Choosing the right fridge for your yacht is essential for keeping food and drinks fresh while you’re out on the water. A good fridge can make your boating adventures more enjoyable and hassle-free. But picking the perfect one involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs. Let’s dive into how you can choose the best fridge for your yacht.
Choosing the right size and capacity for your yacht fridge is essential. Start by measuring the available space where you plan to install the fridge. Make sure to account for any doors, cabinets, or other obstacles. The fridge should fit comfortably without obstructing any essential areas.
Capacity matters just as much as size. Think about how much food and drink you need to store during your trips. If you often go out for extended periods, a larger fridge might be necessary. On the other hand, if your trips are usually short, a smaller fridge could be sufficient. Ensure there’s enough room inside for all your perishables while keeping the size compatible with your yacht’s layout.
Power consumption is another critical factor. Yachts rely on battery power, so you’ll want a fridge that is energy-efficient. Look for fridges with low power consumption ratings to ensure they don’t drain your battery quickly. An efficient fridge will keep your food cold without causing power issues.
Consider the energy source of the fridge. Some yachts have solar panels, while others rely mostly on engine power or 240V. Check that the fridge is compatible with your yacht’s power system. An energy-efficient fridge will save you from frequent battery charges and keep everything running smoothly.
Compressor fridges are a popular choice among yacht owners with larger fridge cabinets. Generally the evaporators are a Eutectic type system. They work similarly to household fridges and are known for their efficiency and cooling power. Compressor fridges can maintain low temperatures even in hot weather, making them reliable for long voyages. Generally the 240V Compressor units use seawater cooling but if sufficient ventilation is available air cooled units can be used. These units can pull down multiple cabinets and are generally used for larger capacity cabinets. Using eutectic tanks can offer long hold overs where the compressor does not have to operate for long periods. Generally 240V units will operate off shore power or generator power however as battery sizing is becoming larger and Inverters are becoming more common we are seeing more vessel’s operating 240v fridges off there battery banks via inverters.
This has become the most popular choice of refrigeration systems in recent years for smaller capacity fridges. There are hundreds of models, colours, materials and sizes available. There are many brands that sell these low voltage refrigeration cabinets.
There are Front door opening, Top Load opening, Drawer type cabinets available.
Another option if you have a pre existing cabinet or want to custom build a cabinet into the vessel is using the 12/24V Kits that we can also provide a 12/24V Condensing unit which couple up to multiple different size Evaporator plates. We can also custom manufacture evaporator plates for added strength and durability.
Absorption fridges are another option, they are quiet, they can run on 240v, 12v or LPG gas. We don’t normally recommend these in a marine application. It is difficult to exhaust the flue gases out of the vessel, It is difficult getting sufficient fresh air to the unit. They use LPG which is heavier than air and should there ever be a leak the gas will accumulate in the lowest area of the boat which potentially could cause a possible explosion. These need to be installed by a certified Gas Fitter and meet all local government standards.
The first step to installing a yacht fridge is ensuring you have enough space. Measure the area where you plan to place the fridge, including width, height, and depth. Make sure there is sufficient ventilation. Additionally, consider where the fridge door will swin open. Check that it won’t block any pathways or access to other parts of the yacht. If you have limited space, a fridge with a reversible door or top-opening lid can be a smart choice.
Drawer cabinets have become more popular in recent times but you do lose some usable internal space.
Proper ventilation is crucial for a fridge to work well. Without good airflow, the fridge can overheat and lose efficiency. When installing, ensure manufacturers guidelines are followed for ventilation. Generally we require 2 grills. One for air in (Cool Air) and one for air out (Hot Air)
Avoid placing the fridge near heat sources like the stove or direct sunlight. Heat can make the fridge work harder, leading to higher energy use and possible breakdowns. Ensure vents and fans are not blocked and are cleaned regularly to maintain airflow.
Before installing your yacht fridge, verify its power requirements. Different fridges may run on different voltages, so make sure your yacht’s power supply matches the fridge’s needs. Some fridges can run on multiple power sources, such as AC, DC, and gas. These versatile fridges can be a good option for varied power situations.
Proper wiring and connections are also important for safe operation. If you feel unsure about handling the electric setup, consult a professional for a proper and safe installation. Correctly matching your fridge’s power needs ensures efficiency and safety.
Regular cleaning can extend the life of your yacht fridge and keep it working well. Wipe down the interior surfaces with a mild soap solution and rinse with clean water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fridge’s surfaces.
Defrosting the fridge is essential if it doesn’t have an automatic defrost function. Ice can build up and affect cooling efficiency. Turn off the fridge, remove all items, and let it defrost naturally. Use a towel to soak up the water and ensure it’s completely dry before turning it back on.
The seals and gaskets around the fridge door play a key role in maintaining the temperature. Over time, these can wear out or get damaged, allowing cold air to escape and warm air to enter. Inspect the seals regularly for any cracks or signs of wear. If the evaporator starts iceing up quicker then normal and has a fluffy type of frost on the evaporator plate this is often a sign that how, humid air is entering into the cabinet.
A simple test involves closing a piece of paper in the door. If the paper pulls out easily, the seal may be faulty. Another simple test is placing a bright light inside the cabinet and closing the cabinet door. If you see any light escaping out of the cabinet around the seal, this is a sure sign of where air is leaking in and out. (This test is best performed in darkness) Replacing worn seals can improve efficiency and prevent food spoilage. Always use the correct type of seal for your fridge model.
Scheduled inspections help you catch small problems before they turn into big issues. Check the fridge’s performance regularly, ensuring it maintains the correct temperature. Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate a problem with the compressor or fans.
Inspect electrical connections and cables for wear or corrosion. Keeping an eye on the overall condition of your fridge ensures it continues to perform well. Regular maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs in the future.
Choosing the right fridge for your yacht involves careful consideration of various factors. By understanding your space and power needs, you can pick a fridge that fits perfectly and runs efficiently. Knowing the different types of yacht fridges helps you select the best one for your needs, whether it’s a compressor, absorption, or thermoelectric model.
Proper installation is key to ensuring your fridge functions well. Pay attention to space, ventilation, and power compatibility to avoid common problems. Regular maintenance like cleaning, defrosting, and inspecting seals keeps your fridge in top condition.
Selecting and maintaining the right fridge makes your yacht adventures more enjoyable and stress-free. For expert advice and quality marine refrigeration solutions, visit FreezeTec. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect fridge for your needs. Contact us today to get started!
Call us today on (07) 3286 3522, or fill out the form below.
Redland City, Redlands Coast, Brisbane Bayside, Capalaba, Cleveland, Logan, Victoria Point, Redland Bay, Tingalpa. We also serve the Gold Coast City Marina and Boat Works in Coomera
P. (07) 3286 3522
E. info@freezetec.com.au
A: 259 South Street
Cleveland
QLD 4163
