The major problem you can encounter running a refrigerator in the garage is that the freezer will warm up to above freezing, spoiling all the food you store in it. That situation can occur because the compressor on most refrigerators is controlled by a single thermostat located in the refrigerated compartment of the appliance.
In such a setup, the freezer is indirectly controlled by the thermostat, which tries to maintain a temperature of 37° to 40°F in the refrigerated section. When the temperature in your garage nears temperature 37° to 40°F, the compressor doesn't need to run frequently or for very long, causing the freezer to get too warm.
Refrigerators designed for garage use have a different control system, which prevents the freezer from warming up when the refrigerated section doesn't need cooling. Some of these models are even equipped with a heater that will keep food in the refrigerated compartment from freezing if the garage gets too cold.
Keep this information in mind if you're buying a new refrigerator or freezer through the cash for appliances rebate program in your state. Use our interactive map to see whether refrigerators and freezers are eligible for a rebate and to get more details about cash for appliances where you live.
If you plan to get rid of an old appliance, learn how to recycle or dispose of it properly.
Essential information: Stay on top of the appliance news here on the Home & Garden blog and at Twitter.com/CRHomegarden.
ive been going to sears auto repair in bangor maine . ill tell ya they know how to rip you off but they dont know how to fix your car .. many problems, how can we pull there licence for car repair
CR neglects to point out that most refrigerators are recommended for use in ambient temps of 55-110 degrees F. At lower ambient temps, such as in a garage in winter, you will eventually fry the compressor. Turn off your garage refrigerator when the temp goes below the recommended operating range, or learn a $500 lesson the hard way. Leave the refrig doors open when "Off" otherwise the inside will start to stink (even when it's clean and empty).
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