Buyer's Guide

Can Chest Freezers Be Kept Outside?

If you’re short on space or dreaming of the ultimate outdoor entertaining setup, you might be asking yourself "Can I keep my chest freezer outside?". While it seems like a practical solution, if you are wanting your chest freezer to last, we would advise against it. Here's why:

The New Zealand Climate Challenge:

Our unique climate here in New Zealand is one of the main reasons we recommend keeping your chest freezer indoors. From subtropical heat in Northland to icy winters in Otago, our weather can be as unpredictable as it is diverse. Most chest freezers are designed for stable indoor environments, and exposure to the elements can cause serious problems, including:

1. Rain and moisture damage: Rust and potentially dangerous electrical faults.
2. Temperature fluctuations: Extreme heat or extreme cold can impact your freezer’s performance, making it less energy-efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
3. UV rays: Long-term exposure to sunlight can damage the exterior and stress the internal components, reducing the lifespan of your freezer.

Even under a covered area, outdoor conditions are rarely consistent enough to ensure your freezer operates as it should.

The Power Bill:

As Kiwis, we are always on the hunt for ways to save on energy costs. Keeping your chest freezer outside might lead to higher power bills. Why? Because outdoor temperature fluctuations force the freezer’s compressor to work harder, consuming more energy to maintain a constant internal temperature. Over time, this can add up and become costly.

Consumer Guarantees Act:

In New Zealand, the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) ensures that products you buy must be fit for their intended purpose. If your chest freezer fails because it’s been kept outside - contrary to the manufacturer’s recommendations - you could find yourself out of pocket. Most warranties won’t cover damage caused by environmental exposure, so you might have to foot the repair or replacement costs yourself.

What to Do Instead:

If space is tight or you’re looking for creative storage solutions, here are some alternative ways to manage your freezer setup:

1. Keep it indoors: Find a spot in the garage, laundry, or even under the stairs where temperatures are more stable.
2. Choose an outdoor-rated model: If you’re determined to put it outside, invest in a freezer specifically designed for outdoor use. These are built to withstand weather changes and protect your food.
3. Vertical Freezer: If you are tight on space and a chest freezer is too bulky, think bout purchasing a vertical (upright) freezer. These come in various sizes and are great for those interested in saving floorspace.

The Bottom Line:

While it might seem convenient, keeping your chest freezer outside isn’t a great idea. From weather-related risks to energy inefficiency, the potential downsides outweigh the benefits. Plus, protecting your appliance indoors will help it last longer and save you from unexpected costs.

At the end of the day, a chest freezer is an investment into your home. Treat it well, and it’ll treat you well in return. If you have any questions or need help finding the right freezer for your needs, get in touch - our team is always happy to help!

Shop our range of Chest Freezers here.