Between meal prepping, Costco runs, and entertaining guests, it’s easy to max out the space in your kitchen refrigerator. When every shelf is crammed, it may be a sign you could use a garage refrigerator for that much-needed overflow space.
That said, choosing the right refrigerator for the garage isn’t as simple as relocating a kitchen model. I’ve lived in Utah and Ohio—states with dramatic seasonal shifts—and in Texas, where sustained high temperatures routinely stress household appliances. I’ve seen firsthand how ambient conditions impact refrigerator performance, creating issues like inconsistent cooling, condensation on groceries, and, worse, food spoilage.
A true garage-ready refrigerator is engineered specifically for extreme environments, typically from as low as 38 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit. And after vetting dozens of options, I found that the most reliable garage-ready refrigerators tend to come from trusted brands like GE, LG, and Gladiator.
Depending on size and features, you can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,400. Our top picks include an ultra-durable model on casters that opens hands-free and a budget-friendly, narrow refrigerator with a reversible door—perfect for tight spaces.
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What We Like
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Largest-capacity fridge on our list
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Can be troubleshooted remotely through a free smartphone app
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Multi-airflow system prevents temperature inconsistencies
The LG LHTNS2403S is the best garage refrigerator for most people, combining size, stability, and reliability. With 23.8 cubic feet of space (17.6 cubic feet of fridge space and 6.2 cubic feet in the freezer), it packs more room than any other pick on our list. So, it’s a great buy for families looking to store bulk groceries, drinks, or party sides.
This model is Energy Star certified so it won’t jack up your utility bill. What separates it from the competition is its evenly distributed cooling system, which uses strategically placed vents and digital sensors to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the fridge—even when it’s fully stocked.
Unlike GE’s GTS22KGNRWW, which we also recommend, the LG features a single temperature dial, as opposed to the GE’s dual-temperature controls. While the interface is a bit less intuitive, it delivers superior temperature consistency across both compartments. Add in LED lighting, a fingerprint-resistant finish, and quieter-than-average operation, and the LG holds its own as a thoughtfully designed, garage-ready fridge.
It’s worth mentioning that this model is more expensive than the GE and our best budget pick, the Hisense HRT180N6AWE. Regardless, if your priority is dependable garage performance with a roomy interior, the LG is the most future-proof option on this list. As an added bonus, LG covers the appliance for one year, and its compressor and cooling system for five. After that, you’re still covered for parts on those components for another 10 years.
Dimensions: 33.25 x 28.75 x 66.13 inches | Capacity: 17.6 cubic feet (refrigerator), 6.2 cubic feet (freezer) | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Available Finishes: Stainless steel, black stainless steel
The Best Type of Garage-Ready Fridge
Top-freezer models are the most common and reliable configuration for garage use, while freezerless models offer a simple solution for dedicated cold storage.
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What We Like
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Great capacity for the price
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Reversible doors and gallon-sized door bins
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Backed by a solid warranty
The Hisense HRT180N6AWE delivers stable, garage-ready cooling at a price that won’t break the bank. Its 18-cubic-foot capacity should be plenty for most families, and it’s also certified to perform between 0 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit—a wider range than that offered by our overall best pick and on par with far more expensive models.
Unlike some budget picks, it’s also Energy Star certified and is backed by a two-year warranty (a year longer than most). You’ll also appreciate that this one’s door bins are large enough to hold gallon-sized jugs.
This model does have some minor trade-offs for its lower-than-average price. For starters, its interior lighting is slightly dimmer; the shelving is made from wire, which is sturdy but slightly harder to clean than glass shelving; and the temperature controls aren’t as precise as those of more expensive models.
I still think the Hisense is worth a close look. I’ve personally used a different, non-garage-ready Hisense fridge in my unfinished basement for just under a year, and it has maintained steady temperatures during both brutally cold days and days with temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
While both models have relatively basic top freezers with limited storage flexibility and modest overall capacity, they punch above their weight in reliability. Hisense, as a brand, ultimately can deliver consistent performance, generous warranty coverage, and a solid price point.
Dimensions: 31.1 x 28.9 x 65.6 inches | Capacity: 13.9 cubic feet (refrigerator), 4.1 cubic feet (freezer) | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Available Finishes: White, black, stainless steel
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What We Like
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Weather-resistant, stainless steel body
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Lockable and built-in-ready
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Operates quietly
Most mini fridges can’t handle the temperature swings of a garage, which makes the Avanti OR543U3S the best garage fridge in a compact size that can actually take the heat (and cold). Unlike typical indoor mini fridges that would succumb to the elements, the Avanti is wrapped in 304 stainless steel and designed for performance in uncovered outdoor spaces. So, you can feel confident it’ll handle the temperature and humidity swings of your garage.
Its front-venting design is a significant advantage over other compact models, allowing it to be installed as a built-in unit under a workbench or counter without needing the extra clearance for ventilation. Inside, you get three chrome shelves and a decent, 5.4-cubic-foot capacity for your drinks, fishing bait, produce, or medications.
It’s Energy Star certified, features automatic defrost, and includes a reversible door for flexible installation. Its main drawback is its minimum operating temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it may not perform well in unheated garages during colder months. This is something to consider if you live in an environment with harsh winters.
Dimensions: 23.75 x 23.5 x 34.5 inches | Capacity: 5.4 cubic feet (refrigerator), no freezer | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Available Finishes: Stainless steel
A Quick Note on Mini Fridges
You won’t see any dorm-sized mini fridges on this list. Those compact models may work in climate-controlled rooms, but they’re not built to handle wide temperature swings and tend to underperform in garages.
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What We Like
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Heavy-duty, locking casters make it easy to move
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Rugged, industrial design fits perfectly in a workshop
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Spacious enough to hold large pallets of drinks
If your garage gets bitterly cold in the winter or totally sweltering in the summer, the Gladiator GARF30FDGB is built for the extremes. It’s rated to work from 0 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the most durable and tolerant on our list. Its all-refrigerator design maximizes fresh food storage, too, while the heavy-duty construction withstands the demanding conditions of unheated garages and workshops.
It features heavy-duty, locking casters as well that make it easy to roll around for cleaning or rearranging your space, a unique touch that complements the dynamic nature of a garage. Its hammered granite finish and tread-plate-style handles also give it a rugged aesthetic that looks right at home next to tool chests and workbenches.
It even has a foot pedal for hands-free opening—perfect for someone like me who insists on bear-hugging every grocery bag in one trip when unloading my car.
The most significant trade-off is its lack of freezer space; if you want to store any frozen goods, you’ll have to invest in an entirely different fridge, or a separate chest or upright freezer.
Dimensions: 32 x 30.88 x 73.25 inches | Capacity: 17.8 cubic feet (refrigerator), no freezer | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Available Finishes: Black, white
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What We Like
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Optional ice maker is easy to install and reliable
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Dual-temp controls give better compartment control
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Large, versatile layout with plenty of clever storage compartments
Like most chest and upright freezers (and unlike a typical kitchen fridge), garage-ready fridges rarely come with built-in ice makers. That said, a few models, including this one, let you add one after purchasing a separate kit.
GE’s optional IM4D ice maker cranks out 3.5 pounds of ice per day—more than the 2.2 pounds you’d get from our top pick’s kit, and about a third of what you’d grab in a standard gas station bag. Installing the ice maker kit isn’t too difficult and typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on your DIY experience. Basic tools like a Phillips screwdriver and pliers are all you need, and GE provides clear, step-by-step instructions (and video) to guide you through the process.
This refrigerator offers a roomy 21.9 cubic feet of storage, placing it comfortably between the larger LG and the more budget-friendly Hisense on our list. The interior is very functional, with adjustable glass shelves, deep crisper drawers, and large door bins. However, its incandescent lighting feels dated compared to the bright LEDs found in our top pick. We also wish its freezer was illuminated.
On the plus side, the fridge features digital temperature sensors and controls, and is available in five finishes. Just keep in mind that because this model connects to a water line, you’ll need to shut off the ice maker (or potentially your water supply) if your garage gets cold enough for your pipes to freeze.
Dimensions: 34.5 x 32.75 x 66.38 inches | Capacity: 15.25 cubic feet (refrigerator), 6.68 cubic feet (freezer) | Energy Star Certified: No | Available Finishes: White, black, stainless steel, slate
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for the best garage refrigerator, the LG LHTNS2403S is our top pick. It offers generous capacity, excellent energy efficiency, and impressively stable performance in both low and high temperatures—all wrapped in a fingerprint-resistant design. It’s a great choice for any household who needs a second fridge that’s reliable and quiet. For those who want the added convenience of an optional ice maker, the GE GTS22KGNRWW is a smart alternative with dual-temperature controls.
How We Picked the Garage Refrigerators
To separate the best garage refrigerators from the rest on the market, we compared 40 models from major brands like GE, Hisense, LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool. Our recommended models appeal to anyone requiring extra food storage—from large families and frequent entertainers to hunters, gardeners, and small business owners who need dependable refrigeration outside of a climate-controlled space.
We prioritized wide temperature operating ranges and focused on models that strike a balance between capacity, energy efficiency, and practical conveniences, such as adjustable shelving. While we considered premium features like smart connectivity, we ultimately favored models that deliver reliable performance at reasonable prices.
Since these units are intended for use in garages, we did not factor in aesthetics, recognizing that most buyers prioritize function over overall look. And since these appliances face harsher conditions and may require more frequent maintenance than a typical kitchen refrigerator, we awarded bonus points to models backed by generous warranties.
Additionally, there were a few types of refrigerators we purposely left off our list:
- Convertible refrigerators, while appealing in theory, weren’t included in this guide. They tend to struggle with holding a steady temperature, which can lead to food spoiling more easily. When set to refrigerator mode, they’re also more likely to build up condensation, especially in humid garages.
- I also excluded bottom-freezer models (like the Whirlpool WRB543CMJV). While this model, for example, is garage-ready, its limited, 12.9-cubic-foot capacity and higher price—nearly twice that of our overall best pick—make it hard to justify.
What to Look for in a Garage Refrigerator
Most Importantly, Garage Readiness
If you’re searching for the best refrigerator for garage use, it’s important to consider more than just capacity or finish. Look for models labeled ”garage-ready” or ”garage-optimized”—these are designed to handle fluctuating temperatures so your fridge is cool and food remains safe.
Among our picks, the Gladiator GARF30FDGB stands out with one of the widest temperature tolerances. It’s designed to perform in environments as cold as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for unheated garages in northern climates. On the other end of the spectrum, the Hisense HRT180N6AWE is garage-certified for regions with milder winters and performs reliably in any temperatures ranging from 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Fridge’s Size and Capacity
Just like upright freezers, garage refrigerators vary significantly in size. It’s important to consider how much capacity you actually need—and whether you have the physical space for the fridge.
Our overall best pick, the 24-cubic-foot LG LHTNS2403S, offers the largest capacity on our list, and is ideal for families and frequent entertainers. For smaller, one-car garages, our best mini fridge pick, the Avanti OR543U3S Elite Series, is a compact and sturdy, 5.4-cubic-foot fridge, perfect for storing backup beverages.
It’s worth noting that the manufacturer’s specified total capacities are divided between fresh and frozen food storage for any fridge.
You should also measure your garage space carefully, allowing at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation, as well as extra room for the door to swing open. That way, you won’t scuff your new fridge door on your garage shelving or workbench. If you’re working with a tight layout, consider a model with a reversible door for more flexible installation.
Think About Energy Efficiency
An Energy Star-certified garage refrigerator uses less energy than one without this certification. Extreme temperatures can force a fridge to work overtime, leading to higher electricity bills, too, so this certification can be extra-important if you’re watching your energy usage.
The LG LHTNS2403S stands out as one of the most efficient options available. It uses just 417 kWh per year, saving most households around $60 to $80 annually, depending on local energy rates.
Energy-efficient models often include better insulation and smart components, too, such as LED lighting, which generates less heat and uses less power than traditional bulbs. These features help the fridge maintain a stable internal temperature while minimizing energy waste.
Fortunately, most manufacturers include Energy Guide labels that show the estimated yearly operating costs, making it easier to compare models.
Look for Standout Features
- Dual-temperature Controls and Digital Sensors: Models with separate controls for the fridge and freezer offer better precision in extreme weather. Digital sensors also respond more accurately than analog dials, allowing you to set the ideal temperature for your appliance.
- Ice Makers and Water Dispensers: For added convenience, look for a garage fridge that supports an ice maker or includes a built-in water dispenser. These features are especially useful for households that entertain often. While most garage-ready models typically don’t come with ice makers installed, some offer them as optional add-ons. The GE GTS22KGNRWW, for example, is compatible with the IM4D ice maker kit, so you always have ice on hand for your cooler or to chill a beverage.
- Organization Options: Look for adjustable shelves, sliding drawers, and spacious door bins. These small touches can make a big difference when organizing and storing bulky items like gallon jugs, sheet cakes, or food containers.
- A Fingerprint-resistant Finish: Stainless steel finishes are standard, but not all are easy to maintain, especially in dusty garages. For lower maintenance, consider a model with a fingerprint-resistant finish—or opt for a textured or matte finish that hides smudges and streaks more easily.
- Serviceability and Support: Familiarize yourself with your fridge’s warranty and service plan, along with any available extended coverage from the brand or retailer. These can potentially save you time and hassle in the unfortunate event that something goes wrong. The Hisense HRT180N6AWE stands out here with a two-year warranty, which is double the industry standard for parts and labor.
One More Thing
Garage-ready refrigerators are built to last, typically offering a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, which is comparable to standard kitchen models, despite operating in more demanding conditions. To keep yours running efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Since dust and debris build up faster in garages, it’s crucial to clean the condenser coils every three to six months to prevent straining the compressor.
When it comes to freezers, most garage-ready models are frost-free, saving you the task of manual defrosting. However, it’s worth noting that manual-defrost freezers can keep food frozen longer during a power outage.
During an outage, keep your fridge and freezer doors closed to retain cold air, especially since garage temperatures fluctuate more than your home’s interior. If power outages are common in your area, consider investing in a backup power source, like a portable power station or home generator, for added peace-of-mind.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Brandon Carte is a writer for The Spruce with over a decade of experience testing and vetting consumer products, including appliances, electronics, and smart home gear.
He’s owned a variety of top-freezer, bottom-freezer, and French-door refrigerators over the years. While he hasn’t tested the specific Hisense model featured in this guide, he’s had a positive, long-term experience with the brand.
He has a Hisense mini fridge in his unfinished basement and trusts its garage-ready model to deliver a spacious interior and reliable performance.
