Refrigerators with Internal Back Up

One could use a standard uninterruptible power supply unit, and plug a standard refrigerator into it, perhaps?

Thanks. I'm looking for a more long-term solution (48-72 hours of back-up power). In essence, I am trying to avoid using an external generator.

Lmr7 You need to look at what's available for RVs, they can run on standard grid power or on propane gas and battery power. These units are capable of changing from one power source to the other automatically when an interruption occurs. J.Conway

Thanks, Mr. Conway.

I didn't know those RV reefers switched over automatically; The ones I have had experience with, had to be switched over manually.

Mine was automatic, until the amonia leaked out making a smelly mess. It ran on 115AC/12VDC or propane.

They even have 3-way automatic switchover nowadays:

1) 120 VAC

2) Propane, with 12 VDC control power

3) 12 VDC for the heat source when the propane runs out. (3 strikes, yer out!)

RV refrigerators automatically switch from line to propane when "shore power" is not available. They require a small 12 volt automotive battery for the controls to accomplish this. -- JHF

What an interesting question... never thought about something like that. PWSlack offer about UPS is probably on the track you are thinking about, and while the electrical suppliers I deal with offer many models, all are listed only for computers and peripherals, lights, data centers, televisions... nothing on the approved list with a motor. A refrigerator does suck a pretty fair amount of power, with a large inrush on startup (when compared to, say, a printer).

This would be an ingenious alternate use of some existing equipment, if CR4'ers can come up with one.

Perhaps a member out there is in R&D at Frigidaire?

Doorman These RV refers are based on some very old technology and contain no motors or compressors. No surge on start or during cycle. They do an excellent job as a freezer also. They could be made to operate on any source of heat if a person had a mind too. You could build a system to operate off of the exhaust heat of an engine to cool the passenger compartment of a car, plane or train. The possibilities of using the byproduct of combustion for cooling should be considered for many applications. J.Conway

Well, perhaps I misunderstood original question... I assume refrigerator in question is used in the home? There are a few logistical problems using RV type fridge/freezer in a residence, but it would be possible. We will have to wait for a clarification, I guess. I may be offering ideas for the wrong problem.

If your refrigerator is quite small, you might also consider a thermoelectric unit of the type that plugs into an automobile cigarette lighter. Then a battery can be the back-up power, with a with a small charger that operates when you do have AC power.

You can use vapor absorption system .It does not need conventional electricity. You can use waste heat or renewable energy. Another idea is refrigerator using adsorption technique. commercial refrigerators using absorption system are available. Adsorption refrigerators lab models may be available.

If you use an interruptable power source that has sufficient power rating to supply the compressor start needs, you would only have to add additional battery capacity to allow the batteries to last as long as the expected power failure. Remember that the less the refrigerator door is opened, the longer the batteries will last.

During the last power outages from the storms there were six 12 volt inverters running refrigerators in my circle of family-friends. Only the one 20+ year old refrigerator was too big a load for the inverters we were using. (800-1000 watt). during the day, connect jumper cables to the inverter battery and charge for an hour from the car's alternator. Just some ideas for you to think about. Good luck.