At a Glance
Can You Use Any Refrigerator Outdoors?
What Makes an Outdoor Fridge Different?
Leading Brands in Outdoor Refrigeration
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
Outdoor kitchens are increasingly popular with homeowners who want to create entertaining spaces. Kids and pets can run around outside while adults prepare food and enjoy the weather.
These dining areas can also keep the interiors of homes clean by containing the party outside. As you plan your outdoor kitchen and entertainment space, decide whether you need a refrigerator to make the area more comfortable.
An outdoor fridge allows for easy access to cool drinks and pre-made snacks, while also increasing your overall grocery storage. Discover whether investing in one of these appliances is worth it and choose from the best outdoor refrigerators for your home.
Outdoor Fridges: Style Meets Function!
Upgrade your outdoor space with a durable and sleek refrigerator. Visit East Coast Appliance today and make your outdoor space the highlight of your home!
Shop Outdoor RefrigeratorsCan You Use Any Refrigerator Outdoors?
The first thing to know is that you cannot use any refrigerator outdoors. Even if you live in an area with temperate weather, the elements will wear out your indoor refrigerator faster.
Hot summer temperatures will make your fridge work harder and drive up your electricity usage. Moisture, from rainwater to humidity, can disrupt the electrical systems in these appliances.
It is better to buy dedicated outside refrigerators that are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and other elements that threaten their performance.
→ Learn More: How to Create a Luxury Backyard with Outdoor Appliances
What Makes an Outdoor Fridge Different?
There are several reasons why you should invest in an outdoor fridge for your patio. These appliances incorporate advanced technology that makes them more durable and efficient.
You will immediately notice the performance of your all-weather outdoor fridge compared to an indoor fridge that is placed outside. Here are a few factors that set them apart:
- Better Insulation: These appliances are better equipped to keep hot air out and cold air in.
- Increased Durability: An outdoor kitchen fridge is made to withstand humidity, moisture, and dramatic temperature fluctuations.
- Energy Efficiency: The refrigerator won’t overwork itself in the hot summer months because it was designed for extreme temperatures.
The temperature inside your home only fluctuates by 10 degrees or so throughout the year. Outside temperatures can fluctuate by 50 degrees within a matter of days.
Check for outdoor refrigerator certification and ratings that prove your appliance can withstand the elements. This will increase your chances that it lasts longer.
→ Learn More: 4 Essential Outdoor Kitchen Appliances
Leading Brands in Outdoor Refrigeration
As you search for outdoor refrigeration, you might encounter brands you have not heard of before. There are a few leaders in refrigeration design that create appliances for outdoor use. Here are a few brands to consider:
- Zephyr: This brand specializes in elevated appliances and has developed products for consumers who want luxury outdoor kitchens.
- XO: Embrace luxury with XO. Discover high-end refrigerators that are durable and fashionable.
- Lynx: This company is a leader in outdoor grills, so it makes sense that it would expand into other outdoor kitchen appliances.
- Sub-Zero: This is one of the best-known outdoor appliance brands. Its products are durable and high-end, which makes them perfect for any home.
Each of these brands is known for its quality and durability. You can’t go wrong by taking an appliance made by one of these companies home.
Key Features to Look for in an Outdoor Fridge
Not all outdoor refrigerators are alike. Know which features are most important to you and provide the most value as you search for the best patio refrigerator for your home. Here are a few essential features and factors to guide your search:
- Durability: Buy an outdoor fridge that has a proven track record of longevity and performance.
- Size: Determine whether you want a full-size outdoor fridge or a beverage center that holds soda, beer, wine, and water.
- Organization: Just because your refrigerator is outside doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be neat and organized. Look for LED lighting, dedicated shelves, and flexibility in how you use the appliance.
- Style: Decide whether you want a side-by-side refrigerator, French-door model, or other layout for your outdoor appliance.
- Energy efficiency: Check for the Energy Star logo to confirm that your refrigerator minimizes its energy usage.
You don’t have to sacrifice features just because you are shopping for fridges for outdoors. You still deserve an appliance that ranks highly for usability and quality.
Why Are Outdoor Fridges So Expensive?
Outdoor refrigerators are usually more expensive than indoor models because they are designed to be more durable.
It takes advanced technology and more materials to create appliances that can withstand the elements of Mother Nature. You are paying for greater insulation, better energy efficiency, and weatherproofing.
Who Should Consider an Outdoor Fridge?
Many people could benefit from an outdoor beverage fridge or a full-size refrigerator for their patio space. Here are a few people who would be a good fit for these appliances:
- Entertainers: Backyard refrigerators are perfect if you love having friends and family over throughout the year.
- Outdoor Lovers: Invest in a refrigerator if you enjoy eating, drinking, and resting outside.
- Families: An outdoor fridge is ideal for keeping kids outside so they can get the snacks they need without tracking dirt throughout the house.
- Homeowners Focused on Resale Value: Creating an outdoor entertainment space complete with a top-rated outdoor refrigerator can make your house more desirable to buyers.
These are just a few examples of people who will love their outdoor refrigerators and will benefit from them in multiple ways.
→ Learn More: 5 Best Mini Fridges You Want Immediately
Top Picks for Outdoor Fridges
You don’t have to go far to discover the top outdoor refrigerators for your home. Here are six elite picks that can accommodate your size and storage needs.
Zephyr Presrv 24" Stainless Steel Outdoor Under-Counter Refrigerator
Model #: (PRR24C01AS-OD)
Shop Zephyr 24" Outdoor Under-Counter Refrigerator
This is a great place to start if you are searching for small outdoor refrigerators. While this is a small under-counter fridge, it can still fit gallon jugs and other large containers.
The Zephyr outdoor refrigerator has a door lock to prevent animals from accessing the inside and bright LED lighting when opened. If the door is left open, an alarm will sound, limiting the amount of cool air that escapes.
XO Luxury 15" Stainless Steel Undercounter Outdoor Beverage Center
Model #: (XOU15ORSR)
Shop XO Luxury 15" Undercounter Outdoor Beverage Center
This is a 34-inch XO outdoor fridge that is designed to keep your drinks cool. It can hold 66 cans, so there’s plenty of room for your favorite pilsners and IPAs.
Choose from three different lighting styles based on your preferences or the mood of the party. Your guests will love the bright colors that come from your fridge.
DCS 5.3 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Right Hinge Outdoor Refrigerator
Model #: (RF24RE4)
Shop DCS 5.3 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Refrigerator
This outdoor DCS fridge can hold 154 cans, which makes it perfect if you love hosting large parties for friends and family. It has a door alarm in case one of your guests leaves it open, preventing cold air from escaping.
The rapid cool-down technology means this appliance is ready to use within a few hours of plugging it in. It also means you can use the refrigerator seasonally, which is perfect for entertaining at lake houses or second homes.
LYNX Professional 2.73 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Outdoor Left Hinge Compact Refrigerator
Model #: (LN15REFL)
Shop LYNX 2.73 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Compact Refrigerator
This model by Lynx is designed to fit both cans and bottles. You can chill a bottle of champagne ahead of a celebration or keep a variety of cans cool to relax with after a long week.
The LYNX outdoor refrigerator comes with a door lock to protect your beverages and an alarm if the door is left open. It is an essential mini fridge that can support most homeowners.
Scotsman Brilliance 15" Stainless Steel Outdoor Ice Maker
Model #: (SCCP50MB-1SS)
Shop Scotsman Brilliance 15" Outdoor Ice Make
If you can’t find an outdoor refrigerator that makes ice, consider investing in an outdoor ice maker as well. This Scotsman fridge produces 65 lbs. of ice in 24 hours.
You can keep a buffet of food cool and have enough ice left over to chill everyone’s drinks. The LED lighting inside allows you to see how much ice you have left.
Sub-Zero 24" Panel Ready Outdoor Refrigerator Drawers
Model #: (ID-24RO)
Shop Sub-Zero 24" Outdoor Refrigerator Drawers
One of the standout features of this outdoor Sub-Zero refrigerator is its pull-out drawers, seamlessly integrated into your cabinetry.
You can feel like you have a full-service bar at your home. The two different drawers allow for maximum organization so you can easily find your drinks, snacks, and produce.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about outdoor refrigerators.
Do you need a special refrigerator for outdoors?
It is better to buy a dedicated outdoor refrigerator that is designed to withstand extreme elements. This will ensure the appliance lasts longer so you get more value from the purchase. You can also increase its longevity by placing it in the shade and away from any potential exposure to water.
Will a refrigerator work outside in the summer?
While a refrigerator will work in the summer, the motor has to run longer to keep the interior of the appliance cool. This will make running the refrigerator more expensive and will wear it out faster. It is better to invest in an outdoor fridge that can withstand the heat of the hot summer months.
Can you leave an outdoor fridge on in the winter?
Yes, you can keep your outdoor refrigerator running in the winter. However, it won’t have to work as hard because of the cool temperatures. Your food can stay cool naturally if you live in a cold area. Be careful, though, extreme temperatures might damage your refrigerator.
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 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 Outdoor Refrigerators 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 outdoor refrigerator for your kitchen, 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!