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Phoenix Manufacturing Debuts Frigiking Rigid Media Evaporative Cooler, Elevating Cooling Efficiency and System Longevity at an Accessible Price Point

via Business Wire

New model provides residential users a mid-tier option between traditional aspen coolers and advanced rigid media units

Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc., a leading designer and manufacturer of evaporative cooling solutions for demanding climates, today announced the launch of Frigiking Rigid Media (Frigiking RM) for residential and light commercial uses. The coolers offer a higher-performing alternative to aspen media that’s more cost-effective than premium rigid media systems.

Frigiking RM is thoughtfully engineered to improve overall system efficiency and reduce ongoing maintenance needs, ensuring units run reliably for longer. Key benefits include:

  • Easy Setup & Service: Pre-wired connections, gravity-held doors and a 2-pad bottom-discharge layout with no wire retainers minimize touchpoints for faster installation and maintenance.
  • Cooling Capacity: Powerful airflow at approximately 3,600 to 4,600 cubic feet per minute delivers steady, reliable cooling output.
  • Pad Lifespan: Highly efficient 3-inch rigid media pads last up to five times longer than aspen media, with typical pad replacement intervals of three to five years instead of one.
  • Saturation Efficiency: Up to 80% saturation efficiency supports lower operating costs and can help qualifying projects align with utility rebate criteria.
  • Flexible Configurations: Systems are available in down- and side-discharge configurations to accommodate varied installation layouts and ducting requirements.
  • Durability: A heavy-duty, fully welded cabinet provides stronger protection than bolted alternatives. Peblar XT multi-layered powder coating, painted troughs and a 120V low-sump pump help prevent warping, rust and buildup to further extend component life.

Traditional aspen-based coolers remain a dependable and practical choice for many applications, yet their routine service requirements and shorter media life increasingly influence purchasing decisions tied to long-term value.

“Contractors have been asking for an option that preserves the familiar Frigiking cabinet layout while cutting down on callbacks, unplanned maintenance and operating costs,” said Scott Morling, president of Phoenix Manufacturing. “Frigiking RM gives them that middle ground. It’s a step up in cooling efficiency and longevity but stays in a value-focused price range.”

From a lifetime cost perspective, all Frigiking RM models — FRS/FRD 450 and 650 — can decrease annual maintenance expenses by an estimated $225 per unit, with a typical payback period of less than four months on the price premium over traditional aspen units. Additionally, users with existing Frigiking aspen media installations can upgrade to rigid media without extensive modifications.

Request more information to see how Frigiking RM can help reduce upkeep, extend media life and strengthen long-term system performance.

About Phoenix Manufacturing

Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. (PMI) designs and manufactures innovative evaporative cooling solutions that set the standard for cooling efficiency, durability and long-term value. Since 1975, PMI has supported contractors and engineers with easy-to-install systems designed to perform in the most demanding climates — delivering comfort and cost savings to commercial, residential and agricultural projects. More at PhoenixManufacturing.com.

About Riverbend Industries

Riverbend Industries is a family-owned business that acquires and operates North American manufacturing companies in the building and industrial products sectors. A collaborative partner, Riverbend looks to facilitate growth while supporting its businesses’ unique cultures. Long-held investments and customized transaction structures ensure alignment with all stakeholders. Through operational standardization and centralization of specific strategic functions, Riverbend enables portfolio companies to capture efficiencies while fostering an environment of entrepreneurship.

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