I finally came to my senses. Instead of trying to convince my wife, who is the family CFO, that we ought to buy this, I sent the video to her. You make more sense on these subjects than I ever could. Now she’s interested not only in the refrigerator/freezer, but also in the Jackery. Thank you for your straightforward, honest, and unbiased reviews.
@insaynbcr
4 жыл бұрын
I'd be interested in seeing what kind of Jackery useage you see during warm summer daylight hours, if you decide to stay put for several days.
@coloradomallcrawlers
4 жыл бұрын
It’s so tough to review products provided because some people will doubt your sincerity. However, you did this perfectly and I trust your integrity. Great job and I’m in search of a fridge for my camper, so I’ll check this one out! Thanks!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
The only thing missing here is some kind of review on longevity and durability. Most companies are unwilling to wait very long when they provide an item for review, so I had to get this produced before my trip. I will definitely be following up with how it's doing in future episodes. Thanks for watching!
@jakelannetti3128
4 жыл бұрын
That initial pun was gold.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Haha, thank you. So silly but I couldn't help myself. :-)
@cambodianrefugee6305
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for a great review! Fridges have always been out of my budget. For anyone who buys more than 50 bags of ice in a year its a no brainer. At least break even.
@grn9209
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for such honest opinion
@GrumpyGrunt
4 жыл бұрын
The market is starting to get flooded with these lately. It's nice to see the price of them coming down into a realistic range. Take care and enjoy your new fridge!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Exactly! When I first started doing this, ALL the fridges were super expensive, and when the inexpensive versions started showing up, I was wary of them. But I know a few people who have been running some type of $200-$300 fridge for quite a while now with no problem. Great news for those of us on tighter budgets. We'll see how it holds up to the rigors of backcountry exploring!
@slol144
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest I bought a different make and it looks to share quite a few parts in comparison. Besides a few aesthetic differences with the lids and orientation of the exhaust vent , they look to be the same. I do have BT but with a flat top and flip up side handles. Been plugged in for 3 weeks now and not a problem
@gaypreator8547
3 жыл бұрын
A fridge changes a lot. I would would be excited too. I drove over the road for almost 20 years. When I finally got a fridge in the truck it made everything easier and more enjoyable. Happy trails.
@jonnybkuehl878
4 жыл бұрын
Nice little fridge you have there. Definitely need to check it out.
@Iamgarwood
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this review. If you think of it, could you post a 1 year review? Fresh out of the box reviews are fine and all that, but it is good to know how it will stand up to a year of trail driving .
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, for sure, I will definitely update. I would've loved to put this thing to use for even three months before producing the review video, but that's not usually how these deals work unfortunately. :-) It's really more of a review of my first impressions. :-) I'll follow up for sure.
@JustPeachyOutdoors
4 жыл бұрын
We bought an Alpicool CF45 this spring and we have loved having a car fridge when camping! It's so nice not having to deal with ice. We go hiking during the day and on hot days the fridge really drained the Jackery battery fast. We weren't doing enough driving to charge the battery back up, so we ended up having to get a Jackery solar panel to help with that. Still worth it!
@Bumpyi64
2 жыл бұрын
I like the beer reasoning to get a fridge for camping...👍😁🍺
@armaniusmaximus
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video! I run my Dometic through the Jackery even when driving. Looking forward to a long term review of this fridge. Would be great for see some more affordable fridges.
@robbergstrom943
4 жыл бұрын
Great initial review, I look forward to seeing how it works out in the long term.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, me too! Thanks!
@JonDZ_Adventuring
4 жыл бұрын
Great review video Donald! So informational! Welcome to the refrigerated camping! Not having to buy ice is so freakin awesome! Here in California a bag of ice will cost anywhere between $2 to $8. Like you mentioned in your video, the ice takes up space and it's heavy! I run a solar panel on top of my cargo carrier, so between that and having my 200w inverter recharge my power station, I can run my fridge full time. My power station is as fancy as yours :P just a 500w / 288wh unit that doesn't have a DC output. I run the fridge from 110 AC. BTW, I'm going to use some of your footage of the disclaimer that you don't benefit from sales of this product you reviewed. I need to do a review and you really nailed the disclaimer!!!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jon! I'm thrilled to step away from ice and coolers. Borrow away, I look forward to seeing the review you'll be doing!
@JonDZ_Adventuring
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest I just edited the video. Will be releasing sometime tomorrow
@ALNSMOVERLAND
4 жыл бұрын
Good review, you pointed every useful infos ! and honestly I'm happy for you that you finally have a fridge, it's a game changer when you spend more than a weekend traveling ! I think the big difference between the almsot 1000$ fridge and the cheaper one are insulation. Mine really struggle to stay warm when it's hot out there. Maybe you could put the fridge on a sliding plateform so you can open it outside the back of the car and maximize the storage space under it !
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jordan! I may still put it on a slider, but the access is pretty good as-is and I like the idea of not worrying about the cord moving. But I'm definitely going to elevate it, plenty of room there to gain some storage underneath. I'm really looking forward to seeing what a weeklong trip is like with a fridge instead of a cooler!
@wadeperrie
4 жыл бұрын
Great review. We use a Waeco Fridge (similar price) in our Forester when camping about the same size as that one. You should ask if the fridge comes with a soft insulation cover that surrounds the whole fridge as that is what ours came with, there is just a zip at the top to gain access. They help keep the cold in and we do not even have to keep the fridge on overnight as the body of the fridge and cover keep everything cold and we come from Western Australia, much hotter than Oregon. The great thing about the insulation cover also is that it has 4 tie down rings on the outside of it thus fixing the problem of having to take straps off to use the fridge. Hopefully that fridge comes with one, keep up the good work love your channel.
@jeanpierrebouquet5753
4 жыл бұрын
How about to attach pad eyes on the side of the cooler with gorilla glue this way you can still open the lid while the cooler is secured
@Dennis-1367
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this video! I am surprised that no other fridge company did the same with the deep lid, its awesome since you can grab stuff way better (but of course filling it up to the top with small stuff rather difficult), but I wished I would see more of models like these. Thanks for the review, going to get my fridge in the next months but now I hope to find something with the same lid, haha. By the way as a method to fix the fridge: There are some really strong Velcros (not the "soft" ones, there are versions called "Dual Lock" with 3M glue) just put some pads on the wood down below and it wont move at all. I have heavy stuff hanging on them and they keep holding it. positive thing is, you dont see it. But it doesnt support the lid of the fridge, so that one should be closing good without opening by itself. And with the fridge standing on the pads, it wont move as its way less force than hanging something up with it.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, a number of people have mentioned the velcro approach, and I'm leaning heavily in this direction. I like this idea MUCH more than the straps I'm currently using. I will update probably within a regular episode with how this works out.
@GPosner8
4 жыл бұрын
Great review Donald. I always appreciate your honesty regarding how you received the product and whether or not you deem the item useful or not. Have a great adventure👍🚙🏕🍻
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Geoff!
@Chill_Mode_JD
4 жыл бұрын
Love the finger snap edit! Great stuff 🥶🧊
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Haha, SUCH a silly intro, but I just can't help myself when the opportunity presents. :-)
@tinabeane
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review on this one. I was looking to purchase one but not too many videos on it so went with another brand. It is so exciting and nice to have a 12 volt fridge. Looking forward to your camping get away results with it.
@808ghostMiller
3 жыл бұрын
Great review!
@alexanderweaver4838
4 жыл бұрын
At first glance I thought it was an Alpicool C20 until I saw the cup holders. Camping with a fridge makes life so much easier and enjoyable; no stopping for ice and worrying about water infiltrating your foods. Ziploc bags were costing me a small fortune (and they take up space). Replacing the ice was such a pain on longer trips. Another advantage I've found is on grocery shopping trips. Before having the fridge I loaded the groceries into the back and had to go home so that frozen products and milk wouldn't spoil or thaw out. Now those products go directly into the fridge and if I needed to do other shopping, no worries. Having a Jackery is a godsend, too. BTW I love how you made the metal rack and it looks neat and clean. Is it integrated with your fridge stand? Great use of space. Great review, Don! I don't mind watching anyone preparing and cooking camp meals. I learn from it like recipes and the entire process. For me, camp food preparation, cooking and enjoying the benefits is half the fun of camping; of course, the other half is exploring.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, that panel thing is part of an ever-evolving improvised kitchen build. Originally it was the back panel for my original kitchen (cooler on top, pull out single-burner butane stove, bin of kitchen stuff at the bottom...you'd have to look back a ways to see that old setup). Then when I built the current drawer, I adapted the old "kitchen" to become a pullout for my cooler. I very quickly reworked it for the fridge (felt I didn't need it to pull out and that way the cord stays stationary) but I'm going to move the fridge platform up so I can use the space underneath it for dry food storage, which is currently lacking in my existing setup. But yeah...I'm super stoked not to be messing around with ice anymore!
@danielscanlon5815
4 жыл бұрын
Glad to hear a decent review of a budget friendly fridge. I recently bought and returned an $1100 Dometic fridge after being fairly disappointed with the quality and performance, maybe I got a bum one but left a sour taste with me for the high price of the brand
@cambodianrefugee6305
4 жыл бұрын
Mounting; i noticed 2 screws in the handle recess on the controller side. If the other side also had similar screws i might try to fashion a handle out of webbing and a couple grommets. The webbing will give you something to attach a tie down strap to. Also i might look for holes on the bottom that i could use to permanently attach the whole thing to a piece of plywood that could double as a slide out tray which would slot into your existing 2x2 rails.. lastly, no matter how i did it, i would put a piece of firm-ish rubber under it to reduce vibration.
@bluejeans8001
3 жыл бұрын
Recently discovered your channel and really enjoying content. Very informative, interesting and useful information.
@softroadingthewest
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@danielgabrian3901
4 жыл бұрын
Great video, as usual. I am curious for how long the fridge would hold up temperature without plugging it over night. Maybe you can test this safely, before your coming trip. Thank you. You are an inspiration
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
That's a great question. I already left on the trip Friday evening...but due to a vehicle issue we had to abort on Sunday morning, so I am back home for a few weeks before we head out again. If I have time, I'll try to find a thermometer I can use to do some testing like this and a few other similar questions people had. The two nights I was out with it this weekend were so cold out that the fridge barely ran at all overnight. On a warm night, I'm not sure I would trust it to keep stuff cold enough...it's certainly as insulated as it can be, but the walls simply aren't that thick, there's probably only so much it can do without needing to kick on. I'll try to test this (and a few other temperature-related questions) at some point and maybe post a quick follow up video after we complete the big trip, so I can report on the tests and more real-world experience.
@solosaga5091
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest I second the question. Might be good to do two tests, empty and full. I'm sure the thermal mass when full will help hold temp.
@om617yota8
4 жыл бұрын
Great review, looking forward to the long term report. An actual fridge/freezer with a compressor for under $300, fantastic. The AC power adapter made me think of road trip hotel rooms.
@upperleftexpeditions9507
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video!
@timmoyers3322
4 жыл бұрын
When I'm using my fridge in the Subaru i leave the jackery plugged into the car and the fridge plugged into the jackery. The fridge is then powered through the jackery consistently and the Jackery stays charged while driving. That way I'm not unplugging the fridge and turning it off and on multiple times. It just stays on for the entire trip.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Ah yeah, that's good to hear. This approach did occur to me...it seems like a safer setup, especially as I am exactly the type of person to forget moving the fridge cord from the 12V plug to the Jackery. But I wasn't sure if that would be good or bad for the Jackery to be constantly hooked up to the car. I am meeting up with Jackery power-user Jason (Primal Outdoors) later today actually and was planning to ask him what he thinks.
@eto2352
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest Fridge->Jackery->switched 12v car Car battery does not like constant draw, even though it is very little draw. Jackery is fine with deep draw, so your Jackery is a perfect setup and will recharge when you drive. I do think it shortens the life of the car battery, when it's a constant 12v draw but would never draw enough to leave you stranded overnight. I saw another test where the Jackery 500 would take 35-37 hours of constant use to run down from a 40qt fridge.
@timmoyers3322
4 жыл бұрын
softroadingthewest I’m curious what Jason will have to say. So to be kind of more clear. The outlet the Jackery is connected to is only powered while the car is running. So the start battery never carries the load and the Jackery isn’t constantly on charge.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, that is exactly what my scenario would be as well. Like yours, my 12V outlet is only powered when the car is on. I definitely like the sound of this approach better, as it keeps the fridge running AND I don't have to think about making sure the Jackery is charged. I know Jason has been doing more dual-battery stuff lately, but I believe he has run his fridge off a Jackery at some point. I will try to remember to come back and report on that conversation.
@jezzarisky
4 жыл бұрын
How accurate is the temperature on the gauge versus actual temperature? Just curious if it's 'in the ballpark' or if it's off by like more than 5 degrees sort of situation.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
That's something I wish I had thought to test. I do hope to follow up with more info about this after I've used it for a while.
@lazurm
3 жыл бұрын
Jeremy Rieske: I have a similar unit (20 quart) from the same manufacturer and I've found that the temperature reads 4 degrees cooler than it actually is. I've also read reviews that verify my observation exactly.
@mattyee9369
4 жыл бұрын
I am just guessing, but I bet that small compartment in the lid is for a fillet knife for fish.
@davidmedeiros7572
4 жыл бұрын
FYI, best practice with these things is to actually plug it into your portable batteries 12v socket (the Jackery, Yeti etc.) and then keep the batt plugged into your car's 12v source. This allows the fridge to run constantly without having to be swapped over everytime you make camp or take a drive (you will forget). It also means you can always leave it on the low cut off mode (you will forget again). The batt will charge as you drive and keep the fridge running whenever you stop, which is important if your 12v accessory outlet is only powered when the car is on (most are).
@davidmedeiros7572
4 жыл бұрын
Also, always bring your AC cord with you, even when camping. The low cut off mode may cut off from a 12v socket before the deep cycle battery is actually on low voltage (especially with smaller lithium units). This usually happens because there is a momentary voltage drop whenever the compressor kicks in. If the batt is low enough, it will briefly drop below the safe voltage level and cut out. When that happens, if you have a converter in the portable batt like Yeti's do, you can switch to the AC cord and start the fridge back up as it won't sense the temporary voltage drop from the compressor motor starting anymore.
@LiquidTurbo
2 жыл бұрын
FYI not everyone wants to run passthrough charging
@bruceyyyyy
4 жыл бұрын
They're metric quarts. That's why there is a discrepancy. Good review! I'm not sold that this is an upgrade. Unless needing the freezing capability it's smaller and more likely to fail. But I guess fridges don't break, they just become coolers? Being able to go a week without getting ice is a nice thing but it can't hold a weeks worth of food anyway. Certainly not a weeks worth of beer! (: Looking forward to some long term thoughts on this one.
@grif5332
4 жыл бұрын
Maybe the little compartment on the lid is for bottle openers and such.
@IdahoLessTraveled
4 жыл бұрын
Very helpful, thanks for sharing. Let's see how you like it for a longer term...
@blackpearlvoyager4174
4 жыл бұрын
Looks like it's time for some heavy duty hook and loop tape. Put the soft fuzzy side on the underside of the cooler and the hook side on the base where it sits. That should easily keep it in its place and you can eliminate the vertical braces you use to keep it from moving around. Just a thought.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
This has been the prevailing suggestion so far. I never would have thought of that. I love the idea though, it seems suuuuper simple to try, plus I'd love the cleaner strapless look that would yield! Thanks!
@blackpearlvoyager4174
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest glad I could help my friend. Just make sure you get the industrial strength ones. They'll be wider and longer.
@blackpearlvoyager4174
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest if you choose this method you may find it difficult for the velcro strips to stick well to the plywood substrate. You may need to staple that half down and if you do a good prep before sticking the velcro on the bottom of the cooler by cleaning it with alcohol you should have no issues with adhesion.
@suzettecalleja3122
4 жыл бұрын
This was excellent. Thank you GREAT review
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@65plusfabulous56
2 жыл бұрын
Great review. In this situation do you know what would be the "minimum" watt/size portable portable power station that could run this fridge when the vehicle is turned off? Thanks
@dennischeslock7782
4 жыл бұрын
The storage size is probably in liter not quart. Liters are smaller quarts. Dennis from Delaware
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Actually a liter is *slightly* larger than a U.S. quart, 1 liter = 1.06 quarts. In any case, their description directly specifies 18 liters, which is the equivalent to just over 19 quarts (and closer to the actual volume based on my measurements). Another commenter suggested they were using UK quarts, but UK quarts are bigger still...this thing is definitely not 24 UK quarts which would be the equivalent of almost 29 US quarts or 27 liters. No, I think they simply got something wrong in their conversions, or made a typo creating the product listing.
@charlesgardner4875
4 жыл бұрын
Great video thanks for the information. Glad to see there is a affordable option and not have to spend 500 to 800 or more for one.
@xplorefurther
4 жыл бұрын
You might want to check out ROK strap for your fridge
@chrismcfee6785
4 жыл бұрын
Maybe you could put Velcro on the bottom of the cooler to stop it from moving around. might be better then the straps solution.
@arcenciel2968
3 жыл бұрын
Chris McFee Yep, double sided sticking velcro. Plus a snug frame of, say, 10cm all around the base. On second thought, there’s this new? roll of transparent double sided silicone, advertised to even hang knives on kitchen walls. I suspect that a couple of runs under the fridge would keep it stable. If the silicone gets dirty you can wash it without losing its original performance.
@bigfoot7.350
2 жыл бұрын
Great review. Thank you!
@tripinapod6697
3 жыл бұрын
Hey mate, this type of slider would make your life easier 😊Titan Fridge Slide |Suits Up To 60L Fridges | Twin Locking Runners | Heavy-Duty
@subaruforester5062
4 жыл бұрын
Would love a update video on the king springs you installed. Seen on instagram. Thanks Donald!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
I will be definitely be talking about the install and how they perform on the trail after I log some miles on the trail. I was supposed to be on a backcountry excursion all week and was going to take the opportunity to look at how the springs do, but we've had to push that trip into November. So far though, with some experience in town, on the highway, and a half day of driving trails, I'm thrilled with the upgrade, was absolutely worth it and I should have done it long ago. I am hoping to get a dedicated video about them together as soon as I can.
@MyIronman8
2 жыл бұрын
doesn't work like that hi is 12 volts. medium is 10 volts. oh is 9 volt so if you connect that to your car you better set it to high. if you set it to medium and you using the starter battery your car's not going to start
@VKSgtSLaughter
4 жыл бұрын
I wonder how well the fridge works in a hot car during summer? Great video!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Unless I can swing a trip down into the southern hemisphere in the next couple of months, we'll be waiting awhile on that question, haha. :-)
@williamsnodgrass4723
3 жыл бұрын
I have the predecessor to this fridge and it does a great job of keeping food cold. I have had to add an auxiliary fan to help keep the compressor cool in the van on a hot summer day (we are in Southern Ontario - just for reference on temperature). We use it a few weeks a year for camping or for family picnics. Otherwise; It spends the rest of it’s time as an auxiliary fridge in the house. We bought it about a year and a half ago and it hasn’t let us down yet.
@dingdongdaddy589
Жыл бұрын
Mmmm, camping without bugs must be wonderful. Lucky! Great review thanks.
@Leelawnman
3 жыл бұрын
How is that fridge doing is it still running good i was thinking about getting one and do you think a smaller jackery would run it let me know i camp in upstate ny tks for your input keep up the good work
@arrowheadoverland
3 жыл бұрын
How are you liking the fridge? Is the Jackery 500 capable enough for it?
@youtubespanishfishingchann6575
2 жыл бұрын
I love it hey have a question since I got from stickers there any chance I can get the blue print from ur drawer/kitchen/bed please
@danhohman
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the new fridge! It really helps the rest of us when we’re tight on budget and have to spend carefully. Looking forward to the follow up on how well this thing holds up! Oh and I love the new camping hat!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Yes, I'm very very curious to see how this does over the long haul. It's not a good life for anything, living in the back of my Forester, haha! And that's actually just the same hat I was wearing in the sun of eastern Oregon, but the sides snap up when you don't need the full shade. I didn't think to bring a stocking cap with me and my trucker cap wasn't keeping my head warm enough on that coastal evening. :-)
@BeeChan_
4 жыл бұрын
I must’ve miss it but what size jackery were you using? Great videos, always enjoy your content. 🙌
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
It's the Explorer 500. Based on the consumption that one night, I'm sure one could run a smaller Jackery with no problem, if it got recharged each day. Thanks for watching!
@ThomasRodde
4 жыл бұрын
One possible issue you might want to watch out for: On trails similar to where you go my fridge disconnected several times. The cigarette lighter plug would move around a bit in the socket and lose contact. Solved that by cutting it off and hardwiring that end of the cable in. If you need to switch between your car battery and the Jackery an Anderson plug might be an alternative.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
That's a great heads-up...I need to remember to keep an eye on that!
@swaggingsisters
4 жыл бұрын
Yep, definitely recommend Anderson plug
@ASEWorldClassTech
Жыл бұрын
Hey softroadingthewest. Does this actually hit -7'F or colder?
@treasurethetime2463
3 жыл бұрын
Every review on this fridge is a comp fridge. Did anybody buy this thing?
@vibeofadventure
4 жыл бұрын
Hum...... Tempting 🤔
@swidahooverlanding2867
4 жыл бұрын
Hope this one works out for you. If you can not figure out a way to fasten it down without going over the lid I would recommend installing some eye bolts on each side and just use a bungee cord. Quick release and simple. See you on the trails. George.
@Viking_Kong
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review on this! This will have to be added to my list! What kind of camera are you using to film from you windshield mount? GoPro?
@softroadingthewest
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah, it's a GoPro Hero7 Black. It's got its imperfections but it useful for certain tasks for sure.
@madeinjapanoverland1843
4 жыл бұрын
A fileting knife might fit in that mystery compartment.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
That has definitely been the most frequent guess. Guess I better get my fishing license for 2021. And, you know, a fishing rod. :-)
@rogerhector8323
4 жыл бұрын
another thing if you put something warm in the cooler to cool it off it will melt the ice also you have to be somewhere where ice is easily obtainable
@dougsfan9984
4 жыл бұрын
I'd put a kitchen knife in that compartment on the lid.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
That's a great idea. My kitchen knife currently rides in the same space as my pans/dishes and sometimes I fumble around in there blindly, LOL. I'll have to see if it fits!
@RichardDavies79
4 жыл бұрын
Yep, I bet it's for a fish fillet knife.
@michaelpellegrino3220
4 жыл бұрын
And a bottle opener....
@insaynbcr
4 жыл бұрын
And a beer coozy!
@ShaneB666
4 жыл бұрын
I like the board / organiser behind the fridge.
@martinmccary5131
Жыл бұрын
Well done and thanks for reviewing. I will purchase one today
@roscored1000
Жыл бұрын
as for the noise dont forget it was sitting on a big hollow speaker box that will enhance the sound
@tangent5132
Жыл бұрын
Just discovered this great video and finally noticed it’s now a couple years old. It’s now 01/23. So, how did it hold up over time ? Are you still using it or did you discover a newer/ better solution ? Just bought a 2023 Forester so closely watching your videos. Though I got a lot of catching up to do.
@softroadingthewest
Жыл бұрын
I'm still using this fridge! After the Forester was totaled (and this fridge was even in that accident) I moved it to my Frontier and there it has remained ever since. That little fridge has jostled and jolted all over the western US now and just keeps on working. :-)
@dhlwood
2 жыл бұрын
us a hinge on front an back secured with stick on velcro on the hinge and cooler
@idahoverland_208
4 жыл бұрын
The 20qt version is on sale for $190 for Prime Day
@swaggingsisters
4 жыл бұрын
Mate once you've got a fridge set-up you won't look back👌, have a Waeco 40L😀. Tip, if it didn't come with an insulated cover already a recommended hack is using a windscreen sunshade wrapped around it (cut out for the vent). For tie-down point is there anything under the handle?
@therootedprogress
4 жыл бұрын
Great thorough review!! Ive been waiting for this video! I will definitely look into these as we are also looking into getting our own fridge!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
It's encouraging that there are a number of affordable options out there now. I don't really know how they compare. I had been looking at another brand initially, but this one came my way, so... :-) It is for sure super nice to have active refrigeration instead of ice in a cooler.
@therootedprogress
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest amazon overlanding is definitely a thing now haha I've been looking at em as well. As you I can't really tell the difference. However I have heard that some of the amazon brands are just as good because they use some of the same compressors as the bigger brands like ARB. Just gotta do the research but nonetheless a fridge is a fridge 😂 sometimes you can buy 5 of those fridges for one dometic fridge.
@patrickjoan5009
4 жыл бұрын
I got a "fake fridge" in my SF5 on the rear seat.I said "fake fridge" because it work with "peltier effect" module,no compressor.It s cheap,about 50euros,and it s a middle solution betwin cooler and fridge.
@xperkins5324
4 жыл бұрын
I have a power inverter with a Low Voltage Alarm, I like this option but I think there is some better options out there for battery monitoring. Volts, Amps, Amp Hours, adjustable low voltage audible alarms and outputs to switch battery disconnects. Any suggestions?
@EddieBarksdale
4 жыл бұрын
Awesome vid, nice to see something other than ARB and Dometic for a change. I can’t tell but it seems like the lid is just a loose vacuum/gravity/friction fit, so probably having it strapped across the top is a good thing?
@EddieBarksdale
4 жыл бұрын
Also question, do you think this would be too loud if you also slept in your vehicle, or does it not need to turn on that often throughout the night?
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
It depends on your sensitivity. It makes noise, for sure. I did the freezer test with it running in my bedroom overnight, and there's nothing subtle about the noise...when it kicks on in a quiet space, you're gonna hear it. It's not loud, but it's there. I'm one of those people that likes the sound of air conditioners and such when I sleep, so it didn't bother me in the least, but I know people who would absolutely not tolerate it. How often it cycles on and off depends on how warm it is...I was out with it again this weekend and it was so cold out it didn't run at all overnight, but I'm sure it would need to kick on at least a few times over the course of a warmer night.
@slyflea
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great review. We had a Coleman 12v cooler that was nice, but limited. We found that the FL heat made it difficult for the Coleman to get (and stay) cold. Granted, it was sub - $100 so one can’t expect too much out of it. I’d be interested to know how yours does when the heat gets up there. Stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.
@kevink7087
4 жыл бұрын
maybe the storage flap is to keeps a knife, or utensil in?
@jmichaelmilton
4 жыл бұрын
Here’s a question. How long can the fridge maintain a useful temp when unplugged/turned off? In other words, could you not run it over night and still have a useable temp in the morning?
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Probably depends on how warm it is? I was out for a couple more nights with it this weekend, and it was so cold out that the fridge simply did not run. I'm sure there's as much insulation as possible, but the walls of the fridge are not THAT thick...in warmer weather I'd want to know it could cycle on to keep the food cold. It doesn't run constantly though, it cycles on and off, and draws almost no power most of the time. I don't think it takes a huge amount of power to maintain the cold in that small space. I'm sure it could be powered overnight with a smaller unit than my Jackery 500, and some people do run them overnight off their starter battery, as the fridge (and many others) will simply shut down if the battery's voltage drops too much (that said, personally I have no intention of ever running this off my starter battery - at least, not when I'm out solo).
@Onward4x4
4 жыл бұрын
I got one of these (another make) as well and it is good to see that they are reasonably priced and the quality is reasonably good. I have taken mine on several weeks long trips and so far, so good! Who needs to pay $1000 for a fridge.. granted they come with fancy apps and such but for $40 you can buy a transmitter, place it in the fridge, and have remote access to the temperature... Anyways-I would be curious to know whether the temp shown on the unit is accurate as compared to another thermometer placed inside the fridge. Thanks for the review. PS: I say show the cooking!! I always like to know what others eat when camping--gives me ideas! Happy trails!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Ooh yeah, that would've been a good idea to put a thermometer inside! I don't think I actually have one, but that would be a good thing to know, not only for viewers but just for me to ensure I'm actually at food-safe temperatures! I'll have to find a thermometer I can use to test that out. I'm planning to show more cooking on the upcoming adventure series. I've got some (hopefully) tasty meals planned out. Since reviews like this tend to pull viewers who are not subscribers and who are just interested in the facts, I decided to spare them me blathering on about my dinner. :-) People get *really* angry when they're looking for info and you include something irrelevant, haha.
@slamboy66
4 жыл бұрын
The fridge noise is just like when I blew out a muffler, just got bigger speakers. lol
@torawfordiz
2 жыл бұрын
Does this need to be plugged in to work? im looking for a wireless or rechargeable setup
@sydgerald
3 жыл бұрын
Great review, I'm looking for a fridge and this seems really good for my needs . A simple trick, if you want to chill beer or drinks faster; wrap around the can or bottle) a damp paper towel, leave it in the fridge and it'll cool way faster than without it. (the reason being, a fridge removes the heat present on food)
@Luigi13
3 жыл бұрын
I like your straightforward review. Subscribed as well. Thank you.
@GamerNxUSN
4 жыл бұрын
I don't know, I think my coleman fridge was like 130....
@js-dz5bs
4 жыл бұрын
Colman only goes 40 degrees cooler than ambient, No go here in the Arizona desert. when a Cool summer night is 90 degrees
@RichieValentine
3 жыл бұрын
Every item I've been looking at for overlanding you've seem to have done a review on the product!
@davidcolinstillman5585
4 жыл бұрын
THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME / US KNOW ABOUT THE FRIDGE & SOMETHING TO CHECK OUT . BE SAFE ! HAVE FUN ! GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS ON YOUR JOURNEYS ! ENJOYED !
@eagleteam6
4 жыл бұрын
Can you recommend a tire inflator? I'm having trouble finding a good one.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
I have been using the Viair 88p for over three years now, countless air-ups and still going strong. It's perfect for a car like mine with relatively small tires. If you have a bigger rig with larger tires, you'll probably want to look at one of Viair's higher volume units such as the 300p.
@eagleteam6
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest Thank you for your response. I'll look into getting one. Considering your experience I take it as a wise recommendation. I enjoy your videos. Keep it up.😷👍
@patrickwelch620
2 жыл бұрын
How long does it take to freeze an ice block?
@DonnieDispersed
4 жыл бұрын
Awesome👍 I’ve been shopping for fridges for my van build.
@efox2001
4 жыл бұрын
You could try attaching some Scotch Command Removable hooks to the fridge.
@jorges2000
4 жыл бұрын
Seems like a good item. Have you ever been to the Cornbread Cafe in Eugene? The street you were on looked familiar.
@virginiarocks
3 жыл бұрын
Very cool. I’ve been considering a fridge like this...can’t wait to see how it does
@DirtShy
4 жыл бұрын
Once You use a fridge in your overlander, There is no way to go back to a cooler.
@50deserteagle
2 жыл бұрын
Super video. Thanks
@patrickjoan5009
4 жыл бұрын
protect your fridge from light of the sun,you can win degrees of temperature wihtout running the compressor
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
I've got 5% tint on all the rear windows...nothing the sun hits behind those windows heats up. It really helps keep the whole car noticeably cooler on sunny days.
@om617yota8
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest I need to look into this for my Forester, it's really like driving a greenhouse. I just HATE driving through tinted windows....
@patrickjoan5009
4 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest special film to keep UV out?
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
@@om617yota8 My original intention with the tint was just for privacy...it was back when I was sleeping in the Forester and starting to go on more group trips...felt a little oddly exposed in my rolling fishbowl. So I had them put the darkest possible tint, then discovered that the car stayed significantly cooler in the sun. I mean, on a hot sunny day, it'll still get hot in there, but it really makes a difference. I only did the rear passenger doors and rear cargo area windows, not the driver/front passenger side windows, because I can't stand when other people do that and you can't make eye contact or see if someone is looking your way at an intersection. I mean, it's technically illegal (in Oregon at least) to have those windows tinted but TONS of people do it anyway. The big downside, you are right, is seeing out the tinted windows, but only at night. Non-issue during the day, but can definitely be challenging backing up at night.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
@@patrickjoan5009 Yes, you can get what's called ceramic window tint, and it blocks nearly all UV. It's a little more expensive than conventional tint film, but not by much, and has some other benefits as well. You don't have to get it as dark as mine to get the UV benefits, I believe you can get ceramic tint film that is more or less clear, but still has the UV-blocking benefits.
@BPJeep
2 жыл бұрын
Any updates on the durability of this fridge?
@softroadingthewest
2 жыл бұрын
I'm still using it! It continues to function reliably. It even survived a car accident that the car itself did not survive. Still using this fridge in my new rig. :-)
@uweschroeder
4 жыл бұрын
I have a fridge in my little trailer and it isn't tied down. It is however located below the countertop, so it's in a pretty tight fitting nook. That means it can't move up much more than maybe 1/2 inch, so it stays in the drawer. That works nicely, although it does bounce around a little. I usually shove a rolled up towel between the lid and the countertop so it "clamps" the fridge down while driving. To use simply pull it out. Edit: By reading more comments I just realized your fridge isn't on a slide. I'd definitely do that and then have storage above the fridge, not below. The higher up in the vehicle, the more leverage to bounce around because your vehicle moves around the suspension. You can really feel this is taller cars like lifted jeeps - they start to roll a lot higher up. For off-road I always try to keep heavy or sensitive items as low as possible.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Good point, I hadn't thought of it that way. Though I'm only talking about going up maybe 5". I like that I don't have to slide it out into my workspace (where I stand in front of the stove) in order to get into it. But this is good food for thought...that approach wouldn't have occurred to me and I definitely want to consider all possible options! Thank you!
@GlenB1963
4 жыл бұрын
What.You need now is an inexpensive fold up sar panel to extend your outings.
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
I have a solar panel, but the way I travel, it's not very practical to use. I am usually on the road exploring during the day, and only in camp during the dark hours, so there's no opportunity to use the panel. But running the fridge off the car during the day and off my Jackery power station at night works fine, and I can recharge the power station during the day as well. Theoretically possible to travel indefinitely while having constant refrigeration.
@solosaga5091
4 жыл бұрын
Despite having a small pickup, I'm still interested in keeping my load out as light and compact as possible. I REALLY appreciate the size, and weight comparison. I've not seen anyone else include ice. Further, it'll be interesting to hear your experience with reliability. I'm a new subscriber as of this video. I really like your rig layout and will be watching your earlier vids to understand it more. Thanks for sharing!
@softroadingthewest
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching! I'll definitely be following up with how the fridge fares over the long haul.
@MPulicci78
3 жыл бұрын
I bought this unit after watching this video.... I got the unit you have... but the manual is for an older model as I do not have the fuse and switches on the side that the manual shows..... how do you switch protection modes? When I first plugged it in it took 3 hours to get it down to 35 degrees.... I did fill it with warm beer when I started this process... could this be why it took so long? Then suddenly the temp jumped up to 41 degrees and will not change no matter what temp I set it to.... the compressor is running non stop..... I unplugged it then plugged it back in and the temp readout stays at 40 and does not change.... so what do you think?
@softroadingthewest
3 жыл бұрын
For the fuse/switches/etc., I'm gonna suggest you contact the company, as I am not really qualified to provide support. Mine has worked and continues to work as expected. Just this afternoon I got back from a few days out camping and the fridge did its job as usual. I generally plug mine into AC power the night before leaving on a trip so it can pre-cool down, and I load it with food/beverages that have already been chilled in the home fridge so it doesn't have to actively cool that stuff down...kinda like when I was using a cooler with ice, I would always try to engineer things to put the least possible load on the ice. If you start with the fridge warm, and put additional thermal mass in there that also needs to be cooled, it's pure physics that it will take longer and cause the fridge/compressor to work harder.
@MPulicci78
3 жыл бұрын
@@softroadingthewest how do you switch protection modes? I’m assuming I can’t do it because I’m pugged into AC.... I have not tried the cigarette lighter adapter.... when I do what’s the procedure?
@softroadingthewest
3 жыл бұрын
@@MPulicci78 Yeah, I'm sure the protection modes are disabled when it detects AC power. When it's plugged into DC, you change the protection mode as well as the cooling mode (Eco or Max) using the "gear" button. I don't remember the exact way it works off the top of my head, it may involve a press-and-hold or something. I can never remember and just have to fiddle with it until I stumble on it.
@overlandme
4 жыл бұрын
You can use velcro plastering tape. One side on fridge, the other on your strap.
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