Two main types of “portable refrigerators” exist: the thermoelectrics (also known as peltier junction units) and the compressor systems.

Thermoelectric Units

Thermoelectric units are coolers, not refrigerators. Typical examples include the Igloo® and Coleman units found at Wal-Mart or sporting goods stores. The main benefits of thermoelectric units are their low price and small size. The main drawbacks are that they cool only to about 30-35 degrees below ambient temperature and draw large amounts of current. For example, in 90-degree ambient, your thermoelectric cooler will reach only about 60 degrees inside. Thermoelectrics also cannot freeze their contents. In extreme heat, they suffer more and become useless. These units run continuously and draw as much as 10-amps, resulting in a vehicle that will not start.

Compressor Units

A compressor system like FridgeFreeze is built using similar equipment to your home refrigerator/freezer. This type of system consumes less power and can refrigerate or freeze in warmer ambient temperature. These units perform better and are more efficient than thermoelectrics.

FridgeFreeze Compressor Units

FridgeFreeze is the most efficient portable 12/24 and 110-volt vaccine refrigerator/freezer made. The 15-liter, 20-liter, 35-liter, 45-liter and 60-liter models draw between 2.3 and 3.8 amps when the compressor is cycled on. The 100-liter model draws between 4.6 and 7.6-amps. All FridgeFreeze models are so well insulated that the compressor is running only about 10 to 15 minutes per hour on average to maintain internal temperature. Depending on ambient temperature and thermostat setting, the FridgeFreeze vaccine refrigerator/freezer can draw as little as 17 amp hours over a 24-hour period (see chart below).

FridgeFreeze not only is the most efficient portable refrigerator/freezer available, it’s also the best performing. With the standard thermostat, the FridgeFreeze can refrigerate or freeze. It can freeze two one-gallon jugs of water in just 24 hours. FridgeFreeze also has an extremely quick “cool-down” time, taking between 20 and 45 minutes to reach freezing temperatures when empty.

The FridgeFreeze works by transferring heat from inside the unit to the outside casing. Thus, the warmer the contents inside the unit, the longer it will take to extract the heat. Place a warm six pack of aluminum cans inside the unit. The cans will reach a chilly 40°F in less than one hour, depending on ambient temperatures — this cool-down is more than five times faster than an Igloo® thermoelectric cooler.

We always recommend running the FridgeFreeze from an auxiliary battery when using it in a boat, car, or truck. This precaution ensures that you always have enough power to start your vehicle. A 120-amp hour deep cycle marine battery will power a FridgeFreeze for up to five days without recharging. Although vehicle charging systems differ greatly, most vehicles’ starting batteries can power a FridgeFreeze for two to three full days without starting the vehicle or charging the battery.

For questions regarding your specific usage, please call FridgeFreeze. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to recommend the proper solution.