Buying & Using a Boat Refrigerator

Boat refrigerators just aren't like "land" refrigerators. Smaller, oddly shaped and often with little to no freezer space or organization.

Make your fridge work for you -- whether it's front- or top-loading, and no matter how tiny!

How to Store Drinks in a Boat Fridge

Published on November 26, 2021; last updated on May 19, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

With a little planning you can keep drinks cold in your boat refrigerator without wasting power. Here’s how.

Published on November 19, 2021; last updated on May 28, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Yes, you can keep food cold in hot climates. And without overworking your batteries. Learn the easy way to add insulation to your boat fridge.

Published on February 12, 2021; last updated on November 29, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Your boat fridge will run better if you keep ice from building up. Here’s how to defrost it—the easy way!

Published on January 22, 2021; last updated on May 25, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Don’t waste energy keeping your boat fridge cool. Here’s how to make it more efficient.

Published on July 24, 2020; last updated on May 28, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Is the cold staying where it belongs? In your boat fridge? Learn how to check for yourself.

Published on June 12, 2020; last updated on May 23, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Troubleshooting refrigeration problems can be frustrating. Especially if you forget to check this.

Published on May 3, 2020; last updated on July 2, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Three ways to reduce what’s in the refrigerator — essential for living with a small refrigerator, whether in a boat, RV or off the grid.

Published on February 25, 2020; last updated on October 30, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

Does your boat have a tiny refrigerator? Then you need my best tips for going two weeks or more between grocery trips. It’s easier than you think.

Published on January 8, 2019; last updated on March 31, 2022 by Carolyn Shearlock

The Isotherm Cruise 130 Elegance uses less energy and needs defrosting less often than the Cruise 130 Classic. Learn all the improvements here.

Published on April 6, 2018; last updated on December 13, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

Small refrigerator and less frequent stops for groceries when cruising. How can you have the foods — especially fresh food — you want?