Yard and Garage

Category: Reviews

Best Hedge Trimmers – 5 Top Models (2022 Edition)
Complete Reviews with Comparison
With the warmer weather, plenty of sunshine, and spring rains, it’s time to get your hedges, shrubs, bushes, and brambles back into shape after winter. To give your landscaping a haircut, you’ll need one of the gardener’s most useful tools: a hedge trimmer. These handy cutters shear leaves and slice branches, making your hedges into prettier shapes.
But, there are a lot of hedge trimmers on the market. Which ones are the best for 2021? We’ve done a full comparison for you, so read on to see which one trims the verge for the most bang for your buck and makes our pick of the best hedge trimmer for homeowners.
Top 5 Hedge Trimmers Comparison Chart
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Our Top Hedge Trimmer Reviews
#1. Greenworks 22” Corded Hedge Trimmer
This model is our pick for the best homeowner hedge trimmer. You can’t go wrong with choosing the Greenworks 22″ to clean up your shrubs and bushes around the yard.
Fast, light, and easy to use, this Greenworks corded hedge trimmer will trim up your hedges, shrubs, and other plant materials in no time.
It’s reasonably inexpensive but offers a larger motor than others of its price range. You get a nice long blade, too, as well as a great warranty.
Review:
The body of this Greenworks 22 inch Corded Hedge Trimmer is painted an attractive green with a large black curved handle for stability. The body design also includes a hooking cord lock to keep your extension cord from accidentally unplugging.
In front of the body is a tall thick plastic hand guard. The long 22” blade is dual action and dual edged to trim either in a downward or upward motion. It has a red stripe down the middle to see it better.
The blades are made of steel and can cut material up to 5/8” thick. It’s powered by an impressive 4 amp motor, which not only means more power, but it helps reduce vibration. It’ll cut through hedges, shrubs, brambles, and thorny plants like roses.
Despite the big motor, this hedge trimmer is not as noisy as other models. It’s light in weight, weighing only 5.72 lbs. There’s a button tilt to change the angle. The warranty is for four years, better than the industry standard.
While this is one of the better hedge trimmers, it has drawbacks. It’s corded, so you will need to purchase the round female outlet extension cord(s) you need. It will cut a cord easily, so you need to watch out for that. It’s also too heavy to use one-handed, so you have to use two hands at all time. There is no lock for the trigger to stay in the “on” position and needs to be pressed at all times.
The motor size makes it heavier than a 3.5 amp motor hedge trimmer would be. But if you don’t mind an extra half a pound, you can trim larger material.
Pros:
Light and easy to hold
4 amp motor
Button tilt to change the angle
Cons:
Very loud machine
Requires extension cord
Only cuts up to 3/8” thick
YouTube Review video:
https://youtu.be/Dwx2QFOHYfQ
#2. Black+Decker BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer
This fun little orange hedge trimmer is the least expensive of the five listed here, so it’s perfect for gardeners and landscapers on a budget. Black+Decker is one of the most well-known brands for household tools, so despite the low price, this Black and Decker BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer has quite a few features you’ll enjoy.
Review:
If you’ve been struggling with heavier trimmers and have a lot of plant growth to get through, then this Black+Decker BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer is ideal. It’s the lightest of these hedge trimmers, weighing only 4.63 lbs. You’ll appreciate this for longer jobs that take more than a few hours.
This is a corded trimmer, so you’ll need to purchase separate extension cords and configure your electrical set up. It does have a cord retention feature that keeps the extension cord in place to prevent accidental unplugging.
The 3 amp motor is surprisingly powerful and can cut brush and branches up to 5/8” in diameter. You’ll use two hands to operate this hedge trimmer, with one hand on the handle in the back and the other on the T-handle up front. This is also safe enough to use one-handed, unlike some other trimmers. There’s a guard in front to protect your hands.
It does have a couple of negatives. One is that the blade is the shortest of all the hedge trimmers, at only 16” long. It’s not best for jobs that need a long reach. For the price and the weight, the motor is a good size but could be more powerful, too. The more amps in the motor, the thicker plant material you can cut.
Some users have commented this doesn’t seem to be as durable as Black+Decker products from the past. This is best for smaller jobs like thick ornamental grasses and for those concerned with a heavy weight.
Pros:
Only weighs 4.63 lbs.
Cord retention
T-handle for control
Cons:
Doesn’t come with extension cord
Motor is only 3 amps
Blade only 16” long
#3. Snow Joe 22″ Electric Hedge Trimmer
Accomplish your gardening chores easier by choosing this Sun Joe 22 inch Electric Hedge Trimmer. It’s an inexpensive, but essential tool for quickly trimming plant material like hedges, shrubs, flowering plants, ornamental grasses, and brambles. At only 5 lbs., it’s also ideal for those who need a lightweight machine.
Review:
The Sun Joe 22″ Electric Hedge Trimmer is so easy to operate, you’ll have it plugged in within minutes of receiving it and be able to start trimming. This brand is known for its models that are well designed and fun to use. The blade is 22″ long and made from pre-hardened, rust-resistant stainless steel. The body of the machine is lime green, and the blade is bright yellow for visibility amongst green plants.
There’s a large rear handle for one hand, and a thick wrap-around curved handle for your second hand. It makes the hedge trimmer more stable. A tall black hand guard protects your hands from plant material flying back at you.
For its small size and light 5 lbs. weight, you get a decent sized 3.5 amp motor. It’s powerful enough for handling hedges up to ¼” thick. It comes with a short cord, which is permanently attached. This trimmer is light enough to occasionally use with one hand if you need to move branches aside.
This trimmer is great, but we did take issues with some of its features. It is a corded trimmer, so you need to purchase extension cord(s) separately. It’s not very heavy duty or powerful and doesn’t cut thicker material. Although it doesn’t weigh much, it sacrifices power and durability.
This is best for lighter gardening work or personal landscaping, and nothing heavier duty.
Pros:
Stainless steel blades
Full front handle
Push button instant start
Cons:
Not heavy duty
No locking feature on trigger
Only handles up to ¼” shrubs
YouTube Review video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx01QkaOTb0
#4. GARCARE Corded Hedge Trimmer
With its 24″ laser cut blade, the GARCARE Corded Hedge Trimmer is the most luxurious and expensive hedge trimmer you can get, which makes it one of the best. It’s built for more powerful jobs than other hedge trimmers, thanks to the larger motor. If maximum power is what you need, choose this one.
Review:
If you’re looking for the longest blade length for your buck, then this GARCARE brand hedge trimmer has you covered. Others only have a 20” or 22” blade, while this one is 24” long. When powered by the 4.8 amp motor, you can cut brush and branches up to ¾” thick. The rust-resistant hardened steel blade is dual action and dual edge as well.
The blades are shaped with diamond grinders and cut by lasers for accuracy and durability. Having such a big motor also reduces the amount of vibration when using this hedge trimmer. It’s nice to get through an entire hedge job without needing to change blades to handle thicker brush.
This is a corded hedge trimmer, so you will need the appropriate extension cord(s). It’s also the heaviest hedge trimmer, thanks to the longest blade and largest motor out of all these models. It weighs 8.6 pounds, so is not suitable for gardeners or homeowners who are seeking lighter weight trimmers.
You’ll feel the weight if you have a lot of plant material to trim. But for those who have a small amount of very thick hedge, this model is perfect.
Pros:
Extra long dual action 24” blade
Cuts up to ¾” thick
6 amp motor
Cons:
Heavy at 8.5 lbs.
Not as durable as other models.
Needs extension cord
#5. Sun Joe 20″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer
If you’re tired of trying to find and fit extension cords, are worried about cord safety, or just don’t want to get electrocuted, then this Sun Joe 20 inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is the one for you. It’s a few dollars more than the corded model listed above, but it’s a lot safer. Feel free to change direction or angle while using this hedge trimmer. There’s no cord to get tangled or accidentally cut.
Review:
You won’t smell like gas or accidentally cut your expensive extension cord when you use this Sun Joe 20” Cordless Hedge Trimmer. It uses a rechargeable 20 volt 2.0 Ah EcoSharp lithium-ion battery, which gives you 40 minutes of hedge trimming on a single charge.
The body of the trimmer is very small and painted lime green, with both a rear handle and a top T-handle for built-in stability.
There’s a tall, black angled hand guard to protect your knuckles from flying debris. It’s easy to maneuver and change angles. The long yellow blade is 20.4” in length and lined on both sides with dual action black rust-resistant steel blades. There’s a dual handed safety switch so it won’t accidentally start. Since the motor is smaller, this machine is very lightweight and is only 5.3 lbs.
However, this hedge trimmer does have a 2 amp motor, which is the smallest and least powerful out of these five models. Less power means you won’t be able to handle thicker hedges, scrub brush, and branches. It only cuts branches up to 0.62” in diameter.
Also, the fact it’s cordless makes it more expensive than the lower priced corded models with larger motors and longer blades.
Pros:
Cordless
Just 5.3 lbs. in weight
Dual action 20.4” blades
Cons:
Only 2 amp motor
Runs only 40 minutes on battery
More expensive than corded
Features to look for when buying a hedge trimmer
Adequate Amount Of Power
If you’re dealing with hedges that are older, they may have thick branches. You definitely want a hedge trimmer that has plenty of power so that this type of foliage can be trimmed.
If you will be doing some heavy cutting, choose a model that has larger tooth gaps, which is more suitable for heavy cutting and hedging.
Weight And Balance
When you’re using a hedge trimmer, you will be holding it at about chest level. It should have a lightweight and be relatively balanced so that you don’t become quickly fatigued. Having a lightweight, balanced trimmer will allow you to get more done.
Before you make your purchase, take the effort to pick up various models and make the same motions you would if you were actually using it with the power turned on.
Noise Level
If you’ve worked with gas-powered lawn equipment, you know that they can be loud. You may want to consider utilizing a cordless or electric model, which are usually much quieter.
Blade Size
The blade size of your hedge trimmer must also be considered. The blade gap is the space that is in between the blades on your trimmer. Typically, you’ll want to have a gap size that is 3/8 inches to 3/4 inches wide.
Good Warranty
It’s important to find a model that has a good warranty. Even some of the most popular hedge trimmers can have problems. Consider buying a model that has a guarantee of lasting at least two years.
On some commercial units, you may be able to find warranties that are guaranteed for five years.
Rotating Blade
If you’ll be using your trimmer between fences, walls, hedges or other plants, it helps to have a rotating blade. This will allow you to comfortably hold your trimmer. In addition, it makes it safe for cutting when you need to hold the trimmer at different angles.
A Switch That Locks
If you will be using this piece of equipment near dogs, children or other types of similar distractions, it may be advisable to use a trimmer that requires you to keep your finger pressed down on the operating switch.
However, you may want to utilize a unit that has a locking switch, especially if you plan on using your unit in a continuous manner.
Battery Power And Cordless Models
If you are purchasing a model that has battery power, it will usually operate at 100 percent until it finally runs out of juice. If you decide to utilize a cordless model, you don’t have to worry about walking too far out of the vicinity of your power source.
Also, a cordless model will not contain a cord that can get snagged by foliage or ladders.
The Best Model of Trimmer
In the world of hedge trimmers, we’re looking for three top features: motor size, blade size, and weight. The trimmer which fits all three of these criteria is the Greenworks 22 inch Corded Hedge Trimmer.
It has the ideal combination of a powerful motor to cut thicker hedges, a longer blade for reachability, and it weighs less than 6 pounds. That’s all for an inexpensive price, too.
I’d also recommend the Sun Joe 20 inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer. It’s got a smaller motor, but you can ditch extension cords and tackle light jobs with ease.
No matter which one you choose, don’t hedge your bets and put your hedge fund towards getting one of these trimmers!
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June 26, 2018
The Best Self Propelled Lawn Mowers
Image source © Deposit Photos

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I’ll earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure here.
Self-propelled lawn mowers are an excellent way to make your yard work more enjoyable while saving some money. They simply push themselves, all you need to do is guide them to help control their path!
Self-propelled mowers operate much like regular push mowers, except they work on a drive system that requires you to squeeze a bar on the handle. This will engage the mower and the drive mechanism, and from there on out it will move on its own.
The strength requirements for cutting your grass are lowered with a self-propelled lawn mower. Image source © Deposit Photos
They are propelled forward by either rear-wheel drive, or front wheel drive depending on the model. Some models even have both front and rear -wheel drive, making mowing on hills easier to accomplish as well.
They are perfect for reducing fatigue, allowing you to have more energy, and save your back for whatever else the day has in store for you. As we all know, traditional push mowers can be exhausting, especially for those of us who have property around the one-acre mark.
Self-propelled mowers make cutting your lawn less demanding. It is for this reason that professional lawn care workers utilize self-propelled mowers to help with some of the extra work they may have on the job.
After using a self-propelled-lawn mower, and seeing how much easier it is to use when cutting your lawn, you won’t want to go back to a regular push mower.
Here are the five best self propelled lawn mowers currently available:
Quick Mower Comparison Table
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In this article, we will review five of the best models of self-propelled lawn mowers of 2021. We will explore some of their features, the pros, and cons of each of the models, give you any model specific information, and even link you to where you can see them for yourself.
This could help you make a more informed decision on what exactly it is that you need for your own yard work.
OK, I’m sold on self-propelled lawn mowers. Just take me to the reviews.
Why Should I Purchase a Self-Propelled Mower Online?
Several things should be taken into consideration when deciding to purchase your lawn mowers online or at a local dealer.
1. Image source © Deposit Photos
  The first of which, there are a wider array of options to choose from. When going to your local hardware store, you may notice that the options are few, far and between. If they do not carry what you need, they will simply order the item online themselves, then sell it to you at a markup price.
2. This brings me to my next point, that shopping online is cheaper. Many times, you can find the deals online, and this is what is great about living in the 21st century. In today’s day and age, we have to find every opportunity to save money where we can, and purchasing your mower online can help you to achieve this goal.
3. One of the best reasons to purchase online is the ease of ordering and shopping. All the information you need is right there at your fingertips, and there are countless resources on the internet that can help you to answer any questions you may have.
4. You also cut out the salesmanship, as honest reviews placed by customers who have purchased the mower you are interested in are available.
What Should I Look for in a Self-Propelled Mower?
Self-Propelled mowers have all the great features previously mentioned, but what you are really looking for is longevity, capability, and ease of use.
This is my self-propelled lawn mower, going strong after 8 years.
You’ll want to make sure any mower you choose has a mulching option and comes with a detachable bag for catching grass clippings. I have wanted to get around to posting an article on the benefits of mulching and bagging for your lawn but haven’t gotten around to it yet.
The short of it is that you aren’t helping your lawn by letting large clippings pile on your lawn. You need to either bag your lawn clippings for composting/removal or you need to use the mulching attachment so any clippings are very fine and break down easily. This leaves your lawn looking its best without messy clippings everywhere.
https://youtu.be/WOrDAYlEuZE
Self propelled mowers are a hot ticket item for many homeowners, and they easily fit in a garage, shed, or wherever it is that you plan on storing them. They are smaller than riding mowers, making it easier to keep in your garage and still have room for your vehicle, and working areas.
If you have an average sized suburban lawn, I do not recommend electric lawn mowers yet. A gas mower is still your best best. If you have a postage stamp sizes lawn, then electric may be a better choice.
Which Model is the Top Self Propelled Lawn Mower of 2021?
#1. PowerSmart 21 inch Rear Wheel Drive Lawn Mower
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A 170 cc OHV engine is what drives the mower. It features a 3-in-1 mulch, collection, and side discharge options. It also has a 21-inch steel cutting width, allowing for ease of cutting your grass.
Has a 5 position cutting height. With just a simple height adjustment, you can transform the cutting height to suit any occasion and going from 1.18 inch of grass to 3 inches of overgrown tall grass with this tool makes it easier than ever!. A soft grip handle makes for a comfortable lawn mowing experience.
Quiet idle run. Ease of pull / easy to start is another nice feature on this model.
Pros:
Easy setup, user friendly
One pull start after first use
Cons:
Hard plastic wheels have less traction than rubber.
Does not come with required pint of oil.
#2. Honda 21″ Electric Start Mower
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The gas-powered Honda HRN216VKA self-propelled lawn mower sits at the best of its class. A mulching option is available, and it has micro cut twin blades to ensure a precision cut experience.
This model also features a variable speed control lever, allowing you to change the pace to fit your comfort.
This self-propelled lawn mower features great maneuverability around corners and sports a rear wheel drive. The mower is built to last, with longevity being a major highlight of the product. It has a solid steel deck and provides 21 inches of cutting surfaces.
The Honda engine lives up to its reputation, providing excellent power, and drive capabilities to ensure a quick, easy, and painless lawn mowing experience to the customer.
Pros:
Packaging is well-done, helping prevent damage to the product during shipping.
Motor is fully assembled on arrival, with oil in the box, making the initial set up process a quick and easy process.
Multiple cutting adjustable height setting for the mower, making it easy to discern height of grass for each cut.
Easy Start up, user friendly.
Cons:
Some users have reported to tighten the wheels before first use.
#3. Black and Decker 21-inch Lawnmower
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Powered by a 140cc engine, this lawnmower is equipped with a 21-inch cutting deck, letting even more ground get cut at once. Dual levers allow adjustments between 6 different trim heights so any kind of lawn can get all leveled out.
This model features 3-in-1 side discharge capabilities, mulch, or rear bag. 8 by 8-inch-high performance wheels and an adjustable ergonomic handle make this mower easier to use.
This nimble mower is lightweight and has a proven, workhorse engine that will get your mowing jobs done.
Pros:
First pull recoil start.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Bar-treaded tires help with traction on slick grass.
Cons:
A little pricey for 140cc engine.
#4. PowerSmart PSM2022 21-inch RWD Lawn Mower
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The PowerSmart PSM2022 22-inch rear wheel drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower has a whopping 200cc engine, and comes with a generous 3 year warranty. This mower also features large 11 1/2 inch rear wheels, 5 setting adjustable height preference, and a 3-in-1 side discharge, rear bag, or mulch option. The bag is pretty hefty at 14.6 gallons, keeping you cutting longer between clipping dumps.
With the previously mentioned height adjustment, you can get your cut from a 1.2 inch scalp to a leafy 3.5 inch height. The PowerSmart ships with standard plastic wheels. An upgrade to rubber wheels would be a great project.
This mower is very easy to set up and works great on initial use. The user-friendly model comes with a manual, one-pull startup, and a sleek black paint job to allow you to mow in style.
Pros:
Runs smoothly, and easy to use.
One Pull start-up.
Large rear wheels give great mobility.
Cons:
Speed may be too much for some homeowners.
Plastic wheels lose traction on wet grass.
#5. Lawn-Boy 17732 21-Inch Lawn Mower
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The Lawn-Boy 17732 21-Inch 6.5 Gross Torque Kohler XTX OHV, 3-in-1 Discharge Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled Lawn Mower features a rear wheel drive system to ensure better traction and control on hills.
The manufacturer guarantees a 3-year Tru-start commitment, stating it will start in one or two pulls, or Lawn-Boy will fix it for free.
A two-point height cut system allows you to adjust the height of the mower. The model has a 149cc OHV engine. It is CARB compliant for the state of California.
Pros:
Easy to fill gas spout.
Rear wheel drive ensures a power-driven experience.
Handles corners well.
Cons:
The height adjustment feature is on the side of the mower, and is not as easy to use as a lever adjuster.
Assembly is not as easy as some other models.
My choice for the best self-propelled mower.
These mowers are a great starting point for those who are looking for a good quality cut and easy to use lawnmower for their yard work. Each has their own unique benefits, some lawn mowers handling hills and corners better, while others feature better assembly, startup, and overall performance.
Many people who cut their own lawns may have their own personal preference on the features they require, but one mower, in particular, seems to stand out by having all the features one may need already built in.
The clear-cut winner of the roundup and my vote for the best self-propelled lawn mower is the Honda HRN216VKA.
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The value of the mower, its customer ratings, and its longevity make for an excellent investment for those looking for a strong performance they can count on throughout the years.
It is no wonder why so many of the customers who purchased this self-propelled mower had many pros to highlight, with very few complaints.
I have owned a slightly different model, the HRR2168VKA, which doesn’t come with an electric start, for over 8 years now. It is still running great after all this time and the next mower I get will be a Honda as well.
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May 13, 2018
Best Garage Refrigerators (2022 Top Refrigerator Models)
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I’ll earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure here.
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Don’t you just hate having all of those bulk drinks you purchased from Costco sitting in the hot pantry and not being ice cold when you want one? What about those family gatherings when you run out of space in your kitchen refrigerator?
You’ve been thinking about buying a garage refrigerator but you just aren’t sure which one will work? Will they be too expensive or break down due to the heat?
Let me stop you there. We love our garage refrigerator. It gets so much use and stores so many drinks the neighborhood kids call our garage the Jiffy Mart. It was one of the best decisions we have made since moving into this house 5 years ago.
I’ll help you find the perfect garage fridge in this article and calm your fears about expense or maintenance.
Questions About Putting a Refrigerator in the Garage
Can you keep a refrigerator in the garage?
Yes. Refrigerators work fine in garage conditions. If you live in an extreme climate you may need to make a few modifications to your setup to increase the lifespan of your garage refrigerator.
Can you keep a refrigerator in a hot garage?
Yes. I live in the south where the temperatures stay in the 90s throughout the summer. My garage’s average daytime temperature is 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can you keep your freezer in the garage?
You can keep either a combo refrigerator/freezer or a deep freezer (chest freezer) in the garage.
What is a garage ready refrigerator?
Some manufacturers sell “garage-ready” refrigerators which have a few differences from the regular models. These can include extra insulation, higher energy efficiency, and a lower range of recommended operating temperatures. A refrigerator for garage use may sell for slightly more than a normal refrigerator.
Can a freezer be in a cold garage?
This depends on how cold we are talking about. Check the recommended operating range to see what the manufacturer suggests. If your garage gets cooler than that for an extended period of time, you may need to purchase a garage kit for the freezer so it will run into lower temperature ranges. The average lower operating temperature of a normal freezer is 59 degrees Fahrenheit.
Does hot weather affect refrigerators?
Running your refrigerator in a hot environment could cause premature failure due to increased use of the compressor and fan motor. To increase lifespan in extreme situations (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit):
- Purchase an energy efficient model.
- Insulate your garage if you can.
- Only open the fridge when necessary.
- Store gallon jugs of water in empty spaces to help regulate the temperature.
What is a garage kit for a refrigerator?

This image links to Amazon.com
A refrigerator garage kit is a small coil that warms the air around the refrigerator’s thermostat. In cooler weather, the coils will fool the garage refrigerator into keeping the compressor running more often than it would. Shown is a model from Frigidaire.
Pros and Cons of a Garage Refrigerator
Before deciding on whether or not you want to purchase a refrigerator for your garage, take a look at both the benefits and potential negatives of having an extra refrigerator.
Once you weigh both sides of the issue, you can better decide what is the best route to take.
Here are a few of the benefits, drawbacks, and impact of having a refrigerator in your garage.
Benefits
- Space for additional food, drink and snack items used on an everyday basis
- Storage for bulkier items, such as bottled and canned beverages
- Room for prepared foods for special occasions, holidays and family get-togethers
- Storage for meals (freezer meals) prepared ahead of time
- Freezing and storage ability for large amounts of fresh meat, poultry, and fish
- Storage for perishable dairy items in large sizes, such as gallon milk jugs and ice cream containers
- Opportunity to actually purchase an updated and optimum efficiency refrigerator
- Reduction in clutter from the main refrigerator
- Ease of finding what you need–no digging!
- Tempting food and drinks are more out of sight, out of mind
Cons / Drawbacks
- The possibility of increased utility bills
- The second fridge may be underutilized
- Placement choice may not accommodate access to the power source
- Garage space placement may be too small, crowded or inconvenient for food and drink retrieval
- Continual maintenance and cleaning chores with a refrigerator housed in a garage
- Could bring on added expenses with possible breakdowns and repairs
- Varying or extreme garage temperatures could affect refrigerator cooling function
Best Garage Refrigerator Reviews
Now that you’ve scanned through the positives and negatives of owning a second or garage refrigerator, here are a few reviews on some selected refrigerators, in varying sizes and capacities, which could possibly wind up in your garage.
Frigidaire FFTR1821TS 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerator (Best Full-Sized)
Frigidaire’s free-standing refrigerator’s abover average capacity enable it to be installed from box to garage with limited effort and no added adaptations.
The previous champions, the Kenmore 61215 with garage ready technology and the newer 71215, have been sold out for a few months. It was similar sized model as this one and with a built in heater (Only necessary in extremely cold areas).
This refrigerator is really good in garages as it can fit into snug spaces. It is under six feet in height (66 inches), measures 30 W x 32 inches D (including door and handle) and weighs 205 pounds.
Its top freezer does not include a bulky ice maker to clutter its slightly smaller than average 3.9 cubic feet. An ice-maker is an optional upgrade. The freezer includes a single evaporator unit.
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Features for the Frigidaire
18 cu. ft. Capacity
Bottom Mount Crisper Drawers
In-Fridge standard lighting
Reversible doors
Door shelf can hold gallon jug.
Fingerprint-resistant surface
Adjustable shelving
Energy Star compliant
Simple mechanical controls
Full width freezer shelves
The interior of the refrigerator contains LED efficient lighting, four adjustable pullout shelves, which are split to accommodate space for varying containers and food and drink items. There are two clear crisper bins at the bottom of the refrigerator as well as an upper meat/deli bin that keeps fish, meat and cold sandwich deli meats at around 32 degrees.
The lower side door, which can be reversed, has an interior area where storage consists of two long columns with 4 trays, deep enough for 2 liter bottles. There is also a self-contained covered butter/margarine container above the other storage spaces. The upper freezer side door has two long clear storage spaces for frozen juice cans and other narrow frozen food items.
This refrigerator is energy efficient, although it is not Energy Star Certified. It has an estimated yearly energy cost of $43, which, of course, hinges on current utility rates of the local area. The refrigerator comes with a User Manual and there is a limited Frigidaire Warranty, with proof of sale/purchase, for one year from the date of purchase for material or workmanship defects.
What to Look for
Look for the Energy Star or ES rating on any refrigerator that is going to be used in a garage area. This particular Frigidaire model is both quiet and effective at cooling at high and lower altitudes, in and out of a garage. It is extremely efficient in its ability to adjust to the temperature of the area in which it is placed. Its inner lighting function is substantial and allows for easy retrieval late at night.
Danby Compact Refrigerator DAR044A5BSLDD (Best Mini)
AKA: The Best Beer Fridge for Garages
Though this automatic defrost Danby model is more of a compact or smaller, freestanding refrigerator, it can be placed in a garage for easy access to food, drinks, and snacks. It has a Spotless stainless steel exterior door finish, a 4.4 cubic feet capacity, has a 120V power outlet, weighs 75 pounds and measures 21.1 x 20.7 x 33.1 inches.
The interior of the refrigerator contains three adjustable and sturdy shelves that vary in width as well as a bottom pull out hydrator/drawer for fruit and produce storage. The upper shelf level contains the temperature control setting unit, which does require careful adjustment for the right temperature control for cooling. There is not an open or closed freezer compartment with this particular model.
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Features for the Danby Compact Refrigerator
4.4 cu. ft. (124 L) capacity compact design
Compliant with Energy Star
Environmentally friendly refrigerant
Automatic defrosting
2 full width and 1 half width adjustable wire shelves
Integrated door shelving with tall bottle storage
CanStor® beverage distribution system
Interior light
Integrated door handle
Reversible door hinge
Mechanical thermostat
Smooth back design
The interior side door contains three curved integrated shelving units as well as an area to the side of the shelves for canned drinks. The bottom shelf is extended to hold larger bottles and other containers, while the other two shelves allow for storage of larger bottles, other containers, and eggs.
Most importantly, the Danby is Energy Star compliant, which means it should save about $32 a year on utility costs, which will depend on local utility rates and actual use. The refrigerator does carry an 18-month warranty for functional parts, and it also comes with a User’s Guide and other information. Though small, this refrigerator holds a significant number of beverage containers and is a good size for use in a one-car garage and other small spaces, like dormitories, assisted living facilities, studio apartments, and motel/hotel rooms.
What to Look for
With this particular model, watch for structural issues, possible noise, freezer malfunctioning, and the possibility of manual defrosting as well as limited air circulation within the unit. It may be necessary to utilize a cooling fan to adequately circulate the air.
Igloo Garage Fridge Tool Box (Best Novelty Fridge)
If you are looking for a small capacity garage refrigerator, this little and mighty Igloo Tool Box fridge may be a good choice, as it is situated on four caster wheels, which allow for mobility and easy change of placement in a small or large garage, and the wheels can be locked down for permanent positioning.
This mini yet roomy metal and wire fridge has a 3.2 cubic feet capacity, measures 20 x 18 x 32 inches and weighs 48 pounds. The interior dimensions are approximately 22 inches high and 16 inches deep, and the bottom area is 10 inches deep. It does not contain an interior light.
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Igloo Tool Box Fridge Features
3.2 cu ft capacity
Separate chiller compartment and lockable wheels for easy movement
Can dispenser in the door
Drip tray
2 removable wire shelves
Crisper
It looks like a toolchest!
The fridge contains two shelves that are removable along with a crisper that maintains fruit and produce for a significant period of time. It has a small covered upper freezer area with a drip tray and a small ice cube container. There is no automatic ice maker.
The temperature settings are at the right of the freezer area and are easily adjusted for adequate cooling of drinks and other items. It keeps drinks and other items extremely cold, even in the warmest of conditions, and the unit itself cools quickly from the initial plugin and startup.
Its side door has a vertical plastic wired dispenser for at least 6 regular canned drinks and there are other storage indentations with protective wired closures for bottled drinks and cans. The very top of the side door has a barred storage area that allows for placement of at least 5 or 6 small bottles or canned drinks.
The toolbox appearance is only for looks as there are no workable storage drawers. There are plastic strips across the front that appear like drawer handles.
The fridge’s red color and style does blend in with other tools in a garage workspace and provide a convenient and camouflaged way to keep other hands out of the “food tools.” The unit has a 1-year limited warranty, and instructions and other information that accompany the refrigerator are limited.
What to Look for
For a small refrigerator, which really is comparable to a Craftsman Tool Box, though not quite as red, there could be issues with the holes for insertion of the locking wheels. They are quite small and may have to be further drilled out for proper sizing.
The lack of instructional materials is a little unnerving, but it is fairly easy to set up this fridge. The faux front drawers/handles are deceiving, but the rest of the refrigerator is attractive and fits in with a garage environment.
Damage can occur through possible poor packaging and mishaps in shipping and handling, so it is important to report problems and keep the warranty handy for replacement purposes.
Other Good Refrigerators on Our Runner’s Up Lists
While these don’t meet our “best” criteria, we are constantly on the lookout for refrigerators that will work in garage conditions, straight out of the box or with a garage kit. The following are runner’s Ups and might fit your exact requirements.
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Final Thoughts on Refrigerator Temperatures
First, all of the refrigerators we review here are easily adaptable to garage placement. Their exterior and interior sizing and their energy saving performance and cooling factors also make them flexible in a garage environment where temperatures can wildly fluctuate.
They all can be utilized in and out of a garage and can handle different capacities and item numbers.
There are a few drawbacks with temperature controls, but most of those hindrances can be overlooked because of the overall quality and efficient cooling factors involved with these three garage refrigerators.
Maintenance Tips for Your Refrigerator or Freezer
https://youtu.be/XzeiGZox7hQ
It doesn’t take much to find the best garage refrigerators. All it takes is a little time, effort and online research and you are on your way to a cooler food and drink future.
A huge source of parts for garage fridges (and all appliances really) is Sears PartsDirect. They have tons of parts for all major brands, even if the appliance wasn’t originally sold by Sears. Here is the direct page for their refrigerator section.
If you have any questions about getting a garage fridge let me know in the comments or send me a message. I’ll help as best I can. Thanks for reading this far!
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April 12, 2018