If you’re running out of space in your kitchen fridge, you might consider placing another refrigerator in the garage. Whether it’s for storing large pans of leftovers, drinks for summer barbecues, or bulk items bought on sale, setting up a second fridge can be incredibly convenient. But is this a good idea? The answer: It depends. Let’s explore your options.
Can you put a refrigerator in the garage?
You can put a fridge in your garage, but there are a few important things to consider before you do.
Conditions inside your garage
Does your garage have heat or air conditioning? Is it insulated? If not, very high temperatures in the summertime or very low temperatures in the winter could prevent it from working properly or even damage or destroy the appliance.
The weather
If you live in a place that gets very hot (over 100 degrees) or very cold (below freezing), a fridge may not function properly.
The space around the fridge
Where will you set up your garage fridge? Make sure you have room to open and shut the doors and that nothing will block the circulation vents, which are typically located along the back of your machine. Check your owner’s manual if you have trouble locating them.
Choosing the right fridge for the garage
What type of fridge is best for garage duty? Newer is not necessarily better. Look for a model with fewer components to malfunction or break, as well as these key features:
- Wide temperature range. A fridge with a wider range of acceptable operating temperatures will work best when the thermostat fluctuates in the garage.
- Energy efficiency. A refrigerator needs to work harder in extreme temperatures, like those found in garages. An energy-efficient model can save on electricity costs.
- Durability. Choose a fridge with a sturdy build that won’t rust. The garage is not the place for a stainless model.
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How to maintain your garage fridge
If you decide a garage fridge is for you, there are a few things you should do to keep your appliance running its best.
Clean it regularly
Garages can be dusty and dirty, so make sure to clean the fridge inside and out every month or so—don’t forget the condenser coils.
Monitor the temperature
Consider using a thermometer inside your appliance to ensure your fridge and freezer are operating in the ideal range (between 34 and 40 degrees). Check out our guides on what to do if your fridge is too cold or too warm.
Keep your fridge cool and dry in hot weather
Hot and humid weather can put pressure on your appliance’s cooling system and cause fridge coils to rust. To prevent overheating, try running a fan aimed at the cooling coils and a dehumidifier in the garage.
Prevent your fridge from shutting off in cold weather
If the garage temperature drops, the thermostat may register that the fridge is cold enough when it isn’t. To keep it from shutting off, you can place a heating coil or heater near the thermostat.
Check the seal
Check your gasket seal regularly. If it’s damaged, you will likely need to replace it.
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