Can Fridge Freezers Be Kept in a Garage?

If you have ever wanted the convenience of a fridge freezer in your garage there are a few things that you need to know. Before you commit to having a garage refrigerator, it helps to understand how they work. Modern fridge freezers function by comparing the freezer temperature to the outside, and therefore lowering the temperature as needed, blowing excess cold air from the freezer to the fridge.

Changes in temperature in an unheated garage can be an issue. You will need to make sure that the unit is not exposed to temperatures over 43C or below -17C because it could damage the fridge freezer.

This is a very delicate balancing act that would benefit from being in a garage with a heating or cooling system. If your garage is too hot your fridge freezer will be working extra hard to keep itself cool, sending your electric bill through the roof and potentially wearing out the appliance sooner.

If your garage is too cold this could confuse your fridge freezer, making it think that it is at the correct temperature when it might not have. As long as the outdoor temperature is below freezing your fridge freezer will stay idle, letting the contents thaw out. Once you understand these basic parameters, you will be able to determine if your garage is the right environment for a fridge freezer.

Should I Keep My Fridge Freezer In The Garage?

Lots of people keep fridge freezers in their garage for years without experiencing problems. They usually keep them in there for extra space or because they have run out of room in their kitchen, so the choice of if you want a fridge freezer in your garage is completely up to you.

Building An Enclosed Conditioned Space

If you don’t like the thought of installing a heating or cooling system to your whole garage you could create an enclosed conditioned space in your garage, making it a lot easier to control. All you have to do is condition a small space within the garage, by framing an enclosed space around the fridge freezers.

Having this will allow you to moderate the heat and cold only around the fridge freezer. As a bonus: a climate-controlled space allows you to store other temperature-sensitive items without worrying about them freezing or overheating.

If creating an enclosed space sounds like too much, you can always install a fan to increase airflow over your fridge’s cooling coils. Make sure that the air is moving around the back of the fridge. If your local climate is humid, a dehumidifier helps keep things dry on the inside of your garage. A dehumidifier will also reduce the risk of rust on tools and other items that are stored in your garage.

Where You Live Matters

Not everywhere in the country experiences the same temperatures. If your garage is insulated and has climate control, it is absolutely fine to put your freezer in there. You just want to make sure the garage space is dry.

All you have to do is make sure the fridge freezer away from the windows and out of direct sunlight because it will make it harder to maintain the right interior temperatures. It is also important for safety reasons you shouldn’t use an extension cord for a major appliance, so make sure your fridge freezer is close to a plug socket. Lastly, make sure there is space for air to circulate around the fridge freezer so it operates as it should.

Decluttering

Besides the temperature of the garage, there are other factors that need to be considered that if not checked can help proper appliance operation. Most garages have sawdust, grime, dust and more which can collect the garage refrigerator’s coil. Boxes and clutter can pile up on and around the fridge, limiting airflow and restricting its performance. Giving your garage a spring clean from time to time will help this.

How You Stack Will Affect Your Fridge Freezer

Did you know that what you put inside the fridge freezer can affect its performance too? In fact, too many or too few items in the fridge are one of the main sources of inefficient cooling.

You should try and stock your fridge freezer with enough items that it isn’t just cooling empty air. Did you know that when you open and close the fridge door, the air is sucked out and replaced? The items in the fridge act as natural ice cubes, helping to cool the new air in the fridge and preventing it from working in overdrive.

On the other hand, too many items in the fridge can block the blower, which will ultimately prevent cold air from circulating in the unit. This will make items get warmer over time, preventing the fridge freezer from working how it should.

Always Have A Back-Up Plan

The number one tip for having a garage fridge freezer is to have a backup plan. Stock the garage fridge freezer with items that won’t soil like alcoholic beverages. These are low risk and help the fridge cool if you lose power temporarily. Always have a plan B.

What Are The Ideal Conditions For Fridge Freezers In A Garage?

Whatever the case it is very important to ensure that the location for the fridge freezer does meet some basic requirements.

• It should be dry and free from damp and extreme high and low temperatures
• The surface the fridge freezer stands on should be level
• It is important to allow enough room around the unit for good airflow
• Pick a location that won’t get too hot especially for the summer months.

Overall, you will need to be aware of the minimum temperatures that will occur. Pay close attention to the climate class, a lot more manufacturers are understanding that appliances are needed in different rooms of the home and this is why these appliances are ever-changing.

Should you find yourself looking for a new fridge freezer for your garage, make sure to get in touch with our experts at Howards Electrical today on 01782 482104. We'll be more than happy to help and give you with further advice you require to make the perfect choice.