Skip to content
LAB EQUIPMENT REPAIRS, INCLUDING ULTRALOW FREEZERS, FRIDGES, CENTRIFUGES AND MORE - Click here for details
LAB EQUIPMENT REPAIRS, INCLUDING ULTRALOW FREEZERS, FRIDGES, CENTRIFUGES AND MORE - Click here for details

VWR General Purpose Refrigerator/freezer combo

Fully Tested & Warrantied*
Brand : VWR
Product Code : SKU 4388I REFRIG
Sold Out
⚠

Currently Unavailable

This item is temporarily out of stock. Please contact us for availability updates or explore similar alternatives below.

We Can Help You Find:

  • Similar equipment currently in stock
  • Alternative brands with comparable specifications
  • Refurbished units (fully tested & warrantied)
Size: $850.00
Color: 06-05-2023

Shipping

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

VWR SCRFC-20A General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination Unit

The VWR SCRFC-20A General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination Unit provides both refrigerated and frozen laboratory storage in a single space-saving cabinet. Designed for research laboratories, quality control facilities, industrial laboratories, educational institutions, and healthcare environments, the SCRFC-20A combines approximately 15 cubic feet of refrigerator storage with 5 cubic feet of freezer storage, allowing laboratories to store temperature-sensitive materials without dedicating floor space to two separate units.

Unlike traditional laboratory refrigerators or freezers, the SCRFC-20A offers two independently accessible storage compartments within one cabinet. The refrigerator section maintains temperatures suitable for reagents, media, standards, and biological samples, while the upper freezer compartment provides convenient frozen storage for laboratory supplies and reference materials. Mechanical temperature controls, automatic refrigerator defrost, keyed door locks, interior lighting, and probe access ports make the unit well suited for everyday laboratory use.

Many laboratories pair combination refrigerator/freezers with biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, incubators, and laboratory water baths to support routine laboratory workflows.

VWR SCRFC-20A Key Features

  • Manufacturer: VWR International

  • Model: SCRFC-20A

  • General purpose laboratory refrigerator/freezer combination

  • Approximately 20 cu. ft. total capacity

  • Refrigerator capacity: approximately 15 cu. ft.

  • Freezer capacity: approximately 5 cu. ft.

  • Refrigerator temperature range: 0°C to 10°C

  • Freezer temperature range: approximately −15°C to −10°C

  • Two separate insulated compartments

  • Mechanical temperature controls

  • Automatic refrigerator defrost

  • Automatic freezer defrost

  • Interior lighting

  • Heavy-duty magnetic door gaskets

  • Probe access port

  • Adjustable refrigerator shelving

  • Keyed door locks

  • Heavy-duty integrated door handles

  • Leveling legs

  • Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange

  • 90-day warranty included.

Overview

The SCRFC-20A was developed for laboratories that need both refrigerated and frozen storage while minimizing equipment footprint. Rather than purchasing separate refrigerators and freezers, laboratories can consolidate routine storage into one dependable laboratory-grade cabinet.

The refrigerator compartment provides ample space for media, reagents, standards, pharmaceuticals, and routine laboratory supplies, while the freezer compartment offers convenient storage for frozen reagents, enzymes, controls, and reference materials. Separate doors reduce temperature loss by allowing users to access only the required compartment during normal operation.

Common Applications

The SCRFC-20A is commonly used for storing laboratory reagents, biological samples, vaccines, media, diagnostic kits, calibration standards, microbiology supplies, frozen enzymes, molecular biology reagents, pharmaceuticals, environmental samples, quality-control materials, and other laboratory products requiring refrigerated or frozen storage.

Ideal Laboratory Types

  • Biotechnology laboratories

  • Pharmaceutical laboratories

  • Environmental testing laboratories

  • Industrial quality control laboratories

  • Clinical laboratories

  • Academic teaching laboratories

  • Government laboratories

  • Food and beverage testing laboratories

Why Choose the VWR SCRFC-20A?

The SCRFC-20A provides exceptional flexibility by combining refrigerator and freezer storage into one laboratory-grade cabinet. This design helps maximize valuable laboratory floor space while simplifying installation and reducing equipment costs compared to purchasing two separate cold-storage units. Independent storage compartments also improve workflow by allowing refrigerated and frozen materials to be stored in one convenient location.

Typical Stored Materials

Typical refrigerated materials include laboratory reagents, cell culture media, standards, pharmaceuticals, microbiology media, vaccines, diagnostic kits, buffers, and biological samples. Typical freezer contents include enzymes, molecular biology reagents, reference standards, frozen controls, antibodies, and other laboratory materials requiring frozen storage.

VWR SCRFC-20A Specifications

Specification Details
Manufacturer VWR International
Model SCRFC-20A
Product Type General Purpose Laboratory Refrigerator/Freezer Combination
Total Capacity Approximately 20 cu. ft.
Refrigerator Capacity Approximately 15 cu. ft.
Freezer Capacity Approximately 5 cu. ft.
Refrigerator Temperature Range 0°C to 10°C
Freezer Temperature Range −15°C to −10°C
Door Configuration Separate refrigerator and freezer doors
Shelving Adjustable refrigerator shelves
Defrost Automatic refrigerator defrost; automatic freezer defrost
Temperature Control Mechanical thermostat
Probe Access Factory-installed access port
Door Features Heavy-duty handles with magnetic door gaskets
Electrical Requirements 115V, 60Hz
Mobility Leveling legs
Warranty 90-Day Warranty from American Instrument Exchange

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

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every VWR SCRFC-20A received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify refrigerator and freezer temperatures using calibrated monitoring equipment, inspect the refrigeration system, thermostat, door gaskets, shelving, lighting, and overall cabinet condition. Each unit is thoroughly cleaned, temperature tested, and verified for dependable laboratory operation before shipment.

Laboratories purchasing combination refrigerator/freezers frequently also purchase ultra-low freezers, laboratory refrigerators, laboratory freezers, and biosafety cabinets from American Instrument Exchange.

Shipping & Installation Considerations

The SCRFC-20A ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify adequate electrical service and allow sufficient clearance for ventilation. Once installed, allow both compartments to stabilize at their operating temperatures before loading valuable laboratory materials. Proper organization of refrigerated and frozen materials will improve workflow while minimizing door-open times and temperature fluctuations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Combination units save valuable laboratory floor space while providing convenient access to both refrigerated and frozen storage within a single cabinet. They are an excellent choice for laboratories with moderate storage requirements or limited available space.

What materials are commonly stored in the freezer compartment?

The freezer compartment is commonly used for enzymes, antibodies, molecular biology reagents, frozen standards, controls, and other laboratory materials requiring temperatures between approximately −15°C and −10°C.

Can the refrigerator and freezer compartments be accessed independently?

Yes. Separate insulated doors allow each compartment to be opened independently, helping reduce temperature fluctuations and improve energy efficiency.

How is the SCRFC-20A tested before shipment?

Every refurbished VWR SCRFC-20A is inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Refrigeration performance, freezer operation, thermostat function, shelving, lighting, door seals, and overall cabinet operation are verified before shipment.

Want to view a video of this unit? Click Here to see the VWR General Purpose Refrigerator / Freezer Combo on the American Instrument Exchange YouTube channel. 

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.