Buying guide · new vs used
New direct-import vs used: the real maths
Used looks cheaper on paper. Once you factor in the warranty, the refrigerant and the remaining service life, the gap melts away. Here is the line-by-line comparison.
| Used (European market) | New ecofrost direct importer | |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price 20 m³ | €5,500 — €7,000 ex VAT | €8,200 ex VAT |
| Warranty | 3-6 months (seller) or none | 2 years, transferable |
| Refrigerant | Obsolete HFC (R404A, R134a) in most cases | R290 (GWP 3) |
| Long-term F-Gas compliance | Declining quota, recharging difficult | Compliant 2030+ |
| Remaining service life | 5-10 years, unknown | 15-20 years structure, 10-12 years unit |
| Eligibility for EU agricultural grants | No — equipment not new | Yes (where applicable) |
| Lead time | Variable (subject to availability) | 8-12 weeks |
| Hidden risk | Tired compressor, settled insulation, leaks | None — factory new |
| Cost over 10 years | ≈ €850/year (short residual life) | ≈ €410/year |
Beyond the purchase price
2-year CGGK warranty
No surprises. If a compressor fails in year 2, we cover parts and labour. With used equipment, the entire risk falls on the buyer.
Natural R290 refrigerant
Compliant with F-Gas in the long term. Used HFC units expose you to out-of-quota recharges and regulatory obsolescence within five years.
Eligible for EU grants
In agriculture, new equipment qualifies for EU agricultural support schemes. A significant share of your investment may be subsidised.
Total cost over 10 years
Assumption: 20 m³ chilled, used 5/7 days, electricity at €0.18/kWh.
Used €6,500
- Purchase€6,500
- HFC recharge, year 4+ €1,200
- Compressor repair, year 6+ €1,800
- Replacement, year 8+ €7,000
- Electricity, 10 years+ €9,500
- Total€26,000
New ecofrost €8,200
- Purchase€8,200
- 2-year warranty included€0
- Maintenance, 10 years+ €400
- No replacement€0
- Electricity, 10 years (R290 -15%)+ €8,100
- Total€16,700
Real saving over 10 years: €9,300 that's 36% less, with greater comfort and compliance.