An outdoor refrigerator would be a terrific addition to your outdoor kitchen. Whether you are looking for a beverage-only fridge or a UL-approved fridge for food storage, it is crucial that you choose a device with an outside rating.
Outdoor freezers have to work harder than their inside counterparts because of the large variety of temperatures outside. To prevent electrocution, they are insulated for use in the outdoors and must be sealed against moisture. Use the information below to choose a high-quality outdoor refrigerator that complements your way of life.
Support in a technical capacity
It is important to think about how an outdoor fridge will fit in with the rest of your outdoor kitchen before making a purchase. Positioning your outdoor fridge properly is essential. Keeping your fridge out of direct sunlight can extend its life and save your energy bill. Consider getting a smaller fridge if you just have a small, shaded area to store it in. Think about where you will be working and try to choose somewhere convenient that is also near your barbecue.
U.L. Approvals
A UL rating for a refrigerator means that it has passed all of the essential safety tests and certifications, guaranteeing that it meets all of the criteria for keeping food and beverages. Outdoor refrigerators have to work harder to maintain a constant temperature inside the fridge because of the constantly changing weather outside.
If you want to store perishable items in your outdoor refrigerator, it is crucial that you verify its UL certification. This will ensure that the fridge stays at a cool enough temperature to preserve the food within. Having a UL-certified outdoor refrigerator gives you the greatest options for keeping food and drinks. The standard also ensures that the fridge is waterproof, which eliminates the risk of electrocution while running outdoor refrigeration.
Outdoor refrigerators that are not UL-rated are another option; they are often more affordable than conventional indoor fridges. If a compact refrigerator is all you need to keep beverages cold, this is a smart purchase.
Venting
There are versions of outdoor refrigerators available with either a front or a rear exhaust vent. Refrigerators with front vents are the most convenient option for an outdoor kitchen since airflow is controlled with the push of a button. There must be extra space above, to the sides, and behind a refrigerator with a back ventilation system. As long as proper ventilation is used, a refrigerator with back ventilation is a great option to consider.
Compressor output and noise during operation
Pick a fridge with a compressor designed to maintain the ideal temperature while maintaining a low profile in terms of noise. Having effective insulation and a well-planned layout may aid in the reduction of unwanted noise.
The voltage in most homes is either 110 or 120 volts; however, before purchasing a refrigerator, you should verify that it is compatible with your home’s electrical system.
Glass versus metal shelves
There is a wide variety of outdoor freezers to choose from, each with either metal or glass shelves, so the decision is entirely up to the buyer. Metal shelving is highly recommended for outdoor refrigerators since air may easily flow between the grates, making the refrigerator more energy efficient. In contrast, glass is great for manufacturing smaller items and storing perishable food that does not need to be kept at a very cold temperature.
