Are Second-Hand Medical Fridges Safe?

Medical fridges are essential for the safe storage of temperature sensitive medications, vaccines and biological samples. As such, it is essential that a medical fridge is in top condition. New medical fridges will have up-to-date technology, and adhere to strict temperature requirements. However, there are also second-hand medical fridges for sale or hire that may work well and suit the budget conscious. Second-hand medical fridges are safe as long as they are purchased from a reputable supplier, comply with QQCP (Quality Care Pharmacy Program), and are serviced regularly. To understand more about second-hand medical fridges, we  examine what constitutes a second-hand medical fridge, what to look out for in a medical fridge and if second-hand medical fridges are safe compared to new models.

What is a Second-Hand Medical Fridge?

A second-hand  medical fridge is one that has been used and is now being sold or hired out. There are also medical fridges that have not been used before but are  considered second-hand  as they are damaged or ex-display stock. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Medical Fridge

Maintaining  the highest quality standards is imperative when storing medicines, vaccines and biological samples in a medical fridge. A medical fridge must have the ability to safely store medical products at their optimal temperature. When choosing a medical fridge, whether new or second-hand,  it is important to consider these factors.

Purpose

What is to be stored in a medical fridge will impact the type of medical fridge you choose. A medical fridge primarily used for vaccine storage will need different features to one that is solely for biological samples. Many medical fridges are designed with a particular use in mind. Vaccine fridges, for example, are purpose built to protect vaccines with the tightest temperature control available on the market. Fridges for storing botox in a skin clinic will have different characteristics.

Size

Medical fridges are available in small sizes that fit under a bench, to larger capacity models to store a significant amount of medical supplies. Healthcare facilities like hospitals will need large medical fridges, while a small clinic will likely only require a minimum sized medical fridge.

The amount of space available for a medical fridge will also impact the size. A pharmacy may only have room for an undercounter fridge, for instance.

Compliance

Medical fridges are required to comply with specific industry standards. The QCPP Compliant Dispensary Refrigerator list outlines which refrigerators are deemed compliant under the QCPP requirements. It is particularly important to check compliance with a second-hand  medical fridge. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia can verify cold chain efficiency in a refrigerator, and provide documentation verifying the compliance of the refrigerator. 

Temperature consistency

Keeping temperatures stable and within strict parameters is essential for maintaining the cold chain. This is a big factor in the difference between a domestic fridge and a medical fridge, as medical fridges are designed specifically for temperature stability. Make sure the medical fridge has the features required for temperature consistency. These include special features like temperature alarms, door locks, and UPS backup battery systems.

Long lasting

Medical fridges are a big investment that you will want to last. Think about how durable you need the fridge to be and if that may mean buying a reliable brand or a new medical fridge with the latest technology. When considering which medical fridge, think ahead to how long it will last, and the amount of maintenance it might need.

New or used

As with any purchase, buying something new is always preferable. However, if there are budget restraints, you might consider whether to buy a used medical fridge. When considering each option, remember that new medical fridges will have the latest technology, are likely to be more reliable, and have a lengthy guarantee, but will be more expensive. second-hand  medical fridges will cost you less, and may be completely reliable, but will not have the same longevity as a newer counterpart. 

When considering purchasing second-hand  medical equipment, the Therapeutic Goods Administration recommends not buying from garage or car boot sales or Internet auction sites. It is also advisable to consider if the product is still covered by a warranty, if there are  instructions, and access to a service provider who can undertake repairs.

Whether new or used, you can purchase or rent online from reliable retailers like Eurochill. Renting a used medical fridge allows you to access high-quality products in a more affordable, flexible and manageable way.

Cost

When thinking about the type of medical fridge, price may be a factor. Remember that medical fridges are specifically designed to ensure temperature stability for fragile, temperature sensitive medications, vaccines and biological samples. The higher level of performance expected makes them more expensive than a domestic fridge. While cost is a factor, it is essential to not cut corners on important features or functions like temperature control, alarms or compliance. 

It is wise to do research and compare the price of new and used medical fridges to determine which is most suitable. A new 150 litre under bench medical fridge will cost about $1799. A damaged ex-display Eurochill 110 litre under bench fridge can cost from as little as $500.  Alternatively you can rent a 150 litre under bench fridge for just $75 per month.

Noise

In a medical setting, noise needs to be a consideration, particularly if in an area where patients interact or medical staff need to work. Be aware of the noise level of different types of medical fridges. Test different fridges for noise particularly if one of your prerequisites is a quieter medical refrigerator.

Advantages of a Second-Hand Medical Fridge

Hiring or buying a second-hand medical fridge has advantages. 

• Lower cost for buying or hiring: Buying a second-hand  medical fridge or renting a medical fridge is a cheaper option initially. There will be less outlay in the beginning and less strain on the budget. 
• Annual preventative maintenance: When  hiring a medical fridge, annual preventative maintenance is assured. 
• Replacement fridge: When hiring a medical fridge, you will get a replacement fridge if something breaks down with the rented one.   
• Short term or long term rental available. There is more flexibility when hiring a medical fridge with the options of short or long term rental. 
• Choice of new technology. If hiring, you can actually choose a fridge with new technology and ensure the highest quality safety standards and no compliance issues.

Disadvantages of a Second-Hand Medical Fridge

While buying a second-hand  medical fridge may save money, and renting comes with a lot of advantages, it is important to consider some of the disadvantages.

• Power failure: With an older style second-hand   fridge, a big issue is power failure. If the second-hand  medical fridge is over 10 years of age, it could have dirty condenser coils or lack of ventilation.
• Temperature inconsistencies: It is possible that second-hand  fridges will not have as consistent temperature stability as a new medical fridge. This may be purely because of age, or the technology is more outdated and less reliable. To keep an eye on temperature stability, regular maintenance and servicing, along with stringent temperature monitoring is essential.
• Decreased energy efficiency: Energy efficiency is improving on a regular basis due to technological advancements. A second-hand  refrigerator may not have the up-to-date technology and, thus, be less energy efficient. To keep your second-hand  medical fridge as sustainable as possible, keep fridge maintenance and cleaning to a regular schedule.

Medical fridges are an essential piece of equipment for the safe storage of temperature sensitive medications, vaccines and biological samples. It is imperative that the fridge is up to the standards and compliance which raises the question of the safety of a second-hand  medical fridge. With careful consideration when purchasing a second-hand  medical fridge, they are perfectly safe for storing temperature sensitive medical supplies. In this article, we have explained everything you need to know about second-hand  medical fridges, their advantages and disadvantages, and what to consider when looking for a medical fridge. Eurochill, Australia’s medical fridge expert, can help you with any questions on second-hand  medical fridges.