Can the Car Refrigerator Be Left On All the Time?
2 Answers
Yes. Similar to household refrigerators, car refrigerators can be continuously powered for cooling. Here is some relevant information about car refrigerators: 1. Principle: Car refrigerators are an extension of household refrigerators. They can utilize semiconductor electronic cooling technology or compressor refrigeration. Generally, they produce low noise and cause minimal pollution. While driving, simply plug the power connector into the cigarette lighter socket to cool the refrigerator. 2. Types: The first type is an earlier product, and calling it a refrigerator might not be entirely accurate since it lacks cooling functionality—it only provides insulation. To use it, you must freeze the items you want to refrigerate beforehand and then place them in the insulated box, along with ice packs if available. This method keeps items frozen for a short period. The advantage of this type of refrigerator is that it doesn’t consume electricity and is relatively inexpensive. The downside is that it can’t maintain low temperatures for long, and the storage space is limited.
As a frequent long-distance traveler, I believe a car fridge can be left running, but with one major condition: it's best to keep it on only when the engine is running. Car fridges mainly rely on the cigarette lighter or USB for power, and they consume a significant amount of electricity when operating. This isn't an issue while the engine is running, as the alternator continuously charges the battery. However, if left on after parking, the battery's charge can deplete rapidly, potentially draining completely within a few hours, leaving you unable to start the car. I learned this the hard way—once, during a roadside nap, I forgot to turn it off and later needed a rescue tow truck. So, for long-term use, I recommend purchasing a model with low-voltage protection or installing a secondary battery pack dedicated to powering it, a popular modification among enthusiasts. Additionally, different fridge types have varying impacts: compressor-cooled models offer better cooling but consume more power, while thermoelectric ones are more energy-efficient but less effective at keeping things cold in summer. Overall, controlling usage time is key.
