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NIH Environmental Management System

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Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted. The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov. Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at opm.gov.

Managed by the Office of Research Facilities, Division of Environmental Protection (DEP)

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NIH ULT Maintenance

​Please Watch this User Level ULT Freezer Maintenance Video!


ULT freezers are required to have a preventative maintenance every six months. Labs may hire a service company to complete the freezer maintenance or compelte the maintenance internally. Labs that choose to complete the maintenance internally are encouraged to watch the maintenance video at the link above and review the checklist below.


ULT Freezer Maintenance Checklist:

1.     Check external components of the unit:

  1. Check the temperature setting and compare to the temperature reading on the display. Note discrepancies.
  2. Check power cord and receptacles. Note deficiencies
  3. ​Clean or replace the condenser filter.
  4. Clean condenser fins/coil, either by vacuuming, brushing or washing with a cloth.​
  5. Inspect electrical wiring, components and connections for signs of wear or overheating. Note deficiencies.
  6. Ensure the door is closed properly. Note deficiencies.​


2.     If authorization to open laboratory refrigeration unit is provided during scheduled maintenance, then perform the following:

  1. Inspect gaskets. Note deficiencies.
  2. Remove ice from gaskets and clean floor after removing ice.
  3. Note the need for users to defrost freezers if ice buildup is evident.


3.     If refrigeration cabinet is empty, then perform the following:

  1. Investigate why freezer is empty and tag for follow up.


NIH Freezer Management

NIH F​reezer M​anagement Home ​Page​​

NIH Freezer Policy

Learn about the policies and regulations for freezers at the NIH.

​​NIH Freezer Challenge

Take the NIH Freezer Challenge to improve your freezer management while competing with other labs.

​​​Cold Storage Coordinators

Learn about the roles and responsibilities of IC cold storage coordinators.

Freezer Maintenance​

Learn how to properly service your freezer to keep it operating at maximum efficiency.

Energy Star Freezers

Energy Star freezers are required for new purchases at the NIH to reduce energy use.

​Report Freezer Failures

Report any freezer failures in your lab to help NIH identify trends.

More Information​​​


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