Can You Keep a Fridge in the Garage? A Complete Guide

Have you ever wondered if it’s okay to keep your fridge in the garage? You might be thinking about freeing up kitchen space or adding some extra cooling space for drinks. But before you make the move, there are some things you need to know. In this article, we will explore everything about keeping a fridge in your garage, from temperature concerns to energy efficiency, so you can make the right decision for your home.

Can a Fridge Survive in the Garage?

Keeping a fridge in your garage might seem like a good idea, especially if you need more space or want to store extra food and drinks. But before you move it, there are a few things to consider. A fridge works best in a temperature-controlled environment, and the garage often doesn’t offer that.

Temperature Issues

A garage can get really hot in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. These temperature extremes can cause a fridge to work harder than usual or even break down over time. For instance, if the garage gets too hot, the fridge may struggle to stay cool, leading to higher energy bills. On the other hand, if it gets too cold, the fridge may stop working properly because the motor might not be able to start, or the food inside may freeze.

Energy Efficiency

Fridges are designed to run in a stable environment. When placed in a garage, especially one that experiences temperature fluctuations, the fridge has to work harder to maintain the right temperature. This can lead to increased energy consumption. Not only will this raise your electricity bills, but it could also shorten the lifespan of your fridge. If you use a fridge in the garage regularly, it’s important to keep an eye on how much energy it’s using.

Can the Fridge Still Cool Effectively?

For a fridge to keep food fresh, it needs to maintain a consistent internal temperature, usually between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 4°C). If your garage becomes too hot, the fridge may not be able to cool things properly. Similarly, in very cold temperatures, the fridge might actually freeze your food because it can’t regulate the temperature properly.

Choosing the Right Fridge for the Garage

Not all fridges are built to handle the tough conditions of a garage. If you plan to keep a fridge in your garage, it’s important to choose one that is designed to work in varying temperatures. Some fridges are specifically made to withstand these temperature changes and can maintain their efficiency in both high and low temperatures. Look for fridges that are labeled as “garage-ready” or “all-season” models, as they are designed to handle these extremes more effectively.

How to Make Sure Your Garage Fridge Lasts

If you’ve decided that a fridge in the garage is a good choice for you, there are several steps you can take to make sure it works properly and lasts a long time. From temperature control to proper placement, here are some tips for keeping your fridge in great condition in the garage.

Insulating the Garage

One of the best ways to protect your fridge in the garage is by improving the insulation in the space. This can help regulate the temperature, keeping it from getting too hot or too cold. If you don’t want to go through the expense of insulating the entire garage, you can focus on the area around the fridge. Adding insulation to the garage door or walls near the fridge can help create a more stable environment.

Using a Fridge Thermostat

A fridge thermostat is a device that allows you to control the temperature of the fridge even if the temperature in the garage fluctuates. It acts as a backup system that helps maintain a consistent temperature inside the fridge, regardless of the temperature outside. These thermostats can be plugged into the fridge’s power outlet and then into the wall socket, making them easy to install.

Protecting the Fridge from Extreme Cold

If you live in a colder climate, you might be worried about the fridge freezing during the winter. To prevent this, you can place the fridge in a space that is not as exposed to the cold, such as near a wall or inside a corner. Another option is to buy a garage heater to help maintain a more stable temperature. These heaters can keep the garage warm enough to ensure the fridge continues to work properly.

Keeping the Garage Dry

Moisture is another big problem for fridges in garages. It can cause rust, mold, and mildew, which can damage the fridge and your food. Make sure the garage is dry and well-ventilated. If needed, use a dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air. You should also check the fridge regularly for any signs of moisture buildup and clean it as needed.

Proper Placement of the Fridge

Where you place the fridge in your garage matters. It should be placed in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated spot. Avoid placing it near windows or doors where it could be exposed to direct sunlight or drafts. If you’re using the fridge to store food and drinks, try to keep it away from areas that get too hot in summer, like next to the furnace or water heater. Keeping it in a shaded or insulated area is the best option.

Regular Maintenance

Just like any appliance, your garage fridge needs regular maintenance. Clean the condenser coils at the back of the fridge to ensure it runs efficiently. Dust and dirt can build up over time and cause the fridge to overheat or work harder than it should. Also, check the door seals for any cracks or gaps. If the seals are damaged, it can cause cold air to escape, making the fridge work harder and using more energy.

Keep It Level

It’s also important to keep the fridge level. If it’s tilted, it might not operate as efficiently. A fridge that’s out of balance can also wear out the compressor over time, leading to more repairs and a shorter lifespan. You can check the fridge’s level by using a simple spirit level to ensure it’s sitting flat.

Potential Problems of Having a Fridge in the Garage

While keeping a fridge in the garage is convenient, there are some potential problems that come with it. Let’s take a closer look at these challenges so you can make an informed decision.

High Energy Costs

As mentioned earlier, a fridge in a garage that experiences extreme temperatures can end up using a lot of energy. If the fridge is constantly working harder to keep cool in the summer or warm in the winter, your energy bills can increase. This is especially true if the garage is not insulated, which could cause the fridge to run longer periods of time.

Shortened Fridge Lifespan

The extreme conditions in the garage can shorten the lifespan of your fridge. Frequent temperature fluctuations can stress the motor and compressor, leading to breakdowns and costly repairs. If the fridge is exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods, it can cause the internal components to freeze, which may lead to failure. Similarly, the heat in the summer can cause the fridge to wear out faster.

Risk of Food Spoilage

Another concern with keeping a fridge in the garage is the risk of food spoilage. If the fridge doesn’t maintain a consistent temperature, food can spoil faster. For example, in the summer, if the temperature in the garage gets too hot, the fridge may struggle to keep food cold, increasing the chance of bacteria growth and foodborne illnesses.

Difficulty Finding a Garage-Suitable Fridge

Not all fridges are suitable for the garage, and it might take time to find one that works well in your specific conditions. If you’re considering a fridge for your garage, you should make sure it is rated for outdoor or garage use. While many fridges work in kitchens, not all are capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of a garage. If you buy the wrong model, you might end up with more problems than solutions.

I hope this article helped you understand the pros and cons of keeping a fridge in the garage. While it can be a great way to add more cooling space, you need to consider temperature fluctuations, energy efficiency, and proper maintenance to ensure your fridge lasts longer and works effectively. By following the tips in this guide, you can make the best decision for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to keep a fridge in the garage during summer?

Yes, it can be safe, but you need to be aware of the heat. If the garage gets too hot, the fridge may struggle to maintain a cool temperature, which can lead to higher energy bills and possible damage. Using a garage-ready fridge and improving insulation can help.

Can a garage fridge freeze food in winter?

Yes, if the temperature in your garage drops too low, your fridge may cause food to freeze. To avoid this, keep the fridge in a more insulated area or use a garage heater to maintain a consistent temperature.

Do I need a special fridge for the garage?

Yes, fridges that are designed specifically for garages are a better choice. These fridges are built to handle extreme temperatures and can keep your food at the right temperature without overworking the fridge.

Is it better to keep the fridge in the house or garage?

It depends on your needs. Keeping a fridge in the house can maintain better temperature control, but the garage can offer extra storage space. If you do put it in the garage, ensure it is well-insulated and maintained.

Can I put a fridge in an uninsulated garage?

It’s not ideal. Without insulation, the temperature in your garage can fluctuate too much, causing the fridge to work harder and potentially break down. Insulating the garage or placing the fridge in a less exposed area can help.

Is it okay to store drinks in the fridge in the garage?

Yes, you can store drinks in the fridge in the garage, but make sure the fridge is in good condition and capable of handling temperature changes. If you store drinks in the fridge in winter, make sure they don’t freeze.

Do I need to worry about humidity in the garage affecting my fridge?

Yes, excess moisture can lead to rust and mold in your fridge. It’s important to keep the garage dry and well-ventilated to prevent this. You might also want to use a dehumidifier.

Can I store frozen food in the garage fridge?

You can store frozen food in the fridge in the garage, but you should make sure the temperature remains stable enough to keep the food frozen. Extreme cold or heat can cause the fridge to malfunction, which could ruin your food.