Chotukool

Target SDGs

Market Suggested Retail Price

$69.00

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Household

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Godrej, Indian postoffice and NGO in Maharashtra for retail (Sakhi Retail)

Competitive Landscape

Direct competitors include Wakati One and EvaKuula.

Regions

Southeast Asia

Countries

India

Manufacturing/Building Method

Mass produced with customization options.

Intellectural Property Type

Patent

User Provision Model

Chotukool can be purchased at an Indian postoffice. Godrej has partnered with an NGO in Maharashtra for retail (Sakhi Retail). Village level entrepreneurs are hired for sales and distribution on commission basis.

Distributions to Date Status

Over 100,000 were sold by 2012.

Design Specifications

ChotuKool is a portable, a CFC-free, and fan-cooled thermoelectric cooling system with the following dimensions (wxdxh) 736 x 431 x 383 mm and weighing 7.8kg.

It has a capacity of 35L and uses high-end insulation to stay cool without power. ChotuKool doesn't use a compressor, instead it runs on a cooling chip and a fan similar to those used in computers. It operates on 110–240V AC as the main supply. To cope with the erratic power supply in many parts of India (e.g. voltage fluctuation, frequent power cuts, or occasionally a complete lack of electrification in some remote areas), it is equipped to operate on battery or an inverter (Godrej, 2012).

The system cools up to a maximum of 28°C lower than the ambient temperature but no lower than 10°C. ChotuKool cuts of the electricity and enters the sleep mode once the temperature of 10°C is achieved. ChotuKool can retain cooling up to 3 hours without electricity with lid closed.

Product Schematics

Technical Support

Over 600 service locations for warranty and post-warranty support.

Replacement Components

Available from service locations.

Lifecycle

380 day (approx. 1 year) warranty.

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

ChotuKool consumes half the energy used by regular refrigerators and uses no compressor or refrigerant. It is suitable for cooling food and beverages, and keeping vegetables, fruits, dairy, and so on, fresh. The system cools up to a maximum of 28°C lower than the ambient temperature but no lower than 10°C. ChotuKool cuts of the electricity and enters the sleep mode once the temperature of 10°C is achieved. ChotuKool can retain cooling up to 3 hours without electricity with lid closed.

Vetted Performance Status

Unknown

Safety

Since ChotuKool is made of several recyclable materials, it is recommended that users consult authorized service providers or Godrej-authorized dealers before disposing of ChotuKool or any of its parts. When disposing of packaging materials, they should place them in the appropriate recycling bins whenever possible.

Additionally, the following safety instructions should be followed:

• Ensure that the air intake area remains open and unobstructed.
• The provided connection cable should be used to connect the appliance to a power supply of 110–240V AC.

Complementary Technical Systems

Battery or an inverter

Academic Research and References

Compliance with regulations

None indicated. The design has been adapted and adjusted to local standards in India. Applicable international standards are unknown.

Other Information

The early success of ChotuKool has led to many awards for its manufacturer, Godrej.

This product is typically aimed at home refrigeration for low income Indian households looking to store fruits and vegetables.

Market sales and distribution: An assessment of India's attractiveness as a lead Market for cost-effective products