It is crucial to buy a unit that is outdoor rated, regardless of whether you only need a refrigerator to keep beverages cold or a UL-approved fridge for food.
Your outdoor kitchen would benefit greatly from an outdoor refrigerator.
Due to the erratic outside temperatures, outdoor refrigerators must work much harder. They are therefore waterproof and insulated for outdoor use to prevent the risk of electrocution.
Important Things To Know About Outdoor Refrigerators
The following are the factors that should be known regarding outdoor refrigerators-
Technical Guidance
Before making a decision, consider how an outdoor refrigerator will fit into your outdoor kitchen. The positioning of your outdoor refrigerator is critical.
Locate your refrigerator away from the sun to extend its longevity and save electricity.
If you only have a tiny area that is shaded from the sun, you might want to choose a smaller refrigerator. Consider your desk and look for a comfy spot adjacent to your grill.
Ratings By UL
A refrigerator with a UL rating has undergone certification and safety testing to ensure that the minimum requirements for both food and drink have been met.
Outdoor refrigerators must work harder to maintain their internal temperature because the ambient temperature is continuously fluctuating.
The UL certification is crucial to ensuring that your outdoor fridge is chilly enough to securely store perishable products if you want to do so.
The most adaptable solutions for food and beverage storage come from UL-rated outdoor refrigerators. In order to prevent electrocutions, the grade also guarantees that the refrigerator is weatherproof.
Outdoor non-UL-rated refrigerators are another choice and typically less expensive if all you need is a small refrigerator to keep drinks cold.
Venting
Both front-vented and rear-vented refrigerators are available when shopping for outdoor refrigerators.
A refrigerator with a front vent may be the simplest choice for an outdoor kitchen because air is forced through the front.
Space is required around the top, sides, and back of rear-vented refrigerators. A rear-venting refrigerator is an excellent alternative as long as sufficient ventilation is implemented.
Size Of The Compressor And Noise Level
Pick a refrigerator with a compressor that is engineered to effectively chill the fridge while producing minimal noise.
High noise levels are reduced thanks to effective insulation and an integrated design.
Electrical Conformity
Although 110/120v electricity is typically used in homes, it is a good idea to check before you buy that your refrigerator will work with the wiring in your house.
Choosing A Suitable Design
Glass Versus Metal Shelving
There are many outdoor refrigerators available with both metal and glass shelving; however, which one you prefer is entirely a matter of preference.
Because air moves between the grates in metal shelving, your outdoor refrigerator will have more airflow and be more energy efficient.
Glass is always considered an excellent material for keeping tiny objects and storage nevertheless, especially if your refrigerator contains perishable foods.
Before making a purchase, think about how you intend to use your refrigerator. Both metal and glass offer benefits. Other options include sliding glass shelves and wine-specific shelves.
Lighting
A refrigerator with sufficient illumination makes it simple to enjoy the outdoors after dark. Choose LED lights to avoid overheating your refrigerator.
These bright, long-lasting lights are the best solution for energy efficiency and long-term use.
Drawers
Another choice is a refrigerator with drawers.
They function similarly to normal refrigerators. Due to the depth and volume of the drawers, some individuals like to store fresh fruits and vegetables inside.
They are also a great place to keep quick snacks if your kids need them while playing outside.
Designs And Brands
Choose first if you want a separate refrigerator or a refrigerator and freezer. You could also want an ice maker if beverage storage is vital.
Then, seek out businesses that offer high-quality stainless steel with a rating of at least 304. Most American-made manufacturers offer top-notch construction for durable appliances.
Most outdoor kitchen refrigerators measure 24 inches by 34 inches in height. Installation and upkeep. Maximal effectiveness
Make that your new outdoor refrigerator works properly after you buy it by keeping it fully stocked.
Purchase a refrigerator that is precisely the proper size for the amount of food you frequently store outside to maximize efficiency.
Energy expenditures are reduced because a fully stocked fridge doesn’t need to chill any additional area.
In addition, when installing the refrigerator, leave a gap of 1/2′′ to 1′′ all the way around. This area promotes effectiveness and enhances air movement, even for built-in refrigerators.
Maintenance
For your refrigerator to stay as efficient as possible while maintaining its sleek appearance, clean the coils and compressor fan frequently.
Coils that are kept clean won’t need to work as hard to retain the same caliber of performance.
Long-Term Abstinence
If you’re going to be away from your refrigerator for an extended amount of time, turn it off. You might, for instance, turn off your outdoor refrigerator during the winter or when you take a trip.
Activate the refrigerator 24 hours before departing. A package of baking soda should be left inside to absorb any odors after making sure it is completely dry.
Once you’re ready to use it again, your refrigerator will be ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Are Outdoor Refrigerators So Costly?
This is a fascinating query. When buying any outdoor equipment, the value the device adds to your outdoor kitchen should take precedence over the precise purchase price.
However, a few components of an outdoor fridge can increase the price. For instance:
Weatherproofing: To prevent damage from wet circumstances, all electrical components must be protected.
Rust resistance: To prevent rust in moist or humid settings, high-quality stainless steel is frequently utilized.
Insulation: To keep the contents of your appliance cool because it is hotter and colder outside than it is within, your appliance will need more insulation.
Modern compressors: To keep things chilled in heated temperatures, the mechanical components of the refrigerator must be built to work extra hard. Insulation by itself is insufficient.
UV protection: If the sun is directly shining on your refrigerator, it may heat up and cause surface damage.
Ventilation: Your outdoor fridge will need more space to operate correctly if it is integrated into a kitchen island or countertop.
In The Winter, Can An Outdoor Refrigerator Be Left Outside?
You probably already know that the Pittsburgh area has severe winters, so safeguarding your appliances in tough environments is essential.
Your outdoor fridge can last the winter if it is placed correctly and kept out of the rain or snow.
However, with some outdoor refrigeration units, the regulation of the device may be impacted if the external temperature falls below the refrigerator’s interior temperature.
Winter weather can fool the compressor into thinking it doesn’t need to activate to chill the contents of the fridge. The compressor engages when the interior temperature increases or falls too much.
How Is An Outdoor Refrigerator Winterized?
A refrigerator that is approved for outside usage is waterproof and better prepared to endure winter weather, but the compressor still confronts a challenging test in harsh conditions.
The focus should be on purchasing a product that can manage your local seasons rather than on being prepared.
An outdoor refrigerator must be constructed of stainless steel of grade 304 in order to be considered weatherproof. This premium material is resistant to rust and corrosion brought on by bad weather.
To protect against rain, snow, heat, and debris, the majority of outdoor refrigerators also have additional weatherproofing measures including door and bearing seals.
Conclusion
For entertaining, outdoor coolers are necessary. This location is ideal for an outdoor kitchen due to the warm Phoenix days and cold nights.
Throughout the year, a lot of Arizonans spend a significant portion of their days outside (except during the peak summer months).
You can prepare and keep food in an outdoor refrigerator for easy access when visitors come. When having guests around, have a finished charcuterie board and some cold wine on hand.
If you’re hosting a bigger gathering, stock the refrigerator with beverages and mixers. Make sure your guests can access products in your outdoor kitchen without having to go back inside.
It can be difficult to select an outdoor refrigerator that suits your lifestyle out of so many fantastic possibilities. Choose the outdoor refrigerator that’s right for you.
