Forget Eskom, keep your cool. Loadshedding getting you down? Tired of milk going sour and ice cream melting faster than your dreams of a stable power supply? Then ditch the electric fridge and join the non-electric revolution!
Here in South Africa, we’re no strangers to power cuts.
But that doesn’t mean we have to surrender our food to the whims of Eskom. Non-electric fridges are making a comeback, and they’re more sophisticated than your grandma’s icebox.
This guide dives deep into the coolest (pun intended) non-electric fridges available in South Africa. We’ll break down the different types, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Ready to take back control of your food storage?
6 Best Types of Non-Electric Fridges in South Africa
1. Gas Fridges: The King of Off-Grid Cooling
Gas fridges are the heavyweights in the non-electric world.
They use LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) to generate a cooling effect, offering reliable refrigeration without relying on Eskom.
Why choose a gas fridge?
- Uninterrupted Cooling: Say goodbye to food spoilage during loadshedding.
- Energy Efficient: Gas fridges are surprisingly economical to run, especially with rising electricity costs.
- Environmentally Friendly: Many models use ammonia and water as refrigerants, minimizing your carbon footprint.
- Durable and Long-lasting: Built to withstand tough conditions, these fridges are a long-term investment.
Top Gas Fridge Brands in South Africa:
- Defy: A trusted South African brand offering a range of gas fridges with different capacities and features.
- KIC: Known for their robust and reliable gas fridges, perfect for off-grid living.
- SnoMaster: If you’re looking for a high-end option with advanced features and excellent performance, SnoMaster is the way to go.
| Brand | Model | Capacity | Price Range (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defy | Demo 230L Gas Electric Upright | 230L | R8,999 |
| Midea | Midea 165L Top Freezer | 165L | R3,400 – R3,500 |
| Hisense | Hisense H370BIT | 264L | R5,800 – R6,400 |
| KIC | KIC 570L Deep | 570L | R7,000 – R7,500 |
| Univa | Univa UC485W | 433L | R5,500 – R6,100 |
2. Paraffin Fridges: The Budget-Friendly Backup
Need a non-electric fridge that won’t break the bank?
Paraffin fridges are a more affordable option, ideal for smaller households or as a backup during power outages.
Pros of Paraffin Fridges:
- Cost-effective: Both the initial purchase price and running costs are lower compared to gas fridges.
- Simple Operation: Easy to use and maintain, no complicated technology involved.
- Portable: Many models are compact and lightweight, making them easy to move around.
Cons of Paraffin Fridges:
- Limited Cooling Capacity: Generally smaller than gas fridges, with less storage space.
- Requires Regular Refilling: You’ll need to keep an eye on the paraffin level and refill it periodically.
- Temperature Fluctuations: May not maintain a consistently low temperature, especially in hot weather.
| Brand | Model | Capacity | Price Range (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give It Gas | Paraffin Upright 230L (PR265D) | 230L | R7,300 |
| Zero | ZERO DC265PRD Paraffin Combi | 265L | R15,523.85 |
| Direct Cooling | DC265PRD Paraffin Upright | 265L | R15,523.85 |
3. Solar-Powered Fridges: Harnessing the Power of the Sun
Go green and embrace sustainable living with a solar-powered fridge. These fridges use photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight into electricity, providing a truly off-grid refrigeration solution.
Benefits of Solar Fridges:
- Environmentally Friendly: Reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and minimize your impact on the planet.
- Long-Term Savings: Free energy from the sun means lower electricity bills.
- Ideal for Remote Locations: Perfect for areas with limited or no access to the electricity grid.
Things to Consider:
- Initial Investment: Solar fridges can be more expensive upfront.
- Sunlight Dependent: Performance can be affected by cloudy weather or insufficient sunlight.
- Battery Backup: A reliable battery backup system is essential for consistent cooling, especially at night.
| Brand/Model | Type | Capacity | Price Range (ZAR) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Defy C210 | Fridge/Freezer | 192 L | R 11,085.00 | Suitable for homes and businesses; energy-efficient design. |
| Defy DAD240S+SOL006 | Solar Hybrid | 240 L | R 6,000 – R 11,000 | Endura-Chill technology; maintains temperature during power outages. |
| Minus40 Solar S230CF | Chest Fridge/Freezer | 230 L | R 5,500 – R 7,500 | Designed for solar installations; robust for African environments. |
| Defy 157L Solar Hybrid Fridge-Freezer | Fridge/Freezer | 157 L | R 1,099.95 | Connects directly to solar panels; prioritizes solar energy usage. |
| Defy 3 Solar Panels SOL006 | Solar Panel Kit | N/A | R 1,999.00 | Includes solar panels; designed to work with compatible fridges |
4. Absorption Fridges
Absorption fridges use a heat source (gas, propane, or even kerosene) to create a cooling effect. They’re known for their quiet operation and versatility, making them suitable for various applications.
Why choose an absorption fridge?
- Silent Operation: No noisy compressors, making them ideal for caravans, boats, and quiet living spaces.
- Multiple Energy Sources: Can operate on different fuels, offering flexibility and convenience.
- Durable and Reliable: Built to last, with fewer moving parts that can break down.
Where to find absorption fridges:
- Caravan and camping stores: Popular for use in recreational vehicles.
- Specialty appliance retailers: May offer a wider selection of models and brands.
| Brand/Model | Type | Price Range (ZAR) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engel MT45F | Absorption Fridge | 10,000 – 12,500 | Dual voltage, portable, energy-efficient |
| Dometic CFX 40W | Absorption Fridge | 12,000 – 15,000 | Wi-Fi enabled, durable, variable cooling |
| Whirlpool WRF535SWHZ | Absorption Fridge | 8,500 – 11,000 | Frost-free, adjustable shelves, LED lighting |
| Samsung RT38K5531SL | Absorption Fridge | 9,000 – 13,000 | Twin Cooling System, energy-efficient |
| Defy DFF455 | Absorption Fridge | 7,500 – 10,000 | Frost-free technology, energy-efficient |
5. Chest Freezers (Gas or Solar)
Want to bulk buy and keep your food frozen for longer?
Gas-powered or solar-powered chest freezers are a great option for larger families or those who like to stock up on frozen goods.
Advantages of Chest Freezers:
- Larger Capacity: Store more food, especially bulky items.
- Better Energy Efficiency: Chest freezers tend to be more energy-efficient than upright models.
- Longer Food Preservation: Maintain freezing temperatures for extended periods, even during power outages.
Top Brands for Chest Freezers:
- SnoMaster: Offers a range of high-quality gas and solar chest freezers with excellent performance.
- Hisense: A more affordable option with decent capacity and features.
| Brand/Model | Type | Capacity (L) | Price Range (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Defy DMF470 | Electric | 195 | R3,599 – R4,499 | Popular model with good reviews |
| Hisense 142L | Electric | 142 | R3,249 – R3,999 | Compact size |
| Univa UC590W | Electric | 567 | R8,799 | Large capacity |
| KIC KCG210W | Electric | 210 | R4,199 – R4,299 | Affordable option |
| Zero GFR260DB | Gas/Electric | 236 | R8,899 | Dual function |
| Snomaster SMDZ-EX67D | Electric | 66 | R13,199.99 | Dual compartment |
6. Ice Boxes: The Classic Cooling Solution
Don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned ice box.
While not as technologically advanced as other options, ice boxes are a simple and effective way to keep food cool without electricity.
How to use an ice box effectively:
- Use High-Quality Ice: Invest in block ice or freeze large water bottles for longer-lasting cooling.
- Pre-Chill the Box: Cool the ice box before adding food to maximize its effectiveness.
- Layer Food Strategically: Place items that need to stay coldest at the bottom.
- Minimize Opening: Open the ice box only when necessary to preserve the cold air.
| Product Name | Capacity | Features | Price Range (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ice Cream Cooler Box | 80L | Two-part lid, PU foamed for insulation, basket for refilling, space for cooling plates | R 2,900 – R 3,500 |
| Leisure Quip Cooler Box | Various | Available in multiple sizes, suitable for outdoor use | R 290 – R 1,500 |
| Totai Cooler Box | Various | Different capacities, affordable options, combo deals available | R 300 – R 1,200 |
| 28L Cooler Box with Table & Chairs | 28L | Combines cooler box with a picnic table and seating chairs | R 800 – R 1,000 |
| Polarbox Retro Cooler Box | 20L / 12L | Retro design, ideal for picnics and BBQs | R 500 – R 700 |
Choosing the Right Non-Electric Fridge in South Africa for You
So, which non-electric fridge is the best fit for your needs? Consider these factors:
- Budget: Paraffin fridges are the most affordable, while solar and high-end gas fridges can be more expensive.
- Capacity: How much food do you need to store? Gas fridges and chest freezers offer larger capacities.
- Lifestyle: Do you live off-grid, travel frequently, or need a backup for loadshedding?
- Features: Some models offer additional features like adjustable shelves, ice makers, or temperature controls.
Don’t let loadshedding dictate your life.
Take control of your food storage and choose a non-electric fridge that fits your needs and budget.
Stay cool, South Africa!
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