Propane Refrigeration

Propane refrigerators and freezers are a great choice when electricity is unavailable or in short supply. We actually recommend electric refrigeration over propane, because compressor-equipped electric refrigerators have better "cooling power". But choices in true high-efficiency refrigerators are limited and typical "appliance store" brands can consume a lot of electricity (don't trust the Energy Guide sticker), so many people choose propane refrigeration for their off-grid home or cabin.

Propane refrigeration has the advantage of a lower initial cost and a wider selection of sizes and models, compared to high-efficiency electric refrigeration. In the long term however, the cost of propane can pay for additional solar capacity to power electric refrigeration. With today's lower solar panel costs, electric refrigeration is gaining an edge. Propane refrigerators and freezers are still an excellent choice for many situations, especially in vacation cottages and remote cabins that are used seasonally and would otherwise need only a small electric power system.

How does it work? For the curious minded, here's an explanation.