Passive cool boxes are a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor activities. They’re also an essential in the healthcare industry, where medication portability and the need for keeping it at certain temperatures can be crucial.
What is a Passive Cool Box?
A passive cool box, also known as an ice chest or cooler, uses insulation to maintain a cool temperature. It’s what you might typically take away on picnics and days out, but they’re also vital in other industries where temperature control and portability are needed. A passive cool box uses ice packs or ice cubes to keep its contents cold. Unlike electric coolers, passive cool boxes don’t require power, making them ideal for remote locations or for when you need to move to different locations.
What Are the Benefits of Passive Cool Boxes?
The whole idea of a cool box is to keep the contents cool. But they have other benefits too:
· Portability – passive cool boxes are lightweight and easy to transport. They come in various sizes, from small lunchbox-sized coolers to large family-sized chests. Cool boxes are made from sturdy materials like hard plastic and are built to withstand rougher conditions that more simple cool bags can’t handle. They are perfect for camping, fishing and other outdoor activities.
· Costs – since they don’t require electricity, passive cool boxes are a one-time investment. You won’t have to worry about power sources or battery life. But a passive cool box will get warmer unless the insulating properties are continually cooled, so depending on your needs a powered cool box might be a better choice.
· Versatility – passive cool boxes can be used for various purposes beyond keeping food and drinks cold, such as transporting temperature-sensitive items like medication.
Choosing the Right Passive Cool Box
The right cool box is the one that matches your needs.
Someone who is taking a few snacks out for the day won’t need a cool box of the same standard of cool box as someone in a medical or healthcare capacity. A limp ham sandwich isn’t quite as important as keeping medication at the right temperature, for example.
So, first think about how much space you need. And look for cool boxes with thick, high-quality insulation. This will help your items stay cooler for longer periods, when combined with proper packing techniques.
Obviously hard-shell cool boxes are more durable, while soft-sided ones are lighter and easier to carry but won’t be as robust. Think about what you’ll be placing inside and where you’ll be taking it.
Features like sturdy handles, wheels, and secure latches can make a big difference in convenience, so don’t overlook them.
Getting the Coolest Temperature
Powered boxes can maintain and control temperature easily. But if you’re using a passive cool box you’ll need to create and maintain that temperature manually.
Pre-chill your cool box by placing ice packs or ice inside for a few hours. This helps maintain a lower temperature and means the ice packs you use for cooling will be cooling the contents, not the cool box itself.
Block ice melts slower than ice cubes, keeping your items cold for a longer time. You can also use frozen water bottles as an alternative to ice packs and to drink when they thaw. Block ice might be difficult to navigate if you’re in and out of the cool box a lot. So pack smart.
Place items you’ll need first on top and consider using smaller ice cubes nearer the top if regular access is an issue. Keep your cool box closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
Finally, help it all along by keeping your cool box in the shade to reduce heat exposure. Covering it with a blanket can also help insulate against heat.
Cool Box Care
After each use, clean your cool box thoroughly. Remove any remaining ice or water and wipe over the interior with a mild detergent and allow to dry thoroughly. Store your cool box in a cool, dry place.
Final Thoughts
Passive cool boxes offer convenience and portability without the need for electricity. And portability might be vital in healthcare settings. With some careful packing it’s easy to maintain a temperature and keep the things inside cool.
