Are you searching for the best outdoor refrigerator? For your outdoor kitchen, the most crucial part is to place an outdoor refrigerator. It’s very difficult to spend the hot summer days in the backyard. In the summer, most homeowners spend the maximum time outside of their room, as well as, you can enjoy a barbeque party on the hot summer night with your family. In this regard, you can remodel your home and build an outdoor kitchen.
To do this, you must need an outdoor refrigerator. But there are numerous outdoor refrigerators available on the market, so it would be a little bit confusing to choose the best one. To consider such kind of circumstances, I would like to provide a complete list of the 7 best outdoor refrigerators based on market research, reviews, ratings, and other significant criteria.
So, don’t waste your time, jump the core part into this article and soothe your heart to pick the best outdoor fridge.
Our Top Picks
| Bull Outdoor Products 11001 | Blaze BLZ-SSRF-50DH |
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| Best for Overall | Best for Performance |
The 7 Best Outdoor Refrigerators in 2023 for Your Kitchen
Your outdoor kitchen remains incomplete without integrating an outdoor refrigerator. An outdoor refrigerator is an essential appliance for your outdoor kitchen. It can be able to keep your drinks cold and your salads fresh.
- Best for Overall: Bull Outdoor Products 11001 Stainless Steel Front Panel Refrigerator
- Best for Versatile Usage: HCK 5.12 Cu.Ft 161 cans Indoor/Outdoor Refrigerator
- Most Usage for Backyard Barbeques: Danby DAR044A6BSLDBO Outdoor Refrigerators
- Best for Tiny Homes/Small Space: Thor Kitchen 24” Outdoor Double Drawer Refrigerator
- Best for Only Beverage Items: EdgeStar CBR1501SSOD 24 Inch Wide 142 Can Built-In Outdoor Beverage Cooler
- Best for Outdoor Space: NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
- Best for Premium Performance: Blaze 24-Inch Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator
Thus, it will provide a convenient service to keep your beverages, food, and snacks items. As a consequence, you can easily enjoy your BBQ party and beer after work. Here, you will get a detailed list of the 7 best outdoor refrigerators for your outdoor kitchen. So, let’s see.
1. Bull Outdoor Products 11001 Stainless Steel Front Panel Refrigerator
If you are looking for an all-in-one solution for your outdoor kitchen, you must go for the Bull Outdoor Refrigerator.
The BULL Standard Refrigerator is designed to save space while keeping your beverages and food cool. A seven-can 12oz beverage dispenser is included as standard and is entirely integrated into the reversible stainless steel door’s elegant design.
Moreover, the BULL refrigerator is ideal for your workplace, dorm room, backyard BBQ area, woman shed, or man cave, weighing only 62 pounds. For the left or right opening, a reversible door swing is available. CUTOUT DIMENSIONS: 20 1/2″W X 33″H X 20 3/4″D.
Specifications
- Brand Name: Bull Outdoor Products
- Model Info: 11001
- Item Weight: 62 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 20.75 x 20.5 x 33 inches
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
- Item model number: 11001
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Capacity: 4.4 Cubic Feet
- Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity: 4.4 Cubic Feet
- Part Number: 11001
- Form Factor: Compact
- Color: Metallic Grey
- Crispers/Drawers: 1
- Door Hinges: Reversible
- Shelf Type: Wire
- Shelves: 3
Certification: ETL
- Material Type: Stainless-steel
- Included Components : Two Wire Racks
- Batteries Included? No
- Batteries Required? No
Customer Reviews: 4.0 out of 5 stars (352 ratings)
Key Features
- Drawers and Doors: It provides a large selection of access doors, storage drawers, and door/drawer combos, including the top of the, featured 30″ Bull Double Doors (item #33568). Designed to match any Bull grill head or component so that your entire setup looks great.
- Specialty Components: Specialty components for your outdoor kitchen can also be found in the Bull Outdoor catalog. For the ultimate grill master, choose the 30″ Bar Caddy (item #97623), which includes a sink with faucet, chopping board, removable condiment tray, ice chest with removable top, and bottle opener.
- Side Burners: Bull Outdoor Products now offers a comprehensive variety of side burners to complement the cooking capabilities of a Bull grill head. The Double Side Burner (items #30008 and 30009) is shown here. These burners give flexibility to any outdoor cooking space by being designed to fit into any outdoor kitchen and to match Bull grill heads and other components.
- Outdoor Refrigeration: Bull Outdoor Products also offers all-season outdoor refrigeration. An outdoor kitchen for beer enthusiasts, for example, would be incomplete without a draft beer system. You can take your pouring power to the great outdoors with the Bull Outdoor Rated Kegerator (item #17900). The Bull Outdoor Rated Refrigerator (item #13700) is also available.
- Additional Features: Stainless steel exterior door panel, Reversible door – left or right swing, Door lock, Adjustable shelving, Interior fan, Electronic control system, Leveling legs, Extra glass shelf, Self-closing door.
Pros
- Ensure superior cooling performance
- High-quality built-in components
- Provides long service life
- Flush back design that saves your space
- Temperature controlling system
- Provides digital display and control panel
- Large capacity
Cons
- No freezer
- Chances to get rusty
- Freestanding, not to be built in
2. HCK 5.12 Cu.Ft 161 cans Indoor/Outdoor Refrigerator
Are you looking for a versatile outdoor refrigerator? If so, you can try HCK Indoor/Outdoor Refrigerator. You can use this refrigerator for both commercial and home appliances.
This outdoor refrigerator will ensure a durable SUS 304 body with an IPX4 waterproof rating with a reversible door that will suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. So, it will provide the coolest fridge and deliver complete refrigeration solutions that suit the needs of millions of users around the world.
Specifications
- Brand Name: HCK
- Model Info: C150-SD
- Item Weight: 81.6 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 23.6 x 23.6 x 34 inches
- Item model number: C150-SD
- Capacity: 5.12 Cubic Feet
- Annual Energy Consumption: 304 Kilowatt Hours
- Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity: 5.12 Cubic Feet
- Bottle Count: 161.00
- Noise: 39 dB
- Installation Type: Built-In
- Part Number: C150-SD
- Form Factor: Compact
- Special Features: Lockable
- Color: Metallic
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Wattage: 110 watts
- Defrost: Automatic
- Door Hinges: Reversible
- Door Material Type: Stainless Steel
- Shelf Type: Wire
- Shelves: 3
Certification: ETL, DOE, ADA
- Material Type: Stainless Steel
- Batteries Included? No
- Batteries Required? No
Customer Reviews: 4.4 out of 5 stars (68 ratings)
Key Features
- Included with a storage capacity of 5.12 cubic feet, you can store up to 161 standard 12 oz. cans.
- It has three chromed shelves that can be removed and a factory-pre-installed lock that prohibits unwanted access to your beverages. It also has an auto-defrost feature, a stainless steel front vent, and a blue LED light built-in. Its reversible door is particularly worth noticing because it allows for location versatility. It will provide a detailed guide that will help to understand the process of door reversal.
- Its powerful and efficient compressor-based cooling system provides an eco-friendly R600a refrigerant that will ensure an effective temperature range of 32°F to 50°F. This temperature is constantly monitored by built-in sensors to keep your favorite beverages in top shape and ready to serve you when you need them. Most significantly, you may alter the temperature setting by using the press button controller with a blue-colored LED display.
- Outdoor-rated 304 stainless steel construction with IPX4 waterproof rating provides maximum durability and greater safety in usage, ideal for indoor or outdoor, freestanding or under-counter built-in installation.
- On non-consumable components, it will provide a one-year factory warranty, and on compressors, it provides a five-year warranty. Also, you will get additional support if required.
- Integrated with R600a refrigerant that helps to fight global warming.
- Provides an extremely low noise level which is around 39dB.
Pros
- Massive storage capacity
- Ensure high flexibility
- Temperature controlling system
- Easy to use and hassle-free system
- Provides freestanding or built-in under-counter refrigerator
- Minimize energy cost
Cons
- Chances to damage the door
- Sometimes technical fault occurs
3. Danby DAR044A6BSLDBO Outdoor Refrigerators
Want to buy a refrigeration solution for your backyard or deck? If so, it would be best to go for the Danby DAR044A6BSLDBO Outdoor Refrigerators.
With the addition of a Danby outdoor refrigerator, you can take your backyard barbeques to the next level. This compact fridge has two glass shelves for maximum storage flexibility, as well as a half shelf for extra snacks, sauces, or drinks. So, you can bring a Danby to your next outdoor party and gather the best experience.
Specifications
- Brand Name: Danby
- Model Info: DAR044A6BSLDBO
- Item Weight: 68 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 21.31 x 20.75 x 33.06 inches
- Item model number: DAR044A6BSLDBO
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Capacity: 4.4 Cubic Feet
- Annual Energy Consumption: 238 Kilowatt Hours Per Year
- Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity: 4.4 Cubic Feet
- Installation Type: Freestanding
- Part Number: DAR044A6BSLDBO
- Form Factor: Stand Alone
- Color: Spotless Steel
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Crispers/Drawers: 3
- Defrost: Automatic
- Door Hinges: Reversible
- Shelf Type: Wire
- Shelves: 4
Certification: Energy Star
- Material Type: Steel
- Included Components: Refrigerator^Product Manual
- Batteries Included? No
- Batteries Required? No
Customer Reviews: 4.3 out of 5 stars (662 ratings)
Key Features
- Capacity: The capacity of this outdoor refrigerator is around 4.4 Cubic Feet (124 Liters).
- Functionality and Durability: Included with waterproof electrical housing, UV-protected plastics, rated to IPX4 water ingress protection for safety and 4 castors featuring stainless steel ball bearings that will be rust-resistance makes a perfect outdoor compact refrigeration solution.
- Tested for a Tropical Environment: It will provide a cooling capacity for a tropical environment for outdoor temperatures of up to 109°F / 43°C.
- Integrated Door Shelving: It has a tall bottle storage system that is ideal for large pop, water, juice, or other drink bottles.
- CanStor Beverage Dispensing System: Integrated with efficient and tidy can storage into the mini refrigerator door.
- Clean Bright and Modern: Included with a white interior with LED interior lighting, glass shelves, spotless steel door finish, rubber-grip chrome ergonomic door handle, and scratch-resistant worktop all essential complement.
- Integrated with reversible door hinges, adjustable shelves, food-grade waterproof ice bucket, and door lock
- It will provide an automatic defrost and a mechanical thermostat means no extra maintenance on your part.
- Integrated with energy star compliant and uses environmental-friendly R600a refrigerant
Pros
- Environment friendly
- Versatile solution
- Easy to operate
- Budget-friendly
- Freestanding model
Cons
- Shelves are not suitable for bottles
- Lack of diversified features and technologies
4. Thor Kitchen 24” Outdoor Double Drawer Refrigerator
Are you looking for the best refrigeration solution for your tiny homes, dorm rooms, bedrooms, RVs, or any small space? Don’t worry! You have reached your desired place.
In this circumstance, Thor Kitchen Outdoor Double Drawer Refrigerator will be the best choice because it will be suitable for outdoor usage and perfect for keeping cold foods nearby when entertaining on covered patios balconies, and terraces 5 Weather-proof design.
So, the Thor Kitchen Outdoor Double Drawer Refrigerator will ensure the most unique designs with extreme spaciousness, durability, and convenience.
Specifications
- Brand Name: Thor Kitchen
- Model Info: TRF2401U
- Item Weight: 128 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 23.6 x 23.6 x 34 inches
- Item model number: TRF2401U
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Capacity: 5.3 Cubic Feet
- Annual Energy Consumption: 305 Watt Hours
- Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity: 2.5 Cubic Feet
- Freezer Capacity: 2.5 Cubic Feet
- Installation Type: Built-in
- Part Number: 766008976241
- Form Factor: Stand Alone
- Special Features: Weatherproof design, suitable for outdoor use
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Crispers/Drawers: 2
- Defrost: Automatic
- Door Hinges: No Door
- Door Material Type: Stainless Steel
- Shelf Type: Wire
Certification: Energy Rating
- Material Type: Stainless Steel
- Included Components: Stainless steel basket and a silicone pad
- Batteries Included? No
- Batteries Required? No
Customer Reviews: 3.9 out of 5 stars (125 ratings)
Key Features
- Adjustable Temperature °C/°F: You can modify the temperature via the digital touch blue LED display on the refrigerator. The temperature range is 0°C-7°C/34°F-46°F, which will ensure temperature constancy while saving energy and keeping food fresh. It’s preferable to keep it at home or take it with you when you travel.
- Mini Fridge with Huge Space: This electric mini fridge with a capacity of 5 3 cubic feet (152L) and dimensions of 23 5″ Wx23 4″ Dx34 2″ H (excl handle) is precisely sized to keep your favorite fruit vegetable or beverage chilled while taking up the minimal places such as college dorm, RV apartment, garage, or office.
- Frost Free & Easy to Clean: This refrigerator uses a Ventilated Cooling System to keep your food products at the exact temperature you require at all times. This refrigerator is fingerprint resistant and made of stainless steel. If any smears, fingerprints, or watermarks appear around the ice maker, simply wipe them away with a moist microfiber cloth. So, it will never need to be polished.
- Full-extension Stainless Steel Slide-out Double Drawer: This refrigerator has two drawers and fits more than a traditional side-by-side refrigerator. It contains a divider in the main refrigerator portion, as well as a sliding refrigerator drawer for separating goods. This refrigerator’s weather-resistant design makes it appropriate for use outside.
Pros
- Ensure adjustable temperature
- Enormous space
- Easy to clean and use
- Frost-free system
- Ensure 100% Satisfaction
- Built-in or freestanding
- Four adjustable leveling legs
Cons
- Sometimes the drawer slide might be collapsed
- Quite expensive
5. EdgeStar CBR1501SSOD 24 Inch Wide 142 Can Built-In Outdoor Beverage Cooler
Want to integrate an outdoor refrigerator with your kitchen, game room, bar, or garage? If so, you can go for the EdgeStar Can Built-In Outdoor Beverage Cooler.
Moreover, this refrigerator is one of the versatile and durable appliances that can be able to withstand changing weather patterns. You will get a freestanding model that will be suitable for the backyard of your home.
You can keep your drinks chilled and ready to drink with the 5.49 cu. ft. EdgeStar 142 Can Stainless Steel Beverage Cooler (CBR1501SSOD). This stainless steel cooler can hold up to 142 regular 12 oz. cans. This outdoor beverage refrigerator is ideal for kitchens, game rooms, and more. It will keep your drinks cold for you and your companions.
Most significantly, this refrigerator is designed only for cool drinks, not to store perishable food. So, if you demand to cool only the beverage items, it will be the best option for you.
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Finish Type: Glossy
- Brand: EdgeStar
- Pattern: Solid
- Configuration: Freezerless
- Cooling Method: Compressor
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 22.88 x 23.44 x 33.75 inches
- Lock Type: Key
- Capacity: 5.49 Cubic Feet
- Shelf Type: Glass
- Auto defrost
- Freestanding or built-in application
- Temperature range: 38-50 degrees F
- Includes glass shelves
- ETL approved
- Powerful compressor-based cooling
- Built-in carbon filter
- Input voltage: 115 V/60 Hz
- Power: 120 W/1.1 A
- Weight: 97 lbs
- Dimensions (without handle): 33 1/2″ H x 23 1/2″ W x 22 1/2″ D
- Dimensions (with handle): 33 1/2″ H x 23 1/2″ W x 24 3/4″ D
Customer Reviews: 3.9 out of 5 stars (70 ratings)
Key Features
- Integrated with powerful compressor-based cooling.
- Included 3 removable glass shelves.
- Provides a built-in lock with 2 keys.
- Integrated with an auto-defrost function.
- Allows reversible door that helps to improve the flow of under-counter cabinetry.
- Integrated carbon filter.
- Blue LED bulbs.
- ETL- and outdoor-approved.
- Solid stainless steel door system.
- Digital temp controlling system.
- Offers plenty of storage room with a 5.49-cubic feet capacity and fits 142-cans.
- Covered with stainless steel and features fan-circulated technology.
Pros
- Smooth and equal cooling system.
- Door lock system.
- You will get the flexibility to install the door, so you can install the door left or right side.
- Stylish and professional refrigerator
- 3 adjustable glass shelves
Cons
- Designed only for beverage items
- Glass shelves are difficult to adjust
- Sometimes door doesn’t close perfectly
6. NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
Want to cool your favorite beverages, or store food near the barbecue? If so, you can meet with the NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator. This one is another exclusive outdoor refrigeration solution for any outdoor entertainment space.
Moreover, the NewAir 15″ Outdoor Fridge is ready for your backyard with its robust, food-grade 304 stainless-steel finish. It will withstand some of the harshest outdoor weather conditions, including extreme heat, rain, ice, and snow. To save time while grilling, chill all of your favorite beverages or store food near the grill.
Specifications
- Brand Name: NewAir
- Model Info: 15” Built-in 90 Can
- Item Weight: 61.8 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 23.25 x 15 x 36 inches
- Country of Origin: China
- Item model number: 15” Built-in 90 Can
- Capacity: 3.2 Liters
- Annual Energy Consumption: 250 Kilowatt Hours Per Year
- Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity: 1 Cubic Feet
- Bottle Count: 90
- Installation Type: Built-In
- Part Number: NOF090SS00
- Special Features: Easy Glide Casters, Weatherproof Stainless Steel, Auto-Closing Door
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 85 watts
- Defrost: Automatic
- Door Hinges: Right
- Door Material Type: Stainless Steel
- Shelf Type: Wire
- Shelves: 4
- Included Components: Wheels
- Batteries Required? No
Customer Reviews: 4.0 out of 5 stars (48 ratings)
Key Features
- Gets Cold and Stays Cold: You can set your fridge to as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit using the digital temperature control panel. Also, your food and beverages will stay cool even in the hottest weather unlike other outdoor refrigerators on the market.
- Durable Design Built for Outdoor Conditions: This fridge is designed to resist extreme heat or heavy rain. It has a 304 stainless-steel coating that adds a layer of resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Made for Patio Entertaining with Ease: Includes an auto-closing door to prevent guests from leaving your fridge open by accident. The inside LED light, which goes on and off automatically, makes it easy to access the contents of the refrigerator.
- Customizable Shelves for Total Control: Adjustable shelves can accommodate up to 90 standards (12 oz) cans or be adjusted to accommodate taller bottles and packaged items. You’ll always find what you’re looking for with a door-activated LED light.
- Convenient Built-in or Standalone Installation: With flushing hinges and a recessed kickplate, the NewAir 15″ Outdoor Beverage Fridge can be built into any standard 15″ counter. However, you can use this refrigerator as a freestanding unit.
Pros
- Holds your entire 90-can collection
- Adjustable shelves
- Customize storage space
- Easy-glide casters
- Auto-closing door
- Rust and corrosion-resistant
- Flexible pricing based on can collection
- Built-In or Freestanding model
Cons
- Sometimes users have to face quality issues
- Difficult to install the door handle
7. Blaze 24-Inch Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator
If you are looking for a perfect refrigeration solution to keep your beverages, meats, and snacks evenly cooled from top to bottom, you can try Blaze’s 24-Inch Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator. It will ensure premium performance and stylish design in the outdoor appliance market.
Moreover, the Blaze 24-Inch Outdoor Rated Compact Refrigerator provides more capacity and great solution for your outdoor compact cooler. It can easily be compatible with all kinds of weather as well as you can install it on your outdoor kitchen island or use it as a freestanding fridge.
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Finish Type: Stainless steel
- Brand: Blaze Outdoor Products
- Form Factor: Compact
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 22 x 23.63 x 34 inches
- Lock Type: Electronic
- Specification Met: ETL
- Capacity: 5.2 Cubic Feet
- Shelf Type: Wire
- Number of Shelves: 5
- Item Weight: 85 pounds
- Manufacturer: Blaze Outdoor Products
- Item model number: BLZ-SSRF-50DH
Customer Reviews: 3.5 out of 5 stars (19 ratings)
Key Features
- It has three removable, adjustable chrome shelves that allow for a variety of storage options.
- Integrated with a fan-forced cooling system that will ensure the unit is evenly cooled from top to bottom while front venting allows the refrigerator to be fully built-in into your outdoor kitchen.
- Included with digital thermostat and internal fan for precise temperature management.
- Integrated with internal cool blue LED light makes things easy to find.
- It provides a front venting system that allows for a flush built-in installation on your outdoor kitchen island.
- Integrated with factory installed lock system that provides security and child safety
- Included with 5. 2 cubic feet of storage space and four adjustable wire shelves, your 24-inch wide Blaze compact refrigerator can be able to keep all your drinks and condiments cool.
- Covered with a stainless steel cabinet, reversible stainless steel door, and full-length, professional handle for a sleek and stylish finish.
- UL Approved
Pros
- Reduce maintenance difficulties
- Convenient on/off switching system
- Temperature controlling system
- Reversible door
- Door lock system
- Auto-defrost function
- Large capacity
Cons
- Little bit expensive
- Sometimes users have to face durability issues
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Refrigerator for Your Outdoor Kitchen?
From the previous section, you have already informed the 7 best outdoor refrigerators. But you need to ensure the criteria before choosing any outdoor refrigerator. Though a refrigerator is one of the easiest appliances to understand, you have to make sure of some factors to buy your required one.
It is a very common thing that the compressor produced chilled air inside of the refrigerator that allows you to keep your food and drinks cool. However, you need to be aware of it when it comes to an outdoor refrigerator.
To choose the best outdoor refrigerator, you can go through this section. After all, you can explore the crucial factors that will assist you to pick the right outdoor refrigerator for your desired place.
Indoor Vs. Outdoor Refrigerators
Do you know the major differences between indoor and outdoor refrigerators? Though the main function and purpose of both indoor and outdoor refrigerators are the same, both appliances can keep your food and drinks cold. However, the internal structure and working mechanism are quite different between indoor and outdoor refrigerators.
Inside your house, you will get a climate-controlled environment which means stable temperatures, regulated humidity, and limited dust. On the other hand, outside of your house, the ambient temperature might be a wide range, and changing humidity levels, harsh weather, and so on. For that reason, you have to ensure the following features before buying any outdoor refrigerator.
Additional Insulation
Since the outside of your house temperature will have gradually fluctuated, you need to be concerned about the amount of insulation of your fridge to compensate. In this case, you have to be concerned about how thick and heavy your outdoor refrigerator is.
The additional insulation provides the protection that creates a barrier to keep the inside cold regardless of the weather. Also, it can reduce power requirements as a smaller motor. Moreover, it can be allowed to use a compressor instead of a larger model.
If you don’t have added insulation, you will need a larger motor. But the larger motor would be expensive and noisy. To put a bar fridge inside your home in your outdoor kitchen, you have to keep internal temperatures below 55F.
Most significantly, the outdoor refrigerator might be damaged through the development of mold and bacterial growth in the appliance because of the sudden swing in the temperature. So, you can resolve such kinds of difficulties by ensuring additional insulation in your outdoor refrigerator.
Build-In Weatherproofing
To choose the best outdoor refrigerator for your outdoor kitchen, you need to consider adverse weather conditions. In this regard, you need to prevent malfunctions and ensure reliability and protection from summer showers blowing sand.
The best outdoor refrigerator is included with some additional features such as door seals, elevated construction, and corrosion-resistant materials. These features will assist the refrigerator to be compatible with adverse weather conditions.
As a result, it can reduce or eliminate the hazards associated with water and debris in your fridge. Otherwise, your outdoor refrigerator may deteriorate quickly because of rust and lack of maintenance.
To minimize such kind of problem, you can look for a model that features a UL Approval stamp. Outdoor refrigerators that have a UL approval stamp will be waterproof as well as weatherproof. Most significantly, when you live in a dry region of the US like Arizona or Nevada, you need not require a waterproof or weatherproof refrigerator.
Size and Capacity
The size of an outdoor refrigerator is one of the crucial factors. There are two sizes of outdoor refrigerators available on the market – normal-sized, and compact-sized models.
Moreover, normal-sized refrigerators are typically 34″ in height x 24″ deep, and 24″ wide. The normal-sized has enough capacity to hold drinks and ingredients for the BBQ and will be perfect for your outdoor kitchen.
On the other hand, the compact models are smaller and the size is around 3 to 3.5-cubic feet. The compact models are normally quite slimmer than shorter. Though the height and depth dimensions are the same, the compact-sized models are 30% to 50% slimmer in the width.
So, the compact models will be suitable for storing a few drinks and food items for the evening’s entertainment. As well as, if you have small balconies or verandahs, or some shelves for organizing a small sky bar, you can choose compact-sized outdoor refrigerators.
Sealing and Filters
Before choosing any outdoor refrigerator, you have to be concerned about the sealing and filters. In this regard, you have to look into your surroundings and notice the dirt and debris that piles up in the corners. Your refrigerator might be dead because of the debris, dirt, and grime. These will reduce the lifespan and damage the fridge’s motor and compressor.
The best outdoor refrigerator comes with sealed bearings and filters which can be able to resolve such kinds of issues. If you are not to be concerned about the filters and sealed bearings, your outdoor refrigerator will be damaged because of dust, and an unprotected unit to clog up and fail.
So, you must require sealing and filters in your outdoor refrigerator with a weatherproof seal on the door to prevent weathering of the rubber.
Built-in Fridge or Freestanding System
If you want to save your space, you can buy a built-in fridge. You can choose the best outdoor refrigerator based on the space of your outdoor kitchen or bar or where you want to replace the outdoor refrigerator. To consider the place, you can choose either a built-in fridge model or a freestanding model.
In this regard, you can choose a larger-size free-standing fridge or smaller units that fit under countertops. If you choose under-counter units, they will easily fit away out of sight as well as you can clean your tabletop or counter without any hassle.
However, you can set up a free-standing fridge from where you can easily serve drinks outdoors. Though these models are not popular for outdoor refrigerators, it has some significance that will ensure safe and flexible usage in your outdoor kitchen or bar.
So, you can choose any of the models based on your convenience and the space of your outdoor kitchen.
Budget & Pricing
To purchase the best outdoor refrigerator, you have required a standard budget. The price will vary of the outdoor refrigerator depending on the brand and model. However, the price range would be around $300 to $2,000 depending on the size and brand of the appliance. Also, you will get from $500 to $800 for any mid-range model.
If you buy an outdoor refrigerator under the $300 price range, it will tend to wear out quickly and start malfunctioning after the first year. For that reason, I do not recommend you to buy such kind of outdoor refrigerator. Also, you need to avoid such kinds of refrigerators that are designed for indoor places. This will completely waste your money and you will not get proper utilization from your refrigerator.
To resolve such kinds of issues, you have to ensure the UL rating so that it can be weatherproofing and easily survive any environmental conditions around your home.
Don’t forget! It will be beneficial for you if you get a few years’ warranties. Moreover, it is obvious that you will expect your new outdoor refrigerator to last around 5-10 years with minimal maintenance. To get such kind of lifespan for your outdoor refrigerator, you need to make sure of the above requirements.
So, you need to be clear about your budget and need to consider the overall cost from installation to maintenance.
Design Materials
Material is one of the crucial factors to determine the effectiveness of an outdoor refrigerator. Some of the outdoor refrigerators are constructed with stainless steel materials that will provide a fantastic finish.
The stainless steel material provides the best corrosion resistance that will ensure a service life of up to 5-years or more. Also, some of them are constructed with plastic material. Moreover, plastic materials are cheaper than stainless steel materials. But the lack of durability of stainless steel materials is observed.
In this regard, you can choose those models that have been built with 304-grade stainless steel. The 304-grade stainless steel provides good corrosion resistance with long-lasting capabilities.
Fundamental Features
You have to ensure some essential features depending on your needs and budget. There are some significant features that will ensure the best experience for the users such as leveling legs or feet, adjustable shelves, interior lighting, and so on.
To buy the best outdoor refrigerator, you have to ensure the following features and functionalities.
- Adjustable temperature thermostat controlling system
- Automatic defrost
- Door lock system
- Glass front door system
- Additional beverage shelving system
- Interior circulatory fans, and so on.
These features give you some additional advantages, but you can smoothly use your outdoor refrigerator without these features. If your outdoor refrigerator has such kinds of features, you will get a tangible benefit and are well worth the money. But, if you do not have these in your selection, this is definitely not a deal-breaker.
Rather these will provide some additional advantages. If you consider the feature namely interior circulatory fans, it can be able to circulate the needed air as well as reduce condensation, and prevent mold growth.
How Do You Maintain an Outdoor Refrigerator?
After buying an outdoor refrigerator, you have to be conscious of the maintenance issues. For that reason, you need to consider your outdoor fridge for the durability of the appliance and its long service life.
You must have to remember, that outdoor refrigerators are not designed to use for temperatures below 40 degrees. Also, you can not run your outdoor refrigerator in the Winter like your car’s AC because it will reduce the efficiency of your outdoor refrigerator.
Moreover, you can empty your outdoor refrigerator unit and unplug it from the wall when the outdoor kitchen season is over. Also, you can prop the door open slightly because it will promote airflow and inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria.
Most significantly, when you move your outdoor fridge, you do not turn it on straight away. In this case, you should need to give the gas in the compressor time to settle before you plug it back into the socket.
If you choose a freestanding model, you need to keep the cover quite loose so that no moisture gets trapped and it does not damage the electrical components.
In summer or winter, it will be effective if you check your outdoor refrigerator on a semi-regular basis for condensation, as well as you can wipe it off with a dry cloth if you notice any moisture.
If you maintain the above criteria, you can easily use your outdoor refrigerator for a few years and your outdoor fridge will provide long-lasting service without any hassle.
Choose Your Desired Outdoor Refrigerator & Make Your Ambiance Cool and Soothing As Like Your Heart
I hope you will be able to relieve most of the confusion. Yes!!! I haven’t forgotten why you came to this article. For your convenience, I have reviewed the 7 best outdoor refrigerators. Also, I have explored the specifications, features, pros, and cons of these outdoor refrigerators so that you could easily pick your preferable one.
To buy any outdoor refrigerator, you have to be clear about your needs and budget. However, if you want an overall outdoor refrigeration solution with a budget-friendly range, then I will recommend you go for Bull Outdoor Refrigerator.
Our Recommendation
Closing Line
Now you have arrived at the closing part of this article. But I am damn sure that you have already picked your ideal one. If not, why are you waiting for??? This article illustrated the 7 best outdoor refrigerators which will save your time and worth as well. I think it will be very convenient to pick your desired outdoor refrigerator for remodeling your outdoor kitchen.
If you have still any confusion, you can try our recommendation. Also, this article highlights all features and specifications with the pros and cons of each model which will assist you to evaluate them easily.
So, today is the best time to integrate an outdoor refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen based on your environment, entertainment area, and lifestyle.
FAQs
What is the difference between an outdoor and an indoor refrigerator?
There are some major differences between an outdoor and indoor refrigerator. The main differences between outdoor and indoor refrigerators have been discussed in the following.
| Factors | Outdoor Refrigerator | Indoor Refrigerator |
| Working Principle | It is designed to better deal with the constant fluctuations in temperature due to the weather, and surroundings | It does not deal with changing temperatures and does not require work as hard to deal with temperature changes. Rather, it is designed for indoor space and the indoor temperatures tend to stay relatively the same. |
| Features & Functionalities | Adjustable shelves, adjustable thermostats, automatic defrost, locking doors, or even glass doors, and so on. | Touchscreen Interface, door configurations, energy efficiency, WiFi connectivity, edge-to-edge shelves, organization drawers, and so on. |
Why does an outdoor refrigerator make a buzzing noise?
If you are not placing your outdoor refrigerator on a level surface, there will be chances to make a buzzing noise. In this regard, you need to place your refrigerator on a level surface that has adjustable feet which will allow you to raise the refrigerator in each corner. To stop the buzzing noise, you can push lightly on each side of the fridge and adjust the height of the foot on that corner.
Why do water droplets freeze on the back wall inside the outdoor fridge?
If you are not sealing correctly of your refrigerator’s door, you may see the water droplets freeze on the back wall inside the outdoor fridge. To resolve such kinds of issues, you need to check the setup position and the integrity of the seal.
Why does a funny odor come from a fridge?
Sometimes you may get a funny odor from your refrigerator. It might be the source of a piece of food. If you find any food on the way to the evaporation tray or defrost water drain or compressor, these are the reasons to create the odor of your refrigerator. These foods will rot and produce such a kind of smell.
Also, you may get such kinds of odor because of residing of other beverages or food on the shelves. This odor might be the reason for attracting bacteria as well as the condensation and debris on the rear panel of the fridge.
Why is there water on the shelf and floor of the outdoor fridge?
If you have a blockage on the drainage hole in the center of the drain channel, you may face such kind of problem. To resolve such kinds of issues, you can clear the drainage hole using a cotton earbud, and the issue should stop
What is the most significant part to choose an outdoor refrigerator?
To choose an outdoor refrigerator, you need to ensure some significant criteria. For example, you have to decide on which model you need. Also, you need to ensure some features like freestanding, under-counter, or built-in.
In this circumstance, you have to set your budget and clear your requirements, then you can buy your desired outdoor refrigerator.
Why are outdoor refrigerators expensive?
Outdoor refrigerators are designed for outdoor use. You may think that it is quite expensive but there are many differences between indoor and outdoor refrigerators in the internal mechanism. Moreover, outdoor refrigerators are made with higher-grade materials and carry more convenient features.
On the other hand, indoor refrigerators are constructed to live in a consistent temperature zone which is 60°F-80°F. So, indoor refrigerators can not be able to handle fluctuating temperatures.
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