Choosing an Outbuilding Freezer
Many people utilize a garage or outbuilding as a freezer. They can be a huge aid on busy days when you need meals quickly and easily.
Freezers are designed to operate in temperatures of 0-110 degrees Fahrenheit (-18-43 degrees Celsius). When placed in unsuitable environments they will have to work harder, consume more energy and wear out more quickly.
Location
A freezer for outdoor use must be situated in a place that will ensure it is operating efficiently. It is because freezing appliances perform best in cool environments. This is why it is crucial to consider this when deciding where to put the outdoor freezer. The freezer should be shielded from direct sunlight, as this could cause it to lose energy efficiency and result in an increase in electricity costs. Freezers that are placed in direct sunlight can be susceptible to temperature spikes that could put excessive strain on the appliance and result in premature wear.
The choice of where to put the freezer could be determined by convenience and accessibility. A freezer located in a shed or garage that is accessible from the kitchen may be a great option. However, a freezer located in a separate shed, that requires a trip outside in the winter or rain to access, might not be as practical as one located indoors.
Lastly, if theft or backyard animals are a concern, a cover that protects the freezer from weather and debris will keep it safe. This is particularly important for those who live close to the ocean where the salty air can harm the freezer's components.
Size
When you shop, it is crucial to select the appropriate size freezer. You need to ensure the freezer is large enough to meet your needs, and will be able to accommodate the food consumption of your family. A freezer with a high capacity is a good investment that can help you save money when you purchase in bulk.
As a rule of thumb it is recommended to allow 2.5 cubic feet for each member of your household. This will allow you to store a variety of frozen food, including meats and vegetables and desserts drinks, as well as other foods that are high in protein. To determine the ideal size freezer, start by measuring your garage or shed to determine the amount of space you have to store a freezer.
If you don't have a lot of space, you can consider an incredibly small or compact freezer, such as the GE Garage Ready 17.3 Cu Frost Free upright freezer. The freezer is compact and has a door that can be opened left or right. It is equipped with high-quality insulation that shields the freezer from extreme temperatures and ensures consistent operation. It has a built in defrost clock that removes ice on its own and prevents overflow.
Larger freezers, like the Frigidaire EFRF696 AMZ upright freezer, provide plenty of storage space for your favorite drinks and food items. This model is specifically designed to be used in cold environments and has a temperature range between -10C to -18C, making it suitable for cold garages and outbuildings. It has a spacious interior that can hold up to 20 bags of ice and also has removable wire shelves that can be used to store items in a variety of ways.
Check the specifications of the manufacturer of your freezer to ensure that it can work in an outbuilding or garage. freezer for sale of manufacturers list the freezer's climate class and the coldness it is able to be operated in an unheated setting. Certain brands, like Beko have freezers that operate safely in temperatures as low as 15C, thanks to their FreezerGuard Technology. But, it is recommended to verify the warranty of the manufacturer to ensure that the freezer will be able to withstand the specific garage or outbuilding's conditions.
Energy efficiency
You'll want to select an energy-efficient model if you intend to put the freezer in a shed, garage or other area that isn't climate-controlled. These models will be better in insulation than other freezers and won't lose as much cold air when they are opened. These models will also be less expensive to run as they require less energy. Also, you should look for a model with low frost technology, which will require less defrosting, and can save your energy costs.
There are a variety of energy-efficient freezers that are available in different sizes. You can find them in traditional brick-and-mortar shops such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Home Depot, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay. Some local utility companies offer rebates on freezers that meet certain efficiency standards.
It is essential to be aware of the size of your freezer and how much electricity it will require to freeze the food. You can also utilize an energy calculator to calculate how much a freezer will cost to run annually.
Freezers are within their listed power consumption when they're actively cooling. However, this is not an indefinite amount. Once they reach a set temperature the components (such as the compressor and evaporator fan motor) will enter in idle mode.
Be aware of the ENERGY STAR rating when choosing the right freezer. This certification indicates that the freezer meets certain energy usage guidelines that are set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy. This is particularly important if you plan to store the freezer in an uncontrolled area such as a shed or garage. These units typically to use more energy than standard freezers.
Additionally, look for a freezer with an assurance against power outages and a high-temperature alarm or light to ensure that it continues to function even in the event of a power outage. There are freezers that have a self-defrost function which can reduce the frequency of defrosting, and also reduce your energy costs.
The Right to Rent
Although most freezers are designed to be kept inside certain people need larger models that can be placed in their shed or garage. The freezer can stop working or even break if the temperature drops too low in this kind of situation. To avoid this take into consideration purchasing an appliance that comes with a warranty that covers it if it malfunctions when used in an outbuilding.
Many manufacturers have begun to realise that their customers are often limited in space, and have therefore developed chest freezers that can be placed in garages or other outbuildings. These freezers are designed with a 'freezer-protection technology' which means they can operate even at temperatures as low -10degC. Brands like Beko, Ice King, and Russell Hobbs all offer this type freezer for outbuildings.
Some companies have specialised in outdoor freezers, for instance Montpellier. It has a white 99-litre freestanding chest freezer that can be used to build garages or outbuildings. It is A+ energy efficient, and has FreezerGuard. It is also covered by NordMende's standard 3 year warranty. The site has been in operation since 2014 and is a trusted retailer online, with a positive customer feedback. It is also a member of Trusted Shops.