I Bought the Cheapest 12V FRIDGE on Amazon for Living in a Van

[@cs-mh2dh]

Another downfall with ice is: it takes up so much of your cooler space, you cannot hold much food.

[@KTMcaptain]

If you aren't an ice pro then yes... but if you fill your cooler with everything in a chest freezer and then load it up 80% with water... then the ice will fit within the cracks and not cost you any real estate.

[@angetodac]

So true

[@erickborling1302]

@@KTMcaptainI don't understand what you're saying.

[@Liberal.Linda.]

​@@erickborling1302He's saying if you're someone who doesn't mind your food swimming in melted ice water, getting contaminated with ick from everything else, then you can open the bag of ice and pour it out on top of your food where the ice will fall down between the items. My opinion of that? Yuk.

[@janetarteaga4191]

I know that this is off topic, but congratulations to Bob and Suzanne and all the nomads out there! Nomadland won the Golden Globe for best picture. It's a great movie and story. You ALL are the reason why the movie has reasonated with the public. Congratulations!!

[@valeriehancotte-galan4790]

With the economy suffering on and off for over a decade, the public NEEDS to be aware that there is hope and a community. So glad that this movie came out for all to see!

[@neilcunningham]

It was boring, flat, uninspiring, and poorly led. Watching utube van life vids is better than the flic. But I will say definitely that Bob was the best actor in the film. (I am a trained actor with enough experience to comment)

[@susanmaguire9009]

@@neilcunningham I agree. It portrayed a very bleak existence of people down on their luck.

[@susanmaguire9009]

@@nbc902 Excuse me, I meant to type I thought although interesting story, it was a downer.

[@originalnightshade4582]

@@susanmaguire9009 Wouldn't it be a bit unrealistic to portray people "down on their luck" as "shiny happy people"? You missed the whole point of the movie is to show you MANY DHOOSE this life.

[@dougberg8253]

TIP If you set to 5 degrees, the bottom will be a deep freeze, the compartment above compressor will be 35 degrees and food towards the top will be in between. Doesn't use much more power and you basically have a fridge/freezer. Works great!

[@rosemariehogan1262]

Good to know. Thanks!

[@BOREDANDWELLBORED]

These things fail after a year because the dryer/filter gets clogged up. If you open and locate the dryer/filter, it will last longer.. Filter usually needs replacement every 2 years in home appliances

[@Paeoniarosa]

@@BOREDANDWELLBORED Thank you for the tip

[@1ManVan]

@@BOREDANDWELLBORED would love to see a fitter replacement vid. I have Alpicool. Thanks and thank u Bob for inspiration and content.

[@patchesdoreen7]

I wanted to thank you for helping me understand how to survive out there, I was homeless and watching your video helped me a lot. At the moment i am renting a room due to medical reason. I continue to keep watching as there is always something new to learn. Again thank you.

[@cruisepaige]

You'll get there.

[@billbraun6846]

I've been using a $100 countertop ice maker at my off grid cabin. Powered by 400 watts of solar.

[@mlw8998]

very smart idea

[@naterpotater76]

Man, I love this idea and never even thought about it until I read your comment. But I just spent like an hour searching for more info to get a good idea on how much power I would actually use and I can't find much. I'm guessing that I wouldn't need to run it all day everyday. I'm sure I could run it for 6 hours a day without upgrading my solar but hard to tell if that is enough ice. Bob, this would be a great idea for a video.

[@billbraun6846]

@@naterpotater76 I had no problem running mine with only 200 watts of solar. The ice maker draws about 100 watts AC so not a lot. I put the ice in ziplock bags and pour the water from the melting ice back into the machine.

[@lcinflorida8728]

Holy cow 🐄 !! What a great idea!!

[@billbraun6846]

@@mikesherbet755 If the machine you used is 240 watts AC then it's using almost 2 1/2 times the power as the one I have. I use two group 31 FLA 105 AH batteries. 200 watts of solar ran it just fine here in Northern California.

[@NHJDT]

I've had the cheaper 12v alpicool for several years and it works great. I live in tx and love the fact my groceries don't melt in the heat over the summer when I shop

[@karinhart489]

And both the Alpicool C15 or C20 (15 liter & 20 liter) is a low enough profile will slide under my cot.

[@DavidDrivesElectric]

Good to hear. I just bought an Aplicool. I don't think it's as well insulated as it could be at the bottom (I can feel it cold at the bottom) but you can't beat the price

[@_GntlStone_]

I think they're almost essential if you live 45 min from the grocery store and like frozen/cold food,

[@_GntlStone_]

@@DavidDrivesElectric If you can, throw a piece of 1" foam insulation below and around the fridge, just replicate the cutouts where the air intake and air vent are. Or a layer or two of reflectix. Or they sell insulated bags to put them in.

[@momsvancrazyjourney4443]

Looking to get a smaller alpicool (10 or 13 qt). Thank you for sharing your positive experience with it

[@marizee5615]

I ironically bought the Joy Tutus fridge before this video came out. I bought it because I'm not a full time nomad and hate having to worry about ice. It has kept things cold and takes little power. I had a 100 watt solar and still had power to use other items such as a 12v water kettle, charge my phone, etc. I also made a cover for it out of relectix so that when the sun comes in the window it doesn't heat up the fridge. If you do this, don't cover up the vents! My reflectix cover is only about 6 inches and is meant to over the top only, not the whole fridge. Thanks for the video, Bob! I feel much better about my choice. :-)

[@michaelegnatz1535]

An important fact of the chest Coolers verses the doored Refrigerators is When you open the top loading chest you don’t lose all the cold air. Every time you open the door and a refrigerator the cold air just runs out to the floor and out the door !

[@DavidDrivesElectric]

That is true but consider air has very little mass thus you lose very little energy even if the entire air is lost. I don't think it make a noticeable difference

[@OIII-IOOO]

i’ve been running an alpicool c40 ($299) for the last 6 months and it runs like a champ.

[@lindanorman2589]

Congratulations on the movie Nomad and recent Golden Globe Awards. Thanks to you, Suzanne and so many who performed. I have read both the book and watched the movie. And will read and watch again. It has had a big impact on me. Compassion. Thank you for keeping the lifeboat afloat. Thank you for caring. Well done!

[@lindanorman2589]

Nomadland Movie and Book

[@michaelblock3998]

ARB going on 8 years!! Has been running nonstop either on 12 volts or 110.

[@michaelblock3998]

@@nancyst.john-smith3891 I think I’ve vacuumed them a couple times.

[@simonharding7084]

My ARB is 20 plus years old, in use the whole time with no maintenance and no problems. None. Environmentally better than buying garbage and tossing it every couple years.

[@youtubkeeper]

I didn't even know that ARB made fridges until I saw them on a couple of American camper videos. (I live in Australia and it's an Australian brand). I don't think they are actually that popular here - I've mostly seen Waeco (Dometic) and Engel. I know ARB make excellent gear, so I'll take a look at one if my Waeco dies.

[@dianeibsen5994]

@@simonharding7084 Thank you so much Simon for saying this! Disposable Society, plastic floating on the ocean to size of Texas😔

[@panampia]

Bob!! Congratulations on your recognition last night at the Golden Globes! That was so fabulous!

[@hotmessmissy-artnrving998]

Environmentally speaking, think about the amount of plastic bags being used and tossed out just to buy the ice if an ice station that dispenses into your own provided container is not available. That's a lot bags. Plus like you mentioned, all that gas that will be burned. I remember back as a kid all major appliances were fixed before they were ever tossed. However a good service contract was needed to make it worthwhile. OMG, REMEMBER WHEN TVs WERE FIXED INSTEAD OF JUST REPLACED? 😲 WOW, have times changed. 😢

[@sarahloy830]

I have many memories of repair men coming to our house when I was little. We still sometimes use the refrigerator that my grandmother had in 1952. It's in our barn for parties.

[@hotmessmissy-artnrving998]

@@sarahloy830 Wow, that so cool. How nostalgic and fun 😃. My grandmother had a top loading freezer for decades. You had to practically dive in to get what you needed. LOL, it was an adventure 😄

[@ridelocalride]

Great point!

[@christigoodeating]

I'm probably best just get the one that you can afford and then save money and get a better one later when the other one wears out.

[@davidapps2605]

Here in New Zealand we have a brand called Brass Monkey which I have. Excellent performance. Paid $239 dollars and had it for 5 years. Still working like new . For me there is nothing wrong with a cheap fridge 😀

[@groundcontroltomajornong8085]

another brass monkey fan here in Oz...i have the 45L dual zone with battery back up..no regrets so far, and with a 3 year replacement warranty supported by a network of 250 stores, it's great value for money..and feature packed!...internal LED light, rugged & sturdy wheels with slide handle, USB port, full function app for adjustments/monitoring while on the move.. and about half the cost of similar sized Dometic or Engel with less features😎

[@sledawgpilot]

Funny name. Play on the phrase “cold enough to freeze the 🏀 ⚽️ on a brass monkey?”

[@sandymckee8917]

David, that funky monkey makes a fridge?! 🙃

[@jst2708]

​@sledawgpilot Fun fact. This saying came from ships at sea. They would put the cannon balls in a "frame " called a brass monkey. When it got very cold & ice covered, the cannon balls would roll off the brass monkey.

[@tumbleweed1976]

I have owned an Engel 12v for 3+ years. It runs daily sipping energy from the200 watts of solar atop my minivan. For the price of $1050 I would not buy again as there are so many more quality options on the market for less initial cost. The build quality is just ok as the latches are plastic, interior parts have rusted, gasket not staying in place, and lid warped. Most important the Danfoss compressor still works! Bob was right to mention buying a smaller size as to use more of the interior of the fridge. My next fridge will be smaller and a mid tier in price.

[@robwright5940]

My GE fridge is running 23+ years, despite my wife's prayers for it to fail.

[@Johnsblackliver]

Lol👍👍

[@dianeibsen5994]

Can I ask, do you still recommend GE fridges.. portable fridges?

[@AZTLANSOLDIER13]

Why dies she pray for failure?

[@user-dc7iw3fu4e]

​@@AZTLANSOLDIER13she wants something more aesthetic

[@outbackeddie]

My Chevy Tahoe still runs great after 25 years despite my wife's prayers for it to fail. I'm shooting for 30 years so I can get historic vehicle license plates.

[@maggiealena]

I bought a Dometic in January 2020 is still working great! I bought it from Camping World and have never had any problem with it. It cost $530. 4 years ofvrunning everyday 365 days a year! To me thats amazing.

[@debikami1]

Ha you said “POP” that took me home to Michigan where they call pop, pop! Great show!

[@StephenBond]

I don’t think he has called carbonated beverages “soda” but always “pop,” nothing new

[@originalnightshade4582]

I Was born in Pekin IL (about 10 mi out of Peoria) where they called it "Sodie", moved just 100 miles N. to Dixon IL there THEY CALL IT "Pop"! LOL

[@brendag2891]

Oh, that didn't even phase me! But I guess that's because I am from Minnesota. In England they called it Fizzy Drinks (my favorite). In Utah all soda was a Coke, even when it was a Sprite or 7 Up. Anyway, another nice presentation, Bob.

[@laurenkeon3267]

I live in the Pacific Northwest (OR) and we always say ‘pop’. I was told east coasters say ‘soda’ and west coast say ‘pop’. Actually kinda interesting how words are used across the US

[@AZTLANSOLDIER13]

I'm from Colorado we say pop my wife is from Florida they say soda. She thinks pop sounds ridiculous

[@imbgdaug]

Forgot a few things. 1. Cost of cooler to go with buying ice. 2. Are you using 100% of time. If just a weekender or few vacations a year, that factors in the cost and longevity

[@Mybored001]

I got a Bouge RV 53 qt on sale for 220 bucks and couldn't be happier with it. Excellent product.

[@kele1264]

I'm hearing that NOMADLAND won for Best Picture last night! CONGRATULATIONS !!!

[@tedoramone]

I’ve had the little Alpicool for about 3 years and still works and suits my needs. If I need more space I have an Ozark trail cooler in those odd cases. Sometimes it’s nice to have ice and cold beverages but still have your food cold and dry

[@cruisepaige]

Oh good idea to get a foldable cooler just in case. I threw out my styrofoam extra cooler bcs. it took up too much room. It was small and I scavenged it from a friend who had medicine delivered in it, but after 2 years it was pretty beat up and took up too much room in my van with the other cooler in there. I will get a foldable one and then I can have overflow space, but not all the time.

[@kimdagnillo8246]

I just sent back Alpicool , I had been trying it out for just under 30 days , whatever temp I set it at, it wouldn’t stay , fluctuating at 3 and 4 degrees off on panel and the thermometer inside would be off as well , sometimes up and sometimes down, then it just stopped working and had an error code. I’m going to take 1 or 2 month trips at a time, I need something reliable, I’m back looking for something better, I don’t want to spend crazy money on a tiny frig .

[@kristinmahlen4045]

What did you end up getting? Did you find something better?

[@grdsinclairgrd]

Nomadland won !!!!! Bob’s life is pure poetry!!!! Nomad lifestyle is pure poetry!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@fritzkabeano1969]

Here's my take on the "how cheap do you go" when buying one of these 12V fridges. I spent $300 on the ICECO iCooler and it's compressor died within a year (non Dan Foss). I was pissed so I decided my next fridge I'd buy from Costco because of their generous return policy. Signed up for Costco and got a couple $40 coupons which I put towards their rebranded Aplicool "Massimo" 53Q fridge. It was on sale for $290 so I got it for $210+tax. The Massimo works good and I was able to get it's bluetooth working (which isn't even advertised/mentioned in the manual) Moral of this story is everyone of these chinese fridges are going to fail and buying from Costco means I don't care!

[@johnj8514]

I have used a Alpicool almost daily on both 12v and 120v(?). I'm impressed. Does its job with zero problems. Never heard of the brand until Slim Potatohead vouched for it. edit almost daily for the past 18 months.

[@marybourgeois5235]

YES! Loving the blunt n to the point. Regardless of what u spend their all eventually crap out. That's what I'm understanding......cool! ✌

[@kristinmahlen4045]

Is it still going? I see its been 7 months since your comment. Can you update us? Thank you!!

[@fritzkabeano1969]

@@kristinmahlen4045 Yes

[@QnA22]

Alpicool is done by LG, after Samsung the biggest South Korean brand. It's not a no-name.

[@daylight5500]

Congratulations on the Golden Globe Awards. Your connection to the movie makes the recognition more special.

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsILK]

I agree. Bob is so deserving of recognition. Bob helps so many people. More than we could count.

[@CarolyneWhelan]

This video, like all of yours, is very helpful and validating. My Dometic just died and because it’s a cooler-style I couldn’t get it worked on. I felt very foolish for spending $600 including shipping on a fridge that lasted 3 years, but breaking the cost of ice and wasted food down was helpful, plus letting me know I didn’t do something wrong to break my “high end” (or apparently, mid-range) fridge. Now I have a better idea of what to get next. I’ll hold onto the Dometic for now as an extra because it still works well as a cooler with some ice, so great for beverages that won’t rot if they get wet and start floating.

[@gailsawicki2640]

You are a absolute miracle man. Thank you Bob for all the time you give so freely

[@muggywebster1117]

I love how you broke down the cost of ice to offset the expense of the frig. Thanks for sharing!

[@believer7733]

OMGoodness Bob! I’m getting ready to start my SUV camping life. I was just stressing about this yesterday.....thank you! The last thing I wanted to do was drive back and forth to town; now I can stay out . I’m a diabetic that needs a refrigerator/freezer to keep my insulin cold. Like you, I will be cooking several meals at a time and freezing or refrigerating them; I love to cook and can’t wait to cook outside! You’ve done “my” research about this issue! I’m getting one!

[@cruisepaige]

Same here about cooking in bulk. I like to make up some chili or whatever and put it in little silicone zip lock bags (washable and easy to store full or empty) and yet with an ice chest there was just not the room.

[@MacgyverSharon]

Good Info. Ive had the Alpicool CX30 for 2+years (vents on top sides, I don't know if they make anymore). It has had zero issues. I am so glad I didn't spend the $ for a dometic. Money is tight... Sound advice yet again, Thanks Bob ☮️❤️🕉️

[@carlaportocarrero6464]

Very interesting! You know Bob, I think that my husband is finally getting interested on the topic. Let's see what happens. Thanks Bob ☺️🤗

[@yoopermann7942]

i still dont need fridge as i dont normally buy foods that need it i live this way now, being house bound i have to order dry or canned foods/goods,, THANK YOU for the tips, great video

[@pppjourneyonabike5992]

I bought 20 qt F40C4 electric cooler. Uses about 200 watts DC power in 24 hours. I was only getting 14-21 hrs on 1 of their 220 watt batteries that puts out 178 watts. I wanted it to last longer. I added the thermal blanket F40C4 sells. It helped but still less than 24 hrs. So I tried packing contents with 5 lbs ice. Wow! Ice made the difference. I'm now on over 48 hours with only 1/3 of the 220watt battery used. Ice is the key. I'm guessing with 5 lbs ice on 1st say, 1 battery will last 4-5 days(?). I'm into the 3rd day. But turn off and on the battery every 8 hours or it will cycle off because it's not being used much. Start the ice/electric cycle again when need to. Im not always atba vehicles...on my bicycle and trailer so this method of ice & electric is great.

[@pavel9652]

You can add more insulation to it, styrofoam and mylar.

[@simplysandy3288]

Great idea! When you get your fridge you can start saving your ice money for the next new fridge when the one you have wears out! Thanks so much for sharing 💜

[@scotteddy1468]

I bought a 35 at. Joy frig for $325 almost 3 1/2 years ago. It works great they say to empty it out every 6 months and scrub it clean and I have done this. They are a great alternative to big brand frig. They also have low power a/c units cheap

[@mcooper5929]

Sounds good. But, In my experience with a Costway refrigerator and freezer. Have had about 1 year and temperature control switch went out. After numerous useless emails response And no telephone for customer support have a refrigerator stuck on 31 degree. Guess my point is. Unless they have an actual customer support number. Beware....

[@grandpagrandmajustkeepgoin4560]

They won’t ship the Costway to CA, don’t know why

[@user-di4iq3jf6b]

I have had a Vevor fridge/freezer now for about a year and a half. The USB port don’t work and a peg in the top door doesn’t stay when opened but fine when closed. It has wheels on one side and that’s a plus. Can’t complain-ice cold freezer and well kept food. Vevor is famous for diesel heaters.

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

Hey Bob! I haven't owned a solar cooler yet, but looking forward to it. Back in summer 2018, I stayed with a family in a high desert solar cabin, who still relied on ice chests, kept outside under a table, for their dairy, meats and fresh produce preservation. Every 3 days, they had to drive down the mountain and around the base into town for ice. Then one week that summer, there was a heat wave. There was no ice available throughout the local area. They had to drive two hours to reach a city that had ice. This would have paid for itself that week alone. As for myself, living in Louisiana during post-storm power outages, and trying to save on the current electric rates, solar-powered refrigeration will be a great blessing. Also, moving to Texas, where they haven't improved the isolated outdated grid yet, it will be a boon in my RV. Thanks for all you do. ^5

[@redwing19buff]

Great interview on NPR, Bob! It was an incredible surprise, and it just made my day, to hear you on the show! 👍🏽 And of course, congrats re: the Globes! Cripesakes, I almost forgot to acknowledge that 🤣

[@valeriehancotte-galan4790]

Globes??

[@davem1564]

Hi Bob, I totally agree with you about the amount of money being spent. Before I buy one, I done some research on various unit’s and even wrote to the seller on questions I may have. You’re right, there are junk and there are some decent ones. Thank you Bob for educating us.

[@vagabondvon221]

I bought a Setpower EA-20 it's a 21 quart, I picked it up for under 200.00 It's VERY efficient and runs extremely quite. It also has a cool feature, the lid is reversible you can hinge to open from either side.

[@veronicaspivey3479]

I use a Dometic fridge & i have had for 3 years & so far so good

[@turquoisewitch.wild-owl]

My Alpicool was very inexpensive but works really well!

[@Vantastictravels4ever]

I bought a dual zone Costway 53qt for $369 on Amazon. It's over a year old and seems to be working great! So far so good. It looks exactly like the Alpicool.

[@Hiker97]

Car fridges and power stations are game changers. Paid for in the cost of ice and the hassle of finding it, emptying the cooler, trying to keep your food dry, etc.

[@clarasmith1873]

I always learn something from your videos.

[@ladavis1959]

Congratulations on being part of a Golden globe winning 🎥 movie

[@robertkinney5826]

This is not related to this vid, but I have been binge watching again and absolutely loved coming across a vid where Bob was extremely pissed at a bunch of commenters.

[@gchowder]

All my questions on portable fridges were answered in this one video! Thank you sir for taking the time to make this video. I've watched many today trying to answer some questions. You touched on all of them! 🍺🍺 Cheers! :D

[@austinrawlins9099]

I have a cheap set power from Amazon that I use occasionally, all I can say is that it's awesome. Takes about 25 minutes to get to 0 degrees.

[@mrj-charles6383]

I have that brand also. Using it 24/7 you set the temp and it will fluctuate as much as 10 degrees.

[@Jeffs9304]

If the set power is only 159 right now, then would he consider that a 1st tier? Its 21 quart

[@austinrawlins9099]

I have the 40L version, so far so good, but I only use it for trips. The last time I had it set on 31 and full of beer and they all had thin layer of ice on every can.

[@austinrawlins9099]

@@Jeffs9304 yes it would be a 1st tier.

[@mrj-charles6383]

@@Jeffs9304 For the price it is a decent deal. The only issue is the fluctuating temperatures. Maybe that is an issue with all 12v fridges? I do not know since this the first one I have owned.

[@claudiacarter9728]

Mine is Alpicool, $169. It works as a fridge or freezer. It's small, but great for me. Holds same as my ice chest.

[@momsvancrazyjourney4443]

Claudia, what size is your alpicool?

[@claudiacarter9728]

Im sorry, but I dont know how many qts. I'll look up paperwork and let you know. It will hold 15 16oz water bottles + a little extra. Fridge/freezer inside is 14"×9.5"×6" deep. Outsude is 22.5"×13"×10.5 high

[@alfredoenriqueanez]

Ice is nice, but after experiencing so many power outages after hurricanes in Fl, I've learned that ice is unavailable for weeks after a storm.

[@georgepetrin1334]

It was not only helpful, it was funny too.

[@cjtemple5484]

When i used a knockoff yeti i kept the ice in a 10lb dry bag to help contain the melt (i think it stretches the ice life a day or 2) and the food in silicone bags to protect from water damage. After buying a solar battery i bought an alpicool fridge that i’m very happy with and now i use both; the ice chest when i need it for frozen food and drinks and the fridge for cold food. My home fridge ice maker was never connected to water so i bought one of those for use at home and to fill my cooler when camping. thanks for all you do for those in need.

[@NilDreams]

Perfect video for me since I’m looking around for one.

[@user-uh8kt7sf8m]

After watching this I went on Amazon and bought aBougeRV 23 quart for $151. Free shipping.I was hesitant thank you.

[@dhm7815]

Just the video I need just when I needed it!!!! I have a friend who lived in a tent in the Florida jungle for a year. Ice was available at walking distance at $3 for 10 lbs. I brought ice from a vending machine at $1.75 for 20 lbs. Every day. Here's something to consider. A friend stopped by the tent and repacked it, breaking an egg. The broken egg contaminated all the melt water. Everything had to be dumped and the ice chest washed out to clean out the filth of the interior. Ice chests are for a picnic or a day fishing.

[@therealsnake5875]

eggs are practically sterile and in cold water should stay together fairly well making clean up pretty easy. Nothing in your ice chest should be un bagged anyway, and why would you need to buy 20 pounds of ice every day? maybe you needed a new cooler.

[@gmcjetpilot]

I just bought my first 12v frig/freeze today. It's on the way. I will be car tent camping a lot in a April. I have a 500w battery station and 200w solar cell, plus the car battery and alternator if needed. The camp areas I will be at have charge stations. This is all new to me. First time using them. I got so tired buying bags of ice. My ice chest must suck because I had two small ones. I was buying almost 2 bags a day on average to keep them iced up, say $25 a week in ice. I paid $200 for my 32qt frig. It will pay for it self in a few years. But the hassle of NOT needing to get ice is worth it alone.

[@gosmoothgolight7567]

Working on a possible "alternative system", Bob, and every time I watch your videos (seems like, at least!) I pick up another nugget of gold to incorporate into my plans :) Thanks for sharing, sir ... see you down the road. God Bless

[@tiznonay7421]

Another helpful video! I just bought a 15 qt. Alpicool fridge 2 weeks ago. $170 shipped. 1 yr warranty. We'll see how it goes!

[@Iris_Collins]

I'd be interested in a good quality 12v fridge; wouldn't matter whether it was inexpensive or what, so long as it works and works well.

[@Utah_Mike]

Engel

[@patrickdurack536]

There is always misadvenyure. My Engle of 30+years went down with the ship as it were when the car was stolen. Very sad. Also bought a Frostbite for the off grid camp. Runs 24 7. Also use an ancient 240v bar fridge ridge but only when we are there. Draws about 9A at 12v into the inverter about 20% duty cycle. We have about 1kW panels and 600Ah LA AGM batteries. Have a Brass monkey for the car with 120Ah AGM and 70W flexible panel. All do their job well. We get cool winters and very hot summers.

[@gerald4nomads]

I'm still using my engel after 10 years and love it.

[@dianeibsen5994]

Hi Gerald. I'm new with the whole fridge/freezer thing. can you tell me what Engle you'd recommend?.. is there more than one? Thank you, Diane

[@gerald4nomads]

@@dianeibsen5994 I have an Engel 45 qt because I usually don’t buy a lot of food to take with me over the weekend

[@dianeibsen5994]

@@gerald4nomads thank you for your reply Gerald. Where do you recommend I get more information on 12 volt fridges? I've tried looking for videos to figure out the noise level of the fridges, but I can't seem to find any. Also I'm looking for the biggest fridge/freezer I can get. I have a lot I'm going to try to put in there.

[@fireballtp]

I found an old Norcold (Engel) 10-15 years ago at a Salvation Army thrift storefront 20 bucks. These things are tanks that just won’t die. But there is no fancy displays or Bluetooth to go bad either. Still not too sure about some of these “features” on the newer coolers lol

[@jennifersmith8900]

i like your no frills no bull explanations. i wish i could afford a van but i have to wait to see if we get this stimulus there is so much to know and learn! i just wanna travel and be equipped with normal every day needs met so i appreciate your honest education. a new follower

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

Not a bad price. Seen some ice chest coolers that cost more. Congrats on the movie.

[@setsailatnoon]

We have the Joytutus 26 quart. It can hold a case of beer or other beverages. We have an ARB 50 liter for food stuffs. It is as efficient for a larger capacity, but a lot more expensive. We’ve been using it for 5 years.

[@laurajphillips]

Something I do not understand! Why don’t nomads put the ice in a large ziplock bags or Tupperware containers if it melts in ther you can use the water for something else???

[@cjtemple5484]

i use a 10lb dry bag to contain the melt

[@Zoobamafoo]

Agreed! I bought a Lifetime 7day cooler, which doesn't work quite like I'd hoped, but I definitely use zipper bags to put the ice in. Saves a lot of grief with draining a cooler full of water when there's no drain in it! I want a 12volt, but budget won't allow $250-300. Not having to eat out and being able to store raw and cooked food will save me money to get a 12v though!

[@alanwinquist5002]

I use one quart and smaller juice bottles. As ice thaws I have a cold drink. At motel rooms, bottles can be refrozen.

[@joleslaurente]

I bought an Engel MT45 in 2005 and still runs like new.

[@TheOceanMan-xc7qp]

Love my iceco ...smooth danfoss warranty for 5 years...durable

[@michaelmedicworldoftanks33fps]

I have cheap alpicool 20L and it's been working now for 4 years 🥳

[@postcardsfromterry]

Right on Bob. I have used my cheap Alpicool for over a year. 20 quart with the hump. Perfect size for Lucy and me.

[@postcardsfromterry]

Oh, I love the hump for tall bottles, a1, salad dressing, erc.

[@hsgjkhagljkh]

I have a cheap, small fridge. The less its motor runs, the longer it lasts. So I take big ziploc bags and double-bag a thin layer of ice on the bottom and top of the inside of the fridge. I use 1 huge cup of ice from the gas station (saves me a ton of money). The fridge motor run less often, food stays dry, ice lasts longer and is super easy to refresh. :)

[@donni3560]

I keep coming back to all your videos for answers and help in making decisions. Your channel has been amazing and I just wanted to say thank you!

[@Kosovar_Chicken]

You should make a video about what u usually cook/stock when ur in remote areas for prolonged periods of time. I don’t think I’m gonna become a nomad anytime soon but you inspire me to spend more time in nature and go on more road trips! Luv ur videos peace from Santa Barbara 🌲🐐🍄

[@casper2yall]

Great video, thank you for all the info..

[@sylviabeam9343]

Thanks for all your help and advice I'm working on starting to live my life on the road and learning so much

[@davidlane1248]

Here's my protip if you want more space but not too much more money spent- buy two cheapo 12v fridges. Think about it: 1: you could buy one and buy the second once you feel comfortable financially to do so. Staging financial purchases is a wonderful thing. Additionally, learning to cope with limited fridge space for a time can make you realize you don't need the second one or at least teach you to appreciate the larger space once you have it 2: you can have two fridges for more fridge space OR you can have a dedicated fridge and dedicated freezer, given that these smaller ones don't usually have a freezer spot. If you use one for a freezer, you likely won't open it much, meaning it'll need to turn on less often... Win win! 3: if one fails, you have a backup to use until you can replace the failed one. That creates less stress and gives you time to weigh your options while hunting instead of feeling the rushed pressure of not having cold food _Potential_ downsides: 1: it's more expensive to buy two fridges than one... but you're still saving money over buying the expensive fridges and about the same money as a mid tier fridge 2: It's more solar/battery consumption... But these fridges are so efficient that this will only be a real problem to the most minimalist rubber tramps out there 3: It takes up more space in your already limited space... But if you're interested in this idea, then you've already half convinced yourself that having two smaller 12v fridges isn't a waste of that space. It heavily depends on your priorities, obviously Either way, great video Bob! I recommend your videos to everyone in my life that I know is interested in nomadic life(and even some people that aren't lol). Keep on living the good life and thank you for being the wealth of helpful information you are- it's more appreciated than you know

[@stephaniesimmons-ashorobi3314]

This interesting and much needed info.

[@gd2232]

I’ve had a Dometic for 10 years still going strong. Probably would be equal to 6 years non-stop. Keep it full as possible to help control the temperature. Hard to keep air cold. Use blue ice if necessary to help regulate the temperature.

[@mrj-charles6383]

I found a 37-quart Set power on Amazon for $196 with a coupon. So far I am sorta happy with it. Temp fluctuates a bit on it so I get condensation inside. During the summer I am spending at least $12 a week on the ice. Then you figure another $10 a month or more for food you need to throw out. I probably could have gone smaller on the cooler but I just load it up with drinks when I do not have much food. Since I do not have a solar setup on my van I guess I am going to have to get a power station to use when it starts getting warmer.

[@davevan6984]

I've had an Iceco go20 for a year now. Works great so far and was $250. I have a RTIC 45 cooler which I like but summer in Florida is expensive for ice. At least 3 bags a week at $2 each.

[@LifeinThirdPlaces]

It's crazy to see how much more the Iceco go20 costs now. Wow.

[@VANESSASVANLIFEJOURNEY]

*lol you are funny and very informative; you are done with the middle tier*

[@dfhepner]

I bought a BougeRV 23 Quart 12V Portable Refrigerator Car Freezer Fridge with Compressor for $199 from Amazon. It cools down to -8F. I bought it because I live 30 miles from town and I wanted to get ice cream home with out it going soft.

[@jackkollinger6851]

Bob head across the Mexican border and you should be able to find an electronic repair shop. Had mine repaired while in Puerto Vallarta when it failed. Very cheap to have done. Mind you if the compressor goes another story but most failures are electronic .

[@thebigmann81]

If you are diabetic taking insulin a 12v fridge is a must have

[@gcmvman1]

Bob I have had the Joy Tutus dc fridge for 2 years now, no problems! 200 watts solar 240 ah battery.

[@RobertJLessard]

I've had a cheap one and now a dometic. Main difference other than cost is noise and power draw. Cheap one uses more power and comes on more often and I found it louder and more annoying. If you're a light sleeper the cheaper ones can be noticeable.

[@jah2ras4i]

Thank you Santa👍

[@olgaguer6443]

Thank you!!! Always a pleasure to listen to you!!! Very useful information!!!

[@MarcillaSmith]

At that price, is the ARB going to fix supper for me? I'll keep my "Alpicool" that's still going strong >1 year of running full time

[@voiceOreezn]

I've got an Alpicool also. The temperature is not very accurate (but I use a thermometer and adjust) but it runs great, and was super cheap.

[@n8rlvr876]

I realize this is a bit older, but I’m grateful to have stumbled on this, and your rationale makes sense to me/for my own idea of quality of life. I deal with some auto immune issues and a healthy diet ( aka: fresh foods, lean proteins)is KEY to keeping pain at bay. And I’ve been scouring the web for the last 3 months researching this topic!!! For my budget, I’m going to roll the dice on a no name!! Thanks!❤️

[@nanciehuaracha6079]

I mean seriously let's be real here who doesn't want a cold soda even a cold beer thank you so much for your knowledge Bob

[@christopherbuckley94]

It's 2024 now, but I still think the economics works for buying the cheap one even if it only lasts 1 year. You can still pick up a similar unit in the $200-300 range, but ice has gone up and if you can get a bag for $1.99 to $3, it's a bargain!

[@darkwhitedirewolf]

Thanks Bob, appreciate all you do

[@gregoryfoster8179]

Yeah, I finally decided ice chests sucked. Just got my new Setpower FC15 delivered today. Small but enough space for all my needs. Eggs, condiments, meats, any perishables I may need for a week or so. And it was only $99! No brainer. Being single I usually cook pot meals for a couple days, store in small containers for left overs and pop in here. I'm heading out the 1st of Oct. for permanent life on the road so we'll see how long it lasts. 3year warranty for compressor.

[@twoweary]

BougeRV has a 23 qt. Frig on Amazon for $170. I hear they are of decent quality but I don’t currently own a 12 v frig ( I will soon though for my square drop camper). I feel that at least Amazon ratings are an indicator of quality on any product, but there are always lemons ,and then there are those who can’t even tie their shoes much less operate a piece of equipment. Also I rarely pay top dollar for anything. 😁 Good video Bob.

[@theresalogsdon765]

It doesn't matter, if the less valued works as good as the Expensive one. Get the Less Costly one.

[@RobertG-cq6hb]

I purchased an Engle refrig/freezer 9 years ago. A 60 watt panel (roof top) connected to a 50 ah battery keeps my milk cold. It sits on the back seat of vehicle