So the refrigerator purchase ended up requiring alot of Internet research, deliberation and the meticulous taking of dimensions. My choice of reefers’ began first with the question – standard 120v, propane or hybrid? The latter two have several advantages in an off -grid scenario or one where power could conceivably be interrupted for lengths of time. 120v units, on the other hand, are much more abundant, cheaper, offer a variety of sizes and many new models offer cool retro designs. And then there was the issue of space. When reinstalling the kitchen cabinets, I was left with a void atop the steel frame designed to support a refrigerator above the wheel well. It was 23″ wide, 24″ deep and about 60″ high. When looking at new units not specifically designed for RVs (those tend to be tiny and ugly), depth was a concern. New refrigerators tend to be pretty massive, often protruding out 30″ or more. Many are much too wide as well. For example, the “slim” Big Chill is almost 28″ wide and 34″ deep – out of the question. And the SMEG is 78″ inches high, a towering unit requiring a sunroof. Sparta is small enough without having to dodge a behemouth appliance nosing out into the passageway. And both those brands begin at over $2,300.
So I decided to buy a 7.6 cu. ft. Galanz refrigerator. The dimensions were perfect for the space, the retro design very cool and the price way below the others – $379 at HD. I realize this Chinese offering made of plastic and other cheap materials may not last, but that’s OK. If it fails in two years, I buy another or make the decision to go propane based upon my actual experience in the field. I think of it as a test model. There is a method to my madness.

Meanwhile, the Formica project wraps up.





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