VWR HCLS-26 Laboratory Refrigerator - front view

VWR HCLS-26 Refrigerator

Brand : VWR

Product Code : SKU 4388TT REFRIG

Quantity

Price Match Policy

Shipping

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

VWR HCLS-26 High-Performance Laboratory Refrigerator

Reliable cold storage begins with precise temperature control and dependable monitoring. The VWR HCLS-26 High-Performance Laboratory Refrigerator is engineered to provide stable refrigerated storage for laboratory reagents, biological samples, media, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive materials. With a spacious 23 cubic foot (651 L) capacity, adjustable operating temperatures from 1°C to 10°C, and an ENERGY STAR-certified refrigeration system, the HCLS-26 is an excellent choice for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, clinical laboratories, hospitals, universities, and industrial research facilities.

The HCLS-26 represents VWR's premium laboratory refrigeration platform, combining forced-air circulation, digital microprocessor controls, automatic defrost, remote alarm capability, and environmentally friendly R290 natural refrigerant. Unlike residential refrigerators, it is designed specifically for continuous laboratory operation, providing rapid temperature recovery and excellent temperature uniformity to help protect valuable research materials.

Many laboratories pair the HCLS-26 with ultra-low freezers for long-term biological preservation, laboratory freezers for frozen reagent storage, biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation, and centrifuges to create a complete laboratory cold storage workflow.

VWR HCLS-26 Key Features

Manufacturer: VWR International
Model: HCLS-26
23 cu. ft. (651 L) capacity
Adjustable temperature range: 1°C to 10°C
Digital microprocessor temperature controller
Sample-simulated temperature display
Forced-air circulation for outstanding temperature uniformity
Automatic cycle defrost
Full-height glass door for product visibility
Three adjustable shelves
Audible and visual high/low temperature alarms
Remote alarm contacts
Three probe/access ports
ENERGY STAR certified
Natural R290 refrigerant
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included.

Overview

The VWR HCLS-26 is designed for laboratories that require dependable refrigerated storage while maintaining excellent visibility of stored materials. Its full-height insulated glass door allows users to quickly locate samples before opening the cabinet, helping reduce unnecessary door openings and improve temperature recovery.

A forced-air directional refrigeration system distributes conditioned air evenly throughout the cabinet, minimizing temperature variation between shelves. The digital microprocessor controller continuously monitors cabinet conditions using a sample-simulated temperature display, providing a more accurate representation of actual product temperatures than traditional air temperature displays. Automatic cycle defrost further improves long-term performance by preventing excessive frost accumulation without causing significant temperature spikes.

Common Applications

The HCLS-26 is commonly used for storing:

Laboratory reagents
Cell culture media
Biological samples
Antibodies
Enzymes
Pharmaceutical products
Clinical specimens
Diagnostic kits
Quality control materials
Research chemicals

Ideal Laboratory Types

The HCLS-26 is well suited for:

Biotechnology companies
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
Academic research laboratories
Clinical laboratories
Hospitals
Environmental laboratories
Industrial quality assurance laboratories
Government research facilities

Its combination of excellent product visibility, dependable temperature control, and energy-efficient operation makes it an outstanding choice for laboratories that access refrigerated materials frequently throughout the day.

Why Choose a High-Performance Laboratory Refrigerator?

High-performance laboratory refrigerators provide tighter temperature control, faster recovery after door openings, and more sophisticated monitoring than standard refrigeration systems. These features help protect valuable research materials while improving reproducibility and reducing the risk of temperature excursions.

The HCLS-26 further enhances laboratory workflow through its sample-simulated temperature display, which more closely reflects the actual temperature experienced by stored materials rather than simply measuring the surrounding air. Combined with ENERGY STAR-certified efficiency and natural refrigerant technology, the refrigerator offers excellent performance while helping reduce operating costs.

Typical Stored Materials

The VWR HCLS-26 is commonly used to store laboratory reagents, cell culture media, antibodies, enzymes, biological specimens, pharmaceutical products, diagnostic kits, calibration standards, quality control materials, and other temperature-sensitive research supplies.

VWR HCLS-26 Key Specifications

Identification

Manufacturer: VWR International
Model: HCLS-26
Product Type: High-Performance Laboratory Refrigerator
Door Configuration: Single insulated glass door

Capacity

23 cu. ft. (651 liters)

Temperature Range

1°C to 10°C (adjustable)

Construction

Insulated full-height glass door
Three adjustable shelves
Powder-coated steel cabinet
LED interior lighting
Lockable door

Refrigeration System

Forced-air directional refrigeration
Automatic cycle defrost
Natural R290 refrigerant
ENERGY STAR certified refrigeration system

Monitoring & Controls

Digital microprocessor controller
Sample-simulated temperature display
Audible and visual high/low temperature alarms
Remote alarm contacts
Three probe/access ports

Electrical Requirements

115V, 60 Hz

Exterior Dimensions

28.5" W × 36.0" D × 78.5" H

Interior Dimensions

Designed to maximize usable storage while maintaining excellent airflow throughout the cabinet.

Weight

Verify shipping weight prior to installation.

Operating Costs & Energy Considerations

The HCLS-26 is ENERGY STAR certified and utilizes environmentally friendly R290 natural refrigerant, consuming approximately 1.68 kWh/day under ENERGY STAR testing. Combined with efficient forced-air refrigeration and automatic defrost, this design helps reduce operating costs while maintaining dependable laboratory performance. Routine condenser cleaning and maintaining adequate ventilation around the cabinet will help maximize efficiency and extend equipment life.

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

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every VWR HCLS-26 received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify temperature accuracy using calibrated temperature measurement equipment, inspect the refrigeration system, controller, alarms, shelving, probe access ports, and door gaskets, and confirm stable operating temperatures throughout the cabinet. Each refrigerator is thoroughly cleaned, and worn components are replaced as necessary to ensure dependable laboratory performance.

Laboratories building complete cold storage systems frequently purchase ultra-low freezers, laboratory freezers, biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, and additional laboratory refrigerators from American Instrument Exchange.

Shipping & Installation Considerations

The VWR HCLS-26 ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify doorway clearances, available electrical service, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Allow the refrigerator to stabilize at operating temperature before loading valuable laboratory materials to ensure optimum temperature uniformity and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature range does the VWR HCLS-26 maintain?

The HCLS-26 features an adjustable operating temperature range of 1°C to 10°C, making it suitable for storing a wide variety of laboratory reagents, biological samples, and pharmaceutical products.

What is a sample-simulated temperature display?

Unlike standard air temperature displays, a sample-simulated display more closely represents the temperature experienced by stored products, providing a more meaningful indication of storage conditions.

Is the HCLS-26 energy efficient?

Yes. The refrigerator is ENERGY STAR certified and uses environmentally friendly R290 natural refrigerant to provide efficient laboratory refrigeration.

How is the HCLS-26 tested before shipment?

Every refurbished VWR HCLS-26 is inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Refrigeration performance, controller operation, alarms, cabinet integrity, and overall functionality are verified before 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.