FAQ
What are Econofrost night covers for refrigerated display cases?
Econofrost night covers are high-reflectivity woven aluminum curtains designed for open refrigerated display cases in supermarkets and convenience stores. They retain cold air, deflect ambient heat and harmful lights, reduce energy use, and support perishable quality. Econofrost Night Covers
What is the purpose of Econofrost night covers?
These covers help lower energy use, reduce product spoilage, improve refrigeration performance, cut operating expenses, and extend the shelf life of fresh foods. Econofrost Night Covers+1
How were Econofrost night covers developed?
Developed by engineers with expertise from Krupp and Linde, Econofrost covers were first used in Europe before expanding into North America in response to soaring energy costs and sustainability needs. Econofrost Night Covers
Who typically uses these night covers?
They are used by supermarket chains, independent grocers, food service operators, institutions like schools and hospitals, refrigeration contractors, and food equipment vendors. Econofrost Night Covers
What makes the fabric unique?
The fabric is perforated woven aluminum bonded with PVC and coated with a fire-retardant film that surpasses the UL94HB standard. Econofrost Night Covers
Why use perforated material? Is there a non-perforated version?
Perforations allow condensation to dissipate and reduce buildup. For produce cases, Econofrost offers a non-perforated version (NP) designed to handle high humidity and misting environments. Econofrost Night Covers
How long do these covers last?
With proper upkeep, Econofrost night covers can last up to 10 years thanks to their durable construction and modular design. Econofrost Night Covers
What is the typical payback period?
Payback generally ranges from 3 to 18 months, depending on store hours, local energy rates, shrink reduction, and available rebates. Econofrost Night Covers
What are the secondary benefits?
Benefits include better product preservation, emergency protection during power outages, reduced labor and maintenance needs, and unrestricted shopper access.Econofrost Night Covers
Have independent tests verified the benefits?
Yes. Econofrost is tested by TUV and Southern California Edison. Their lab verified lower energy usage and improved product temperatures with the covers in place.Econofrost Night Covers
What is the R-Value of the fabric?
R-Value measurement does not apply to thin reflective fabrics like those used by Econofrost. Standard R-Value tests are not suitable for these materials. Econofrost Night Covers
How should the fabric be cleaned?
Use mild liquid soap only. Avoid abrasive or commercial cleaners to preserve fabricperformance. Econofrost Night Covers
Can I use the covers on produce cases with misting systems?
Yes. The non-perforated (NP) series is specifically engineered for produce cases with or without misting systems to maximize both energy savings and product protection. Econofrost Night Covers
Are night covers suitable for freezer cases?
Yes. Covering coffin or wide island freezers improves thermal efficiency and protects product packaging from moisture and heat. Econofrost Night Covers
How can I identify different product series?
- 9000 series has a slim-line handle with magnetic fasteners
- 9600 series has slim-line handle with metal mounting brackets
- 7000 series has a slimmer handle and distinct end caps
- XL series features a red spindle lock for Hussmann cases . Econofrost Night Covers
What types of night cover models are available?
Models include retrofit cassette (9000, 7000), OEM non-cassette (9600, XL), magnetic fast-mount units, electric motor-driven models, and lockable versions. Econofrost Night Covers
How do covers help during power outages?
When deployed immediately, covers can preserve cold temperatures for 3 to 6 hours, helping avoid spoilage and reduce product loss. Econofrost Night Covers
Do covers affect shopper access?
No. The covers retract and stay concealed during business hours, maintaining easy customer access while still offering ongoing thermal benefits. Econofrost Night Covers
Are they better than installing glass doors?
Yes. Night covers cost less, preserve shopper access, avoid case reconstruction, and still deliver strong energy and product protection. Econofrost Night Covers
Which utilities offer rebates for installation?
Rebates are available from BC Hydro, Manitoba Hydro, Southern California Edison, PG&E, Sempra, APS, Connecticut Light & Power, Western Massachusetts Electric, Avista, Sierra Pacific, UI, LADWP, and more. Econofrost Night Covers
Why do retailers install night covers?
The top three reasons are energy savings, product protection, and benefits such as improved performance, sustainability, and outage resilience. Econofrost Night Covers
How much energy can they save?
Testing shows hourly savings from 36% to 50%, depending on model and conditions. . Econofrost Night Covers
What operational savings can retailers expect?
Are these covers food safe and mold-resistant?
Yes. The woven aluminum design discourages mold and is easy to clean, making it a hygienic alternative to plastic or vinyl covers. Food Safe Displays
Where can I find technical documentation and support?
Resources available include product catalogs, installation guides, energy calculators, case studies, and rebate information, with expert support provided via Ramicovers.