Whether you like it or not, in a SHTF situation, you want to have access to all the tools and equipment that can actually make you comfortable. Off grid refrigerator and freezers are blackout-proof, energy-efficient, safe, and are considered plug-and-play appliances when used around the house.
But if you happen to be on a hunting mission, an off-grid refrigerator can actually keep your meat stock fresh for several days. Moreover, just because there’s a storm outside doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a cold beer.
So, keep on reading to learn more about the top offers for off-grid refrigerators and freezers on the market. I’ll also discuss what to look out for when you’re shopping for one. So, hang tight!
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Top Off Grid Refrigerator and Freezers On the Market
In general, hunters agree that your kill gives you more than half of its field-dressed weight. So, if you’re hunting big game animals, that will be a lot of meat that you don’t want to waste. After hunting a deer, for instance, keeping the meat inside your cabin won’t be practical.
Meat gets spoiled between 12 and 24 hours. However, this depends on the temperature and humidity. In other words, if you’re on a multi-day hunting mission, you need an accessible off-grid freezing option, or you’ll be risking your hunting efforts.
An off-grid freezer is also a great option around the house, because it uses no to very little electricity. Therefore, it’ll work even when all the other electric-powered appliances stop because of a power failure. Moreover, it’ll help you save on your energy consumption if you’re trying to go green.
Off-grid regurgitators and freezers come in different shapes and sizes, and in this section, I’ll review some of my favorites to help you pick the right one for you.
1. DT Pro Portable Refrigerator
- UPGRADE YOUR CAMPING TO THE NEXT LEVEL! DT-PRO portable fridge is designed & built to fill & improve any of your outdoor adventures needs. This electric cooler comes with 4 ways to charge, two...
- FAST COOLING & HIGH-EFFICIENCY CONSUMPTION Equipped with an advanced air compressor and High-Density Foam Insulation evaporator 3D refrigeration technology, the temperature drops faster and keeps...
- NEXT-LEVEL DESIGN FEATURES -LCD display & mobile app allow controlling the cooler temperatures and settings from your phone while driving. Reversible doors with a door-activated interior light...
This portable fridge is an excellent choice for SHTF situations and survival adventures as it’s equipped with an internal power station that keeps it running for 10 hours. Connect it to your car battery or a solar panel, and it will keep your food and drinks cool. You can even use it as a USB charging station in case of an emergency, and the top features a cup holder and a cutting board.
The two storage compartments have a total capacity of 35 liters and can be used as a fridge or freezer, combined or independently. The temperature range is between -4 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and I love that you can adjust the temperature of each compartment independently, depending on your needs.
How it Compares to Other Models
Compared to other off-grid fridges, this one is pretty impressive as the temperature drops from 77 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit in 15 minutes, thanks to the built-in compressor and high-density foam insulation. After that, you can activate the ECO mode to save energy.
If you happen to connect it to your car battery, you’ll love the vehicle protection system, which alerts you before your battery runs out. It comes with 6-inch wheels and a telescopic handle. However, I wouldn’t rely much on the handle, as it’s pretty flimsy.
Pros
- Off-grid fridge and freezer in one unit.
- Different operation options.
- Reaches the desired temperature quickly.
- Comes with a vehicle protection alarm.
Cons
- The handle is flimsy.
2. SMETA 3 Way Fridge Propane
- Propane Refrigerator Fridge: 2.1 Cu.Ft Propane camper refrigerator works on 12V, 110V or LPG, widely used for different scenes. You could enjoy the automotive, off-grid camping, off-solar,...
- Compact RV Refrigerator: The design of the reversible door allows your refrigerator to have more choices in the direction of door opening. Dimensions 18*18.7*27.1 inches. The top of the...
- Approximate gas consumption per day: 0.3 lb LPG/Propane; 2.1cu.ft large space with compact size easy to carry on the way, equipped with 2 adjustable shelves; The drawer on the inside of the...
Thanks to the compact size of this off-grid refrigerator, carrying it on a hunting or camping adventure won’t be an issue. Nevertheless, the 2.1 cubic feet capacity is more than enough to keep your food and drinks cool for a few days.
This is a 3-way appliance that can be powered using propane gas, 110V AC, or 12V DC. It consumes 0.4 pounds of gas per day. Most importantly, though, will keep your food at a temperature between 32 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The fridge features a reversible door and an advanced cooling system, so your food won’t get spoiled. Moreover, it operates quietly, so it won’t wake you up if you keep it inside the tent if you’re a light sleeper.
Before using this fridge, it needs to be kept in an upright position for at least 6 hours. It doesn’t function well unless it’s level, so finding the right spot to set it up can be challenging if you’re away from home.
Pros
- Big capacity.
- Can be battery or gas-powered.
- Quiet operation
Cons
- It needs to be level to operate.
3. Whynter FM-65G 65 Quart Portable Refrigerator
- Convertible Small Freezer/Refrigerator: This small AC 110V/ DC 12V fridge with a 65 qt. capacity has an adjustable temperature range of -8°F to 50°F that allows you to easily change it from a...
- Flexible Food Storage: This convertible refrigerator or freezer, features 2 removable wire storage baskets for added versatility and flexibility
- Fast Freeze & Consistent Temperature: Our portable fridge features an LED temperature display and a "Fast Freeze" mode that rapidly cools to -8°F
One of the main disadvantages of off-grid fridges is that they usually offer a limited capacity, but not this one. With an internal capacity of 57 liters and wire dividers, you’ll be able to carry enough meat for days. In addition, it operates using AC or DC power, so you can connect it to an external power bank or your car battery.
Thanks to the fast-freezing mode, the temperature will reach up to -6 degrees Fahrenheit in a few minutes. You can adjust the internal storage and temperature range between -6 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can use it as a fridge, freezer, or both at the same time.
The outer steel coating is sturdy enough to withstand SHTF situations, as well as survival missions. It also features steel handles and a drain plug for easy cleaning. However, since it weighs 57 pounds, it’s more challenging to move than other options.
Pros
- Big capacity and durable exterior.
- Operates using AC or DC power.
- Fast-freezing mode.
- Internal storage and temperature can be adjusted independently.
Cons
- Difficult to move.
How to Choose the Best One
These can come in handy when your standard one fails for any reason. Or also when you’re away from home hunting or camping. But since there are lots of options on the market, finding the right appliance can be confusing.
Off-grid fridges and freezers differ, but this depends on how they operate. This is why you should think about the available power source before making a purchase.
Solar-Powered
- 【No Ice Ever】Both Cooler and Freezer! Refrigerates or Freezes to -4F with DC Compressor. Capacity 52 Quarts / 50 Liters /1.32 cu. ft./13.2 gallons,20mins Quick Cooling to 32°F; Fluoride-Free...
- 【Rechargeable Battery Power】1st Battery Power Car Fridge Freezer in the Market.Rechargeable 173Wh Built in Lithium Battery via 120V AC Power Cord Power Adapter, car cigarette or Solar Panels...
- 【Big Wheels & Removable Lid】Portable Trolley and Durable 6" Wheels with Telescopic Luggage Style Handle. Removable Lid. Convenient Portable Camping Electric Car Cooler Fridge Freezer. 12v...
Solar-powered appliances, for example, can use DC directly from a solar panel or AC power. These fridges are more expensive but are energy-efficient and more versatile to use in different survival situations.
Battery-Powered
- Propane Refrigerator Fridge: 2.1 Cu.Ft Propane camper refrigerator works on 12V, 110V or LPG, widely used for different scenes. You could enjoy the automotive, off-grid camping, off-solar,...
- Compact RV Refrigerator: The design of the reversible door allows your refrigerator to have more choices in the direction of door opening. Dimensions 18*18.7*27.1 inches. The top of the...
- Approximate gas consumption per day: 0.3 lb LPG/Propane; 2.1cu.ft large space with compact size easy to carry on the way, equipped with 2 adjustable shelves; The drawer on the inside of the...
Battery-powered fridges are also available. If the battery runs out, your fridge or freezer won’t operate until you can recharge it. In short, they work better if you’re spending a limited time away from home.
Thermo-Electric
- ASIM 10S Model Larger Capacity: Designed with a 10L capacity to store 15 soda cans, interior dimensions are 7.5" W x 7.1" D x 10.6" H. The removable shelves make it easier to separate items such...
- Digital Temperature Control and Digital Display: Advanced digital temporary control system provides comprehensive functions and simple operation. Cooling range: Cool up to 45°F (25°C) below...
- Stylish and Tempered Glass Panel Design: Mini refrigerator is ideal to clean stains, easy to wipe, and is also scratch resistant. AstroAI also added internal partitions and side baskets to the...
If you don’t have a lot of food to store, for example, a thermo-electric option will work better for you. It’s easy to maintain, makes no noise, and, lastly, is energy-efficient. However, it usually has a limited temperature range, so it can’t drop the temperature significantly.
Propane Powered
- 3 WAY REFRIGERATOR & FLAME INDICATOR - LPG, 110V & 12V 3 powers working. Easy connection of gas power, 3/8" Male flare
- REVERSIBLE DOOR & REMOVABLE SHELVES - Features a reversible door hinge that allows you to open the door from left side and right side. Removable shelves help you stay organized in busy days
- NO NOISE & GREEN - No-Freon absorption cooling system, runs at 0 db silence and makes no pollution, perfect for light sleepers or home with kids or the elders
Above all, a propane-powered fridge or freezer is the easiest to operate. Such an appliance has no compressor, so it’s less prone to breakdowns and will last for a long time. However, you need to consider the cost of buying and carrying propane if you’re using the fridge or freezer away from home.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the type of fridge or freezer, you should also consider the capacity. For instance, do you really need to invest in a big unit? Remember that an increase in capacity means more power consumption because bigger units are usually less energy efficient. Moreover, moving a bigger appliance will be more challenging, especially if you’re on the go.
In addition, you want to think about the durability and ease of maintenance. A complicated appliance that requires a lot of maintenance, for instance, won’t be the best option in an SHTF situation.
Wrap Up
With no access to conventional power, you can still keep your food and drinks cold. In conclusion, the options in this article are here to prove it. Since there are many options available for off-grid refrigerators and freezers, you need to do a little research. Personally, I love the DT Pro Portable Refrigerator, because of it’s convenience. But, there are other options that might work for you.