how do car fridges work Page 5

Car fridges, or portable coolers, usually work via thermoelectric, compressor, or absorption technology. The most common is the compressor fridge, which operates much like your home fridge, using a refrigerant cycle to suck heat out and keep contents cold, powered by your car’s 12V system. Thermoelectric models use the Peltier effect, which is less efficient but cheaper and quieter, ideal for short trips. Absorption fridges rely on a heat source, often gas or 12V electricity, to drive a cooling cycle, functioning silently but with slower cooling.

They’re brilliant for keeping your beer frosty on the way to the beach or your snacks fresh on a road trip. Just remember: compressor types can run your car battery down if left unattended, so use with caution. For buying, check Tradingpost or CarShowroom for new and used options in Australia.