A front-facing view of a white VWR general purpose laboratory refrigerator/freezer combo in front of an American Instrument Exchange backdrop, featuring a top freezer compartment, bottom refrigerator compartment, vertical door handles, and a yellow caution label.

VWR General Purpose Lab Refrigerator/Freezer combo

Brand : VWR

Product Code : SKU 4388II REFRIG

Price Match Policy

Shipping

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

VWR General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination Unit

Not every laboratory has room for separate refrigerators and freezers. The VWR General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination Unit provides two independent storage environments in a single cabinet, allowing laboratories to refrigerate media, reagents, and biological samples while also maintaining frozen storage for enzymes, standards, and temperature-sensitive materials. Combining a laboratory refrigerator and freezer into one footprint makes this unit an excellent choice for research laboratories, quality control facilities, clinical laboratories, universities, and industrial environments where space and efficiency are equally important.

Designed specifically for everyday laboratory use, the refrigerator compartment maintains temperatures between 0°C and 10°C, while the upper freezer compartment provides frozen storage between approximately -10°C and -15°C. Unlike residential refrigerator/freezer combinations, this laboratory model features durable construction, keyed security, probe access ports, heavy-duty shelving, and refrigeration systems engineered for continuous laboratory operation.

Many laboratories complement a refrigerator/freezer combination unit with ultra-low freezers for long-term biological preservation, biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation, centrifuges for sample processing, and larger laboratory refrigerators as storage requirements grow.

VWR Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combo Key Features

General-purpose laboratory refrigerator/freezer combination
Dual-temperature storage in one cabinet
Refrigerator temperature range: 0°C to 10°C
Freezer temperature range: -10°C to -15°C
Mechanical thermostat
Separate refrigerator and freezer compartments
Keyed door lock
Probe access ports
Heavy-duty wire shelving
Manual-defrost freezer compartment
Automatic/cycle-defrost refrigerator compartment
Laboratory-grade refrigeration system
White powder-coated cabinet
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Overview

The primary advantage of a laboratory refrigerator/freezer combination unit is convenience. Rather than dedicating floor space to two separate appliances, laboratories can store refrigerated and frozen materials within a single cabinet while maintaining separate temperature zones.

The refrigerator section is ideal for media, reagents, antibodies, enzymes, and other materials requiring refrigerated storage, while the freezer compartment provides convenient storage for frozen standards, controls, and commonly accessed laboratory supplies. The result is an efficient solution for smaller laboratories or satellite research facilities where space is limited but dependable cold storage remains essential.

Common Applications

This combination unit is commonly used for storing:

Cell culture media
Laboratory reagents
Antibodies
Enzymes
Diagnostic kits
Clinical specimens
Frozen laboratory standards
Quality control materials
Research chemicals
Daily-use laboratory supplies

Ideal Laboratory Types

This refrigerator/freezer combination is well suited for:

Biotechnology laboratories
Pharmaceutical laboratories
Academic research laboratories
Clinical laboratories
Hospital laboratories
Environmental laboratories
Industrial quality control laboratories
Start-up laboratories

For laboratories where space is at a premium, a combination refrigerator/freezer provides outstanding flexibility without requiring two separate pieces of equipment.

Why Choose a Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination?

Combination laboratory units offer an excellent balance between storage capacity and floor-space efficiency. Researchers have immediate access to both refrigerated and frozen materials while reducing equipment footprint, electrical requirements, and installation costs.

Unlike household refrigerator/freezers, laboratory models are designed for continuous operation and include features such as probe access ports, keyed security, laboratory shelving, and construction intended for demanding scientific environments.

Typical Stored Materials

This unit is commonly used to store cell culture media, laboratory reagents, biological samples, antibodies, enzymes, frozen controls, quality control materials, calibration standards, research supplies, and more.

Key Specifications

Identification

Manufacturer: VWR International
Product Type: General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination Unit
Configuration: Upright dual-temperature cabinet
Door Style: Solid insulated door(s) with separate refrigerator and freezer compartments

Capacity

Combination refrigerator/freezer cabinet
Multiple cabinet sizes available depending on model configuration

Temperature Range

Refrigerator: 0°C to 10°C
Freezer: -10°C to -15°C

Construction

Powder-coated steel cabinet
Heavy-duty wire shelving
Keyed door lock
High-density foam insulation
Magnetic door gaskets

Refrigeration System

Mechanical thermostat
Cycle-defrost refrigerator
Manual-defrost freezer
Laboratory-grade refrigeration system

Monitoring & Controls

Mechanical temperature control
Probe access ports for refrigerator and freezer compartments
Laboratory-ready design for external monitoring devices

Electrical Requirements

115V, 60 Hz
Verify electrical requirements for the specific model prior to installation.

Exterior Dimensions

Verify cabinet dimensions prior to installation, as they vary by model.

Interior Dimensions

Separate refrigerator and freezer storage compartments sized for everyday laboratory use.

Weight

Shipping weight varies by cabinet size and configuration.

Operating Costs & Energy Considerations

By combining refrigerated and frozen storage into one cabinet, this unit helps reduce floor space requirements while simplifying laboratory workflow. Routine condenser cleaning, proper ventilation, and periodic manual defrosting of the freezer compartment will help maximize refrigeration efficiency and long-term performance.

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

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every VWR refrigerator/freezer combination unit received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify refrigerator and freezer temperatures using calibrated instrumentation, inspect compressors, evaporators, shelving, door gaskets, and cabinet integrity, and confirm proper operation of both storage compartments. Each unit is thoroughly cleaned, and worn components are replaced as needed before shipment.

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

This refrigerator/freezer combination ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify doorway clearances, electrical service, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Allow both compartments to reach operating temperatures before loading valuable laboratory materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose a laboratory refrigerator/freezer combination instead of separate units?

A combination unit provides refrigerated and frozen storage in one cabinet, reducing floor space requirements while keeping commonly used laboratory materials conveniently organized.

What temperatures does the unit maintain?

The refrigerator compartment operates between 0°C and 10°C, while the freezer compartment maintains approximately -10°C to -15°C.

Can the refrigerator and freezer be monitored independently?

Yes. Probe access ports allow laboratories to install independent monitoring probes for each compartment if desired.

How is the refrigerator/freezer combination tested before shipment?

Every refurbished unit is inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Both compartments are verified for proper operation, temperature stability, refrigeration performance, and overall cabinet condition 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.