DON"T BUY a 12-Volt Fridge Until You Watch This - 4 Important Considerations

Summary

In this video, Nathan Mueller shares essential tips for selecting, packing, securing, and using a 12-volt fridge for outdoor adventures. He emphasizes avoiding oversized fridges, the benefits of getting a fridge with lights, and the importance of considering fridge orientation and thermal layers. Nathan discusses power options, including solar panels and battery packs, as well as packing techniques to optimize space and minimize spoilage. Additionally, he highlights the importance of securing the fridge for safety and ease of access. Ultimately, he encourages viewers to evaluate whether investing in a 12-volt fridge is right for their camping needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't buy a 12V fridge that’s too big; choose one based on your space and needs to avoid overpaying.
• 😀 A 12V fridge can hold more food than a traditional cooler because it doesn’t require ice, which frees up space.
• 😀 When selecting a fridge, consider if you need one with a built-in battery or if an external battery pack will suffice.
• 😀 Use a battery pack with a solar panel to power your fridge during long camping trips without relying on your vehicle's battery.
• 😀 A fridge with LED lights is useful for nighttime access, helping you locate items without rummaging in the dark.
• 😀 Choose the right door orientation for your fridge depending on where you'll store it and how you'll access it.
• 😀 An additional thermal layer can help increase the fridge's efficiency, especially when exposed to direct sunlight.
• 😀 Pack your fridge ahead of time, ideally the night before leaving, to reduce power consumption during the initial cooling process.
• 😀 Secure your fridge properly in your vehicle to prevent it from becoming a safety hazard in the event of an accident.
• 😀 12V fridges are more efficient than coolers, even with the added cost, as they eliminate the need to buy ice and provide fridge/freezer options.

Q & A

What is the main mistake people make when buying a 12V fridge?

The main mistake people make is buying a fridge that is too large. Many people assume they need a giant fridge, but since 12V fridges don’t need ice, they actually offer more usable space compared to traditional coolers.

Why is it better to get a 12V fridge that doesn't have a built-in battery?

A 12V fridge with a built-in battery is often unnecessary, especially if you're already using an external battery pack with solar charging. The built-in batteries tend to have insufficient power for long-term use, and carrying extra weight with a built-in battery may not be needed.

What are the advantages of having LED lights inside a fridge?

LED lights inside the fridge make it easier to see and access your items at night. This feature is particularly useful when you're trying to grab food or drinks in low-light conditions, such as during camping trips.

How does fridge orientation affect its use?

The fridge door orientation can affect accessibility based on where it's placed. A side-opening door might be ideal for sliding out of a truck bed, while a top-opening door may be better for accessibility when the fridge is in the back seat. Choosing the right orientation is key to making the fridge easy to use.

Do 12V fridges always need additional thermal layers for efficiency?

Not always. A thermal layer is helpful if the fridge will be exposed to direct sunlight or if you're storing it in a hot area. However, it may not be necessary for those who store their fridge in cooler, more shaded spots.

Why should you pack your fridge before you leave?

Packing your fridge the night before and cooling it down in the house ensures that it reaches the desired temperature before being placed in the vehicle. This saves power by preventing the fridge from overworking to cool down on the road.

What is the benefit of using water bottles to fill empty space in the fridge?

Filling empty space with water bottles helps maintain cool temperatures more efficiently. Water takes longer to warm up than air, so it helps keep the fridge's contents cool and reduces energy consumption.

How can you prevent eggs from breaking in a fridge while traveling?

To prevent eggs from breaking, you can either use plastic cases that protect each egg or pre-crack the eggs into a Tupperware container. This avoids the mess and potential waste caused by broken eggs.

Why is securing the fridge important when traveling?

Securing the fridge is crucial for safety. In case of an accident, an unsecured fridge could turn into a dangerous projectile. Additionally, a loose fridge can cause damage to the vehicle or its contents. It's essential to strap the fridge securely to avoid these risks.

What is the advantage of 12V fridges over traditional coolers in terms of weight and space?

While 12V fridges may weigh a little more than traditional coolers, they are more efficient in terms of space and cooling. You won’t need to constantly buy ice, and they provide both refrigeration and freezing options, saving space and time in the long run.