ULT Freezer Spotlight: Key Upgrades for 2025 and Beyond

Introduction to Modern Ultra Low Freezers

An ultra low temperature freezer (ULT) is a staple of modern laboratories, storing biological samples, vaccines, and research materials. Ultra low freezers can operate at temperatures as low as -86°C, which is critical for many scientific and medical applications.

The current landscape of ULT refrigeration is evolving, offering new features that enhance sustainability and efficiency. If you’re looking for a new ULT freezer or considering an upgrade, here are the key advancements to look for in 2025 and beyond.

Next-Generation Natural Refrigerants

Environmental responsibility is currently at the forefront of laboratory operations, and ULT manufacturers are responding with hydrocarbon-based refrigerants that significantly reduce carbon footprints. These natural hydrocarbon (HC) refrigerants not only comply with global environmental standards but also improve energy efficiency compared to traditional HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons). According to a study published in Nature Climate Change, hydrocarbon refrigerants can reduce global warming potential (GWP) by over 90% compared to HFC-based systems¹. At Corepoint, we design our ULTs with hydrocarbon refrigerants for ultimate performance, sustainability, and energy savings.

Advanced Touchscreen Controls for Precision and Ease of Use

Gone are the days of analog temperature dials and cumbersome settings. The latest ULT freezers are equipped with intuitive touchscreen controls that provide real-time monitoring, customizable settings, and enhanced security. These digital interfaces allow for remote temperature tracking so that researchers can monitor sample conditions without being physically present in the lab. A 2024 report from Lab Manager found that digital control panels reduced temperature fluctuations by 30%, improving sample integrity and reducing power consumption².

At Corepoint, we’ve engineered our own intuitive touchscreen system that eliminates complexity and gives users clear, easy access to all unit functions. Our system provides a large display, a full battery of alarms and controls. You can even set administrative permissions to manage access if multiple users access your unit.

Variable Speed Compressors (VSCs): Efficiency Meets Performance

Traditional ULT freezers utilize fixed speed compressors designed for the highest cooling load, drawing maximum power with each cooling cycle. In contrast, variable speed compressors (VSCs) adjust their performance based on real-time cooling needs, cutting energy use dramatically. A study from Embraco found that VSC-equipped ULT freezers used up to 40% less energy than fixed-speed models³. At Corepoint, we designed our ULTs with variable speed compressors for system longevity, noise reduction, superior temperature control and energy efficiency. These are the compressors of the future.

Enhanced Sustainability with Lower Power Consumption

Laboratories are energy-intensive environments, and ULT freezers historically account for a significant portion of electricity usage. With the introduction of variable speed compressors, hydrocarbon refrigerants and advanced electronics, new ULT refrigeration designs enhance sustainability and optimize power use. These upgrades can drastically cut energy consumption while still maintaining the same cooling power.

Dual Voltage Capability

Traditional ultra low freezers with high energy requirements require specialized building power connections. For these ULT freezers, equipment has to be purchased to match the building connection, or the building itself needs to be modified to suit the equipment. Corepoint eliminates the extra effort by providing dual voltage capability as standard on all sizes of ultra low freezers.  Freezers are shipped with 2 separate power cords and no special settings to change the voltage.  Simply connect the 120V (NEMA 5-15 plug) or 240V (NEMA 6-15 plug) cord that fits the power outlet for your lab and power the freezer on.

ULT Technology of the Future

The advancements in ULT freezer technology in 2025 and beyond will empower your research to be more efficient, sustainable, and easy. Whether your lab is upgrading to natural refrigerants, adopting smart technology, or investing in variable speed compressors, these innovations empower both science and sustainability. With energy costs rising and environmental concerns growing, now is the time to future-proof your lab with the latest in ultra low temperature refrigeration.

Discover all these benefits and more with Corepoint® Scientific’s ULT freezers. Reduce costs, improve efficiency, and meet your sustainability goals. These are the ULTs of the future.

Contact us today at 1-843-821-8010 (Option 3) to discuss your needs or visit Corepointscientific.com to explore what we can offer you.