Cold storage units and incubators are foundational in almost every lab, protecting sensitive materials and supporting day-to-day workflows around the clock. Because these units operate continuously, they can have a major influence not only on scientific outcomes but also on overall lab operating costs.
When it's time to buy new equipment, it's natural to default to the option with the lowest quote, which makes sense — if it meets the basic specifications and fits the budget, it can seem like the most sensible choice.
The problem, however, is that the upfront price doesn’t tell the whole story. Over time, factors like energy use, maintenance, downtime, and compliance can all drive up the total cost of ownership (TCO), adding up to far more than any initial savings.
Being able to evaluate lab equipment beyond its price tag is, therefore, essential for making smart, long-term investments. By reading this guide, you'll:
- Learn the key factors that contribute to TCO for cold storage and incubators
- Discover where hidden costs can occur and how to avoid them
- Get a ready-to-use TCO calculation framework to help evaluate lifetime costs before purchase