3 Important Things to Know About Outdoor Refrigerators

You've probably heard that you can't just use any old fridge outside. But, why not? What are the differences between indoor and outdoor refrigerators, and why is it important to know them?

Here are three of the most important things to be aware of when looking for an There are two main differences between refrigerators designed to be used outdoors and indoors.

First is ambient temperature range. Refrigerators have to work to keep everything inside it cold despite the temperature outside of it. We keep the temperature in our homes pretty even — generally between 60ºF and 80ºF.

Outdoors, temperatures can change dramatically from morning to night, and vary widely from freezing cold to blazing hot. Outdoor refrigerators have to maintain consistently cold temperatures in that highly unstable environment.

In the Summer heat, for example, a fridge would require additional insulation and more powerful compressors and components to keep everything cold.

Second is weatherproofing for the electrical components. Even when built into a cabinet or other outdoor fixture, outdoor refrigerators can be exposed to water from rain, or from splashing in a pool area, or the like. Water and electricity is a dangerous mix, so special design precautions are taken to reduce the risk of electrocution. Be sure the fridge you buy is UL (Underwriters Laboratory) Approved for outdoor use.

Leading to the next point…

“Outdoor” Does NOT Mean “All-Weather”

This weatherproofing is only to keep the electrical parts safe from water. It doesn't mean you can leave it completely unprotected in the worst of rainstorms, or function in the coldest of winters.

Almost all outdoor fridges are made from stainless steel thanks to its ability to resist rust in wet environments.