Sometimes, refrigerators get moved from the kitchen to the garage. They still have a purpose. But, what happens when the refrigerator completely breaks down and stops working? Make it into an ice chest!
Remove Items
The first thing to do when preparing to turn a refrigerator into an ice chest is to remove all the accessories that make it work. Remember, only do this if the refrigerator is literally on its last leg. You can get far better use out of your old refrigerator if it still works.
So if the refrigerator has no chance of running any longer, remove the evaporator cell and the evaporator fan. Then, remove the compressor and condenser fan. Remove shelving and any drawers. Remove whatever other unnecessary items you may not want. Everything you remove makes it easier to carry.
Design
It depends on what type of refrigerator you have, but design is fairly easy. Let's just imagine we are using a regular refrigerator with a freezer on top. I have actually seen refrigerators being laid on their backs and that was that. Of course, it doesn't look that great. Imagine being able to take a few more dollars and make it look awesome!
You want to keep the refrigerator door and freezer door intact. The seal that already exists will provide a better seal than you can most likely make on your own. So, all you have to do is figure out how to decorate your ice chest.
You can make an easy design using 2 2" x 1/4" slats per side. Starting from one side, measure the center line running the length while the refrigerator is on its side. Then, measure the center line again of the top half and the bottom half. Screw a slat in the length of the refrigerator on the top half and the bottom half. Use No. 3 screws in the center of the slat and then six inches from each end.
Using 4" x 1/4" slats cut the height of the ice chest, screw them into the 2" x 1/4" slats using 2 No. 3 screws for the top slat and 2 No. 3 screws for the bottom slat. Slats can be spaced right next to each other or with a 1/4" space between. Both sides, the top and the bottom should be decorated in the same manner. Then, do it again for both doors.
Design is really up to you! You can wall paper the refrigerator or affix paneling if you want. Painting is always an option or buying huge decals that provide the design you want. But, I think my wood idea provides the best design option.
Fill
Pour ice in the ice chest and stock full of beer. Stock a few sodas for people who don't drink. At least, that's what we tell ourselves when we know the soda is actually for mixed drinks.
You have yourself an ice chest for parties. You can put it on your truck and take it tailgating with you. It also serves as a great cooler for tiki bars and barbecues. When you take an old refrigerator and turn it into an ice chest, there's no limit to what you can do with it.
Stan Schubridge is the spokesperson for Beertaps, he's a beer enthusiast who has a knack for getting involved in building home bars for his friends and learning more about brewing great tasting beer. From extravagant bars to the most unique bar designs, Stan has either seen it, done it or given it a try. As far as brewing beer, his ideology is that if you have a home bar have a home brew. Learn your taste and chase it!
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