10 Tips For Freezers For Outbuildings That Are Unexpected
Wiki Article
Chest Freezers For Outbuildings
You can store any leftover food items in the freezer of a chest to use all year round, and save time shopping. It can also make cooking in batches more convenient.
If you're planning to put your freezer in a shed or garage that is warm, search for models specifically designed for the conditions described above. Also look for one that comes with wire storage baskets that help you organize your food.
Size
Often found in garages and outbuildings, chest freezers are ideal for those who like to store up bargains that can be frozen. They're usually less expensive than upright freezers, and they provide more storage (around 5 bags) for a lesser cost. This Currys own-brand model, for example, offers good value and an adjustable lid that is easier to open than most. It also has an A+ energy rating, which means that it's a good value to run.
For those who want to make use of a chest freezer in their outdoor structures, look for models with wire storage baskets that can be hung over the edge. These baskets can keep everyday items, such as chopped vegetables, away from the mess of frozen food. They are especially helpful if you're freezing lots of meat, as they can be hard to reach when they're stuffed into the top of a freezer.
The majority of chest freezers are put in the basement or garage to conserve space. More and more manufacturers are creating freezers specifically designed to stand up to the extreme temperature fluctuations that occur in a garage or outbuilding. These models are typically advertised as 'garage-ready', and can handle temperatures as low as -22degC.
The size of the freezer you buy will depend on the space you have available, as well as your budget. There are a lot of excellent freezer deals available, it's important to find one that's suitable for your needs and the location you'll utilize it.
Consider buying a freezer with the high temperature alarm when you plan to store it in an outbuilding or garage. This feature will notify you if your freezer has exceeded the safe temperature range. This can happen if, for example you fail to close the door after you have loaded it with food. Or if it gets warmer accidentally during the defrosting procedure. A locking mechanism on the freezer will ensure that no one is able to access it. These options may seem insignificant but they can make a big difference over time.
Convenience
The addition of a freezer to your home can reduce trips to the grocery store, make it easy to buy items on sale and let you prepare meals in batches to use later. Despite their larger size chest freezers can be tucked away in small spaces in the garage or outbuilding and be convenient for those with little storage space.
Many people are reluctant to invest in chest freezers, fearing that it will be big and difficult to get into or manage. There are plenty of options that are designed with user-friendly features and are available in various sizes. This Northair chest freezer is among the smallest options on this list but fits a sizeable amount of food. It also comes with an easy-to-open lid with an anti-balanced design to stop it from closing accidentally as you rummage through its contents.
Another option is this GE model that can handle external temperatures of up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. It also provides the largest storage space of any freezer on this list. The door can be opened wide and locked. The interior LED light assists you in finding your frozen desserts.
Upright freezers look more like refrigerators and are much easier to keep well-organized than chest freezers However, they may not be as good in handling temperatures outside. Some models, like this one made by Whynter have bins that can aid in organizing and customizing your food storage space to maximize capacity.
Consider a standing refrigerator with removable wire baskets that can be used to transport bulkier items such as bags of frozen vegetables and oven chips out of the way. Basket-equipped freezers are easier to locate and can handle external temperatures better than freezers that have shelves. Certain brands, such as Beko and Russell Hobbs, (a Currys brand), have freezers that are safe to use up to -15C, which makes them ideal for cold garages or outbuildings. However, it is always recommended to verify the manufacturer's warranty as they may not cover freezers kept in unheated spaces.
Energy efficiency
The chest freezer is among the most energy efficient freezers. Its airtight seal is a great way to conserve cold air, which conserves energy and cuts back on energy bills. Single-door freezers on the other on the other hand, tend to leak air, which causes their compressors to work harder to keep the temperature constant. A majority of chest freezers feature low-frost technology that reduces the frequency of defrosting and reduces the cost of energy.
Another way a chest freezer can help lower your energy costs is by being more efficiently insulated than its upright counterparts. This is particularly important when you intend to keep it in a garage or any other space that is likely to get warm.
In terms of storage, chest freezers can be equally convenient and easy to access as upright models. Be aware that you'll need to bend and reach into them to get your food out, so these appliances aren't suitable for those who have mobility problems. Also, the majority of chest freezers need to be manually defrosted (you'll need to unplug the unit, open it up and let the ice melt). If you think that's a hassle, you can find units with built-in drains or wheels to make it easier to move.
It is advisable to choose appliances that consume less energy, for instance a chest-freezer, as freezers are known to be high-energy consumers. There is an annual consumption amount, usually expressed in kWh, for most models on their energy labels or manuals.
When shopping for a chest freezer, it's important to know what climate class it belongs to before you buy. A freezer classified as class SN for instance, fridges can keep frozen food in temperatures up to 10 degrees Celsius. This makes it an excellent option for a garage or an outbuilding.
If you're in the market for a chest freezer for your outbuilding, it's well worth spending the time to look through the wide selection of options available. You're bound to find one that is suitable for your needs, no matter whether you need to store ice cream for summer or even freeze meals in advance for your busy family. And, with an energy-efficient design and plenty of room for storage, a chest freezer can be an investment worth it.
Maintenance
It doesn't matter what freezer you pick. It is important that it is placed in an area where it is easily accessible. A garage or outbuilding is a perfect choice. But be aware that some chest freezers can suffer from damage if they are exposed to temperatures that are beyond their recommended range.
It's a good thing to know that more and more manufacturers are becoming aware of this issue and are making their products more suitable for garages and outbuildings. Find freezers that are "garage optimized". These freezers come with special compressors and thick insulation. They also have triple-sealed seals that keep the temperature at a comfortable level inside even when it's extremely hot or cold. The name of the product may include the phrase "garage-ready" or list it in their specifications.
Both upright and chest freezers require a bit of maintenance to ensure that they function effectively. If you choose a chest model that requires manual defrost, it will require frequent cleaning of ice to prevent the freezer from freezing. Upright freezers, on contrary, are typically self-defrosting. They also have fewer parts that require maintenance over time.
Freezers should be placed at least six inches away from walls and other appliances to allow for proper ventilation. Also, they need a minimum of an inch space behind them that can be cleaned or swept if required. All freezers must be checked regularly to make sure that the seal on the door is not damaged and doesn't show signs of wear and tear.
It's also an excellent idea to regularly clean the freezer's condenser coils as well as its cooling fan. This will help prevent dust hair, pet hair and lint buildup on the freezer, which could make it work harder. Make sure to unplug the freezer prior to cleaning it and always use a bristle brush with a long handle and a vacuum cleaner compatible with freezers. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives and household cleaners that could harm the freezer's interior. Make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions before performing any maintenance work on the freezer.