Apples and pears are major crops grown in Washington State. In fact, Washington is the leading producer of apples in the U.S. and a top producer of pears as well. Consider that Washington grows roughly 10 to 12 billion apples each year, representing about 60% of the total apples grown in the U.S.. The state also contributes 50% of the national supply of pears. The biggest regions for apples and pears include Wenatchee, Columbia Basin, and Yakima, which is home to Central Washington Refrigeration.

Central Washington Refrigeration designs and maintains cold storage systems that help packers, growers, and distributors protect their harvest investment and deliver crisp, flavorful fruit to markets around the world. Here is more information on how cold storage preserves the quality of apples and pears and what to consider when optimizing your systems.
Why Cold Storage Matters After Harvest
Apples and pears are living products that continue to respire and ripen even after they’ve been picked. Without intervention, the natural process accelerates ethylene buildup, moisture loss, softened flesh, and an increase in decay organisms. Fortunately, cold storage slows this process down, extending freshness, suppressing ethylene production, and preventing microbial growth. The result? Apples and pears that taste better, travel farther, and meet quality expectations.
Ideal Conditions for Apples and Pears
Each variety of apples—Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and Cosmic Crisp—has its own storage requirements. However, most apples do well in low oxygen environments with temperatures between 30-32 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity at 90-95%.

Pears, such as Bartlett, Bosc, and Anjou, do well in the same conditions as apples. Bartlett pears, in particular, benefit from rapid cooling after harvest and controlled ripening during storage. Maintaining consistency is key. Even small fluctuations can lead to shriveling, internal browning, or texture loss.
Key Components of a Post-Harvest Cold Storage System
To get the most out of your fruit cold storage, your system should include:

High-efficiency refrigeration units that maintain precise temperatures
Humidity control systems to reduce dehydration and weight loss
Smart monitoring and alarm systems for 24/7 oversight
Insulated, sealed storage rooms to preserve climate stability
Controlled Atmosphere (CA) technology to further extend shelf life

Central Washington Refrigeration specializes in scalable systems designed to meet the needs of large-volume fruit operations.
Maintenance = Performance
Even the best cold storage setup requires routine maintenance to perform at its best during peak storage seasons. This includes checking temperature calibration, inspecting door seals and insulation, cleaning coils and fans, and testing backup systems and alarms. Central Washington Refrigeration offers preventive maintenance programs to keep your system reliable, energy-efficient, and ready for the demands of harvest season.
Freshness That Travels
Cold storage doesn’t just protect fruit at home—it enables global distribution. Whether your apples are headed to grocery shelves across the country or pears are being exported overseas, post-harvest cold storage ensures your product arrives with the same crispness and flavor it had in the orchard.
Smart Storage for Apples and Pears Starts Here
Your fruit’s quality doesn’t just depend on how it’s grown, it depends on how it’s stored. Post-harvest cold storage is the key to locking in freshness and flavor, maintaining market value, and meeting consumer expectations.

Looking to optimize your cold storage system for the upcoming harvest? Central Washington Refrigeration is here to help. We design and maintain custom solutions for Washington’s leading apple and pear growers. Contact us today at 509-248-4600 to learn more about post-harvest refrigeration systems built for your operation.

In the seafood industry, cold chain integrity isn’t something that’s optional. It’s absolutely essential in protecting bacterial growth, preserving freshness and flavor, extending shelf life, and supporting regulatory compliance. From the moment fish and shellfish are harvested to the time they reach consumers, maintaining precise temperature control is a top priority.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we help seafood processors and distributors design and maintain cold storage systems that support every link in the cold chain. Whether you’re handling fresh catches or frozen exports, here’s what it takes to keep your seafood cold chain strong, consistent, and compliant.
What Is Cold Chain Integrity?
Cold chain integrity refers to the uninterrupted control of temperature throughout the storage and transportation of perishable goods. In seafood processing, this means keeping products at 32°F or lower for fresh fish and shellfish and 0°F or colder for frozen seafood.

Any break in this chain, whether during unloading, storage, transport, or handling, can lead to spoilage, bacterial growth, and loss of quality. You can’t sell spoiled seafood after all, and disposing of contaminated or degraded products is expensive.
Why It Matters in the Seafood Industry
Seafood is highly sensitive to time and temperature. Even a brief temperature spike can trigger enzymatic and microbial spoilage and compromise texture, flavor, and shelf life. When this happens, it’s likely that the seafood will violate regulations and lead to additional product recalls, as well as create financial losses and reputational damage. Cold chain integrity ensures your product remains safe, high-quality, and market-ready, from dock to dinner plate, just as consumers expect.
Key Components of a Reliable Seafood Cold Chain
So what exactly goes into a reliable seafood cold chain? Here are the key elements:
Blast Chillers and Freezers
Rapid cooling is critical for seafood. Blast chillers quickly lower internal product temperatures to safe levels, while blast freezers lock in quality and prevent large ice crystal formation that can damage texture. Seafood flesh is extremely delicate, and delayed cooling can lead to a soft, mushy texture and discoloration or dull appearance.
Temperature-Controlled Storage Rooms
Your cold storage should maintain stable, uniform temperatures with proper insulation and airflow. Central Washington Refrigeration custom-builds walk-in coolers and freezers designed specifically for seafood processing and long-term storage.

Some of the most important features for walk-in seafood freezers are consistent temperatures, high quality installation (think polyurethane or polystyrene insulation), evaporator and condenser units, defrost systems, humidity control, and corrosion-resistant interior finishes.
Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts
Smart monitoring systems help you track temperatures 24/7 and send alerts if conditions fall out of range. This enables immediate action to prevent spoilage or compliance issues. Real-time monitoring and alerts also offer peace of mind for business owners who are responsible for high-value, perishable inventory. If anything goes wrong, you’ll know the minute it happens, allowing you to prevent waste.
Reliable Backup Systems
Power failures can be devastating. Backup generators and fail-safe refrigeration controls ensure your storage systems keep running—even during outages. Without them, a sudden power outage or equipment failure can lead to rapid temperature rise, spoilage, regulatory violations, and tens of thousands of dollars in lost product. Surely, no one wants that! And the worst part is that this can all happen in just a few hours. This makes having a reliable backup system absolutely essential.
Sanitation and Air Quality Matter, Too
Humidity, airflow, and sanitation play supporting roles in seafood preservation. Proper air circulation prevents moisture buildup, while routine sanitation helps avoid cross-contamination and odor absorption. Cold storage units designed for seafood should also resist corrosion from salt and moisture.

Seafood naturally contains high levels of salt, which is why the combination of this, high humidity, and potential moisture can quickly lead to corrosion. The best materials for cold storage for seafood includes food-grade stainless steel, anti-corrosion coatings, vapor barriers, durable flooring, and proper sealing.
Final Thoughts: Consistency Is Everything
In seafood cold storage, there’s no room for temperature swings or system failures. Consistency protects not just product quality, but also your business, your customers, and your brand.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we design, build, and maintain industrial refrigeration systems that support every step of the seafood cold chain. From blast freezers to walk-in coolers, our solutions are engineered for performance, reliability, and compliance in even the most demanding environments.

Need help upgrading or maintaining your seafood cold storage system? Contact Central Washington Refrigeration today at 509-248-4600 to learn more!

One of the most important decisions in industrial refrigeration is choosing the right refrigerant to use. Two of the most commonly used refrigerants are ammonia (NH₃) and Freon (a trademark for a group of hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs). While both have their place in the cooling industry, ammonia is often the smarter, more sustainable choice, especially for large-scale industrial applications.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we’ve seen firsthand how ammonia systems outperform Freon-based alternatives in the settings that matter most: food processing, cold storage, agriculture, and manufacturing. Let’s look at how the two refrigerants stack up and why ammonia comes out on top.
1. Efficiency and Performance
Ammonia is one of the most energy-efficient refrigerants available. It has superior thermodynamic properties, which means it absorbs and transfers heat more effectively than Freon. Bottom line: Ammonia systems typically require less energy to do more work, translating to lower operating costs over time.
2. Environmental Impact
Freon and other HFCs have a high global warming potential (GWP) and are being phased out under international agreements like the Kigali Amendment. In contrast, ammonia is natural, non-ozone-depleting, and has zero GWP. These perks are especially beneficial for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with stricter environmental regulations.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
While the upfront cost of ammonia systems can be slightly higher due to safety and containment measures, the long-term savings are significant. Ammonia is less expensive as a refrigerant, and its high efficiency reduces electricity consumption. Over the life of the system, ammonia offers greater value and lower total cost of ownership.
4. Longevity and Reliability
Ammonia-based systems are built to last. With proper maintenance, these systems can operate for decades. They’re also more forgiving in high-capacity settings, where reliability is critical. For instance, you can count on ammonia for large-scale applications that demand 24/7 reliability and minimal downtime.
5. Safety Considerations
It’s true—ammonia is toxic and flammable in certain conditions. However, with modern safety systems, leak detectors, and properly trained personnel, ammonia systems can be operated safely. In fact, ammonia’s strong odor acts as a natural leak alert, making small issues easier to detect before they become major problems.
So, Which Should You Choose?
For small commercial applications, Freon might still be a reasonable option. But for industrial refrigeration where performance, cost savings, and sustainability matter most, ammonia is the clear winner.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we specialize in designing and maintaining high-performance ammonia systems for clients across the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re building a new facility or upgrading an older system, we’ll help you choose the best refrigeration solution for your operation.

Contact us today at 509-248-4600 to learn more about ammonia refrigeration and how it can transform your cooling efficiency.

Cooling systems are easy to take for granted, but when an issue arises, people quickly learn that they are a true necessity to preserving perishable products, stabilizing production environments, and meeting strict regulatory standards. Fortunately, you can prolong the lifespan of your industrial cooling system and prevent costly breakdowns by providing timely maintenance. Some of this maintenance is routine, but some involves knowing when to call for immediate help.

So, how do you know when your system needs professional attention STAT? Ignoring small problems can lead to major headaches down the line, from unexpected downtime to product loss and expensive repairs. Here are five warning signs that your industrial cooling system needs immediate maintenance.
1. Unusual Noises or Vibrations
Industrial refrigeration systems aren’t silent, but they also shouldn’t be rattling, clanging, or humming in unusual ways. Strange noises may signal loose components, compressor issues, or failing bearings. If you hear something out of the ordinary, don’t wait. It could be the early sign of a serious mechanical problem.
2. Fluctuating Temperatures
If your system can’t maintain consistent temperatures, it’s time to act. Inconsistent cooling can affect product safety and violate regulatory requirements, especially in industries like food processing or pharmaceuticals. Fluctuations often point to faulty sensors, control issues, or refrigerant leaks.
3. Rising Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy usage could mean your cooling system is working harder than it should. This often signals inefficiencies like dirty coils, low refrigerant levels, or failing motors. A maintenance check can identify and correct the issue before your power bill gets out of hand.
4. Visible Ice Buildup or Frost
Excessive frost or ice on coils, evaporators, or inside your cold storage unit is a sign something’s wrong. It may indicate poor airflow, defrost cycle failures, or refrigerant problems, all of which require immediate attention to prevent equipment strain or shutdown.
5. Frequent Cycling or Extended Run Times
If your refrigeration system is constantly turning on and off or running for unusually long periods, it’s struggling to meet demand. This could point to worn-out components, improper load sizing, or electrical issues. Left unchecked, these problems will accelerate wear and tear.
Don’t Wait! Schedule a Maintenance Check
Your industrial cooling system works hard 24/7, and small issues can quickly escalate into major breakdowns. At Central Washington Refrigeration, we specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and optimizing industrial refrigeration systems to keep your operation running smoothly.

If you’re seeing any of the signs above—or just want peace of mind—contact us today to schedule a service visit at 509-248-4600. A quick check now can prevent costly downtime later.

Are you looking for ways to maximize produce profits? Upgrading your conventional cold storage system to a controlled atmosphere room could boost your bottom line. How do the benefits of controlled atmosphere storage outshine this traditional industrial refrigeration solution?
Maximize Shelf Life with Controlled Atmosphere Rooms
Unlike cold storage rooms, controlled atmosphere rooms do more than maintain the ideal temperature. They also regulate humidity, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen levels. Adjusting these environmental factors suppresses ethylene’s ripening effects, putting produce in a dormant state, significantly extending shelf life from 1-3 to 3-12 months.
Improve Flavor and Freshness with Optimal Produce Storage Conditions
The uniform settings of industrial cold storage refrigeration systems don’t maintain product quality as well as the precision regulation offered by custom-tailored controlled atmosphere systems. Providing your products’ ideal storage environment ensures better-looking, more flavorful fruits and vegetables with higher nutritional value.
Reduce Product Loss with Controlled Atmosphere Storage in Central Washington
While industrial cold storage slows spoilage, controlled atmosphere storage suppresses respiration and slows deterioration more effectively, reducing dehydration, shriveling, and rot. This significantly reduces overall product waste from 8-15% to 3-5%, protecting your bottom line.
Controlled Atmosphere Rooms Eliminate the Need for Preservatives and Chemical Use
Controlled atmosphere storage provides highly effective insect and microorganism control without chemical additives or treatments. This natural biological control and preservation method is ideal for expanding your offerings to organic markets and health-conscious consumers.
Controlled Atmosphere Storage Helps You Stand Out in the Produce Market
More attractive, flavorful food ensures your fruits and vegetables are the center of attention. Longstanding availability beyond the typical season supports steady demand and pricing, appealing to customers and earning your business ongoing sales and higher profits.
Maximize Produce Longevity and Flavor
Ensure superior food preservation. Put the benefits of controlled atmosphere storage to work for your Central Washington business with help from CW Refrigeration. Contact CW Refrigeration at 509-248-4600 to get an estimate on a custom controlled atmosphere room in Ellensburg, Kennewick, Moses Lake, Pasco, Richland, Spokane, Tacoma, Yakima, Seattle, or across the US today.

In the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, temperature control isn’t just a box to check—it’s essential. From vaccines and insulin to advanced biologics and specialty drugs, many products must be kept at just the right temperature to stay effective and safe. That’s where dependable cold storage solutions come in, and it’s exactly what we specialize in at Central Washington Refrigeration.
Why Cold Storage Matters So Much in Pharma
Pharmaceuticals are highly sensitive to temperature changes. A small fluctuation can impact a drug’s quality, shorten its shelf life, or even make it unsafe for use. That’s why regulatory agencies like the FDA have strict guidelines about how these products should be stored.

In most cases, that means keeping products within a narrow temperature range, often between 36°F and 46°F, and sometimes much colder. For example, some vaccines and gene therapies need to be stored as low as -112°F. Having a reliable cold storage system isn’t just a good idea—it’s required for compliance and peace of mind.
Cold Storage Options That Work for You
At Central Washington Refrigeration, we work with pharmaceutical clients to design, install, and maintain systems that meet industry standards and fit their exact needs. Here are a few of the most common solutions we offer:
Refrigerated Warehouses and Cold Rooms
These large, walk-in spaces are ideal for storing pharmaceutical products in bulk. They’re built to maintain steady, consistent temperatures and can be tailored with humidity control, air filtration, and other features that help meet GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.
Ultra-Low Temperature (ULT) Freezers
Need colder than cold? ULT freezers can reach temperatures of -112°F or lower, perfect for storing cutting-edge therapies that are particularly sensitive. We can help you choose the right system and make sure it’s backed up for emergencies.
Modular Cold Storage Units
Looking for something scalable or flexible? Modular cold storage units are great for growing facilities or seasonal spikes in demand. These customizable units can be designed to fit your workflow and compliance requirements.
Redundant Cooling Systems
We know how much is at stake with temperature-sensitive products. That’s why redundancy is key. Backup compressors, generators, and alarm systems help ensure your inventory stays protected, even if the unexpected happens.
Remote Monitoring and Alarming
No one wants to find out after the fact that something went wrong. That’s why we offer systems with remote monitoring and real-time alerts, so you can stay on top of temperature, humidity, and performance 24/7.
Built for Compliance and the Long Haul
Every facility is different, and we take that seriously. Whether you’re outfitting a new plant or upgrading an existing cold room, we’ll work with you to design a solution that’s compliant, energy-efficient, and built for future growth. Our team knows how to navigate FDA, GMP, and GAMP requirements so you can focus on what you do best.
Let’s Keep Your Products Safe and Your Business Moving
At Central Washington Refrigeration, we’re proud to support the pharmaceutical industry with high-performance cold storage systems that protect products and the people who rely on them. If you’re planning a new project or want to make sure your current setup is doing its job, let’s talk—you can reach us at 509-248-4600. We’re here to help, every step of the way.

There’s no room for compromise when it comes to meat and dairy processing, especially when food safety is on the line. These products are highly perishable and must be handled with care every step of the way, from processing and packaging to long-term storage. That’s where cold atmospheric storage makes a big difference.

At Central Washington Refrigeration, we understand how vital it is to create storage environments that do more than just stay cold—they need to control humidity, airflow, and gas levels to maintain quality and prevent spoilage. Whether you’re storing raw meat, aged cheeses, or milk-based products, our customized systems help keep your inventory fresh, safe, and fully compliant with today’s strict food safety standards. It’s all about protecting what matters: your product, your business, and your customers.

Let’s break down how this powerful technology works and why it’s becoming a must-have for modern food processors.
What Is Cold Atmospheric Storage?
Cold atmospheric storage isn’t your average refrigeration system. It’s a highly controlled environment where temperature, humidity, airflow, and gas composition are carefully managed to slow down spoilage and extend shelf life without sacrificing quality.

Unlike traditional cold storage, which only regulates temperature, cold atmospheric storage uses added layers of control (like modified oxygen and CO₂ levels) to create optimal conditions for specific products like fresh meats, cheeses, and dairy-based foods.
Why It Matters for Food Safety
Preventing Bacterial Growth
One of the biggest risks in meat and dairy storage is the growth of harmful bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella. Cold atmospheric storage helps minimize this risk by keeping products at consistent, ultra-low temperatures and adjusting oxygen levels to slow down microbial activity. That means a safer product from processing to plate.
Reducing Moisture-Related Spoilage
Excess moisture in storage areas can lead to mold growth or bacterial contamination. With humidity control built into cold atmospheric systems, processors can maintain the ideal moisture balance to protect delicate dairy products like soft cheeses, milk, or yogurt.
Enhancing Shelf Life Without Preservatives
Because the environment is tightly controlled, cold atmospheric storage can extend the shelf life of meat and dairy products naturally, often without relying on artificial preservatives. That’s a win for producers and consumers alike.
Benefits Beyond Safety
While food safety is the top priority, there are plenty of added perks to this kind of storage. First, you can keep products more consistent, as there are no more temperature spikes or dry edges on meat. Second, longer-lasting products mean less spoilage and fewer discarded batches. Third is better compliance. Cold atmospheric storage systems help meet or exceed USDA and FDA regulations.
Built to Support Your Processing Needs
At Central Washington Refrigeration, we help meat and dairy processors across the Northwest design and maintain cold atmospheric storage systems that work hard around the clock. Whether you’re building a new facility or upgrading your current setup, we’re here to create custom solutions that meet your needs today and grow with your operation tomorrow.

Are you ready to boost food safety and efficiency in your facility? Reach out to the team at Central Washington Refrigeration at 509-248-4600. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you create a cold storage solution that’s tailored to your production goals.