These days, your garage is way more than just a parking spot. It’s turning into a jack-of-all-trades space—perfect for tackling DIY projects, kicking back, or firing up the grill.
Sheltered from sun, wind, and rain, it’s a sweet spot to soak in fresh air and unwind.
Hanging out in the garage is getting so popular that folks are decking it out like never before. You’re probably one of them, hunting for clever garage kitchen ideas—think mini fridges, microwaves, or even a washer and dryer—to make it your own.
But slapping appliances in there isn’t as simple as it sounds—there are smart moves to make and safety traps to dodge. This guide’s got your back, breaking down everything you need to know about picking the right garage appliances.
Turning Your Garage into a Functional Space
There are several benefits of installing appliances in garage areas. You can enjoy extra space in your home to recreate, cook, clean, and store items.
Some people install specific garage refrigerators to hold food and drinks that won’t fit in the main kitchen. Other people create a hobby space, giving them room to dance, craft, or work with wood and metal.
Building another room is a difficult and expensive process but moving appliances to the garage is fast and easy. You can feel like your home is bigger after a day of moving around furniture.
While there are benefits to adding appliances to your garage, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. Your garage experiences more temperature fluctuations than the rest of your home. You will also have space limitations if you already have items stored in that area.
Small animals and bugs are also more likely to access your garage than the rest of the house. Keep these potential concerns in mind as you weigh the pros and cons of garage appliances.
➜ Learn More: Best Stainless-Steel Refrigerators Under $1700
Popular Appliances to Install in Your Garage
While there are seemingly unlimited kitchen appliance garage options to choose from, most homeowners install a few specific items in this space. They are less likely to build a full kitchen in garage areas – with a range and dishwasher – and instead choose extra items that are needed close by.
The most common items to add to a garage are a refrigerator, freezer, and beverage center. On the cleaning side, it’s also common for homeowners to install washers and dryers. Consider your specific needs when you are furnishing your space.
For example, you might choose a garage freezer vs. refrigerator if you hunt or fish and need to store your catch for several months. A beverage center might be better for keeping beer and wine cool.
Nothing is stopping you from putting a full kitchen in your garage, but you need to make sure you will actually use it.
➜ Learn More: Range Sizes 101: How to Measure for Your New Stove
Safety Considerations for Garage Appliances
As you shop for appliances to add to your garage, make sure they can withstand the temperature fluctuations that are a natural part of living in Virginia.
The summer months can be hot and sticky while the winter months bring freezing temperatures to the area. These temperatures can make your appliances work harder – especially your refrigerator or freezer in the summer months, and wear them out. Humidity is particularly dangerous because it brings moisture to your electric systems. This can cause your wires to wear out.
If you are unable to find garage-ready appliances, take steps to bring climate control elements to your garage. Along with maintaining a stable temperature, make sure the moisture levels in your space remain consistent.
Pros and Cons of Garage Appliances
Every home improvement decision comes with pros and cons, and adding garage appliances is no different. Here are a few things to consider before you renovate your garage space.
Pros
Extra Space Without Expanding
You can enjoy additional square footage without building an expensive home addition.
Budget-Friendly Transformation
Making a garage livable or functional often just requires a few key furniture pieces and appliances.
Convenient for Overflow Storage
Garages are usually near the kitchen—perfect for adding a second refrigerator or freezer.
Great for Hobbies and Recreation
If unused, your garage can be the perfect place for crafts, workouts, or even a gaming room.
Cons
Requires Specialized Appliances
You’ll need garage-ready refrigerators and other appliances designed for extreme temps to avoid premature wear.
Limited Climate Control
Most garages aren't heated or cooled, which can make them uncomfortable in summer or winter.
Loss of Storage or Parking
If you already park your car or store belongings in the garage, this won’t be “free” space to convert.
Best Garage-Ready Appliances
Manufacturers are responding to customer calls to add appliances in garage spaces. They are making products that are more durable and designed for this semi-outdoor area. Here are four of the best appliances for garage use if you are ready to upgrade this living space.
Frigidaire 30 in. 18.3 Cu. Ft. Black Top Freezer Refrigerator
Shop Frigidaire 30 in. 18.3 Cu. Ft. Black Top Freezer Refrigerator
This is an affordable garage-ready refrigerator that can provide extra storage space for your food.
It was named the most efficient refrigerator of 2025 by Energy Star® which means it can handle the fluctuating temperature of your garage.
The EvenTemp™ cooling system quickly chills your groceries while the humidity-controlled drawers protect your produce. Everything about this Frigidaire refrigerator is high quality even though it sells at an affordable price.
⭐Featured Frigidaire Garage Refrigerator Review:
"The compact size is perfect for my space, yet it’s surprisingly deep, providing plenty of room. The freezer offers ample storage, and the fridge section is just as spacious. Most importantly, the temperature settings work flawlessly."
GE 33 in. 21.9 Cu. Ft. Black Slate Top Freezer Refrigerator
Shop GE 33 in. Black Slate Top Freezer Refrigerator
This is another quality option for garage refrigerator installation. It is designed to perform just as well in near-freezing conditions of 38°F as in extreme heat at 110°F.
The gallon storage bins provide ample room to hold your biggest items. The adjustable shelves also maximize flexibility and make it easy to store food ahead of a party or large family dinner.
⭐Featured GE Garage Refrigerator Review:
"So far I love it. Cools and freezes properly, about average noise level, spacious in freezer and refrigeration section. Like the glass shelves, butter compartment, and other drawer compartments."
Whirlpool 3.5 Cu. Ft Washer, 5.9 Cu. Ft. Dryer White Gas Stacked Laundry
Shop Whirlpool 3.5 Cu. Ft. Washer, 5.9 Cu. Ft. Dryer
Sometimes the appliances in garage spaces allow you to free up room in your house.
Instead of having a laundry room, you can install this Whirlpool stacked laundry system in your garage. The dryer has a large storage capacity and four drying cycles to choose from.
The fabric softener dispenser ensures your clothes feel as good as they smell once clean.
⭐Featured Whirlpool Garage Laundry Set Review:
"It has a large washer that fits blankets and everything I need to wash! The dryer is also very large. So far I'm loving this appliance!"
Turn Your Garage into a Multi-Purpose Powerhouse
You don’t have to stress about adding appliances in garage areas.
You can find refrigerators that are designed to withstand hot and cold temperatures along with other durable appliances. You can also turn your garage into a laundry space that’s comfortable to use.
Whatever you use your garage for, plan your layout thoughtfully and choose appliances designed for garage use. This will give you better results and ensure your appliances last as long as you expect.
Visit East Coast Appliance if you need help installing appliances in your garage safely. Not only can we help you find the ideal appliances for your home, but we can also install them for you.
All you have to do is enjoy them. Find your nearest East Coast location today and enjoy your updated garage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Be careful when installing appliances in your garage because only certain products are made to withstand serious temperature fluctuations. Look for refrigerators made for outdoor use and laundry units that are known for their durability. These are some of your best options.
While many people place old or aging refrigerators in their garages, they can’t expect the appliances to last long. If you want to buy a dedicated garage refrigerator, you will need to look for products that can withstand the elements. This includes hot, cold, and humid environments.
Most appliances are made to run in extreme climates and garage temperatures can reach uncomfortably hot and cold levels. The best way to make appliances run efficiently in these spaces is to look for garage-ready or outdoor models. You can also invest in climate control for your garage.
Yes, you can install a washer and dryer in the garage. Look for durable models that can withstand large temperature changes. You can also improve the insulation in your garage to maintain a steady temperature.
If you are looking for appliances for your garage, look for products that can handle temperature ranges of 38 °F and 110 °F. These appliances will usually be branded as garage-ready, highlighting how they are ready for use.
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
Locally owned and operated since 1988, East Coast Appliance is the largest independent appliance dealer in Virginia. We sell it ALL — from new name-brand appliances to scratch-and-dent appliances to our very own refurbished appliances. Aside from our huge selection of every major brand and everyday low prices, what sets us apart from our competitors is that we service what we sell and that we are locally owned and operated with factory-trained associates. And if you’re a local, great news: East Coast Appliance is committed to providing the absolute lowest prices on the same available brand and model — simply bring in the ad of the local retail competitor while the lower price is in effect and you'll receive your price match.
Shop Garage Ready Appliances at East Coast
There is a reason we are dubbed “The Discount King” — for unbeatable deals, shop refrigerators online at East Coast Appliance. Our friendly associates are always happy to help you find the best garage appliances, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our showrooms to see why we are the best appliance store in Virginia. Visit us today!