Dave in Wisconsin
New member
I just got my ARB 50 qt. fridge. I wanted BOTH freeze AND fridge in one unit but didn’t want to get the big unit with two separate compartments.
I saw that the 39 qt and the 50 qt models were the EXACT same size footprint (length and width). Only difference: the 50 quart is three inches taller. All models come with a basket for the inside. I also bought a basket ($15) from the vendor for the shorter, 39 qt model. It fits perfectly but leaves a 3” space underneath. This is my freezer space. I place ¼” rigid foam in the bottom of the basket for separation—to create the freezer area. (Photos attached)
Other folks have done this with the full-size basket but is was nowhere as convenient. If you use the full-size basket that comes with the 50 qt, BUT you have to remove all the items (one by-one) to get at your frozen stuff at the bottom. However, with my scheme, I just lift out the basket and (in one movement) I have access to my freezer.
Works good when tested in 110 volt house current. I set the thermostat to freeze. Bottom stuff is frozen and items above are cold but not frozen. I think ARB should offer the small basket as a suggested option.
*** Also, per recommendation on this forum, I added same ¼” fanfold, rigid foam board to underside of the small compartment (above the compressor).
Dave in Wisconsin
I saw that the 39 qt and the 50 qt models were the EXACT same size footprint (length and width). Only difference: the 50 quart is three inches taller. All models come with a basket for the inside. I also bought a basket ($15) from the vendor for the shorter, 39 qt model. It fits perfectly but leaves a 3” space underneath. This is my freezer space. I place ¼” rigid foam in the bottom of the basket for separation—to create the freezer area. (Photos attached)
Other folks have done this with the full-size basket but is was nowhere as convenient. If you use the full-size basket that comes with the 50 qt, BUT you have to remove all the items (one by-one) to get at your frozen stuff at the bottom. However, with my scheme, I just lift out the basket and (in one movement) I have access to my freezer.
Works good when tested in 110 volt house current. I set the thermostat to freeze. Bottom stuff is frozen and items above are cold but not frozen. I think ARB should offer the small basket as a suggested option.
*** Also, per recommendation on this forum, I added same ¼” fanfold, rigid foam board to underside of the small compartment (above the compressor).
Dave in Wisconsin
