Choosing an Outbuilding Freezer
Many people use their garage or an outbuilding as an freezer. They're a great resource during busy times, when you must prepare meals quickly.
Freezers operate at temperatures between 0 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. If they are placed in an environment that is not suitable for them they will have to work harder and consume more energy.
Location
A freezer that is outdoors must be located in an environment that will allow it to be operating efficiently. This is because freezing appliances perform best in cool conditions and this is a factor that needs to be considered when determining where to place the freezer. The freezer should be protected from direct sunlight since it can decrease its efficiency in energy use, resulting in a higher electric cost. Freezers placed in direct sunlight are also prone to temperature fluctuations. This could cause unnecessary wear and tear to the appliance.
Accessibility and convenience also influence the location of the freezer. A freezer in a shed or garage that is accessible from the kitchen may be a good option. A freezer in a shed that requires you to walk out in the snow or rain to access it may not be as convenient.
A cover can protect the freezer from weather, debris and backyard animals. This is a crucial aspect for those who live near the ocean, where salty air can be detrimental to the freezer's components.
Size
When you shop, it is important to select the correct size of freezer. You want to be sure the freezer is big enough for your needs and will be able to be able to accommodate the food consumption of your family. A freezer that has a large capacity can be a good investment, and can will save you money by purchasing in the bulk.
A good rule of thumb is to provide 2.5 cubic feet of storage space for each household member. This will let you store a variety of frozen foods, such as meats, vegetables, foods as well as drinks, desserts and much more. Begin by measuring the area in your garage or shed to determine the size of freezer you'll need.
If you're limited on space you might want to consider a small or compact upright freezer, such as the GE Garage Ready 17,3 Cu Frost Free. It can be placed in an area that is small and features a reversible door to open either direction. It comes with premium insulation to shield the freezer from extreme temperature fluctuations and ensure a consistent operation. It also features an integrated defrost timer which automatically clears ice and prevents overflow.
Frigidaire EFRF696AMZ upright freezers are larger and offer more storage space. This model is made for use in cold environments and has a temperature range between -10C and -18C making it ideal for cold garages or outbuildings. It is spacious inside that can hold up to 20 bags of ice as well as removable wire shelves that can be used for storage.
If you're in search of an appliance that can withstand freezing temperatures, check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the unit will work in your garage or other outbuilding. Most manufacturers will list the freezer's climate class as well as the coldness it is able to be operated in an unheated environment. Some brands, such as Beko offers freezers that can run in -15C temperatures with their FreezerGuard technology. You should always look over the warranty offered by the manufacturer to ensure that the freezer is able to be able to withstand the temperature of your garage or outbuilding.
Energy efficiency
You'll want to select an energy-efficient model when you are planning to place the freezer in a shed, garage or any other space that isn't climate-controlled. These models will have more insulation than other
under-counter freezers, and they will not lose much cold air when the door is opened. They are also more economical to run because they will consume less power. Look for
energy-efficient freezers models with low-frost technology in order to save energy and reduce defrosting.
You can pick from a range of
energy-efficient freezers available in various sizes. You can find them in traditional brick-and-mortar shops like Walmart, Best Buy, and Home Depot, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay. In addition, some local utility companies may offer rebates on freezers that meet certain efficiency standards.
It is crucial to know the size of your freezer as well as how much electricity it will consume to freeze the food. You can also utilize an energy calculator to determine 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 motor and the evaporator fan motor) will go into idle mode.
Be aware of the ENERGY STAR rating when selecting the right freezer. This certification indicates that it is in compliance with certain energy usage guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy. This is especially important if you are planning to use the freezer in a shed or garage that isn't climate-controlled, as these units typically consume more energy than a standard freezer.
Also consider buying
industrial freezers that have a guarantee against power outages as well as an alarm for high temperatures or light. This will ensure that they will continue to function even if there is a power loss. You can also buy freezers that have a self-defrost function that will reduce the frequency of defrosting and lower the energy consumption of your home.
The Right to Rent
While most freezers are designed to be kept in a closed space, some people require larger models which can be stored in their shed or garage. If the temperature in this type of space is too low, it can cause the freezer to stop functioning properly or even break. To avoid this, consider investing in a freezer that has a warranty that will cover it in the event of failure when it is used in an outbuilding.
Many manufacturers have realised that their customers often have limited space, and have produced chest freezers which can be stored safely in garages or
energy-Efficient freezers outbuildings. These freezers have been designed with a special 'freezer protection technology' that allows them to operate at temperatures as low as 10degC. Brands like Beko, Ice King, and Russell Hobbs all offer this kind of freezer for outbuildings.
Some companies have specialised in the construction of outdoor freezers, for instance Montpellier. It is a 99-litre freestanding chest freezer in white that can be used in outbuildings and garages. It is A+ energy efficient, and has FreezerGuard. It comes with NordMende’s standard warranty of 3 years. The website has been operational since 2014 and is a reputable retailer with positive feedback from customers. It is also a member of Trusted Shops.