Can You Put A Refrigerator Outside? [PROS & CONS]

Yes, you can put your refrigerator outside, but there are some things to consider before doing so.

Key Takeaway:

While it’s possible to use a refrigerator outside, it’s essential to consider the type of refrigerator and take precautions to protect it from extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

Indoor refrigerators may struggle to maintain efficiency outside, while outdoor refrigerators are designed to withstand a wider range of temperatures.

Can You Put A Refrigerator Outside?

Yes, a refrigerator can be placed outside, but there are some precautions to take.

For example, the refrigerator should not be placed in areas where it will get direct sunlight. The sun can heat up the fridge to very high temperatures which can cause damage.

Another precaution is for people who live in cold climates to make sure there is no water on any of its surfaces because this could lead to condensation and eventually create rust.

Location	Number of People Using Fridges Outside	Number of People Using Fridges Inside
Outdoor	500,000	15,000,000
Indoor	–	185,000,000

Let’s dive deeper and distinguish between indoor and outdoor refrigerators.

Read More: Can You Keep A Chest Freezer On A Porch? [Why NOT]

Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Refrigerators

Feature	Indoor Refrigerators	Outdoor Refrigerators
Temperature Range	Designed for consistent indoor temps	Can handle wider range of temperatures
Cooling Efficiency	May struggle in extreme temperatures	Designed for reliable outdoor use
Material	Standard materials	Weather-resistant materials
Cost	Typically lower cost	Often more expensive due to durability
Usage Environment	Intended for indoor use	Specifically built for outdoor use

Refrigerators are technically air conditioners that work by turning heat inside into cold air and pushing it out through vents.

However, indoor and outdoor refrigerators have distinct designs. Indoor refrigerators are built for consistent temperatures found in homes, while outdoor ones can handle a wider range of temperatures.

How Long Will a Refrigerator Last Outside?: Surprising

They’re also made of tough, weather-resistant materials. This type of refrigerator, however, can be expensive.

Let’s assume you’ll be putting an indoor refrigerator outside:

Problems With Using A Refrigerator Outside

If It Is Too Hot:

Extreme heat can strain the refrigerator, making it work harder and potentially causing damage to its components. Temperatures above 110°F can especially pose problems.

If It Is Too Cold:

Cold weather can also affect the efficiency of the refrigerator. While cooler temperatures make it easier to keep the contents cold, the freezer may struggle to maintain freezing temperatures, and extremely cold weather can even freeze the compressor.

Tips To Keep Your Fridge Outdoors

1. Add Insulation: Increasing insulation can help reduce the strain on the refrigerator’s components.
2. Keep Out Of Direct Sunlight: Placing the refrigerator in a shaded area can prevent it from overheating.
3. Protect From Weather: Ensure the refrigerator is not directly exposed to rain or snow to prevent rust and damage. Elevating it off the ground can also help.

Here’s an adjustable model from Amazon that should do the trick (link), depending on the weight of your fridge and the amount of food inside.

Can You Leave A Mini Fridge Outside In Winter?

Most mini-fridges aren’t designed for outdoor use and may not withstand changing temperatures well.

It’s best to store them indoors during winter to avoid damage and higher energy consumption.

If you’re looking for a way to get cold drinks from your fridge into your pool, there are special fridges designed to operate in harsh outdoor conditions that can work well.

You Can View Them HERE

More examples of people using a refrigerator outside:

A refrigerator operates on a thermostat. Once the inside is below the set temperature, it just sits there, waiting for the temperature to rise.

It’ll be fine. Companies ship appliances like fridges all over the place and they’ll often spend weeks in cold trucks and warehouses before making it to stores for people to buy.

Conclusion

While some refrigerators are suitable for outdoor use, it’s essential to check the specifications of your model. Stand-alone or portable coolers are generally safer for outdoor use, but it’s crucial to verify before leaving them outside.