An extra fridge and or freezer in the garage is so handy for a cold beverage on a hot day, or for extra storage of cold goods for a family. But is it a wise move?

The main concern is ambient temperature. The temperature in an average garage fluctuates far more than in the kitchen of a house. If you reside in a cool or cold climate, this should not be too severe a problem. If you live in a region that has hot summers, consider how much energy the fridge will be consuming to just stay cold. The older the fridge, the greater the amount of power it will use, so it may turn out to be an expensive proposition.

If you have purchased a new refrigerator, check the warranty because there may be restrictions on where it can be placed and you do not want to unknowingly void the warranty. Also ensure that the power to the garage is regulated by the main electrical safety switch and fuse box, to prevent a power surge "frying" the fridge’s electrical system.

If you do decide to put a refrigerator in your garage, ensure that it is in the coolest position and away from direct heat, or a source of radiant summer heat such as a window or door. Also ensure that it has sufficient clearance from the wall, and that its surface is free of clutter. Compare your initial energy bills, so you can determine the cost effectiveness of having the fridge there.