used 12V sunfrost R19
ScottS
Registered Users Posts: 8 ✭
I may have the opportunity to purchase a used 12V Sunfrost R19 for a good price. Essentially, if it still works, it's probably a good deal, as the price is quite low. What should I watch out for? What can be fixed easily? What warning signs would tell me to walk away from this even if it was free?
In addition, is there an economical way to run a 12V sunfrost (or two?) on standard 120V AC current? What converters are available that would support this? How much power is lost in the conversion due to inefficiency?
My intention here is for an inexpensive, low energy use second refrigerator for the basement. My primary refrigerator is a newer energystar appliance, but I'd like more space available without using a bunch of electricity -- but at the same time I want something inexpensive.
Thanks,
Scott
In addition, is there an economical way to run a 12V sunfrost (or two?) on standard 120V AC current? What converters are available that would support this? How much power is lost in the conversion due to inefficiency?
My intention here is for an inexpensive, low energy use second refrigerator for the basement. My primary refrigerator is a newer energystar appliance, but I'd like more space available without using a bunch of electricity -- but at the same time I want something inexpensive.
Thanks,
Scott
Comments
Scott,
From what I remember before--Check out the door gaskets as they do fail.
Otherwise if you are looking for 120 VAC service and not using it off-grid, have you considered using a converted chest freezer as a refrigerator?
Not very expensive and probably much more energy efficient.
-Bill
Yeah I was following those threads too, and I'm still considering that route. The main argument against the sunfrost is it's too expensive for what you get if you're buying a new unit. The R-19 is about $3000 new -- for a 16 cu ft. freezerless refrigerator. This used one is very cheap, eliminating that concern. The biggest issue would be condition -- I haven't seen it yet, so it may need to much work to be worthwhile. The other issue is whether there's a reasonably inexpensive (and efficient) AC-to-DC 12V converter/power supply that can supply sufficient current. Most of the AC-DC converters I've seen are designed more for electronics and other small loads, but I'm sure there's something out there like this,
The Sunfrost R-19 (16 cu ft) uses .56 KWh/day. From that thread, it seems people were getting around .24-.27 KWh/day out of 5-7 cu ft. chest freezers. This is about the same energy used as hthe sunfrost R-12 which is 9 cu ft. Depending on the accuracy of those specs, it seems that the sunfrost is still marginally more efficient than the chest fridge -- but more than three times the price (if purchased new). My main reason for considering the sunfrost is a potentially good price on a used unit.
From NAWS' sunfrost statement--there are some comments from customers (you have probably already found this one):
An AC to DC converter will probably be around 80% efficient or so (like the Iota series). Further reducing energy efficiency.
After years of frost free refrigerators and freezers--We purchased a very simple (and efficient) manual defrost freezer--Probably will never purchase another one again. Forgotten how much of a pain it it is to manually defrost several times a year (an mine is in a backyard shed--just roll it out the door and turn a hose on it connected to the hot water heater).
-Bill
Another option is to play middle man, if the deal is good enough, and your in an area with some off grid things going on, buy it and advertise it on craigs list...
Gosh I miss the IP addresses....
You wouldn't haqppen to be in Missouri....
- Assorted other systems, pieces and to many panels in the closet to not do more projects.
These are listed for sale in NH on craigslist. There are two listed for sale in the ad -- one is in current working condition, and the other needs some work (compressor?). I've decided to pass on them -- not worth it for on-grid use w/ the AC/DC conversion losses -- but it could be a good deal if you're in New England and need a DC fridge.