VWR Explosion Proof refrigerator/freezer combination

Brand : VWR

Product Code : SKU 4365G REFRIG

Price Match Policy

Shipping

All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse

VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer

The VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer is a laboratory-grade cold storage system engineered for the safe refrigerated and frozen storage of flammable chemicals in hazardous locations where ignitable vapors may be present. Featuring separate refrigerator and freezer compartments with a combined storage capacity of 10.1 cubic feet (286 L), this explosion-proof unit is designed for pharmaceutical laboratories, chemical manufacturing facilities, research institutions, industrial laboratories, and other environments requiring equipment suitable for Class I hazardous locations.

Unlike flammable-material storage refrigerators, which are intended for non-hazardous laboratory spaces, the VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer is engineered with explosion-proof electrical components and a hermetically sealed refrigeration system to minimize ignition hazards in hazardous work environments. Spark-resistant interior construction, corrosion-resistant materials, and heavy-duty insulation provide dependable temperature performance while supporting safe laboratory operation.

Many laboratories pair explosion-proof refrigerators with chemical fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, laboratory freezers, and centrifuges to create complete laboratory workstations for handling hazardous chemicals.

VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer Key Features

Manufacturer: VWR
Product Type: Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer
10.1 cu. ft. (286 L) total storage capacity
Separate refrigerator and freezer compartments
Explosion-proof electrical construction
Spark-resistant, corrosion-resistant interior
Hermetically sealed compressor
Adjustable temperature controls
Non-sparking magnetic door gaskets
Heavy-duty insulated cabinet
Designed for hazardous-location laboratory environments
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included.

Overview

The VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer is designed for laboratories where flammable vapors may routinely be present and standard laboratory refrigerators cannot be safely used. Explosion-proof electrical components are enclosed to prevent internal electrical arcs or sparks from igniting surrounding hazardous atmospheres, making the unit appropriate for laboratories that work with volatile solvents and combustible chemicals.

Separate refrigerator and freezer compartments allow laboratories to safely store materials requiring different temperature ranges without purchasing multiple explosion-proof cabinets. The corrosion-resistant interior and hermetically sealed compressor are designed for long-term laboratory service in demanding chemical environments.

Common Applications

The VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer is commonly used for storing volatile solvents, chromatography reagents, petroleum products, alcohols, laboratory standards, chemical reference materials, pharmaceutical ingredients, flammable reagents, and other hazardous materials requiring refrigerated or frozen storage. It is frequently installed in chemical laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, petrochemical laboratories, industrial quality-control departments, and research facilities where hazardous atmospheres may be present.

Ideal Laboratory Types

Chemical laboratories
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
Petrochemical laboratories
Environmental laboratories
Industrial quality assurance laboratories
Government research laboratories
University chemistry departments

Why Choose the VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer?

For laboratories operating in hazardous environments, explosion-proof refrigeration provides a critical layer of protection that conventional laboratory refrigerators cannot offer. The VWR combination design delivers both refrigerated and frozen storage within a single cabinet while incorporating explosion-proof electrical construction, allowing laboratories to safely store flammable chemicals where ignitable vapors may exist.

Typical Stored Materials

Typical applications include flammable solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chromatography solvents, pharmaceutical intermediates, chemical standards, laboratory reagents, petroleum samples, alcohols, and other hazardous materials requiring refrigerated or frozen storage.

VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer Key Specifications

Identification

Manufacturer: VWR
Product Type: Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer

Capacity

Total Capacity: 10.1 cu. ft. (286 L)

Temperature Range

Refrigerator: Approximately +4°C operating temperature
Freezer: General-purpose frozen storage compartment

Construction

Explosion-proof electrical system
Spark-resistant interior
Corrosion-resistant cabinet
Non-sparking magnetic door gaskets
Hermetically sealed compressor

Refrigeration System

Heavy-duty refrigeration system
Adjustable temperature controls
Laboratory-duty insulated cabinet

Safety Features

Explosion-proof electrical construction
Suitable for hazardous-location applications
Hermetically sealed compressor
Spark-resistant interior components

Electrical Requirements

120V, 60 Hz
2.1 Amps

Exterior Dimensions

60" H × 23.5" W × 30.5" D

Interior Dimensions

Refrigerator Compartment

39" H × 19.5" W × 18" D

Freezer Compartment

12" H × 18" W × 16.25" D

Weight

Refer to manufacturer specifications.

Operating Costs & Energy Considerations

Explosion-proof refrigeration systems incorporate specialized electrical components and safety features that prioritize hazardous-location protection over maximum energy efficiency. Regular inspection of door gaskets, condenser cleanliness, and ventilation helps maintain dependable temperature performance and extends equipment life.

Specifications compiled from VWR manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify refrigerator and freezer operation using calibrated temperature monitoring equipment, inspect door gaskets, shelving, compressor performance, electrical systems, and cabinet integrity. Each unit is thoroughly cleaned, temperature tested, and verified for dependable laboratory operation before shipment.

Laboratories building complete hazardous-material storage systems frequently purchase chemical fume hoods, flammable material storage refrigerators, biosafety cabinets, and laboratory freezers from American Instrument Exchange.

Shipping & Installation Considerations

The VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify doorway clearances, electrical service, and compliance with applicable local electrical and fire codes governing hazardous-location equipment. Allow the cabinet to stabilize at operating temperature before loading valuable laboratory materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total storage capacity?

The unit provides 10.1 cubic feet (286 liters) of combined refrigerated and frozen storage.

Is this different from a flammable-material storage refrigerator?

Yes. An explosion-proof refrigerator is designed for use in hazardous locations where ignitable vapors may be present, while flammable-material storage refrigerators are intended for storing flammable chemicals in non-hazardous laboratory environments. The applications and electrical construction are different.

What are the cabinet dimensions?

The cabinet measures 60" H × 23.5" W × 30.5" D, with separate refrigerator and freezer compartments.

How is the unit tested before shipment?

Every refurbished VWR Explosion-Proof Combination Refrigerator/Freezer is inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Refrigerator and freezer performance, electrical systems, door seals, cabinet integrity, and overall functionality are verified prior to shipment.

Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Refrigerators
Ensure Temperature Stability and Cold Storage Accuracy

Used and refurbished laboratory refrigerators from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure reliable cold storage performance, temperature accuracy, and compliance with laboratory safety and storage standards. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection and functional verification to meet the requirements of clinical, pharmaceutical, research, and industrial labs.

Why Testing Used Laboratory Refrigerators Is Essential

Before a laboratory refrigerator is reintroduced into any laboratory setting, it must be carefully tested for:

• Temperature uniformity and stability
• Cooling system integrity and compressor function
• Door seal performance and insulation effectiveness
• Electrical safety and compliance with lab standards

Thorough testing minimizes the risk of temperature excursions, product loss, and system failures—especially critical for storing reagents, vaccines, biological samples, pharmaceuticals, and temperature-sensitive materials.

Our structured testing protocol ensures refurbished lab refrigerators deliver consistent, dependable performance across all makes and models.

Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Refrigerators

1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Check exterior surfaces, hinges, and door gaskets for wear, corrosion, or damage
• Inspect power cords, plugs, and control panels for fraying or visible defects
• Verify that shelves, racks, and internal compartments are present and functional

2. Functional Testing
• Power on the refrigerator and verify that display screens, alarms, and controls function properly
• Test door latches and sealing mechanisms to ensure secure closure and insulation
• Run preliminary temperature cycles to observe startup behavior and cooling response

3. Temperature and Stability Testing
• Test internal temperature sensors and controllers using thermometers/probes
• Monitor temperature at multiple points within the chamber over an extended period
• Verify accuracy across user-defined setpoints (e.g., +4°C, +2°C to +8°C range)

4. Cooling System and Compressor Evaluation
• Test compressor startup, cycling, and operating noise levels
• Inspect condenser coils and fans for proper function and cleanliness
• Check refrigerant pressure (if applicable) and confirm there are no leaks or system inefficiencies

5. Electrical Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure all internal and external electrical components are properly grounded
• Perform insulation resistance and leakage current tests
6. Final Quality Assurance Checklist
• Run full operational tests over a 24-hour period
• Document temperature logs, control responsiveness, and system performance
• Complete a detailed service report

All refurbished laboratory refrigerators from American Instrument Exchange are backed by our rigorous testing standards and quality commitment. From vaccine storage to reagent preservation, you can count on consistent cold storage performance from day one.

Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Refrigerators
Cold Storage Performance from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory refrigerator we offer is subjected to a comprehensive repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a general-purpose lab refrigerator, pharmaceutical-grade unit, or undercounter model, our goal is to restore each system to peak performance—ensuring consistent temperature control and reliable to laboratory storage standards.

Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Refrigerator from American Instrument Exchange?

• Fully tested for cold storage accuracy and operational safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new refrigeration equipment
• Sustainably refurbished to reduce environmental impact
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience

Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol

Every laboratory refrigerator from American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, multi-stage process to ensure top-tier performance and reliability:

1. Initial Intake & Inspection

• Visual inspection for dents, corrosion, or structural damage
• Mechanical check of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and internal components
• Documentation of missing parts or areas requiring repair or replacement

2. Cleaning and Decontamination

• Internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe cleaners
• Decontamination/cleaning of all surfaces to remove biological or chemical residues
• Thorough cleaning of shelving, drawers, and removable interior parts

3. Mechanical and Electrical Repairs

• Replacement or repair of worn mechanical parts (door latches, seals, hinges, etc.)
• Inspection and restoration of control interfaces, thermostats, sensors, and displays
• Evaluation of wiring, relays, fuses, and power supply components for safety and integrity

4. Refrigeration System and Compressor Evaluation

• Testing of compressor function, condenser coils, and evaporators
• Inspection for refrigerant leaks and pressure performance (if applicable)
• Verification of proper airflow, fan operation, and defrost cycles

5. Temperature and Performance Testing

• Testing of temperature sensors and control boards
• Verification of temperature stability and uniformity throughout the chamber
• Testing of multiple setpoints (e.g., +2°C to +8°C) over extended operating periods

6. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Inspection of grounding and electrical insulation per lab safety standards
• Testing of alarm systems (if applicable) for temperature excursions or power failure

7. Final Quality Control and Documentation

• Multi-day operational test under real-world conditions
• Final cleaning, inspection, and performance validation
• Detailed service report with temperature logs, repair notes, and certification of refurbishment

Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of industry experience, American Instrument Exchange is a leading provider of high-quality refurbished laboratory equipment. Our proven laboratory refrigerator refurbishment protocol ensures consistent, accurate cold storage—so you can safeguard your samples, reagents, and research materials with confidence.

Warranty Information

All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,

Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”

Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.

Return & Cancellation Policy

American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.

Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.

Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.

Ongoing and Extended Support Options

American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.

For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.

For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.

How do you test and recondition the equipment?

Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.

How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?

We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.

Return and order cancellation policy

American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.

Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?

Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.

How does your price matching policy work?

We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?

Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.

1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.

Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?

Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.