25-08 - Flipbook - Page 71
August 2025
2. Size
You must also consider how much space you have for an off-grid refrigerator,
and how much food you need to keep cold. There are many options available
depending on the size you need, from a small, dorm-sized fridge to a large freezer.
Durability and Maintenance Requirements
If you live in a very remote area and will be relying on your off-grid refrigerator,
you want to ensure that the one you choose is durable and easy to maintain.
This will help you avoid major downtimes while waiting for a repair tech to come
to fix your refrigerator.
3. Price
Price is another factor to consider when choosing an off-grid refrigerator. They
can range anywhere from $50 to over $2,000 depending on your needs!
Refrigerator Options
An average refrigerator will not work if you are living off the grid. These consume
way too much electricity, so you must consider other options. Here are a few of
the top off-grid refrigerators.
1. Ice Boxes
An icebox or a cooler is the lowest cost option available for off-grid refrigeration.
They can cost as little as $50, but different sizes and brands can vary in price. If
you are looking for a high-quality cooler like a Yeti, you could pay up to $1,300
for the largest size.
A cooler is a good option for a short-term trip 3 they are readily available and
there is no assembly required. There are a few disadvantages, however, including needing to refill it with ice and the fact that it may get your food wet. Similarly, a cooler can keep food fresh for a few days but will not keep anything frozen.
2. Thermoelectric Refrigerators
A thermoelectric refrigerator is a unique option that does not use a compressor.
This means they have no moving parts and are very durable and easy to maintain. Normally thermoelectric refrigerators are quite small, as they lose efficiency
as the size increases.
They refrigerate using the Peltier effect and therefore use relatively low amounts
of energy. These fridges run electricity between two distinct conductive materials, causing a temperature difference. They require about 2,500 kW per month
to operate.
A thermoelectric fridge costs between $50 and $200, depending on the size.
You will also have to consider the cost associated with powering it.
The biggest issue with using a thermoelectric refrigerator for your off-grid home is
that they can only keep food about 30 degrees colder than the outside temperature 3 meaning if it9s hot outside, you may not be able to keep food at safe
storage temperatures. This also means that you will not be able to freeze anything.
Likewise, because they are generally small, you will probably not be able to
store all of the food you need in them.
