Do you want to place a refrigerator outdoors and are wondering if you need to purchase a special type of refrigerator? An outdoor refrigerator is ideal for hosting backyard parties. If you want to place a refrigerator outdoors, there are important factors that you need to consider. Let us learn more about outdoor refrigerators below.
Do you need a special refrigerator for outdoors? You will need a special refrigerator for outdoor use. Choose an outdoor refrigerator that is weatherproof. You must choose an outdoor refrigerator that can handle wide temperature ranges. Take note that outdoor refrigerators need to work harder because of the temperature fluctuations. This type of refrigerator is insulated and waterproofed to prevent electrocution.
If you love to host barbeque parties or are building an outdoor kitchen, having an outdoor refrigerator is convenient. On the other hand, you cannot use a regular refrigerator outdoors. You need to purchase a special outdoor fridge that is weatherproof. To help you get started, we have shared helpful tips and information about outdoor refrigerators below.
Differences between an Indoor and Outdoor Refrigerator
As their name suggests, an indoor refrigerator is built for indoor use and an outdoor refrigerator is built for outdoor use. Aside from that, they have many differences which include the ambient range. Take note that the refrigerator needs to work harder at outdoor temperatures so that the food inside stays cool. Indoors, the average temperature is around 60 to 75 degrees while outdoors the temperature can reach extreme highs and lows.
Moreover, outdoor temperatures change from sunrise to nightfall. Even with the temperature changes, the refrigerator needs to maintain a cool temperature. To do this, it needs additional insulation as well as powerful compressors. Outdoor refrigerators should also be weatherproofed especially their electrical compartments. Outdoor refrigerators are constantly exposed to the weather and other elements.
Flexibility
Outdoor refrigerators are more flexible compared to indoor ones because they are made to operate at a wider range of ambient temperatures. An outdoor refrigerator works well for indoor use but an indoor refrigerator should not be used outdoors.
Construction
An indoor refrigerator is usually made to run in conditions that range from 55 to 80 degrees. When exposed to conditions that are outside these ranges, it will not that effective. On the other hand, an outdoor refrigerator is heavily insulated to protect its contents as well as to minimize the impact of temperature fluctuations.
Finish
An indoor refrigerator that is exposed to outdoor elements can rust. However, outdoor refrigerators are made from materials that include 304 stainless steel so they are rust and corrosion-resistant.
Price
Because of the way that they are made, outdoor refrigerators are more expensive compared to indoor ones.
Why is an Outdoor Refrigerator Safe to Use Outside?
Outdoor refrigerators are safe to use outside because they are weatherproof, rust-resistant, have UV protection, and feature a consistently cool internal temperature. Because they are exposed to different weather conditions, their internal electrical parts are protected from wet conditions. Moreover, outdoor refrigerators are made from high-quality materials that are rust-free.
The outdoor refrigerators are insulated so that they have a consistent internal temperature. Furthermore, you can also find some models that have UV protection that prevents the rays of the sun from damaging the surface of the refrigerator.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor Refrigerator
The UL ratings, design, features, venting, electrical compliance, and compressor size are some of the things that you need to consider when choosing an outdoor refrigerator. Nowadays, there is a wide array of outdoor refrigerators to choose from. Compare one model to another so that you can make the right choice. Below are some of the things that you need to look for when choosing an outdoor refrigerator.
The Design and Features
The design and features are something that you need to consider when choosing an outdoor fridge. Would the fridge suit the design of your outdoor kitchen? What are its features? Does the size of the fridge large enough for the items that you are planning to store?
UL Ratings
Another thing that you need to consider when choosing an outdoor refrigerator is the UL rating. The UL rating means that the fridge has passed safety testing and certifications to ensure that it has met the standards for food and beverages. Take note that outdoor refrigerators are exposed to constant temperature changes so they need to work harder to maintain a cool internal temperature.
You must check the UL rating of the outdoor fridge to ensure that perishable items will stay fresh. Moreover, the UL rating makes sure that the refrigerator is weatherproofed for outdoor safety.
Ventilation
The ventilation of the outdoor refrigerator is also something that you need to consider. Outdoor refrigerators have rear and front vents. When it comes to choosing a refrigerator for your outdoor kitchen, it is recommended that you choose one that has a front vent. Bear in mind that rear-vented fridges require space around the top, back and sides.
Size of the Compressor
Another thing that you need to consider when choosing an outdoor refrigerator is the size of the compressor. Look for a fridge that features a compressor that is made to properly cool while having low noise levels. You can also reduce the noise level of the fridge by creating good insulation and a built-in design.
Electrical Compliance
It is also that you choose an outdoor refrigerator that fits the electrical system in your home. Most households use 110/120v electricity. Check the electric specification of the outdoor refrigerator before you make a purchase. You can also read this article that discusses if you can keep a refrigerator in the garage in winter. We have shared helpful information that you can refer to.
✅ Video – How to Choose an Outdoor Refrigerator for Your Outdoor Kitchen
BBQGuys shared the video below on YouTube. It discusses how to choose an outdoor refrigerator for your outdoor kitchen. If you are looking for an outdoor fridge, watch the video below for tips and ideas.
Are Outdoor Refrigerators Expensive?
Outdoor refrigerators are expensive as compared to indoor ones because of their features as well as the quality of materials used. Outdoor refrigerators need to be durable and high-quality because they are exposed to the outdoor weather. They are usually made from 304-grade stainless steel and are designed to have boxed-in waterproof components. Aside from that, outdoor refrigerators need to be properly insulated. The price usually starts from about 800 dollars and up. The size, brand, and features of the outdoor refrigerator will also affect its price.
Is it Ok to Place an Indoor Refrigerator Outside?
It is not ok to place an indoor refrigerator outside. Only those refrigerators that are labeled for outdoor use can be placed outside. Outdoor refrigerators are specially designed to have features that protect against the outdoor environment. Furthermore, outdoor refrigerators come with a wide range of temperatures. They are made from high-quality and durable materials that can handle the elements.
Nowadays, the prices for outdoor refrigerators have become more affordable. If you have an outdoor kitchen, it is convenient to have an outdoor refrigerator. You do not have to go back inside the house just to get the ingredients that you need when cooking. We have also shared this article titled, what kind of freezer is best for the garage? You can check out the article for more tips and information.
Where is the Best Place to Install an Outdoor Refrigerator?
You can keep your outdoor refrigerator in a sheltered area where it is not directly exposed to weather conditions. You can also place the outdoor refrigerator in your garage. While outdoor refrigerators are made to handle outdoor weather, it is still important that you keep them safe from rain, snow, and extreme heat.
Outdoor refrigerators are a convenient appliance to have during summer when you are hosting barbeque parties. You can also check out this article that discusses what temperature is too warm for a refrigerator. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
When Does the Buzzing Noise from Outdoor Refrigerators Come From?
If there is a buzzing noise that comes from an outdoor refrigerator, this can be because it is not placed on a flat and level surface. Outdoor refrigerators usually feature adjustable feet that enable you to lift the fridge in each corner. You need to push gently on each side of the fridge. If the buzzing noise stops, you need to adjust the height of the foot on that corner.
Conclusion
You have reached the end of this article that discusses if you need a special refrigerator for outdoor use. We have found out that there are refrigerators that are specifically made for outdoor use. These refrigerators are durable, high-quality, weatherproof, and made with features that make them suitable for outdoor use. It is not recommended that you use an indoor refrigerator outdoors. Today, there is a wide array of outdoor refrigerators that you can choose from.