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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 HCCS-33 Laboratory Refrigerator

Fully Tested & Warrantied*
Brand : VWR
Product Code : SKU 4388UU REFRIG
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VWR HCCS-33 Laboratory Refrigerator (Refurbished)

The VWR HCCS-33 Laboratory Refrigerator is a laboratory-grade refrigerator designed to provide reliable refrigerated storage for research, clinical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and industrial laboratories. Offering approximately 33 cubic feet of storage capacity, the HCCS-33 combines generous interior storage space with precise temperature control, making it well suited for protecting valuable reagents, biological samples, pharmaceuticals, media, vaccines, and other temperature-sensitive laboratory materials.

Unlike residential refrigerators, the HCCS-33 is engineered specifically for laboratory environments. A forced-air refrigeration system promotes excellent temperature uniformity throughout the cabinet, while the microprocessor controller continuously monitors cabinet conditions. Sample-simulated temperature monitoring, comprehensive alarm functions, and secure access controls provide additional confidence for laboratories that depend on stable refrigerated storage.

Many laboratories pair laboratory refrigerators with ultra-low temperature freezers, laboratory freezers, centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and CO₂ incubators to create complete sample storage and laboratory workflow solutions.

VWR HCCS-33 Key Features

  • Manufacturer: VWR

  • Model: HCCS-33

  • Laboratory-grade refrigerator

  • Approximately 33 cu. ft. capacity

  • Operating temperature range: 1°C to 10°C

  • Microprocessor temperature controller

  • Digital temperature display

  • Sample-simulated temperature monitoring

  • Forced-air circulation for excellent temperature uniformity

  • Audible and visual high/low temperature alarms

  • Door ajar alarm

  • Power failure alarm

  • Remote alarm contacts

  • Probe access port

  • Keyed door lock

  • Adjustable shelving

  • Hydrocarbon refrigerant

  • Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange

  • 90-day warranty included

Overview

The VWR HCCS-33 was designed for laboratories that require dependable refrigerated storage with accurate temperature control and continuous monitoring. Its forced-air circulation system minimizes temperature variation throughout the cabinet while providing rapid recovery following routine door openings, helping maintain consistent storage conditions for valuable laboratory materials.

The intuitive microprocessor controller continuously monitors cabinet temperature while offering programmable alarm functions and an easy-to-read digital display. Sample-simulated temperature monitoring provides a more representative indication of actual product temperature than conventional air sensors, making the HCCS-33 an excellent choice for laboratories with demanding storage requirements.

Common Applications

The VWR HCCS-33 is commonly used for storing laboratory reagents, antibodies, enzymes, microbiology media, pharmaceutical products, vaccines, chromatography reagents, diagnostic kits, buffers, calibration standards, quality-control materials, biological specimens, and other temperature-sensitive laboratory supplies requiring refrigerated storage.

Ideal Laboratory Types

  • Biotechnology laboratories

  • Pharmaceutical laboratories

  • Clinical laboratories

  • Hospital laboratories

  • University research laboratories

  • Environmental testing laboratories

  • Industrial quality-control laboratories

  • Government laboratories

Why Choose the VWR HCCS-33 Laboratory Refrigerator?

The VWR HCCS-33 offers an excellent combination of storage capacity, dependable refrigeration performance, and laboratory-specific monitoring features. Its spacious cabinet accommodates a large inventory of refrigerated materials while the forced-air cooling system helps maintain excellent temperature uniformity throughout the storage chamber. Combined with sample-simulated temperature monitoring and comprehensive alarm protection, the HCCS-33 provides reliable cold storage for laboratories that demand consistent performance every day.

Typical Stored Materials

Typical stored materials include cell culture media, laboratory reagents, antibodies, enzymes, vaccines, pharmaceutical products, microbiological media, chromatography solvents, analytical standards, quality-control samples, diagnostic kits, biological specimens, and other laboratory materials requiring storage between 1°C and 10°C.

VWR HCCS-33 Specifications

Specification Details
Manufacturer VWR
Model HCCS-33
Product Type Laboratory Refrigerator
Storage Capacity Approximately 33 cu. ft.
Temperature Range 1°C to 10°C
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H) Approximately 39" × 35" × 79"
Interior Dimensions (W × D × H) Approximately 32" × 27" × 60"
Electrical Requirements 115V, 60 Hz
Shelving Five adjustable shelves
Temperature Controller Microprocessor controller with digital display
Temperature Monitoring Sample-simulated temperature monitoring
Air Circulation Forced-air refrigeration system
Alarm System Audible and visual high/low temperature, door ajar, and power failure alarms
Remote Monitoring Remote alarm contacts
Probe Access Rear probe access port
Door Lock Keyed lock
Refrigerant Hydrocarbon refrigerant
Shipping Weight Approximately 425 lbs.
Warranty 90-Day Warranty from American Instrument Exchange

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

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every VWR HCCS-33 laboratory refrigerator received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify refrigeration performance, temperature accuracy, controller operation, alarm functionality, air circulation, lighting, door gasket integrity, shelving, and overall cabinet condition. Each refrigerator is thoroughly cleaned, temperature tested, and inspected to help ensure dependable laboratory performance before leaving our facility.

Laboratories purchasing laboratory refrigerators frequently also purchase ultra-low temperature freezers, laboratory freezers, biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, and CO₂ incubators from American Instrument Exchange.

Shipping & Installation Considerations

The VWR HCCS-33 ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify a dedicated 115V electrical circuit and provide adequate clearance around the cabinet to allow proper airflow. After the refrigerator has been positioned, allow sufficient time for the refrigeration system to stabilize before loading valuable laboratory materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature range does the VWR HCCS-33 maintain?

The HCCS-33 is designed to maintain refrigerated storage temperatures between 1°C and 10°C, making it suitable for a wide variety of laboratory applications.

What is sample-simulated temperature monitoring?

Sample-simulated monitoring measures the temperature of a buffered probe rather than the surrounding cabinet air, providing a temperature reading that more closely reflects the conditions experienced by stored laboratory materials.

What types of laboratories commonly use the HCCS-33?

The HCCS-33 is commonly found in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, clinical, academic, environmental, and industrial laboratories where dependable refrigerated storage is essential for protecting valuable samples and reagents.

How is the refrigerator tested before shipment?

Every refurbished VWR HCCS-33 is inspected and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Refrigeration performance, temperature accuracy, controller operation, alarms, door seals, air circulation, and overall cabinet 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.