Is it possible to install a refrigerator on the balcony?

Many people live in small apartments, where every meter of space counts. In an effort to functionally organize the area, the owners clean up large things on the balcony and loggia. However, the question is ambiguous with the refrigerator: will its parts withstand the summer heat and winter frosts? Let's see if it is possible to put a refrigerator on the balcony.

You will not find a direct ban on installing the unit outdoors in the instructions. In the accompanying documentation, the climatic class of the unit is usually indicated - the mode in which manufacturers guarantee proper operation. It should be guided by him in order to decide whether to keep the refrigerator on the balcony or to find another area for him.

Basic knowledge of the operation of refrigeration appliances

The principle of operation is based on a change in the state of aggregation of the substance circulating inside the system. The compressor first compresses the refrigerant and then throws it into the condenser (it is located on the back of the refrigerator). The circulation system is designed so that the pressure constantly drops along the entire route of the refrigerant. When it reaches the evaporator, it begins to boil with the absorption of heat from the freezer. Then the substance is again sent to the compressor and the cycle repeats. Freon is used as a refrigerant.

You should know to what air temperature you can keep the device on the street. Typically, the temperature range recommended by manufacturers for safe operation is 16-32 °. This corresponds to the heat of the air in the living room (climate class N). Consequently, the transfer of the device to uncomfortable conditions threatens to break it. Currently, refrigerators are available that operate in an extended range - from 10 to 43 degrees (universal SN-T class), they can be operated at higher temperatures. You should be aware that refrigeration units are available for different climatic zones, and this should be considered when buying.

Tip

Since the manufacturer has the right to refuse warranty repairs in case of non-compliance with the operating conditions, carefully read the instructions and determine which climate class your refrigerator belongs to.

The conclusion suggests itself: the refrigerator will work properly subject to certain rules. In autumn and winter, the device will not be able to tolerate cooling below 10 degrees, and in spring and summer, heat over 32 degrees will be detrimental to it. If you decide to install a refrigerator on the balcony, get ready for the fact that you have to constantly monitor the weather and take a number of protective measures.

The service life of a household appliance largely depends on whether the balcony is glazed or not, whether there is a heating system. Consider whether it is possible to put a refrigerator on the balcony in winter and summer.

Glazed loggia fridge

Installing the unit on an unglazed balcony is strongly discouraged for several reasons.

1. High humidity and precipitation can lead to malfunctions of the wiring and the occurrence of a fire, which threatens the life of the inhabitants of the apartment. Even if a disaster does not occur, it is difficult to protect the device from moisture on the case. Rain and snow will certainly get to the main technical nodes, which will result in a short circuit and breakdown. In addition, corrosion will ruin the enamel coating.It must be remembered that sockets, tees and extension cords cannot be installed on an unglazed balcony.
2. Low temperatures in winter will lead to freezing of the coolant, as a result of which the refrigerator will stop working. The pressure inside the line drops, but Freon remains inside the condenser for some time. This makes the engine idle. In addition, when the air temperature drops below 4.5 ° C, the oil in the compressor becomes thick and viscous. As a result, the refrigerator can work out a couple of cycles, and then stop.
3. Summer heat and direct sunlight are also undesirable for the unit. Under the influence of the sun, the enamel coating will turn yellow and peel, and the rubber pads will become unusable. In the heat of more than 36 degrees, the compressor will begin to work with increased load, which will disable it.

There is only one conclusion: putting a refrigerator on an unglazed loggia is not worth it either in winter or in summer.

If the balcony is glazed

Precipitation no longer threatens to disable the unit, but what about low air temperatures?

If the refrigerator is installed on a glazed but unheated area, the household appliance will work to the limit of its capabilities. As mentioned, refrigerators use refrigerants - substances that change from a liquid to a gaseous state at 0 °. If you store the refrigerator on the balcony, it will experience temperature changes throughout the day. In winter, the refrigerant will freeze in the pipes, and the motor will not cope with the load.

Therefore, the room where the unit is installed must be heated in cold weather. This can be done with the help of electric heating appliances, not forgetting the rules of electrical safety. To maintain constant climatic conditions, it is recommended to install a heater with the function of automatic thermoregulation. This will create an optimum mode and protect the motor from overload. However, the profitability of such an operation is a big question.

If the refrigerator is installed on a heated loggia, this is not a guarantee of its continuous operation. The glazed balcony is still separated from the living room by a partition, so the temperature regime may not correspond to the one recommended by the manufacturers. Even if the balcony is hermetically glazed, there remains the possibility of condensation and the appearance of high humidity, which will damage the body of the device.

Tip

During cooling, you can disconnect the refrigerator from the mains. You will not violate the operating conditions if the temperature on the balcony does not drop below 10 degrees. The author of the site purityis.decorexpro.com/en/ recommends using a household appliance in the warm season.

Modern refrigerator models use new generation refrigerants. They can be combined with synthetic oils - polyvinyl esters, which retain viscosity at low temperatures. In this case, operation of the device on the balcony is allowed.

Combined loggia fridge

Consider whether it is possible to put a refrigerator on the loggia if it is not separated by a partition from the main room. Often the owners of small apartments expand the area, combining a loggia with a kitchen or lounge. In this case, the climatic conditions on the loggia are the same as in other places of the apartment.

The device can be operated safely under the following conditions:

• the distance from the wall to the refrigerator case must be at least 20 cm to ensure the proper level of ventilation;
• it is forbidden to install a refrigeration unit near a gas stove, heating batteries and heating devices;
• Protect the casing from direct sunlight with blackout curtains or blinds;
• put protective boxes on wires and cords;
• ventilate the loggia regularly to prevent excessive humidity.

Tip

It is best to keep the old refrigeration unit on the loggia, which in case of a malfunction, it will not be a pity to throw it away.

Can a balcony be used to store a refrigerator?

There are no special prohibitions for storing the unit on the balcony. Remember about the possibility of atmospheric precipitation and damage due to this coating. Protect it from sunlight with a canopy and curtains. If you decide to bring the refrigerator home from the cold, let it stand for a while in a warm room before turning it on. Technically competent people know that any engine needs to be warmed up, otherwise a frozen device will cease to function properly.

To summarize: the refrigeration unit may only be used on the loggia if it is glazed and heated. It is not prohibited to store the refrigerator on the balcony provided that its body is protected from moisture.