Traveling long distances by car involves the use of ancillary accessories. One of these is a car refrigerator. If you decide to go for a picnic, the camera will help keep food and drinks safe.
Over time, such equipment has become more a pleasant addition than a luxury, and if you have a long journey, then you should pay attention to containers with high performance and power supply.
All devices are made on the basis of compatibility with most AC power supplies, so they will be used in absolutely any car.
Content
What are refrigerators
Machine capacitors are quite convenient and, for the most part, not bulky devices that are designed to carry perishable food. Usually presented in the form of a small container or bag that you can take with you to a picnic.
Some types of refrigerators have different functions of both heating and cooling / freezing food or drinks, depending on the wishes of the consumer.
Appliances can be both portable and built-in.
In the first case, the main criteria will be:
- small size;
- the ability to transfer.
The devices built into the interface, first of all, depend on the capabilities of the car. Here the owner must consider the size and location of the machine.
Based on the wishes, the buyer himself has the right to decide which equipment is worth purchasing.
Containers, built-in or portable, are divided into several types:
- absorption;
- thermoelectric;
- compressor rooms;
- ammonia.
Device and principle of operation
Absorption
This type is not equipped with a compressor and functions by absorbing water, absorbing a liquid vapor absorber that is located in the evaporator. This is absorption. To avoid rusting inside the apparatus, the unit is filled with sodium chromate.
The Portable Chest generates food ice, which gives a certain amount of time to store perishable food.
Typically, such devices are used by drivers to transport food and drinks. Often it is installed in dachas and in houses where residents periodically live.
To understand the principle of operation of this type of refrigerators, you should familiarize yourself with devices that run on ammonia, because the principle of operation of such machines is similar.
The ammonia-water mixture in the generator evaporates during boiling and reaches the condenser, and the remaining ammonia provokes the activity of the absorber, in which ammonia is re-formed. Vapors that enter the condenser are converted to liquid and it is sent to the evaporator.
The refrigerant absorbs heat and is discharged outside by entering the condenser. The movement of auxiliary agents in the machine is carried out along a circular chain, of which in mechanism 2, one is responsible for the collection of ammonia-water mixture and liquid gaseous ammonia, and the second for the reduction of ammonia in the mixtures.
Thus, evaporation, and then recovery, contributes to the systematic operation of cameras of this type.
They can work from a regular 220v outlet, cigarette lighter or reduced gas. The latter option provides tremendous opportunities for equipment owners. This saves battery power and does not require large financial costs.
Absorption condensers can be divided into electro-gas, electric and gas.
Thermoelectric
Currently, it is the most widespread and easy-to-use machine. Unlike other types, this is the quietest and most economical option that does not require a high level of skills when repairing.
Thermoelectric models are reliable and work thanks to an electronic board that generates cold during operation.
The portable containers consist of a radiator, fan, stabilizer and heat exchanger.
The insides are equipped with aluminum, which is the heat absorber produced by the food contained in it. This heat is absorbed by the thermal module and transferred to the stabilizer.
The difference in temperature in aluminum, as well as heating, due to electricity, organizes the collection of heat and thereby contributes to the production of cold.
Power can be provided not only by the 12 v on-board network, but also by an ordinary 220v socket. Thermoelectric refrigerators are not able to organize subzero conditions. The maximum that such a device is capable of is 16 degrees, but under external conditions this is enough to ensure the safety of food and liquids for a while.
A thermoelectric chest is a multifunctional device that, due to the possibility of polarity reversal, from the refrigerating chamber makes it possible to make a heater capable of heating food.
This is facilitated by a toggle switch that, when pressed, changes the principle of operation of the device.
Compressor (freon)
They are considered analogs of a conventional home capacitor, except on a small scale, and some differences (in the form of a special design) allow the device to be used in a car.
This option is much more economical to operate and allows you to store food for a long time, even frozen.
The chest is able to quickly gain the required degree of cold and maintain it after disconnecting from the power supply for 5-6 hours.
The refrigerating chamber works in a similar way to a home refrigerator. There are also 2 compartments here - for freezing and light cooling.
The chest consists of a condenser, compressor, evaporator, freon, temperature regulator.
An important component is the compressor itself and the refrigerant involved in the cooling process, which, under pressure, affects the evaporator. In the process of transition of a substance from one state to another (liquid), freon cools it down. This is how the necessary conditions arise, and the rest of the components contribute to the uniform distribution and preservation of the cold.
It is important for the owners of this type of refrigerator to be aware of the precautions for use. Refrigerants R410a, R12 and R134a are considered the most optimal options when choosing equipment, and the brand of freon containing isobutane and propane should be discarded.
A flammable mixture in a minor accident can cause the machine to catch fire.
The compressor version is perfect for long-distance travel enthusiasts. For example, when motorists are far outside the city, where there is no way to store perishable food.
They are common among medical personnel when transporting blood, and fishermen love this unit for the ability to store the catch throughout the entire fishing trip.
Ammonia
Already from the name it can be understood that ammonia is an important component here.
Due to its chemical characteristics, ammonia is considered harmful, so in everyday life the use of this type of cameras has practically disappeared.
Nevertheless, we will understand the operation of ammonia equipment.
In addition to the chemical element, the container has a receiver containing a liquid, a hermetic system, a heating element and an evaporator.
If the consumer does not use equipment, then the ammonia is in a specially designated container, and when heated, the substance, having certain properties, creates a reaction, during which vapors are received by the heating module, which cools the apparatus.
Also, the ammonia version of the device allows you to independently improve the refrigerator by adding additional components, for example, a fan, which will accelerate the decrease in the degree.
Pros and cons
Each version of the refrigerator has individual characteristics, so it would be more correct to highlight the positive and negative qualities of a separate category.
Absorption
What will please:
- lack of noise;
- third party power supplies (gas)
- profitability;
- large selection of models;
- temperature regulation.
What will upset:
- fragility (do not like shaking);
- dependence on external factors;
- high price.
Thermoelectric
What will please:
- noiselessness;
- lack of refrigerant and, accordingly, safety for the owner and the environment;
- can both cool and warm food / drinks;
- inexpensive.
What will upset:
- small capacity;
- the temperature inside depends on the outside;
- cools the contents for a long time;
- when turned off, it does not keep the cold for long.
Compressor
What will please:
- fast time to set the required parameters;
- the possibility of freezing;
- temperature regulation;
- large volume of capacity;
- work not only from the outlet, but also from the on-board network;
- resistant to external factors and robust technology;
- long time of keeping cold;
- has various forms.
What will upset:
- noisy;
- large and bulky models;
- are expensive.
Absorption
What will please:
- safety of products without using electricity;
- easy to operate;
- lightweight and comfortable;
- no refrigerant;
- have different sizes;
- budgetary.
What will upset:
- temperature depends on external factors;
- do not cool, but maintain the state of the content;
- for the best effect, additional components are needed.
Criterias of choice
A large number of devices on the technology market sometimes misleads many consumers.
How to choose the right option and not be mistaken? Here are some tips.
To begin with, the buyer needs to decide on the conditions for keeping such a device.
Chamber volume is also an important purchase criterion. If you need less than 10 liters, then it is worth opting for a battery-powered refrigerator. Here you can be sure that it is the contents that will be cooled, and not the air inside the machine.
If the consumer is counting on a certain budget, then it is worth noting that freon ones are the most expensive, unlike battery ones. Even if this option does not suit you, then feel free to choose a thermoelectric one.
In terms of operation parameters, it is similar to a compressor one, but it costs several times cheaper.
If the owner of the car prefers to have a powerful unit that can not only cool, but also freeze for a long time, then freon will do. True, even a portable device of this type takes up a lot of space. Here the emphasis is on quality and performance.
So, the most important criteria are:
- container volume;
- price;
- performance.
This data will help you understand what to expect from the chosen technique.
Rating of the best auto refrigerators for 2020
Absorption
Dometic MobiCool A40
A40 is an equipment powered by a network, gas cylinders and a cigarette lighter, which allows travel enthusiasts to take their camera with them wherever they go. The steel cover and plastic cover keep the temperature inside the refrigerator at 20 degrees.
The set includes an ice tray, a lid with a magnetic lock, and a 1 year warranty card.
Data:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 510x450x520 mm;
- weight - 19.5 kg;
- volume - 38 liters;
- power - 72 watts.
Advantages:
- versatility;
- guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- bulky;
- great weight.
Price: 34 359 rubles.
Dometic Combicool ACX 40
Water cooled condenser. The equipment is insulated with polyurethane foam. It is possible to use a gas cartridge. The technique is considered small among other models and has a large volume, where you can place not only food, but also a large number of drinks. Suitable for a large company.
When using gas, the device should be installed exactly horizontally, otherwise deviations from the promised characteristics will be noticeable. Powered by a cigarette lighter, mains and gas cylinders. The kit includes: a warranty card for a period of 2 years, an ice tray and instructions.
Parameters:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 500 × 444 × 508 mm;
- power supply: 12v / 230 V;
- cooling - up to 30 C;
- color: gloss, black;
- material: aluminum;
- gas consumption: 9.8 gal / h;
- gas pressure: 30 mbar
- weight: 16 kg;
- volume: 40 l.
Advantages:
- durable body;
- silent;
- versatile use;
- interesting design.
Disadvantages:
- installation features;
- high price.
Cost: 33 100 rubles
Camping World Unicool DeLuxe
Electro-gas, absorption machine, which has a large capacity and a sensor for consumed electricity. To achieve correct operation, the camera has a horizon level that will help you position the device correctly.
Allows to place additional cold accumulators inside. Has a certificate of safety of use. Powered by gas cylinders and mains.
Parameters:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 55x53x50 cm;
- material - plastic;
- weight: 20 kg;
- volume: 42 l;
- color - gray;
- cooling: 20-25C.
Advantages:
- energy saving;
- noiselessness;
- safety;
- universal power supplies.
Disadvantages:
- weight;
- high price;
- works only in the correct position;
- to avoid odor, defrost after use.
Price RUB 31,970
Waeco Combicool ACX 35
Absorption condenser that functions both from a socket and from LPG. The equipment is equipped with a toggle switch that regulates the temperature; the set includes a plug for a socket and a cord for a cigarette lighter.
Capable of cooling up to 30 degrees from outside temperature. It is made in an aluminum case, there is a cooling regulator. You can use an ice tray.
Specifications:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 500x440x443;
- supply voltage - 12/220, gas;
- weight - 14 kg;
- volume - 31 liters;
- consumption - 75 watts.
Advantages:
- no electricity is required when using liquefied gas;
- light weight;
- warranty and additional equipment.
Disadvantages:
- dependence on the external environment;
- for best results it is advisable to use additional ice.
Cost: 29 140 rubles
Thermoelectric
Golden Snail GS-9209
The small, comfortable chamber is designed to store small amounts of food. Suitable for small cars where a small machine is required. Method of operation - thermoelectric, container type.
Equipped with a toggle switch for adjusting the degree of cooling, there is a compartment for drinks. You can use the heating function.
Specifications:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 34x21x32 cm;
- volume - 7.5 l;
- power source - network;
- cooling - 20 degrees;
- voltage - 12 V;
- power - 48 watts;
- material - plastic.
Advantages:
- small;
- convenient;
- heating function.
Disadvantages:
- small volume;
- power supply only from the mains.
Price: 2 259 rubles
Mobicool U30 DC
Plastic auto-refrigerator with thermoelectric function. For convenience, carry handles are provided.
Mains powered. One compartment is provided. Perfect for small cars.
Data:
- dimensions (WxHxD) - 29.6x39.6x44.5 mm;
- weight - 4 kg;
- volume - 30 l;
- cooling - 20C;
- material - plastic;
- supply voltage - 12 V;
- power - 48 watts.
Advantages:
- low weight with large volume;
- convenient;
- easy;
Disadvantages:
- low degree of cooling;
- functions only from the network.
Price: 4 980 rubles
Mobicool MB25
Car refrigerator bag with an interesting design and handles for easy carrying. Powered by a cigarette lighter, it can hold both drinks and food. Convenient access, and zips at the outer pockets provide extra space. The bag has adjustable straps for easy movement and carrying.
Parameters:
- dimensions (LxWxH) - 400x170x330 mm;
- weight - 1.82 kg;
- volume - 25 l;
- cooling -15 C.
Advantages:
- easy to carry;
- light weight;
- additional features for ease of use.
Disadvantages:
- slight temperature;
- according to consumers, it does not keep cold for long.
Price: 5 600 rubles
EZ E32M 12 / 230V Gray
Convenient container for holding food and drinks with carrying handles. Power cable available. There is a 2-year warranty. Power supply 12/220 V. Powered by cigarette lighter and mains.
Data:
- dimensions (HxWxD) - 510x395x295mm;
- volume - 29 l;
- weight - 4 kg.
Advantages:
- easy;
- a pen;
- guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- only keeps the temperature, but does not cool;
- dependence on the external environment.
Price: RUB 7,900
Compressor
Libhof 17 L Q-18
The compact and cost-effective camera is equipped with a touch control panel. There is a temperature indicator. The set includes partitions to divide the space. A smart device has a memory of previous settings, to which you can always return. A temperature regulator will help make the cooling more or less intense. The device can function from different power sources. Carrying handles allow you to carry the container with convenience.
Parameters:
- dimensions (HxWxD) - 355x655x385 mm;
- volume - 17 l;
- weight - 13 kg;
- power - 40 watts;
- cooling min / max: -25 / + 20 C.
Advantages:
- additional functions;
- universal power supply;
- energy saving.
Disadvantages:
- small volume;
- noisy device.
Cost: 17,000 rubles
Vector-Frost VF-25C
The compressor auto-refrigerator has a control panel. There is a freezing function, mains power, material: plastic, 1 camera. The minimum temperature during freezing is -19 degrees, the maximum temperature in the chamber is -10 degrees. Supply voltage: 12/24/220 V. Availability of R134a refrigerant.
Parameters:
- dimensions (HxWxD): 590х365х355 mm;
- volume - 25 l;
- power - 48 V;
- weight - 11 kg.
Advantages:
- large temperature range;
- additional functions.
Disadvantages:
- noisy;
- high price.
Price: 19,500 rubles.
LIBHOF Q55
The brand new model of compressor refrigerator is renowned for its high quality level and is certified to the international standard. It has protection against depressurization and provides three-level protection of the battery against discharge. The set includes a power supply unit for a 220 V network, a freezer.
Specifications:
- dimensions (HxWxD) - 755 × 425 × 560 mm;
- volume - 49 l;
- weight - 19.5 kg;
- power - 50 watts;
- min. temperature: -25 degrees.
Advantages:
- guarantee;
- additional usability;
- hard case.
Disadvantages:
- no heating function;
- high price.
Cost: 25,000 rubles.
Portable
Mystery MTC-25
Convenient portable car refrigerator that you can always take with you for a long distance. Aimed at the maintenance and cooling of food and drinks. The camera is considered a freestanding portable bag. Refers to the type of thermoelectric refrigerators.
Combined power supply, power: 58 watts. The maximum cooling temperature is -18 degrees. There is a function of heating up to 65 C. Material - plastic, gray color, there are handles for easy carrying.
Data:
- dimensions (HxLxW) - 370x390x295 mm;
- weight - 3.75 kg;
- volume - 25 liters.
Advantages:
- light weight;
- heating function;
- portable device.
Disadvantages:
- depends on the ambient temperature;
- according to consumers, it does not keep cold for long.
Cost: 3 823 rubles
Mystery MTH-22B
Portable thermoelectric cooler for picnics and long distance travel. Mechanical control, additional pockets for keeping things. Powered by a cigarette lighter (12V). 1 year warranty.
Specifications:
- dimensions (HxLxW) - 400x280x355 mm;
- weight - 1.9 kg;
- power: 40 watts;
- material: plastic;
- color - blue.
Advantages:
- portable device;
- easy;
- guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- small volume;
- according to consumers, does not provide adequate cooling to products.
Cost: 3 331 rubles
Mystery MTC-243
The auto-refrigerator has a portable purpose. The car is located separately, thermal cooling method. Cameras and doors in one copy. There is also a foldable carrying handle and removable cover. The set includes a cable for functioning from the cigarette lighter. The maximum cooling temperature is 14-16 degrees, heating - 50.
Parameters:
- dimensions (HxLxW) - 400x233x430 mm;
- weight - 3 kg;
- volume: 24 l;
- power - 54 watts;
- material - plastic.
Advantages:
- options for ease of use;
- lightweight camera.
Disadvantages:
- small degree of cooling;
- the temperature inside depends on the outside.
Price: 2 765 rubles
Embedded
EZ Coolers E24M Mirabelle
The built-in refrigerator of the EZ Coolers model is suitable for long and long journeys. The built-in cord (1.6 meters) allows the device to be operated from a car cigarette lighter. The “smart” camera system itself can choose the desired mode in accordance with the wishes of the owner or in connection with external environmental factors. A car refrigerator allocates resources economically, which improves its quality of work and productivity. Warranty: 2 years, with a built-in fan.
Specifications:
- dimensions (HxGxSh) - 420x290x390 mm;
- weight - 4.5 kg;
- volume - 21 liters;
- power supply - 12/220 V;
- material - plastic;
- color - blue.
Advantages:
- smart camera system;
- profitability;
- built-in.
Disadvantages:
- according to consumers, the device is noisy;
- small volume.
Price: 5 290 rubles
ALPICOOL C30
A compact, large-volume model will take up little space, since the device belongs to built-in auto-refrigerators. The kit includes cords for connecting to a car power and an outlet. Refers to the type of compressor refrigerators. Optimum camera performance is possible, even when mounted at an angle, without compromising performance.
Temperature range from +20 to -20 degrees. The composition contains an environmentally friendly refrigerant. Thanks to the display, the machine can be easily operated.
Specifications:
- external dimensions (LxWxD) - 57x36x36 cm;
- internal dimensions (LxWxD) - 44.5x27.5x27 cm;
- weight - 15 kg;
- volume - 30 l;
- power - 40 watts.
Advantages:
- a large number of additional options;
- environmentally friendly;
- protection against moisture and depressurization.
Disadvantages:
- creates noise;
- high price.
Price: RUB 25,200
Alpicool CX30-S
The latest generation of models, made with the latest technology, will ensure long-term storage of the contents of the camera. Cooling occurs along all walls of the auto-refrigerator, which ensures the safety and proper storage of products.
An optional internal battery is included to ensure uninterrupted operation of the device. Display and flip cover provided. The device is built-in, but also has a carrying function. Equipped with a handle and wheels for convenience. Compressor cooling method.
Data:
- dimensions (HxWxD) - 365x378x586 mm;
- weight - 12.3 kg;
- volume - 30 l;
- power supply - 12/24/220 V;
- power - 45 watts.
Advantages:
- a large number of additional options;
- light weight;
- temperature indicators;
- the ability to control remotely.
Disadvantages:
- creates noise;
- high price.
Price: 26 680 rubles.
Outcome
If you decide to go on a long trip, then you should pay special attention to refrigerated trucks. Analyze your preferences and be sure to purchase a cooling chamber.
The article examined the criteria for choosing a suitable device that will not only preserve your food and drinks, but also provide a great mood throughout the trip.
Take advantage of the advice and organize your holiday at the highest level.
Alpikul does not just make noise, it rattles and fills, no worse than a tractor. A huge minus. And the panel, whether the assembly was bad, or the quality, went away literally immediately