Preventing Mold Growth in Refrigerators

Introduction 

Humidity is a common problem in medical refrigerators, especially when the doors are opened frequently. Excessive humidity can lead to the growth of mold and fungus, compromising the quality and safety of stored samples. In this article, we will discuss the technical aspects of humidity management in medical refrigerators and provide recommendations to prevent humidity-related problems. 

Operation of medical refrigerators and formation of condensation 

Medical refrigerators, such as those made by Helmer and Thermo Scientific, are designed to manage humidity inside the cavity. They are equipped with retention tanks for the accumulation and evaporation of condensate. The refrigerator produces cold and circulates air over its evaporator, where water condenses and is sent to the holding tank. 

When the refrigerator door is opened, moist air comes into contact with the cold internal walls, causing water to condense, a phenomenon similar to glasses fogging up in winter. If the doors are opened frequently, the refrigerator does not have time to process moisture, which can lead to water buildup and encourage the growth of mold and fungus. 

Recommendations for Managing Humidity in Medical Refrigerators

1. Control ambient humidity 

Maintain external ambient humidity at an acceptable level, for example 40% at 21°C, to enable the refrigerator to handle a moderate humidity load. 

2. Use a dehumidifier 

Install a dehumidifier in the room where the medical refrigerator is located to reduce ambient humidity. Be sure to empty and clean the dehumidifier tank regularly.

3. Install a hygrometer to monitor ambient humidity

Use a hygrometer to measure and monitor the humidity in the room where the refrigerator is located. This will allow you to quickly identify moisture problems and take the necessary steps to remedy them.

4. Isolate sources of moisture

Keep the medical refrigerator away from sources of moisture, such as sinks, showers or washing areas. Make sure all water sources are properly isolated and that moisture does not leak into the room.

5. Limit opening of doors 

Educate staff about moisture-related issues and encourage them to open refrigerator doors only when necessary. Organize samples efficiently to minimize door opening time.

6. Install a hygrometer to monitor humidity inside the refrigerator

Use a hygrometer to measure and monitor the humidity inside the refrigerator. This allows moisture problems to be detected quickly and appropriate action taken.

7. Ensure adequate ventilation 

Install the refrigerator in a well-ventilated area, with enough space around it to allow adequate air circulation. Make sure the room where the refrigerator is located is well ventilated, with adequate airflow to prevent moisture buildup. If necessary, use fans or air conditioning systems to improve air circulation. 

8. Clean the retention tanks regularly 

Check and clean the holding tanks regularly to prevent water accumulation and slow evaporation of condensate.

9. Check the tightness of the door seals 

Worn or damaged door seals can allow moist air to enter the refrigerator. Replace defective gaskets to ensure a good seal.

Conclusion 

Humidity management in medical refrigerators is essential to prevent the growth of mold and fungi, which can affect the quality and safety of stored samples. By following the recommendations above and implementing appropriate humidity management practices, you can preserve the integrity of samples and ensure an optimal environment for their storage. 

Monitoring with the ATEK system

To further optimize humidity management in your medical refrigerator, consider using the ATEK system to monitor humidity and temperature levels in real time. This system allows you to receive instant alerts in the event of abnormal variations, helping you maintain a safe and stable storage environment for your medical samples. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of the ATEK system and how it can help you better manage humidity in your medical refrigerator.

Phone →  1-855-982-2835 x2

Email  → info@atek.io