You don’t have room in your kitchen refrigerator for groceries. You must be considering purchasing a second refrigerator for your home.
There are many different sizes, shapes, and styles of refrigerators that are designed to be used in garages. The most important thing when purchasing the best garage refrigerator is to make sure the appliance is rated for such, otherwise, it won’t function correctly in very warm or very cold temperatures.
It can be difficult to choose one, though, given the wide range of options on the market. Therefore, we are here with 10 suggestions to assist you in selecting the ideal refrigerator for your home that is garage-ready. Additionally, you can view additional choices for inexpensive garage refrigerators.
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Table of Contents
Our Top Picks List
- 1. Best Overall: GE 19.1 Cu. Ft. Top-Freezer Refrigerator
- 2. Best Large Capacity: GE 21.9 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator
- 3. Best Bang For The Buck: Winia Garage Ready 18-cu ft Top-Freezer Refrigerator
- 4. Best Heavy-duty: Gladiator GarageWorks RefrigeratGladiaor 17.8 Cu. Ft.
- 5. Best Fridge Only: Danby 11.0 Cu. Ft. All Refrigerator
- 6. Best Mini Frige: Black + Decker BCRK Series Mini Fridge
- 7. Best for Beverages: Newair Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
- 8. Best Quality: Hisense Garage-Ready Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator
- 9. Also Consider: Danby Classic Retro 4.4 Cubic Feet Mini Fridge
Best Garage Refrigerator Review
A few of the top garage refrigerators are included in the list below.
1. Best Overall: GE 19.1 Cu. Ft. Top-Freezer Refrigerator
This refrigerator/freezer from the world’s largest appliance manufacturer GE is a great option for adding more cold food storage to the garage because of its affordability and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. This model is ready for the garage and can withstand temperatures between 38 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. 19.1 cubic feet of food storage are available between the top freezer and lower refrigerator sections when combined.
The user can adjust both the freezer and refrigerator’s temperatures with the help of simple-to-use temperature controls. It is possible to rearrange the modular bins in the doors to use them as storage for large hors d’oeuvre platters, tall wine bottles, or cases of soda. LED lighting and edge-to-edge glass shelves that can be adjusted are additional helpful features.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 19.1 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Black, slate, stainless steel, or white
Pros
- Broad temperature range for garage use
- Ample size
- Useful additional features
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Smaller capacity than some full-size models
2. Best Large Capacity: Ge 21.9 Cu. Ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator
The capacity of GE’s stainless steel refrigerator, which is nearly 22 cubic feet, places it among the more substantial garage-ready refrigerators available. Its generous size includes deep indoor storage bins for large drink containers, such as full-gallon jugs and tall wine bottles, as well as large bins for produce.
LED lighting, glass shelves with spill-proof edges, and a rating for ambient temperatures between 38 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit are noteworthy features. Just keep in mind that this model, at 6638 inches tall, 32¾ inches wide, and 34½ inches deep, does have a bigger footprint than other garage-ready models.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 21.9 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Stainless steel
Pros
- Large capacity
- Stainless steel finish
- Plentiful door storage
Cons
- Expensive
3. Best Bang For The Buck: Winia Garage Ready 18-cu Ft Top-freezer Refrigerator
Winia’s reasonably priced garage refrigerator adds additional food storage without costing a lot more money. The refrigerator from the lesser-known brand Winia can withstand ambient temperatures of up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit and as low as 38 degrees, thanks to an in-built sensor.
Larger containers, such as gallon jugs, can be stored on movable door shelves that can be adjusted to accommodate different container heights. Produce drawers with clear sides to make it simpler to see what’s inside. Black and white are the available colors for the Winia refrigerator.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 18 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Black or white
Pros
- Adjustable door shelving
- Clear drawers for better visibility
- Works with a broad range of ambient temperatures
Cons
- A little smaller capacity than other garage-ready fridges
4. Best Heavy-duty: Gladiator GarageWorks RefrigeratGladiaor 17.8 Cu. Ft.
This aptly named refrigerator from Gladiator thrives in the garage thanks to its tough design and considerate storage options. Large casters make it simple to move the refrigerator around, and a hands-free step opening simplifies putting bulky items like groceries away.
Bulk food items and big jugs are kept inside on metal trays and spacious door shelves. Glass shelves that are thick enough to support heavy loads of multiple 12 packs. The fridge has an industrial design that works in a garage thanks to its matte black finish and diamond tread pattern on the door.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 17.8 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Black
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Large casters
- Hands-free access
Cons
- More expensive than some comparable models
5. Best Fridge Only: Danby 11.0 Cu. Ft. All Refrigerator
The Danby model has 11 cubic feet of refrigerator space but no freezer compartments. Wide open shelves for plenty of food and beverages are present on the 59-inch-tall, 24-inch-wide, and 26-inch-deep refrigerator. Produce can be stored in the vegetable crisper drawer, and there is plenty of space on the movable door shelves for larger bottles.
With an Energy Star rating, running this refrigerator won’t break the bank. It is a fantastic option for garage workshops or man caves where aesthetics are important because of its stainless steel finish.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 11 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Stainless steel or white
Pros
- Ideal for drink storage
- Small footprint
- Attractive stainless steel finish
- Energy Star rating
Cons
- Expensive for size
6. Best Mini Frige: Black + Decker Bcrk Series Mini Fridge
With a quality mini fridge, the garage workshop or man cave will be complete. The Black & Decker tool company’s garage-ready model can withstand temperatures between 38 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit while operating in a potentially harsh garage environment.
It works well for storing lots of drinks and snacks thanks to its smaller capacity of 4.3 cubic feet, convenient six-can dispenser, and door shelves that can hold a 2-liter bottle. This small fridge can fit into a workshop without taking up valuable workspace because it is only 34 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 20 inches deep. Three color options for the Black & Decker mini-fridge are white, black, and silver.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 4.3 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Black, white, or silver
Pros
- Versatile storage options
- Built-in can dispenser
- Wide temperature range
Cons
- Very limited freezer section
7. Best For Beverages: Newair Outdoor Beverage Refrigerator
Being prepared for the party always feels good, and this fridge can keep all of your drinks chilled to 32 delightfully cold degrees even on the hottest summer days. The Newair is completely weatherproof (it can withstand rain and sun) and can be used almost anywhere there is an outlet because it is made of corrosion- and rust-resistant stainless steel. This refrigerator’s detachable casters allow it to follow you if necessary, and its five adjustable shelves, which slide out for convenience, can be set up to hold up to 90 12-ounce cans as well as bottles of various sizes. We especially like the automatic lock feature, which prevents visitors from unintentionally thawing the fun by leaving the door open.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 3.2 cubic feet
- Estimated yearly electricity use: 248.2 kWh
- LED lighting: Yes
Pros
- Security lock keeps contents safe
- The auto-close feature reduces energy use and keeps cans cold
- Can be built-in or freestanding
Cons
- The fridge can be set down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit
- The door opens to the right; can’t be changed
8. Best Quality: Hisense Garage-ready Bottom-freezer Refrigerator
In a kitchen, an all-black refrigerator might be a little too stark, but it looks fantastic in a garage. The upper refrigerator has one long deli drawer and three full-width adjustable glass shelves, making it perfect for storing items that would typically go in a second refrigerator, such as sheet cakes, party platters, and a lot of beverages. There is plenty of room to chill a few extra bottles of wine and the shelving on the door can be adjusted to fit even the tallest objects. Ice bag storage is a breeze with the bottom-style freezer, and your go-to favorites will always be nearby thanks to the upper drawer.
The refrigerator door can be adjusted to open from either side, like most options on this list, and thanks to its compact 33-inch width, it won’t take up much room. If the black finish is not your style, it is also available in white or fingerprint-resistant stainless steel.
Product Specs
- Freezer capacity: 5.1 cubic feet
- Refrigerator capacity: 12.1 cubic feet
- Estimated yearly electricity use: 543 kWh
- LED lighting: yes
Pros
- Full-width pantry drawer
- Narrow, 33-inch footprint
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- No ice maker
- Only 1 humidity-controlled crisper
9. Also Consider: Danby Classic Retro 4.4 Cubic Feet Mini Fridge
This miniature refrigerator is the perfect finishing touch for those who see their garage workshop as a work of art. A well-designed home workshop is best complemented by an attractive stainless steel door with vintage curves.
Its small footprint of just 33 inches tall, 21 inches wide, and 21 inches deep has enough room for numerous beverages and snacks thanks to its 4.4 cubic feet of capacity. Among the storage options are tempered glass shelves big enough to accommodate a 2-liter bottle and a unique door rack that can hold eight cans of beverages. Thanks to its Energy Star rating, this refrigerator won’t significantly increase your monthly electricity bill.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 4.4 cubic feet
- Temperature range: 32 to 109 degrees Fahrenheit
- Finish: Stainless steel
Pros
- Excellent for drink storage
- Attractive finish and design
- Compact size
Cons
- Expensive for a mini fridge
Our Verdict
The GE 19.1 Cu. Ft. storage unit stands out for its large interior, capacity to withstand high temperatures and adaptable storage design. The Ft. Top-Freezer Refrigerator was made to withstand life in a garage.
The Danby 11.0 Cu is an option to consider if you’re looking for something smaller and don’t require extra freezer space. Ft. All Refrigerator.
Buying Guide For Choosing Best Garage Refrigerators
A fridge-freezer must be made to keep contents chilled in all types of weather, from hot to cold, since garage temperatures aren’t typically controlled by a thermostat. To that end, each of these models is garage-ready, enabling reliable operation even in a wide range of temperatures. We prioritized garage fridges that can easily accommodate large items and have highly adjustable shelving because they are intended to be a second cold-storage space. Other crucial factors included brand reputation, warranties, and footprint.
Design
“Garage refrigerators and freezers are made to withstand the extreme humidity and temperature conditions that cause problems for standard units. Those with a large family or just in the need of extra space should opt for a special fridge for the garage when space allows,” explains Founder and CEO of Appliances Connection, Albert Fouerti “It’s basically a regular refrigerator with a refrigeration compartment and a freezer compartment, so there aren’t many unique features to this product.”
The three main types of garage refrigerators are side-by-side, top freezers, and bottom freezers. Garage refrigerators are available in a variety of styles, just like kitchen refrigerators. We advise saving the side-by-side model for indoor use only and choosing a top- or bottom-freezer style so you can utilize edge-to-edge shelves for wider items (think: elaborate cheese plates and canapé trays).
Size And Capacity
Generally speaking, a family of four can be fed with 19 to 22 cubic feet of food storage. However, since this is intended to be extra storage, most people will find that at least 17 cubic feet is sufficient. For ventilation, refrigerators and freezers need at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides; keep this in mind when measuring. You won’t have to worry about it not fitting through the front door if you install a fridge in the garage, which is another major benefit.
Energy Efficiency
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)’s EnergyGuide label, which informs consumers of an appliance’s energy usage, is included on new refrigerators. These labels are a vibrant yellow and include the estimated annual energy consumption, estimated annual energy cost, and how the latter compares with equivalent models. Fortunately, most refrigerators today are Energy Star certified (all of these choices are, without a doubt), which means they are about 9% more efficient than refrigerators that only meet the federal minimum energy efficiency rating.
Garage Temperature
While a typical refrigerator can be kept in a garage, it won’t operate to its full potential unless it’s in an area with consistent temperature all year long. Most kitchen refrigerators operate in the 50 to 85-degree Fahrenheit temperature range. Typically, unfinished garage temperatures can rise above or below that range during the colder and warmer seasons.
Typical refrigerators might be unable to withstand these extremes. The refrigerator will have to work harder to keep its contents cold if the surrounding air temperature rises, which quickly degrades the compressor. The thermostat could give inaccurate readings and let the freezer thaw when the temperature is close to freezing. Food in the refrigerator may freeze if the temperature drops significantly below freezing.
Garage refrigerators can withstand much higher extreme temperatures, such as those that are well below freezing or in the triple digits.
Quality
To get the best deal on a garage refrigerator with a freezer, there are a few things you should look for. Quality is significant because it encompasses more than just aesthetic appeal. Another factor is how it functions and how long it lasts.
If it’s low quality, it won’t hold up for very long and will be a waste of money. You want a product that won’t malfunction or break down on you for a long time. Naturally, not all products are created equally, so you must conduct thorough research in advance to determine which brands are reliable and which are not worth your time or money. Reading reviews from people who have used the product or something comparable is the best way to determine quality.
Price
When purchasing a garage refrigerator with a freezer, the cost is the next factor to take into account. Don’t purchase something simply because it is inexpensive; the price of an item is based on its quality and the features it offers. Budget-conscious people should be prepared to give up some of these extra features in exchange for affordability. If money is no object, you could spend more on garage refrigerators with freezers that have more advanced features.
Material
You should focus on the material as your main consideration. A good garage refrigerator and freezer should be made of strong, long-lasting, and high-quality materials. In order for them to last longer, you must also make sure that they are simple to clean and maintain. Additionally, you should confirm the suitability of the substance. By doing this, you can be sure that no harmful chemicals are accidentally introduced into your system.
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FAQs
For information on whether it’s okay to put your refrigerator in the garage or if you should add a refrigerator kit to a standard refrigerator for use there, continue reading.
Is It Acceptable To Install A Refrigerator In The Garage?
Only if the refrigerator is approved for garage use. Since a garage is an unfinished space, its temperature can range from extremely hot to nearly freezing. Since a typical refrigerator is not built to handle such drastic changes in the environment’s temperature, it is more likely to break down in extreme cold or heat.
Do Garage Refrigerator Kits Function?
A heating coil that warms the air around the refrigerator’s thermostat is part of a garage refrigerator kit. This gadget deceives the refrigerator into believing that the air is warm around it, causing it to turn on the compressor and stop the freezer from thawing out when the air temperature is close to freezing. The kits are effective, but they won’t help a refrigerator keep its contents cold when it’s running nonstop in the sweltering summer heat.
Are Refrigerators Functional In Frigid Garages?
Yes, they do; garage-rated refrigerators are made to operate in a variety of temperatures and do not require a climate-controlled environment to function properly.
Will My Garage Need Its Own Refrigerator?
Get a refrigerator that can fit in a garage, definitely. A typical refrigerator can only operate properly and efficiently in a temperature range of roughly 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. With a larger operating temperature range of 32 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, garage-ready refrigerators are made to function in uncontrolled environments.
Should I Unplug The Refrigerator In My Garage In The Winter？
By forcing the thermostat of a standard refrigerator to an extremely low temperature, cold weather can prevent it from functioning properly, shutting off the compressor and possibly spoiling food.