The Benefits of an Electric Standby System for Reefers
Joe Dickman | September 9th, 2020
For decades, diesel powered everything in a refrigerated vehicle. It propelled it forward as it simultaneously worked internal mechanical refrigeration components. While this was effective, distancing these two functions from one another by incorporating an electric (or hybrid) cooling apparatus allows for great flexibility and savings. To discover the benefits of an electric standby system for reefers, consider these three points.
Maintain Cooling When Stationary
Electric standby systems operate the compressor, condenser, and evaporator while the engine isn’t running, and does so via an independent battery. The first benefit is drivers can keep products cool without letting the engine perpetually run. This makes a pitstop much easier for them to take without worrying about the condition of their shipment. Plus, when they’re stationary, trucks are quieter, creating a pleasanter environment for the driver as they rest or address an issue.
Reduces Fuel Consumption and Exhaust Emissions
Perhaps the main benefit of an electric standby system for reefers is your fuel savings and emission reductions. Electricity from a battery costs less to use up than diesel fuel, meaning every period in which you utilize electric standby saves you money as you burn less fuel. Giving your engine a rest also translates to fewer fill-ups for your drivers, saving them time as well.
From an environmental perspective, using less diesel also cuts down on total emissions. Incorporating electric standby, then, creates a new path for pursuing sustainability as a company. That said, even if this is not a major value of yours, some states have stringent emission regulations electric standby allows you to meet.
Lengthens Truck Lifespan
As you burn less fuel and run your engine only when you need to, you also lengthen the total life of your truck. Your parts sustain less wear and last longer, pushing maintenance intervals back a bit. The end result with an electric standby system in place is a better-running vehicle that encounters fewer issues. Not only does this simplify your operation, but it also saves you money.
To learn more about electric standby components, contact Emerald Transportation Solutions. We supply all manner of refrigerated vehicles ranging from vans to VanMax™ small refrigerated trucks to large-scale reefers.
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What does under DOT mean?
Questions regarding DOT requirements come up often. 10,000 lbs GVW (gross vehicle weight) and over are commercial vehicles that fall under the Department of Transportation regulatory requirements.
What is the difference between GVW and payload?
GVW or Gross Vehicle Weight is the entire weight of the vehicle including the payload. The payload weight represents the amount of cargo you are hauling.
What is a self-powered unit and a vehicle-powered unit?
A self-powered unit has its own fuel source and will run independent of the truck. This is the heaviest and most expensive option. While vehicle-powered units run off the engine via a compressor mounted on the engine. These are less expensive and lighter in weight but you must run the truck or plug the electric standby into shore power.
What does K-factor mean and why is that important?
K-factor is a term that stands for the overall insulating value of the container (truck body). Quite simply the lower the K-factor the better the truck body will be able to maintain a given temperature and require less energy to do so.
How much lighter is a Poly Van vs a US spec body?
Poly Van bodies are very light. On average we estimate we are 75-150 lbs per foot lighter than a traditional sheet and post foamed in place body. These weight savings translates to less fuel burn and less CO2 emissions, along with added payload, the most important benefit.
