Keeping a refrigerator in an off grid enviroment is a challenge and expense. In this series, we cover our experience with several units. Refrigerator Tip *1 reviewed our experience with our first off grid electric unit.
For your off grid home, a refrigerator is a wonderful luxury to have. Unfortunately, the power comsumption is often too high. Now things are beginning to change!
Tip #2: For the cost similar to the $700-800 10 cubic foot propane refrigerators you can find a low power Frigidaire energy star unit. The key when shopping is to look for one that has an energy star rating of 386 KWH per year. The large compressor units all are 500 KWH or more. The one we purchased had the same small compressor as our old one, and thicker walls and insulation. The new unit is 18 Cubic Feet!
Tip #3: Keep the door on the fridge closed! Don’t keep it open while you surf the selction of food items. Choose what you want before opening.
Bonus Tip: Use a small digital appliance switch and set it to the OFF position for 8-10 hours every night. Make sure you choose hours that no one will be using the refrigerator. These high efficency refrigerators will hold temperature well for more than 12 hours.
[UPDATE: You will be interested in these details - Off Grid Refrigerator – Big Unit, Small Power ]
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