Frequently Asked Questions about Propane Refrigerators

No. All the brands we carry ignite and run without electrical power. When purchasing a propane refrigerator, the ideal models do not include electrical options. A true off-grid propane refrigerator runs only on propane. Adding electricity to a propane fridge only complicates its operation, makes it more difficult to service, and decreases the cooling unit’s lifespan. The ignition is Piezo-type and self-powered.

This is a self-powered sparker ignition. It’ similar to most BBQ grills. No electricity is required.

An off-grid propane fridge uses absorption technology for cooling. This technology requires heat to boil the liquid chemicals inside the sealed system. If your 2-way or 3-way propane fridge includes an electrical option, the heat rod produces the required heat by using electricity instead of propane. The heat rod uses a lot of power, up to 350 watts. It is not solar-friendly and shortens the life of the cooling unit. We do not recommend or sell units that include an electrical option.

Yes, you can lay an EZ Freeze refrigerator on its left side, which is also the burner side, when transporting it. As long as you lay it on the correct side, you only need to let the fridge stand upright for 1 hour before lighting the flame. If you happen to lay it on the wrong side, please refer to your owner’s manual to follow the “burping” procedure.

All EZ Freeze propane fridges are “manual defrost”. However, all EZ Freeze fridges come with an “EZ Defrost System”. When the absorber fins inside the refrigerator compartment are iced over, and there is no space between them, it is time to defrost. Turning the thermostat down all the way counter-clockwise to the lowest setting before bed and letting it run overnight at this setting will usually defrost the fridge sufficiently. Remove remaining sheets of ice in the morning. Then turn the thermostat back to the previous setting. Read more info here.

No. The odor is usually from a “foul flame” – debris in the burner – and the burner and flue need to be cleaned. See Propane Gas Fridge Maintenance DVD. In some cases, when a new fridge is used for the first time, you may encounter an odor for the first day or 2 due to residue burning from the coils. If you smell ammonia inside the fridge compartment, freezer compartment, or anywhere around the fridge, then the sealed system may have a leak. Consult your dealer.

Most of the time, when the flame goes out on a propane refrigerator, and it cannot be re-lit, the safety valve called the thermocouple has gone out.  We’ve made a quick video explaining how to replace the thermocouple on your EZ Freeze. You can also call one of our technicians at 928-636-1955 to purchase a replacement part or to troubleshoot over the phone.

Please see our article “Setting up your new gas refrigerator“.

Please see our article “maintenance for gas refrigerators” or purchase a maintenance DVD for Consul-Danby, Diamond or EZ Freeze.

Yes. Propane refrigerators are one of the most dependable choices for off-grid homes, cabins, and other dwellings, whether you live off the grid full-time or spend weekends at a remote cabin or hunting property. They run steadily on a standard propane supply and deliver full-size refrigeration without generators, inverters, or large battery banks.

Absolutely. Because a propane refrigerator never draws from the electrical grid, outages, storms, and wiring problems have no effect on it. Many of our customers keep one as a backup appliance, so their food stays chilled no matter what happens with the power. It is a simple way to help protect your groceries and your peace of mind.

Run time depends on the size of the refrigerator, the size of the propane tank, and the temperature of the room where the unit operates. Compact models use less fuel than full-size units, and larger tanks mean fewer refills. The Warehouse Appliance team can help you estimate fuel use for the specific model and setup you have in mind.

Yes. Propane refrigerators are designed for indoor use in homes and cabins. Proper installation means following the manufacturer’s venting and clearance requirements for your model, and a carbon monoxide detector is a standard addition to any home with gas appliances. Installed correctly, a propane refrigerator is a safe, reliable everyday appliance.

Yes. Propane freezers use the same absorption cooling as propane refrigerators, so they keep food frozen without any electrical power. They are a practical choice for storing meat, game, and bulk groceries at off-grid properties. Paired with a propane refrigerator, they create a complete cold-storage setup that does not depend on the grid.

Both operate without electricity and use the same absorption cooling, so the right choice mainly comes down to your fuel supply. If your property has a natural gas line, a natural gas refrigerator or freezer connects directly to it. If you rely on tanks or live where gas lines do not reach, propane is usually the better fit.

Yes. Solar refrigerators and solar freezers run on power from solar panels, often paired with a battery that keeps them running overnight and on cloudy days. They use efficient compressors built specifically for solar operation, so they deliver steady cooling with no grid connection and no fuel to refill.

Yes. Solar air coolers run on solar power instead of grid electricity, and they cool the air by drawing it through water-soaked pads. The result is a noticeable temperature drop in workshops, cabins, patios, and other spaces where a conventional air conditioner is not practical. They perform especially well in hot, dry climates.

Yes. Warehouse Appliance offers gas ranges and ovens that operate without an electrical connection and light without electric ignition. Instead, they rely on a battery to spark. These appliances let you cook, bake, and boil on propane or natural gas, which makes them a natural companion to a propane refrigerator in an off-grid kitchen or a backup-ready home.