
Is it OK to put a refrigerator in the garage?
The temperature is stable and typically you can keep your refrigerator running with no issues. Many, many people, myself included, have a refrigerator in the garage. This works well most of the time, although, I would suggest that if your refrigerator is in the garage, you place it on an interior wall if possible.
Can a freezer be placed in a garage?
This can include the placement of specific appliances that might have been kept indoors before. You might even wonder about putting a freezer in the garage in the summer. You can put a freezer in the garage in the summer as long as the temperature is below 110°F (43°C). This will ensure the freezer will function at 100% and not break down.
Can I put a new freezer in the garage?
It is okay to put a freezer in the garage if you are certain that it won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures. Exposure to temperatures hotter than 110°F (43°C) and colder than 0°F (-17°C) may get it damaged. In a properly insulated garage, the freezer will not work under these unfavorable conditions.
Can I keep a refrigerator in an unheated garage?
The ideal room temperature for your refrigerator is between 68 and 71 degrees. Most refrigerators stop working at some point during the winter months in an unheated garage, depending on climate and how well the garage is insulated. Most manufacturers do not recommend placing a refrigerator in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can a Fridge Stay in the Garage During the Summer?
Should You Unplug a Garage Fridge for the Winter?

Can You Put a Fridge in an Uninsulated Garage?
If you’ve purchased a new refrigerator recently, you probably thought about putting your old one in the garage. But if your garage isn’t climate controlled or insulated, putting your old fridge in there might not be the best option.
How To Make Sure Refrigerator In A Garage Works Perfectly!
The gas loses its heat to the outside air and becomes a cold liquid. The condenser tube then enters the inside of the refrigerator and this part is called the “evaporator” tube. The cold refrigerant in the evaporator absorbs the heat from the stuff inside, turning from liquid to gas in the process.
How Much Does it Cost to Run a Refrigerator in the Garage?
The average refrigerator in the garage costs $95 a year to operate, while the average refrigerator in the kitchen costs $84 a year.
What is a garage ready refrigerator?
A garage-ready refrigerator is made to withstand colder and hotter temperatures than what’s found inside the average home. They have extra insulation, built-in heaters, and larger compressors. Note that garage-ready fridges aren’t waterproof, so you can’t keep them outside.
How to keep fridge from getting hot?
Also, keep your fridge away from direct sunlight. Your garage might typically feel temperate, but if your fridge is exposed to the sun’s rays, it can become significantly hotter than the surrounding environment.
How cold can a refrigerator run?
Most major appliance manufacturers offer heater-coil kits that let the refrigerator operate in temps as low as 32° (although typically not in below-zero conditions).
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
While specifics will vary by brand, most standard refrigerators work best in an area with an ambient temperature between 68° and 71°. It’s a range that allows the fridge to run at maximum efficiency.
How much space between refrigerator and wall?
Place it in a location away from direct sunlight. Also, leave one or two inches of space between the refrigerator and the wall to allow consistent airflow.
Can you use a garage refrigerator in an unheated garage?
Garage refrigerators are different. While not waterproof, they have special features such as larger compressors, built-in heaters, and extra insulation. You can use them in unheated, uninsulated locations, including garages.
What Happens When You Keep a Refrigerator in the Garage?
The mechanism in modern refrigerators means that they are very sensitive to temperature changes. A refrigerator in a garage, therefore, will have to work harder than one in the kitchen, for example, if the ambient temperature in the garage starts to veer towards extremes.
How to protect refrigerator from dust?
This is why you should ensure that your refrigerator is protected from debris and dust. Clean the area around the refrigerator properly and ensure clean airflow around it. Doing your carpentry work in the garage, for example, can cause sawdust to lodge inside your refrigerator’s exterior components. Additionally, you need to ensure that there are ...
Why does my refrigerator compressor cycle on and off?
In winter conditions, the compressor will cycle on and off a lot more frequently as it tries to balance the effect of the chilly ambient weather against the temperature inside the refrigerator. In this scenario, you might find frozen food thawing faster than you’d like.
Why is my refrigerator so hard to work?
If you live in an area where the temperatures get close to these upper and lower limits or surpass them, your refrigerator’s components will find it difficult to work efficiently. If, like most households, your garage is always hotter or colder than your living areas,
What to do if your refrigerator is full?
If your refrigerator is full, it won’t have to work so hard to maintain the temperature inside the compartment as there’d be no room for warm air (or chilly air in the winter) to disrupt things . A few gallons of water can do the job if you don’t have enough pantry goods to fill the refrigerator.
What are the features of an outdoor refrigerator?
Other features of an outdoor refrigerator include anti-corrosion, weatherproofing, and UV protection. The first two features are important if you are keeping your refrigerator in a garage where water can seep in.
Why does my refrigerator compressor run continuously?
In hot weather, the compressor will run continuously as it attempts to keep the compartment at freezing temperatures. This will lead to higher energy consumption and will wear down the refrigerator’s parts quickly. You may also notice that items in the freezer take longer to get frozen, if ever. In winter conditions, the compressor will cycle on ...
How to keep a second refrigerator from freezing?
If you only have soda or a few items in the refrigerated section and a few items in the freezer, it’s probably in your best interest to just empty and unplug it. I manage to keep mine unplugged and place water and soda in it over the winter to keep it from freezing in the garage. I find that unless I have holiday company over, I don’t really need to have it plugged in until spring. Remember though, if you have it unplugged and empty, you need to make it safe for any children that are around you. An empty, unplugged refrigerator can be dangerous to a young child.
Why do we need an extra refrigerator?
Many “extra” refrigerators are regulated to the basement or garage.
What does it mean when your refrigerator is cold?
Colder temperatures mean that the compressor on your refrigerator will not work as it should . You may find that your freezer will not keep things frozen in the extreme cold of winter. You may also discover that fresh items in the refrigerated section may freeze.
Is a second refrigerator good for heating?
The bad side to this is that you are using more energy. If your second refrigerator is an older model (as most are) you are already using a higher than recommended amount of energy.
Is a second refrigerator better than a newer one?
Typically, a second refrigerator is an older model. These models may not be as energy efficient as newer ones. You may be using more energy then you want to use. The next consideration is placement of the “spare” refrigerator. Basements are great if you do not mind running up and down stairs. The temperature is stable and typically you can keep your refrigerator running with no issues.
Can I keep my refrigerator running in the garage?
The temperature is stable and typically you can keep your refrigerator running with no issues. Many, many people, myself included, have a refrigerator in the garage. This works well most of the time, although, I would suggest that if your refrigerator is in the garage, you place it on an interior wall if possible.
Is it safe to leave a refrigerator unplugged?
Remember though, if you have it unplugged and empty, you need to make it safe for any children that are around you. An empty, unplugged refrigerator can be dangerous to a young child. Your spare refrigerator can be of great benefit to you and your family.
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
Most refrigerators were designed to work inside your climate controlled home. They’re expecting an operating temperature between 60-85ºF (15-30ºC). Even so-called outdoor fridges only extend that range to between 50º and around 110º F.
How hot can a garage get?
In an uninsulated garage, the temperatures can go well below freezing for long periods of time, or get as hot as 100°F (38 ºC) or worse, depending on where you live. In theory, that means your fridge can handle warm temperatures better than cold temperatures, right?
Why is my fridge working harder?
When the room is extremely hot, your fridge is forced to work a lot harder to keep everything inside it cold. That results in more strain on the compressor and other components. The longer your fridge is working harder than it should, the shorter it’s lifespan will be.
How to make a refrigerator turn on in winter?
Heat Up Your Fridge’s Thermostat. The air around your refrigerator’s thermostat needs to be warm enough in the winter to make it turn on. Depending on how cold it gets in your garage, there are a few ways you can do this.
How to trick your fridge thermostat?
Another way to trick your fridge’s thermostat into thinking it’s warmer than it really is, is to use a clamp-on work lamp near the fridge. They’re available at your local home improvement store for a few dollars. When you fit them with an incandescent light bulb, the bulb will put off heat.
Can you convert an old fridge to a new one?
Some manufacturers make a kit that lets you convert an older fridge into one that can work in colder temperatures.
Do garage ready refrigerators work better?
Garage-ready refrigerators have an extended operating temperature range. That allows them to work much better when the temperatures drop below freezing.
How does a refrigerator work in a garage?
Knowing the basics of how today's modern refrigerators operate is the key to successfully storing a fridge freezer in the garage. Because the appliance determines a need for cooling based on the difference in temperature between the interior of the freezer and the exterior surroundings of the unit, a garage that is too hot will cause premature failure and send energy costs through the roof as the appliance runs continuously in an attempt to keep cool. If the garage space is uninsulated or too cold, the freezing temperatures will trick the freezer into thinking it has reached the desired level of refrigeration and it may fail to turn on, which could result in damage to the unit and food spoilage.
How to keep fridge cool when opening door?
Keep your spare fridge well-stocked, as the items inside help to maintain the temperature each time the door is opened, but avoid overstuffing the interior which can block the blower fan that provides cool air to the interior.
Why does my garage freezer not turn on?
If the garage space is uninsulated or too cold, the freezing temperatures will trick the freezer into thinking it has reached the desired level of refrigeration and it may fail to turn on, which could result in damage to the unit and food spoilage.
What is a second fridge?
A second fridge is a great addition to any home, not only during the holiday season when you may have an excess amount of food, but also for those who have large families, prefer to purchase in bulk, or like to have a place to store beverages. The question is, where do you store the fridge?
How to keep appliances running at peak performance?
Make sure your appliances are maintained and repaired by a licensed, certified professional to keep them operating at peak performance and efficiency.
Can you insulate a garage?
Regulating the temperature inside the garage can be easily achieved with the proper insulation . Whether you opt to insulate the entire space or frame in a portion of the garage to store items such as your fridge that may be negatively impacted by extreme temperatures, our Neighborly Company partner, Aire Serv can help with these tips to insulate your garage in seven easy steps.
Is it better to have an older fridge or a freezer?
Older fridges, by contrast, are more adaptable to temperature fluctuations and are often a better choice for a fridge freezer for garage spaces.
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
The ideal room temperature for your refrigerator is between 68 and 71 degrees. Most refrigerators stop working at some point during the winter months in an unheated garage, depending on climate and how well the garage is insulated. Most manufacturers do not recommend placing a refrigerator in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is a soft drink machine?
Soft-drink machines that you see outside in freezing weather are nothing more than refrigerators. This type of fridge has internal heaters that keep the appliance at a controlled temperature. Some refrigerators may be purchased with this feature, specifically designed for unheated spaces such as a garage. They have larger compressors, increased refrigerant, extra insulation and built-in heaters.
Where is the refrigerator thermometer located?
Typical refrigerators have one thermometer located in the fresh-food section . Some refrigerators have two thermometers: one in the fresh-food section and another in the freezer section. This type of refrigerator has a wider temperature range and is better suited for locations with fluctuating temperatures.
Can a refrigerator thaw without freezing?
Even if the refrigerator continues to operate without freezing or thawing as the outside temperature fluctuates, efficiency drops. Advertisement. Refrigerators with two thermometers are less likely to have issues with thawing, freezing and inefficiency — but they're not immune to them.
Is it better to have a second fridge in the garage?
If your fridge was an older model to begin with, as many garage fridges are , it's probably a lot less efficient than a more modern model.
How much does it cost to run a refrigerator in a garage?
It’s estimated that a fridge manufactured before 1990 could cost you between $250-300 a year to operate in your garage. Use this Energy Star calculator to get an estimate on the cost of running your old garage fridge.
What is the most common item stored in garages?
Propane tanks. Propane tanks are one of the most common items stored in garages that actually have no business being kept there. Barbecue propane tanks and propane tanks used with welding tools are highly combustible and need to be properly stored.
How to store propane in garage?
Just heed this garage storage advice and make sure your propane tanks are being safely stored somewhere besides the garage. Here’s five key guidelines you should be adhering to: 1 always double check to make sure a tank’s valve is closed when it’s not in use 2 store propane tanks in a secure and ventilated area (like a shed) 3 always keep propane tanks as far away from any potential spark sources as possible 4 ensure propane tanks are stored away from your house 5 store propane tanks on a flat surface
What is the best way to store wine?
Even if you’re a casual wine collector, it makes sense to invest in proper wine storage solutions like custom wine cabinetry or a wine fridge.
What happens to wine when it is stored in a cellar?
The composition of the wine will be compromised to the point where it won’t even be drinkable. Poor storage conditions will also affect the wine’s color.
How to protect furniture before storing?
You’ll protect your furniture further by cleaning it and treating it with wood furniture preservative or polish before storing it. Cover your stored furniture with a drop cloth or old blanket.
Where should clothes be stored in a garage?
Any sensible garage storage advice will tell you that clothing and anything made from fabric should be stored somewhere besides the garage. Along with outgrown or ill-fitting clothing, you’ll also commonly find these other fabric-based items in garages:
How to keep refrigerator working in garage?
If the temperature inside your garage regularly exceeds 110ºF, it is not an ideal location for a refrigerator. Sweltering conditions can cause a refrigerator to burn out from overuse. The appliance will be continually fighting to compensate for the ambient temperature, so it will be working harder for longer. If you are concerned that your garage is too warm, you may need to find ways to cool it. Consider options such as fans, vents, insulation or even supplemental air conditioning. If you’re experiencing an unusual spike in temperatures, short term measures such as covering up the windows to minimize heat from the sun will also help.
Why is it important to keep a refrigerator in a hot garage?
A fully stocked refrigerator has less room for warm air, so it helps the unit to maintain a cool temperature when it is opened on a hot day. If you don’t need the full capacity ...
What to do if your refrigerator fails in the garage?
Even if you have taken the proper precautions, it is a good idea to minimize the risk and leave your garage refrigerator for non-perishable items. Try to keep your garage refrigerator for beer, soda, water and pantry items that won’t easily spoil and leave the ice cream and perishable items in your kitchen refrigerator. This will avoid food wastage and the need to clean up a big mess if your garage refrigerator does suffer a failure.
What to keep in garage refrigerator?
Try to keep your garage refrigerator for beer, soda, water and pantry items that won’t easily spoil and leave the ice cream and perishable items in your kitchen refrigerator. This will avoid food wastage and the need to clean up a big mess if your garage refrigerator does suffer a failure.
What voltage should a refrigerator be in a garage?
This will result in further stress on the appliance as it tries to produce cold air in a hot environment. Your refrigerator should be supplied with a 60Hz, AC only, 115 volt electrical outlet. If you are unsure if your garage is equipped with the proper electrical wiring, you should consult a professional electrician.
Where is Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center?
Founded in 2000, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center one of the largest high-end appliance retailers in Los Angeles. We offer a vast selection of name brand appliances and plumbing fixtures in our showrooms and online, and have helped tens of thousands of customers all across the country with their home appliance and plumbing needs.
Can you store soda in a garage?
A garage refrigerator can be a great place to store sodas for the kids, food for the grill or even items you can’t fit in your kitchen refrigerator. Unfortunately, when the summer weather arrives, your garage can become very hot and humid, which can create problems for your refrigerator.
Can a Fridge Stay in the Garage During the Summer?
If summers are hot where you live, a fridge in the garage will have to work harder to maintain a cool internal temperature. Humid weather can also cause the fridge coils to rust due to increased moisture. Increased pressure on your fridge's cooling system will shorten its lifespan, so you'll need to take steps to stop its cooling coils from overheating.
Should You Unplug a Garage Fridge for the Winter?
If you don't have any food in the fridge, unplugging it during icy weather will save you the trouble of heating the thermostat. However, if you still want to use your fridge for food storage, it's best to leave it plugged in. The internal temperature could still become warm enough for food to spoil if the fridge is turned off, even if the temperature outside is chilly.
