ICECO APL55 58QT Multi Zone 12v/24v Refrigerator Freezer Review

[@HOBOTECH]

GET THE APL55 HERE: gohobo.io/apl55 (code HOBOTECH is automatic with the link) Check out other ICECO products here: gohobo.io/iceco WiFi Thermometer link: hobotech.tv/amazon/#Tools **For those concerned about the black color, note that refrigerators (and solar generators) should NEVER be left in direct sunlight!**

[@UPdan]

Since you don't need a lot of watts for these could you do a demonstration using a super cheap lifepo4 solar generator 300w range with a 50wh lifepo4 battery attached to that to see how long it runs on the frugality system? And demonstrate each connection you make.

[@GinaKayLandis]

I am thrilled that this ICECO ran for 12 hours on the EB3A!! This appears to be a refrigerator that can be used in multiple applications. I agree, a wheeled unit with a pull handle would be sweet. Still, to get it into a van could be a challenge without ramps to pull it up. Thanks for the review!

[@slayer66thfc]

I don't think it did. There was a bench power supply sitting there during the test. You could see the amps cycling during the time lapse

[@joannejohnson6393]

... almost as hot as it gets in Phoenix. 🤣🤣 Thanks for a great review!

[@melissasmess2773]

Impressive all around! I love this item, thanks for your hard work Professor. I have a F40C4TMP that has about 500 miles on it and was used indoors as a temporary fridge for about two months. It’s light, efficient, quiet, can be set to as low as 4F. It’s a great value for restaurant leftovers, camping, car traveling. I hope it lasts many years.

[@StratRider]

Hey ICECO, you've done it again. HT's review is just what I needed to see and his minor items that would even make this better were spot on. Although it is awesome as is. 😃

[@mgoben6499]

Another Sr. Hoboski review with perfect timing. Putting together an overlander and was debating on which to get. Looks like problem solved!

[@danmanx2]

What a fridge! I've been using a BougeRV in my man cave for almost a year and have been loving it. This one is pretty sick with all the features. I do like the dual zone also, but I probably wouldn't use that feature.

[@brucegibson5399]

Ordered today saved over $100. with your discount code, thanks much

[@michaelthomas934]

👍 Thank you for the great overview. Purchased the APL55, PB250, and 80 watt solar combo. Just finished testing for 8 hours. The contents remained cool or frozen. The PB250 battery was still at 100%. Nice to have for trips. Keep up the excellent work.

[@gregsmith1116]

Thanks HT! I like that fridge and might just hit that referral link. Thank you for your thorough reviews on these types of boondocking equipment!

[@nethoncho]

A USB powered fridge would be awesome

[@brushbum7508]

Thanks Tom ! The Iceco Icooler has been great.This would be nice to take to Q this winter. TAKE CARE..

[@ricks.1318]

AWESOME review, Tom ...... You ALWAYS give us your honest opinion !!!

[@mfgxl]

Somebody doesn't like the way you test this? Holy Cow. Your reviews are amazing. I could only dream about doing a review a small percentage as well as my fellow Tucsonian does.

[@HOBOTECH]

Thanks. Just look the comments. Still complaining...

[@rickwilson478]

As explained in the video, Hobo's reviews are all conducted under identical ambient temperature conditions and always include detailed tech specs and watt usage calculations .. what would the complainers do differently/better? Are they too dense to calculate for their particular circumstances, or do they expect an online concierge service to show up at their house/campsite? WTF!

[@RonKris]

@@HOBOTECH You could hand out $100 bills and someone would complain that they were not new enough or some crap like that.

[@HOBOTECH]

Amen to that...

[@mikerogers9711]

I love my IceCo 60qt dual zone I got last year. runs awesome and can run it for more then 10 days on my Jackery 2000Pro without any charging. That Danfoss compressor is AWESOME

[@Banagal]

This sounds great with the dual technology. Thanks for the review. I'll check it out on their website.

[@LindaC-d9g]

Hobotech, your reviews are consistently helpful. I always defer to your vids prior to shopping. APL55 is on my short wish list. Thank you!

[@LordTimelord]

Bookmarked as a possible alternative if my ARB fridge freezer ever dies. 😉 So far by ARB fridge freezer has been running six years 24/7/365 in my big rig. The entire time set at 0° F. It's taken the severe vibrations of a semi like a champ! FYI. Anybody who buys a cooler for long-term use should get an insulating cover for it. I have the insulated cover for my ARB fridge. And even though it cost over $100 it makes a huge difference in how much energy consumption the cooler uses.

[@RonKris]

That's a good statement for a 12v fridge.

[@TobyCostaRica]

I’ve had it 5 years non stop in my truck and sold it for the same price I paid for it. ARB/Dometic makes a solid fridge. My small Dometic CF18 has been going for 8 years non stop.

[@troyurbin]

Thank you for the very informative video and the discount code. Just made the purchase and received the $100 discount. Looking forward for more videos.

[@jonstokesradio]

Excellent review! I just ordered one. The discount code still works. This is going to be perfect for my semi truck.

[@petahe01]

I like the blue color light added to it vs a red light. A blue light will make my hunger go away and a red light will make me hungry. Fridge might help keep me slimmer year round. Might have to ask Iceco if it’s dust resistant. Does look nice. Looks tempting.

[@mikegonsalves3450]

The soft close lid, the convertible dual/single zone design and the app were all previously available on their GO20 model….. albeit at half the capacity.

[@rickwilson478]

Yeah, and their "sister" company Setpower makes a dual zone 45qt. (RV45D) , with the same slide out divider and a reversible long edge hinged lid (not soft close). The display and control panel is also located on the upper edge of a short side and at an angle, so it is very easy to read and access, even when in a side pullout drawer. It doesn't have the Secop compressor, but they give 3 year warranty, and they are good quality built. I think HOBOTECH reviewed that one also when it came out about two years ago, and I was able to buy it with your discount code 😀 , thanks Ho! The compressor uses a reasonable amount of watts per day 275 to 325 when set at 15* and 34* in 80 to 90* temperatures in my Sprinter, but this model would probably last for three full days easily with a 700 watt Bluetti EB70!

[@deserttramp2757]

Well, you swaged me into buying the iceco jp40 and 60 with your reviews, the 40 did a 200 mile trip in the back of a sideby, mostly dirt road, still working great. And have a lv65 duel zone which is great, so sounds like this 55 will fill that empty spot between 40 and 60. Oh, hey ICECO, The fall out of lighter plug is so damn true, so the idea of USB C to power it just makes damn sense and give hobotech the credit for the idea. Laters

[@melissasmess2773]

AxV=Watts, USB-C can’t handle enough amps😢

[@HOBOTECH]

@@melissasmess2773 100w PD is 20v * 5A. More than enough power.

[@RobertsAdventure]

I suspect one risk with USB-C would be potential user error from ppl who don't understand the huge variation in wattages across USB-C power supplies and power banks etc plugging in lower wattage/non-PD USB-C rated power supplies/cables, USB A to C cables etc because "It's all USB-C" and blaming the fridge.

[@mike.briney]

I think having a usb pd power input on one of these would be really slick as well! Lets make it happen @iceco !! Also really hope they come out with a nice cover for this unit as well.. that finish is sexxxxy for sure, but an extra insulated cover would definitely be beneficial for outdoor use-cases and for transporting around.

[@tikoy1955]

Outstanding review video. Awesome frig and would be great for boondocking and traveling.

[@jefflunt9615]

After you mentioned it is designed for hot desert climates, I'm in NM, I noticed the thing is black. Great color for direct sun.

[@HOBOTECH]

Because you are not supposed to ever put a fridge in direct sunlight...

[@jefflunt9615]

@@HOBOTECH If it's in the back of your car, suv, it might be in direct sunlight...but maybe you have shades all around...but thanks for the tip,.

[@mikemotorbike4283]

You keep rockin' Hobotech!

[@jondrew55]

Wow, great review! Not a criticism, but I'd be interested in how it performs sitting in the sun, in a hot car since that's how I'll be using it here in Florida. But if there's a 30 day return policy, I think I'll give it a shot. I just checked, and this is pre order only. Ships in May.

[@Prevailingbucket]

Good thing it’s painted black, smart thinking 🤔

[@TheXanthoman]

I wish they made a 40/45 qt model with dual opening lid . Also plastic doesnt dent as easily as aluminum so im not sure aluminum is a plus , does look nice though but the question is how long will it stay that way .

[@CharlesAnsman]

Yea, looks like a dent magnet

[@robertdragoff6909]

This looks like an excellent addition to have if the fridge in your rig is dorm sized with a tiny freezer space barely big enough for ice cube trays.

[@SnowbadgerCentral]

Great review! Love the innovations ICECO keeps coming up with. I have a VL45 Pro that has been rock solid and one of my favorite features is the removable lid that opens from either side. Makes a big difference for getting to items inside when it's sitting in the back of an SUV. If they made a version of this model with that style of lid I'd probably buy it.

[@dg9905]

Hey Hobotech, just saw an ad on you tube by bougerv using your review as their ad! Hope you are getting compensated!

[@barryc3476]

Story idea: Does an ice maker, used in combination with an efficient cooler, use less electricity than an equal size 12v refrigerator per dollar value? 12v refrigerators very costly and require expensive power systems to support the continuous draw. It's possible that a cooler / ice maker combo may be more efficient by cost comparison. As well as having ice on hand for drinks is a bonus. It would be an interesting experiment. Keep up the good work. Cheers!

[@clarencewiles963]

Ok I had to come back to the chat 💬 Comment, Like, Subscribed ✅ for one he’s keeping us updated with the latest. And Tom is helpful for discounts. Also he’s using this stuff, before he puts out a review. Thumbs up 👍 for getting the manufacturer to do updates. That’s is why we are asking you for your help ✅📝📫

[@Zakary79081]

The ARB zero did the flex compartment feature a couple years ago.

[@dangeroustoman]

My alpicool has been running great for 3 years, fridge and freezer part.

[@Theonebaddude]

You got lucky, my three yo Alpicool crapped out on me and has been trouble for more than two years. I have it’s replacement and getting ready for a rebuild.

[@rebeltoo37]

Love your reviews!!!!!! So bummed it’s not chest opening!! Have one that style it’s like 4’ tall open.

[@cjam3660]

exactieally what I said, like what were they thinking haveing it an end hyndged door...lol...destroyed it, right

[@toddedwards2271]

i freeze about a inch or two of water in the bottom of it and and it stays cold all day long without using the battery for two days

[@leadinglady19]

What a genius idea! I’m gonna have to steal it and do this too.

[@GHE2005]

I hv the Iceco go 20 & I bought it to mainly use the freezer part only. It works very well but it's a power hog. If I ever get a bigger vehicle, I would buy the Iceco APL55. 👍🏾

[@readypetequalmers7360]

Can the bluetooth be turned off and do the physical buttons allow for the same control? it would suck to have some random person messing with the settings.

[@phunguyen888]

Thanks for the review and the discount code! Sweet

[@danallanson5990]

I never understood why my 12v fridge's bluetooth app has a power OFF button. You can't turn it back on!

[@adamw4469]

Thorough review as always Professor. Nice fridge!

[@JMS_Outdoors]

Always enjoy your reviews. Thanks for keeping it consistent across the board. Makes it a lot easier to choose the right products for the right application. ✌🏻

[@CharlesAnsman]

Testing all frig's in an 80 degree room would be better.

[@bejwee]

Love the videos and plan to get an apl55! As someone who seems pretty detail oriented, a polite request to eliminate the completely viral word vomit phrase ' go ahead and' . Countless times in the video this phrase was used and it is never necessary in any sentence. For example instead of saying I'm going to go ahead and plug it in for 12 hours, you are simply just going to plug it in for 12 hours. Small unimportant pet peeve but that phrase and the word literally are the two most virally abused in the country right now!

[@georgedoolittle7574]

Needs a removable air input filter. Should include an exterior weather proof insulated soft case and an exterior reflective cover/enclosure

[@cjam3660]

yep for that price...at least an isolated cover included...

[@reminaya]

Yo, ICECO, Industry first?? I've been running a Dometic 63qt with TWO removable walls to adjust temperature zones, and for a fridge company that is "specializing in high temperature (desert) regions", WHY the heck do you (as well as other fridge companies, my Dometic included), make these things dark? Sun? Attract more heat?? HELLO?? I bought the ICECO Pro 45 through HoboTech when they had their fantastic kickstart program. Screaming deal, GREAT FRIDGE so far. Thank you HoboTech! and make the damn fridges white.

[@danieldigiusto1943]

Amazing review, like all your others 💪 thanks!

[@jeffwatson8862]

Iceco go20 has same dual zone system

[@MichaelMCummings]

Hey Tom, looking for that thermometer link. I don't see it. thanks

[@HOBOTECH]

Oh it's on my site hobotech.tv/amazon/#Tools

[@craigbrowning9448]

The Iceco GO-20 (already on the market) already has the removable partition feature.

[@TimShelnut]

Yep that's what I was thinking because I had one 5 years ago.

[@thinairtoo8985]

Pretty neat set up. If outdoors the black would absorb heat more than say white, but it is still good looking and heavy duty. Thanks Hobo !

[@HOBOTECH]

Fridges should never be in direct sunlight anyway.

[@pmurphy12667]

truma fridges have had the split frig/freezer compartment for years so its not new what Iceco is doing. But I do like the design and Iceco is coming along nicely

[@clarencewiles963]

Thumbs up 👍 keep up with your cool Stuff

[@SoloHiker1]

I still like the 2 door systems on the VL. It just makes more sense. Having 2 doors where you don't have to lose all your coolness when going in for a cola.

[@vincentmontambault217]

I have watched a lot of your videos, and this one, as always, is fun to watch. I don't know why, but I like to watch new portable fridge being tested. I have one question though... you often say that those 12/24V fridges consume a lot less than a standard fridge. But have you already did the test with a very good portable pure sine inverter and a small cabinet fridge? I am curious to know the difference in consumption over a 12 or 24 hours period.

[@jeffwatts2727]

Would live to see the smallest units for my wife’s insulin/few beverages

[@teuton6167]

Great review thank you Professor! It looks fantastic except for the lack of wheels. At 55 lbs. empty I think it needs some wheels for transport.

[@umbranoxx]

That power efficency is crazy, well done ICECO

[@bambambamVB3]

Greetings Tom!

[@mucarew]

Great review as always thanks so much

[@charleshunt3806]

I’m not really into refrigerators that way but if I was I would definitely want to have coitus with that fridge that is one sexy duel zone fridge freezer

[@petervalk9997]

i got the Makita cooler and i love it, a review on that by you wiuld be cool, but this one looks well build and 2 zones.....hmm nice

[@StaticCamperVan]

Great looking fridge. It's surprising to me that it's taken Iceco so long to offer the flexible interior. They've had that feature on their Setpower line for some time now

[@HOBOTECH]

I doubt Setpower switches automatically when you remove the partition and still requires the user to manually set the temperature the same in both zones.

[@mike.briney]

I use an iceco go20 unit for my smaller roadtrips and that is a dualzone unit.

[@koolkoreanked]

@@HOBOTECH it does switch from single to dual automatically. I’ve had mine for a while now. The only thing I don’t like about the setpower is that it defaults to factory temp settings when you remove and install the divider. The ICECO looks 100% better!!!

[@rickwilson478]

No, actually, the Setpower RV45D functions as a true dual zone..freezer- fridge/ fridge-fridge or, remove the divider, and it automatically displays and operates as a single zone. You just have to make sure you reset both temperatures after re- installing the divider because it reverts to preset temperatures. I'm not trying to step on your excellent review here. I'm just offering info.I thought I bought the Setpower from your review... maybe it was JASONOID.

[@rickwilson478]

Oops, didn't see Koolkorean's comment till after I sent mine.

[@TimShelnut]

Almost want to sale my dual zone VL60 for one of these just because of the size. Not many dual zones in a smaller configuration. Kept mine in a smaller car so room is important but so is having ice cream lol.

[@jerryberkel8421]

I am going to get this fridge, cut the plug off the end and wire it directly into my bus bar...still getting 12 volts, feeding from my two 100 ah lifepo4 batteries which are charged via solar. I am hoping this setup will be a permanent solution in my popup truck camper :) Or I might just wire in a 12 volt recepticle beside the bus bar...either way I'm looking forward to getting and using this fridge on solar.

[@m9ovich785]

In a Home made Camper where Mine would live. How would this compare for efficiency to a Separate 120 Volt Mini Fridge and Mini Freezer ? I paid about $50.00 for each one. I plan on adding heat sinks on the outside of the cabinet to aid in cooling the Condenser Coils and fans on the Compressors . With all the battery reviews you've done, Do You have a Favorite pick ?? Thanks Tom. Mike M.

[@HOBOTECH]

These don't even compare to cheap mini fridges. Those use about twice the power and waste so much through the inverter running 24/7. Get either the Ampertime or Power Queen. See those reviews.

[@Sentry1835]

I'm New to solar generator's and solar panels.... I bought a VTOMAN 1000 and went with the ROCKPAL 200 watt solar panel My question is.... I want to buy a Anderson 20ft extension cord..... But see two different types ( Male to male) and ( female to male) Which one do I want to buy..... I'm confused Tried researching..... But , couldn't find a video or Google search that could answer my question Thanks

[@jaycarneygiants]

If you plug in the AC and DC ports which will it prioritize? Will it swap over if 1 source dies? Also if you use both DC ports simultaneously for 2 batteries will it auto swap if one of the batteries dies?

[@usfkisr]

I have an EB3A plugged into the 12v outlet in my trunk. I also have the APL55 plugged into the EB3A through the AC port. The EB3A went from 100% to 0% in about four hours and maybe even less. I need the APL55 to stay powered for atleast 12 hours or more. Does anyone know how to make this happen or what power supply will be able to do this while it’s in my car?

[@johnowens8530]

Great review once again, thank you! For measuring liquid on the fridge I use a thermopen one and stick in a bottle of liquid which has been in the fridge. Obviously this doesn’t work well for the freezer. I wish you would review a national Luna fridge if you get a chance to, or if you have ai hope I find it. Yes they are expensive

[@MikeM.nomiles]

Any test coming for the Wave2, thanks

[@davidlynnprepperprincipal3540]

Excellent review. Thank you for sharing. Blessings 🙏🏼👍🏼

[@the03mach1]

Iceco APL55 free shipping hobotech discount 103.08-- total 818.29 after taxes and free shipping..website states this is a pre-order to be shipped May 15 due to promotional period.. cheaper than Amazon 😊😊

[@something2952]

I just picked one of these up and there is a knock that occurs 5 times every 40 seconds when it actively cooling. Is this normal operation?

[@oceangoin79]

Another hit! Thanks!

[@shaunaleighudell9276]

Do you have a video or review of the Jackery 880?

[@HOBOTECH]

I don't review the box store models. They are cheaper smaller battery versions for the same price as the "real" versions sold online. Better off tossing your cash in the fire.

[@anthonymarino4260]

have a iceco 20 works great 3 years old

[@rockinvanlife]

That’s one hell of a fridg.. I agree with you on the cigarette lighter plug for sure, I hate that thing. Price is awesome as well I don’t have one but I’ll give you and it a double 👍👍

[@whatablissfullife]

Ok ok I’m going to watch this video mr hobotech

[@pdieppa]

Bring back the echo fx in the intro!! 😊

[@teuton6167]

Agree! That’s my favorite part of Hobotech!

[@polekasta]

Nice fridge, Nice features. I like the convertible feature. To bad it won't ship to Hawaii.

[@williameddy7217]

Great Video!! Thanks

[@topcheese2889]

My alpicool is still going strong after 3.5 years

[@__________f9433]

Great video!

[@LancerNik13]

Great review! How long would the insulation keep things cold in the event of losing power, or turning it off at night/day?

[@lowmanite]

Hey Hobotech. They are out of stock on the magnet battery, for now. What all comes with the basic package? What cords? Thanks. Great video.

[@HOBOTECH]

It comes with the AC and DC cords.

[@lowmanite]

@@HOBOTECH Thank you. You rock!

[@itchybear9407]

Dude ur so cool tnx 4 ur videios

[@brembofly]

It seems like this would be quite efficient running as a single zone fridge, guessing more so than than dual zone. Maybe approaching vl 45 status? I would be curious what those number are since I could see myself using it that way now and then.

[@jamesderr1344]

The elephant in the room that no channels that I have seen has covered is, how much will fit in the freezer compartment. Looks to me like if you are going to spend much time boondocking you better buy a small one for a freezer and a larger one for the fridge. But of course no one knows because no one covers it.

[@solarcabin]

$859 is ridiculous and you can get 2 Alpicool with more room and use one as a freezer and one as a fridge for half that much. I have reviewed dozens of these units and live off grid full time using Alpicool.

[@dfox344]

Thank you for sharing

[@jaycarneygiants]

Are Iceco refrigerators more efficient when using DC vs an AC inverter?

[@susanstrickland6774]

That's a good sized fridge. Iceco is a decent brand, great warranty. Always a good review. 🙂👍

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

Review the Anker Fridge

[@williamlabarre4755]

Yup, fixes the "loose" battery, USB-C charging.

[@LancerNik13]

Is the external battery worth it or should I just use my jackery 240?

[@CatHound]

Is the VL 60 better?

[@MikeNPeeGee]

Can you tell me how tall it is with the lid up? I wonder how much room I will have in my Jeep.

[@TsiRoadkill]

About 4' based on the dimensions

[@spelisha]

How does this compare to the other similarly sized and most efficient iceco fridges you e tested? Like the VL45 or TR45?