energy cost per body make the long-term economics quite favorable.
One potential drawback is mobility - unlike upright units, a walk-in cooler becomes a semi-permanent installation. However, our cam-lock panel design does allow for disassembly and relocation if absolutely necessary.
Redundancy is another factor to consider. Multiple smaller units provide backup options if one fails, while a single walk-in requires proper maintenance and potentially a backup power system. That said, our walk-ins feature robust refrigeration systems with reliability rates that far exceed smaller units.
When to Upsize or Downsize
Choosing the right size mortuary cooler involves balancing current needs with future growth. Here are some key decision triggers that might indicate you should consider a different size:
Consider upsizing when: Your facility regularly exceeds 75% capacity, you're experiencing seasonal surges that strain your current storage, or your five-year plan includes service expansion. One funeral director in Florida told us, "We added a second location and found our case volume jumped 40% in just eight months. The 10 x 18 mortuary cooler gave us room to grow without another upgrade."
Consider downsizing when: Your facility consistently uses less than 30% of available capacity, your budget constraints are significant, or your physical space is severely limited. For some urban funeral homes with premium real estate costs, a smaller footprint may be the practical choice.
Proper capacity planning should account for seasonal variations, community growth projections, and unexpected events. Our team can help you analyze your specific needs to determine if the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler is right for your operation, or if another size would serve you better.
Specifications, Capacity & Interior Layouts
When you invest in a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler, you're getting a precision-engineered system built specifically for the unique demands of funeral service and mortuary operations.
Our standard units measure 10 feet wide by 18 feet deep, creating a spacious 180 square foot preservation environment. The interior dimensions come in at approximately 9'4" × 17'4" × 7'4" once you account for the substantial 4-inch polyurethane insulation panels. This insulation isn't just thick—it delivers an impressive R-value of 8.49 per inch, giving you approximately R-34 total wall protection against outside temperature fluctuations.
"During our Arizona summer heat waves, our 10 x 18 mortuary cooler maintains perfect temperature without breaking a sweat—even when the thermometer outside hits 110°F," shared one satisfied funeral director in Phoenix.
The standard operating temperature sits at 38°F (3.3°C), which research has shown to be the ideal point for slowing decomposition while preventing freezing damage to tissues. However, you can easily adjust the temperature anywhere from 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4.4°C) depending on your specific preservation needs.
The body capacity of your cooler will primarily depend on which rack configuration you choose. Here's how the different setups compare:
| Rack Configuration | Total Body Capacity | Space for Movement |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tier System | 12-14 bodies | Excellent |
| 4-Tier System | 14-16 bodies | Good |
| 5-Tier System | 16-18 bodies | Limited |
| Mixed Configuration with Bariatric Bay | 10-12 standard + 2 bariatric | Good |
Many of our clients opt for a mixed configuration that balances capacity with flexibility. As one medical examiner in Tennessee told us, "Having dedicated space for bariatric cases has eliminated the stress of figuring out where to place larger individuals with dignity."
Rack and Tray Configurations for a 10 x 18 Mortuary Cooler
The interior layout of your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler can transform how efficiently your team works. We offer several rack systems to match your specific workflow:
Telescopic rack mechanisms extend up to three-quarters of their length, giving you easy access to remains without completely removing the tray. This system shines when you're using mechanical lifts, as it provides stable support during transfers. The smooth extension reduces back strain on your staff—something your team will appreciate after long days.
Roller rack systems feature fully removable trays that roll out completely on smooth tracks. These are particularly helpful when your team uses manual transfer techniques, as the design minimizes physical strain during body placement and removal.
For maximizing capacity, many high-volume facilities choose a side-loading configuration with racks positioned along both side walls and a central aisle for access. This layout can increase your storage capacity by 20-30% compared to other arrangements.
The cantilever system mounts racks directly to the wall, eliminating floor supports entirely. This creates unobstructed floor space that makes cleaning easier and improves accessibility. "The cantilever system in our 10 x 18 unit has been a game-changer for sanitation," noted one hospital morgue supervisor.
For facilities where the cooler connects preparation and viewing areas, the pass-through design incorporates doors on opposite walls. Bodies can be placed from one room and retrieved from another, creating a smooth, dignified workflow.
Standard & Optional Hardware
Every 10 x 18 mortuary cooler from American Mortuary Coolers comes equipped with thoughtfully selected hardware that ensures reliability, safety, and ease of use.
Your standard package includes a UL-approved "Super-Door" designed specifically for normal temperature applications. These doors feature heavy-duty hinges that stand up to frequent use without sagging, and magnetic door gaskets that create a perfect seal every time.
The interior is illuminated by vapor-proof LED lighting controlled by an exterior switch with a pilot light so you always know when the lights are on. Temperature control comes via a digital controller with an easy-to-read LED display that lets you monitor conditions at a glance.
Safety is never optional, which is why every unit includes an interior safety release mechanism. "The inside safety release gives our staff complete peace of mind when working inside the cooler," shared a funeral director from Pittsburgh who recently installed our 10 x 18 model.
To protect your investment, we include aluminum kick plates that guard door and panel surfaces against damage from carts and stretchers. All panel connections use NSF-approved gaskets with secure cam-lock connections that maintain the integrity of your cooler's insulation envelope.
Many clients improve their 10 x 18 mortuary cooler with popular options like audible door-ajar alarms, temperature monitoring systems with remote notification capabilities, and stainless steel interior packages for improved sanitation. For facilities that need to move heavy equipment in and out, our heavy-duty T-rail aluminum flooring provides smooth rolling surfaces that won't corrode or deteriorate.
The combination of thoughtful design, quality materials, and flexible configurations makes the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler the preferred choice for funeral homes, medical examiners, and healthcare facilities that need reliable, efficient body storage with room to grow.
Cool Comfort: Exploring Walk-In Mortuary Coolers
Installation, Customization & Regulatory Compliance
Setting up your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler isn't just about delivery and assembly—it's about creating a solution that seamlessly integrates with your facility while meeting all necessary regulations. Our team at American Mortuary Coolers guides you through this process with care and attention to detail.
Before your cooler arrives, you'll need to prepare your space properly. This means ensuring you have a level concrete floor capable of supporting at least 250 pounds per square foot—these units are substantial! You'll also need adequate ceiling clearance (at least 8'6" for our standard 8' high coolers) and proper ventilation for the condensing unit. Electrical requirements include a 208-230V single-phase, 30-amp dedicated circuit to power the system safely and efficiently.
One of the first decisions you'll make is whether to go with a floor or floorless design. As Maria, one of our installation specialists, often tells clients: "For mortuary applications, we typically recommend the floorless design with an NSF cove base. This eliminates the step-up into the cooler, making it much easier to roll in stretchers and lifts, while still maintaining proper sanitation standards."
All 10 x 18 mortuary coolers we build use cam-lock panels that create a tight, secure seal when properly installed. These panels aren't just about keeping the cold in—they comply with the Federal Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007 (EISA), ensuring your cooler operates with maximum energy efficiency.
When it comes to regulations, we've got you covered. Our coolers feature NSF-approved gaskets and materials that meet strict sanitation requirements, UL-listed electrical components for safety, and OSHA-compliant interior safety release mechanisms. We also offer ADA-compliant access options including ramps when needed. Dr. Thomas, who runs a medical examiner's facility in Chicago, recently told us: "The regulatory compliance documentation provided with our 10 x 18 mortuary cooler made our health department inspection process seamless. Everything was clearly labeled and certified."
For more detailed information on customization options, visit our guide on How to Design a Custom Cooler for Your Establishment.
Assembly Requirements & Timeline for a 10 x 18 Mortuary Cooler
When it comes to assembly, you have two main options, each with its own benefits:
Most clients choose on-site assembly, which requires a 4-person crew and typically takes 6-8 hours to complete. The panels arrive individually, and our team assembles them in your space using standard tools like cam-lock wrenches, power drills, socket wrenches, levels, and rubber mallets. After assembly, we connect and test the refrigeration system to ensure everything's working perfectly.
For facilities with adequate access, we offer pre-assembled delivery. Your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler arrives fully constructed on a flatbed truck, requiring forklift access to your installation location. This option significantly reduces on-site installation time to just 2-3 hours, though it does come with additional delivery charges due to the specialized transportation required.
From order to delivery, you can expect a standard 10 x 18 mortuary cooler to take 4-6 weeks. Custom units may require 6-10 weeks depending on your specific requirements. As John, a funeral home owner in Los Angeles, shared with us: "We opted for the on-site assembly since our facility had narrow hallways. The installation team was efficient, and the entire process from delivery to operational cooler took just one day."
Custom Upgrades That Matter
Every facility has unique needs, which is why we offer several valuable upgrades for your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler:
Advanced Temperature Control Systems transform how you monitor and manage your cooler. Options include touch-screen PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) with printers, LCD controllers with data loggers for temperature history, and communication ports for integration with building management systems. Our WiFi monitoring systems are particularly popular, sending alerts directly to your smartphone if temperatures fluctuate beyond acceptable parameters.
We also offer improved security and monitoring features, including CCTV camera systems with recording capability, electronic access control for authorized personnel only, and motion-activated lighting that saves energy while improving safety.
For facilities that can't risk downtime, our backup and emergency systems provide peace of mind. These include UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for controllers and alarm systems, backup generator connections with automatic transfer switches, and redundant cooling systems for critical applications.
Finally, our specialized surface treatments can improve both function and longevity. Antimicrobial coatings for interior surfaces are particularly valuable in mortuary settings, while improved corrosion protection benefits facilities in coastal areas. Impact-resistant corner guards and wall protection help maintain your cooler's appearance and structural integrity despite daily use.
Dr. Martinez, a medical examiner in New York, recently told us: "The WiFi monitoring system on our 10 x 18 mortuary cooler has been invaluable. We receive immediate alerts if the temperature fluctuates beyond acceptable parameters, allowing us to address issues before they become critical."
Operation: Temperature Control, Energy Use, Maintenance & Safety
Running your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler efficiently combines proper temperature management, smart energy usage, consistent maintenance, and rigorous safety protocols. Let's walk through what makes these systems work day in and day out.
The ideal temperature for preserving remains is 38°F (3.3°C), though our digital controllers allow adjustment between 32°F and 40°F to accommodate specific needs. These controllers maintain remarkably consistent temperatures—within one degree Celsius of your setpoint—ensuring proper preservation throughout the entire space. The forced-air circulation system prevents "cold spots" while high-precision PT-100 sensors continuously monitor conditions.
"I was surprised to see our utility bills actually decrease after upgrading to the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler," shared a facility manager from Columbia, SC. "Even with more capacity than our previous units, the ECM fans and LED lighting made a noticeable difference."
Our refrigeration systems incorporate several energy-efficient components that make a real difference in your monthly operating costs. The ECM evaporator fans consume significantly less electricity than standard motors. The LED lighting not only uses less power but generates minimal heat—important when you're paying to cool a space. We use environmentally responsible refrigerants like R-134a (or R-448A/R-449A alternatives) that have zero ozone depletion potential while our high-efficiency compressors deliver just the right cooling power for your space.
Safety remains paramount in mortuary refrigeration. Every 10 x 18 mortuary cooler we build includes an interior safety release mechanism that allows anyone to exit even if the door is locked from outside. The vapor-proof lighting is specifically designed for refrigerated environments, while door ajar alarms prevent temperature fluctuations that could compromise preservation. Optional non-slip flooring provides additional protection for staff working inside the cooler, and all electrical components feature proper grounding and GFCI protection.
In-Depth Guide to Comparing 10 x 12 Mortuary Cooler Options
Energy-Efficiency Tips for a 10 x 18 Mortuary Cooler
Your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler represents a significant investment in both equipment and ongoing energy costs. Maximizing efficiency keeps your operation both economical and environmentally responsible.
The 4-inch high-density polyurethane insulation in our coolers provides an impressive R-value of approximately 34, dramatically reducing heat transfer compared to thinner insulation. This thick barrier works best when door gaskets remain clean and intact—check them regularly for wear. Many clients add strip curtains inside the main door as an additional barrier that minimizes air exchange during frequent entries and exits.
Simple operational practices make a big difference too. Train staff to minimize door opening time—plan ahead before entering to reduce the number of trips. Consider implementing a night-setback mode that slightly raises temperature during off-hours when appropriate for your facility. Keep condenser coils clean and ensure adequate airflow around the condensing unit to prevent overworking the system.
"The utility rebates available for our energy-efficient 10 x 18 mortuary cooler reduced our initial investment by nearly 15%," a Chicago funeral director told us. "The ongoing savings in our electric bill have been substantial as well." Many utility companies offer significant rebates for energy-efficient commercial refrigeration—ask our team about ENERGY STAR certified options that may qualify for additional incentives in your area.
Equipment selection impacts efficiency too. Remote condensing units placed in cooler environments operate more efficiently than self-contained units. Properly sized refrigeration systems avoid wasteful short-cycling, while variable speed compressors adjust to demand, saving energy during periods of less frequent use.
Routine Cleaning & Sanitizing Protocols
Maintaining impeccable cleanliness in your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler isn't just about meeting regulations—it's about honoring the dignity of those in your care and protecting the health of your staff.
Daily cleaning forms the foundation of your sanitation program. Wipe down all surfaces that contact remains with an EPA-approved disinfectant, and clean any spills immediately using appropriate biohazard protocols. Inspect door gaskets for cleanliness each day, as these can harbor bacteria if neglected. Check and record temperature readings in a log to document proper functioning.
Weekly, you'll want to thoroughly clean floors with hospital-grade disinfectant and wipe down walls, doors, and racks with sanitizing solution. Don't forget to check and clean door tracks if your unit has sliding doors, as debris can affect proper sealing.
Monthly maintenance should include cleaning evaporator fan guards and blades, inspecting all hardware for proper function, and tightening any loose fasteners. If your unit has stainless steel surfaces, apply an appropriate polish to maintain their appearance and protective qualities.
Every quarter, schedule more comprehensive maintenance: clean condenser coils (more frequently in dusty environments), check refrigerant levels, inspect insulation panels for damage, and test all alarm systems and safety features.
"We maintain a cleaning log posted outside our 10 x 18 mortuary cooler that staff must initial daily," shared a mortuary technician from Dallas. "This not only ensures consistent cleaning but also provides documentation for inspections."
This systematic approach to cleaning and maintenance ensures your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler will provide years of reliable service while maintaining the highest standards of dignity and care.
Comparing the 10x18 Walk-In to Other Mortuary Cooler Solutions
When you're exploring refrigeration options for your funeral facility, understanding how a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler stacks up against alternatives helps you make the right investment. Let's look at how this popular size compares to other solutions we offer at American Mortuary Coolers.
Our upright mortuary cabinets serve a different purpose than walk-in units. While they're perfect for facilities with limited space or budget, they simply can't match the capacity and efficiency of a walk-in cooler. An upright cabinet typically holds 2-6 bodies and requires minimal floor space (about 20-30 square feet), making it considerably more compact than the 180 square feet needed for a 10 x 18 walk-in cooler. However, when you calculate the cost per body stored, walk-ins are actually more economical for higher-volume operations.
"I started with two upright units, but as our case volume grew, the inefficiency became obvious," shared a funeral director from Tennessee. "Our 10 x 18 walk-in not only tripled our capacity but actually simplified our operations since staff can work comfortably inside rather than maneuvering in tight spaces."
Walk-in coolers come in various dimensions, each serving different facility needs:
Smaller 8 x 10 units (80 square feet) work well for facilities handling 100-200 cases annually, with capacity for 8-10 bodies. They're more affordable initially ($12-15K) and have lower operating costs, but provide limited growth potential.
Our 10 x 18 mortuary coolers hit the sweet spot for mid-size operations handling 200-400 cases annually. With capacity for 12-18 bodies depending on rack configuration, they provide ample room for staff to work while maintaining a reasonable footprint and moderate operating costs.
Larger 12 x 20 units offer expanded capacity (18-24 bodies) for high-volume facilities handling 400+ cases annually, though they require more space (240 square feet) and come with higher initial investment and operating costs.
When considering temperature options, standard 10 x 18 mortuary coolers maintain positive temperatures (32°F to 40°F), ideal for typical funeral home preservation needs. For specialized applications requiring long-term storage, we also offer negative temperature units, though these are less common in standard funeral operations.
Pros & Cons Snapshot
Every facility has unique needs, and a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler isn't the perfect solution for everyone. Here's an honest assessment to help with your decision:
The advantages are substantial: You'll get excellent capacity relative to the footprint, with room for 12-18 bodies in 180 square feet. The cost per body stored is significantly lower than with multiple smaller units, and your staff will appreciate having comfortable space to work. Energy efficiency is better when calculated per body, and you'll only have one refrigeration system to maintain instead of several. These units are built to last, typically serving 15-20 years with proper care, and offer the flexibility to reconfigure as your needs evolve.
There are considerations too: The initial investment is higher than smaller units, and you'll need dedicated space that can't easily be repurposed. Very low-volume facilities might find this size excessive, and proper installation requires careful site preparation. Perhaps most importantly, if the system ever needs service, it affects all stored remains at once.
When to Upsize or Downsize
How do you know if a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler is right for your facility? Consider upsizing to this model when your annual case count exceeds 200, when your current refrigeration is frequently at capacity, or when staff struggle with transfers due to cramped conditions. It's also the right choice if you receive bodies from other funeral homes, experience seasonal surges, serve as an emergency response center, or handle bariatric cases regularly.
On the flip side, a smaller unit might be more appropriate if your annual case volume stays below 150, your current cooler rarely exceeds 50% capacity, you face significant budget constraints, have limited available space, or primarily offer visitation services with minimal preparation needs.
"We deliberated between sizes for months," one funeral director from Ohio told us. "We chose the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler with room to grow rather than immediately outgrowing a smaller unit. Three years later, with a 25% increase in our case volume, that decision has paid for itself."
Cool Comfort: Exploring Walk-In Mortuary Coolers
Buying Checklist, Warranty & Support
When purchasing a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler, use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you've considered all critical factors:
Pre-Purchase Assessment:
- [ ] Conduct a capacity audit based on current and projected case volume
- [ ] Measure available space, including ceiling height and access pathways
- [ ] Verify electrical service (typically 208-230V, single-phase, 30-amp dedicated circuit)
- [ ] Check floor load capacity (should support minimum 250 lbs per square foot)
- [ ] Determine preferred rack configuration and capacity needs
- [ ] Consider doorway placement for optimal workflow
- [ ] Evaluate remote vs. self-contained condensing unit options
- [ ] Review budget and financing options
Installation Planning:
- [ ] Confirm delivery access for panels or pre-assembled unit
- [ ] Schedule licensed electrician for power connection
- [ ] Plan for adequate ventilation around condensing unit
- [ ] Arrange for proper anchoring to floor (if required by local codes)
- [ ] Ensure minimum 4" clearance for airflow if against walls
- [ ] Coordinate with local health department regarding regulations
Warranty Considerations: At American Mortuary Coolers, our standard warranty package includes:
- 5-year limited warranty on the compressor
- 1-year parts warranty on all other components
- 90-day labor warranty on factory-authorized installations
- Extended warranty options available for up to 10 years
We also provide comprehensive support:
- 24/7 technical support hotline for emergency issues
- Nationwide network of authorized service technicians
- Detailed operation and maintenance manuals
- Video tutorials for basic troubleshooting
- Preventive maintenance programs
A funeral home owner in Dallas emphasized the importance of support: "When we had an issue with our temperature controller at 2 AM, the American Mortuary Coolers tech line walked us through a temporary fix that kept the unit running until a technician could arrive the next morning. That level of support is invaluable in our industry."
Financing Options:
- Flexible payment terms with 0% down for qualified buyers
- No payments for 90 days on approved credit
- Equipment leasing options with potential tax advantages
- Customized financing solutions for funeral homes and medical facilities
The Complete Guide to Walk-In Cooler Features and Prices
Frequently Asked Questions about 10 x 18 Mortuary Coolers
How many bodies can I safely store at once?
A 10 x 18 mortuary cooler typically accommodates between 12 and 18 bodies, with the exact capacity depending on your chosen rack configuration. Most facilities find a sweet spot with either a 3-tier system (holding 12-14 bodies) or a 4-tier system (accommodating 14-16 bodies).
We've noticed that while a 5-tier system can technically fit up to 18 bodies, it significantly reduces the working space inside the cooler. As Mike, one of our mortuary specialists, often tells clients: "Think about your daily workflow, not just maximum capacity. A cooler that's difficult to work in creates more problems than it solves."
For facilities regularly handling bariatric cases, we recommend dedicating wider bays for these special needs. While this slightly reduces your total capacity, it ensures all remains are accommodated with dignity and respect – something every family deserves regardless of their loved one's size.
What temperature should I set for short-term storage?
For most funeral homes, 38°F (3.3°C) is the sweet spot for a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler. This temperature effectively slows decomposition without freezing the remains, which can complicate embalming procedures later.
Our digital controllers maintain your chosen temperature within ±1°C, giving you peace of mind about consistent preservation conditions. Some facilities adjust their settings slightly based on specific needs:
If you're storing remains for 1-7 days (typical for most funeral services), 38-40°F works perfectly. For slightly longer preservation needs, some facilities prefer 36-37°F, while extended storage without freezing (7-14 days) might call for 32-35°F.
Sarah, a mortuary technician who's been using our coolers for years, recently told us: "We've found 38°F to be our goldilocks temperature – not too cold, not too warm. It gives us the flexibility we need while maintaining excellent preservation."
Do I need a floor in my 10 x 18 unit?
This question comes up in almost every consultation we have, and the answer depends on your specific facility needs. Most of our mortuary clients ultimately choose a floorless design with an NSF-approved cove base that creates a sealed junction between the walls and their existing concrete floor.
The floorless approach eliminates any step-up into the cooler, creating a smooth, flush entry that makes a world of difference when moving stretchers, lifts, and carts. It's also typically less expensive initially and can be installed directly on your existing concrete floor.
That said, including a floor does offer certain advantages: it creates a completely sealed environment, provides insulation from ground temperature fluctuations, and can be easier to sanitize. It's also mandatory if you're installing the unit above ground level.
Tom, a funeral director who installed one of our 10 x 18 mortuary coolers last year, shared: "The floorless design has been a game-changer for our staff. No more lifting stretchers over thresholds or worrying about tripping during transfers. It's safer and more efficient."
If you do opt for a floorless design, make sure your concrete is level (within ¼" over 10 feet), properly sealed with an appropriate epoxy coating, free of cracks, and slightly sloped toward a drain if you'll be washing the floor regularly. Our installation team can help evaluate your existing floor during the site assessment.
More info about choosing the right walk-in
Conclusion
Choosing the right mortuary refrigeration system is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your funeral home, medical examiner's office, or healthcare facility. After working with hundreds of professionals across the country, we've found that the 10 x 18 mortuary cooler hits the sweet spot for most medium to high-volume operations.
Think about it – with 180 square feet of customizable cold storage, you're getting the perfect balance of capacity and efficiency. This isn't just about storing more bodies (though the 12-18 capacity is certainly impressive). It's about creating a dignified, functional workspace that serves both the deceased and your staff with equal respect.
Many of our clients tell us that upgrading to a walk-in solution completely transformed their operation. As James, a funeral director from Tennessee shared, "Moving from three separate units to one 10 x 18 mortuary cooler not only doubled our capacity but actually simplified our daily workflow. My staff no longer dreads transfers, and we've cut our energy bills by almost 30%."
The beauty of these units lies in their versatility. Whether you're dealing with standard cases, bariatric remains, or preparing for potential disaster response, your 10 x 18 mortuary cooler can be configured to meet those needs. The durable construction – with that high-density 4-inch polyurethane insulation – ensures you'll get 15-20 years of reliable service with proper maintenance.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we take pride in our Tennessee-made products. We've spent decades refining our designs based on real feedback from funeral professionals who understand the unique challenges of this industry. From the smallest hardware details to the most efficient cooling systems, every component is selected with your needs in mind.
We understand this is a significant investment for your facility. That's why our team provides comprehensive consultation to ensure you're getting exactly what you need – whether that's a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler or another configuration that better suits your specific situation. We'll walk you through every consideration, from capacity planning to installation requirements.
Ready to explore how a 10 x 18 mortuary cooler can transform your facility? Our team is just a phone call away. With service locations across the country – including Johnson City, Atlanta, Chicago, Columbia, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Pittsburgh – we're ready to provide the expertise and support you deserve.
After all, the care you provide to families starts with the right equipment. Let us help you deliver the dignity and professionalism your community expects.