3 best electric ice chests

Electric ice chests, also known as electric coolers or portable refrigerators, are innovative appliances designed to keep food and beverages cold or even frozen while on the go. These devices are especially popular for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, picnicking, and tailgating, as well as for use in recreational vehicles (RVs) and boats. Here are some key features and aspects of electric ice chests:

  1. Cooling Mechanism: Electric ice chests use a compressor or thermoelectric cooling system to maintain low temperatures. Compressor-based coolers work similarly to traditional refrigerators, using a refrigerant to cool the interior. Thermoelectric coolers rely on the Peltier effect, which transfers heat from one side of a semiconductor to the other when an electric current passes through it.

  2. Temperature Control: Most electric coolers come with adjustable temperature controls, allowing users to set their desired cooling level. Some models can function as freezers, maintaining sub-zero temperatures, while others are designed to keep contents cool but not frozen.

  3. Power Source: Electric ice chests typically run on 12-volt DC power, making them suitable for use in vehicles, RVs, and boats. Some models also have adapters for household AC power, making them versatile for various settings.

  4. Portability: These coolers are designed to be portable, often coming with carrying handles or wheels for easy transport. They are a convenient alternative to traditional ice chests that require constant replenishment of ice.

  5. Capacity: Electric ice chests come in various sizes and capacities to accommodate different needs. Some are compact and designed for personal use, while others are larger and suitable for group outings or extended trips.

  6. Energy Efficiency: Many electric coolers are designed to be energy-efficient, drawing minimal power to keep the contents cold. This can help preserve the vehicle's battery life when used in a car or RV.

  7. Additional Features: Depending on the model, electric ice chests may have features like LED displays, USB ports for charging devices, and interior lighting for visibility at night.

  8. Maintenance: Maintaining an electric ice chest usually involves keeping the unit clean and free from debris, as well as periodically defrosting if necessary. Compressor-based models may require occasional maintenance of the refrigeration system.

  9. Price Range: The cost of electric ice chests can vary widely depending on factors like capacity, brand, and additional features. Prices generally range from relatively affordable to more expensive for larger or feature-rich models.

Electric ice chests provide a convenient and reliable way to keep food and drinks cold while on outdoor adventures or road trips.They eliminate the need for ice, reduce the mess associated with melting ice, and offer precise temperature control. When choosing one, consider your cooling needs, power source availability, and desired features to find the best fit for your outdoor activities.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best electric ice chests on the market
  

SUPER DEAL Pro 28 Qt Portable Ice Cooler and Warmer Electric Ice Chest Mini Thermoelectric Dual Cooling Warming Plug in Car Refrigerator for Camping, Fishing, Work Beach Picnic

SUPER DEAL

Based on 177 reviews Check latest price
  • LARGE CAPACITY - The SUPER DEAL Cooler is the ideal companion for a fishing trip, camping weekend or large backyard barbecue in the hot summer sun. With a 26L, 36 can capacity, tall enough to hold 2-liter bottles upright, there's plenty of room for refreshments for a whole group.
  • TOUGH ROTOMOLDED CONSTRUCTION - The SUPER DEAL Cooler has plenty of room to store what you need to keep cold for up to 48 hours. The outside is made of heavy-duty polyester & the inside utilizes a high density insulation. Product-protecting properties are built into the lining to resist odor, making it easy to clean between uses.
  • TIGHT BARRIER AGAINST THE HEAT - Insulation is pressure-injected commercial-grade polyurethane foam that delivers ultimate ice retention. This electric cooler doubles as a warmer, maintaining an interior temperature of 90°F. Go skiing or ice-skating and sip a soothing mug of hot cocoa or bowl of soup to take away the chill. FDA certificated.
  • EASY TO CARRY - The compact and sleek design is ideal for taking with you when you're on the go. It maintains desired temperature for a long time, with its lockable lid, this cooler gives you one-handed access to an ice-cold one when you need it most. Whether you're headed on a camping trip, to a tailgate party, or your neighbor's backyard barbecue, the one-handle makes getting to your destination super easy.
  • Load the 26 Liter cooler/warmer up and head out to the park or beach. With the ergonomic folding handle, carrying this cooler/warmer to the picnic site is a breeze. Ready to enjoy cross-country road trips and camping weekends!

User questions & answers

Question: Can you keep items cold and warm at the same time? Or is it either/or
Answer: I haven’t used it yet but it appears to be either or. There is only one switch and it you have to decide between warm, cold, or off.
Question: Does the ac/dc cords come with the cooler
Answer: yes it does
Question: Would this fit between the front seats of kenworth t
Answer: Yes
Question: Do u need ice for this cooler
Answer: No, but it does help to start with it and your contents cold. I just plug it in a couple of hours before I’m going to use my cooler and start wth my drinks cold. It works great!

Product features

Large Capacity

With 28 Quarts capacity, this refrigerator could hold can holds up to 33 cans of soda or 6 two liter bottles, allows storage for your road trip necessities. Moreover.

A removable divider creates 2 compartments for easier organizing and storing.

Energy-efficient Cooling System

Specially built with an Energy-efficient thermoelectric cooling system with no compressor, to minimize the vibration effect and noise,

Super quiet brushless motor and convection cooling with a fan to circulate cold air.

Reliable Car Friend

Can be low to 68℉ below ambient temperature，cools food in 30 minutes, drove for two hours, everything is kept cool after unplugging it, no melted ice mess to deal with. The ergonomic exterior design of the cooling and warming fridge will not affect any driving experience.

Cooler + Warmer

Insulation is pressure-injected commercial-grade polyurethane foam that delivers ultimate ice retention. This electric cooler doubles as a warmer, maintaining an interior temperature of 90°F.

Go skiing or ice-skating and sip a soothing mug of hot cocoa or bowl of soup to take away the chill.

28 Quart Storage Space

The outside is made of heavy-duty polyester & the inside utilizes a high density insulation. Product-protecting properties are built into the lining to resist odor, making it easy to clean between uses.

No need to worry about insufficient storage space,it can even meet the entire demand for the people in the SUV.

Flap Lock Handle

The top handle is locked towards the back and is open to the front. Keep the lid tightly sealed, no worries of falling over when you drive in the bumpy road.

Ideal companion for a fishing trip, camping weekend or large backyard barbecue in the hot summer sun.

Igloo 28 Quart Iceless Thermoelectric 12 Volt Portable Ice Chest Beverage Cooler, Silver

Igloo

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Igloo's 28QT Iceless cooler is the perfect addition to any camping trip or road trip when you don't want to deal with ice. Simply plug in the 12V DC receptacle, perfect to plug into your car for portable use. Igloo's Iceless cooler features a quiet brush less motor and convection cooling. Without the ice you are able to maximize the space and fill it to the brim with all of your favorite snacks, sandwiches, drinks and treats. Simply pack, plug and go!

From the Manufacturer

Igloo

  • Plastic
  • Made in the USA
  • Swing-up bale handle with comfort grip for easy carrying. Liner Material: Polypropylene
  • Molded-in side handles for two handed carrying or lifting. Capacity-32 12-oz cans; 26 quarts (24 liters)
  • 8' long power cord plugs into any 12V DC receptacle (e.g. cigarette lighter) for portable use - good universal fit in 12V outlet
  • uses your car's cigarette lighter to cool without ice, unlocking more room for food and drinks, as well as keeping all contents fresh and dry. Takes cooler temperature down to 36°F below surrounding air
  • Material:Polyethylene

User questions & answers

Question: From what I see in the reviews it seems that there is a problem with the cord getting to hot and the tip of it melting.Is there a better quality cord
Answer: I've had no issues with the cord attached to the cooler itself but I did have an issue with the Schumacher PC-6 120AC to 6A 12V DC Power Converter that I purchased for indoor use. It ran hot and in less than 6 months it died (Amazon graciously allowed me to return it and gave me a full refund). I replaced it with a Wagan 5 Amp AC to 12V DC Power Adapter. While it gets a little warm, it runs much cooler than with the Schumacher adapter. In fact, the Igloo runs quieter and appears to be more efficient with this adapter. That said I think the power source may be the root cause of the issues that others may have with overheating/melting. I run my cooler inside, all day, everyday as it serves as my office refrigerator and I've had it since last November. I love it and will buy another on the sad day planned obsolescence kicks in.
Question: Why is the larger unit cheaper than the smaller unit
Answer: Really don't know but I found out that the larger one keeps cooler much longer and at a lower degree.
Question: What is the power consumption in amps? I'm useing deep cycle batteries, and low amps is a must
Answer: Working current, battery consumption is between 3.5 to 4.8 Amps according to the owner's operating manual. The current draw is 6 amps maximum at 12-volt DC. I hope this is helpful.
Question: What is the inside height with the lid closed? Looking to keep some Smartwater bottles in there (they are 12" tall and 3" diameter). Thanks in advance
Answer: I have the same question except I'm wondering if the lid will close with 2-litre soda bottles standing inside. That 13 1/2" height measurment sounds rreeaalllly close to the height of a 2 litre bottle. Has anyone actually tried it?

Product features

Good Times Always Happen Around a Cooler!

Igloo Iceless cooler is the perfect addition to any camping trip or road trip when you don't want to deal with ice. Simply plug in the 12V DC receptacle, perfect to plug into your car for portable use. Igloo's Iceless cooler features a quiet brush less motor and convection cooling. Without the ice you are able to maximize the space and fill it to the brim with all of your favorite snacks, sandwiches, drinks and treats. Simply pack, plug and go!

K-Box Electric Cooler and Warmer for Car and Home - 34 Quart (32 Liter) - Dual 110V AC House and 12V DC Vehicle Plugs

Koozam

Based on 500 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The K-box Cooler/Warmer is the perfect accessory for you and your family the whole year round. It boasts a massive 34 quart interior chamber that keeps your cold food cold and your hot food hot.

The interior of the cooler measures 13.5" L x 9.5" W x 14" D and the exterior measurements are 17" L x 11" W x 17.5" D. That's tall enough for a 2-liter of soda with enough room left over for multiple food containers. Plenty of space to pack everyone's favorite foods.

Whether you're enjoying a mild spring or suffering through a blistering summer, the K-box Cooler/Warmer chills and preserves your food and beverages when you're on the road.

On 'Cold', the inside gets down to a chilly 40 degrees Fahrenheit and actively maintains that temperature to keep your beverages, salads and sandwiches cool & ready to enjoy at any time.

The perfect companion for weekend getaways to...

The beach

Camping

Tailgating

Road trips with the family

The K-box Cooler/Warmer is built for traveling and has some cool, convenient features to prove it. The 12V DC car adapter cable is kept safely tucked away in a chamber built into the lid. Simply spin the cover in either direction to access the cable. There's even a groove cut in so you can power the cooler while the cover is closed. The cooler also has a built-in AC adapter, so it can be used indoors as well as outside.

It also has an easy locking mechanism that keeps the lid tightly sealed, maintaining the internal temperature while protecting food from accidental spills. Simply swing the carry handle forward to open or back to lock. It even locks halfway, so your food is safe and secure while carrying.

  • PORTABLE TRAVEL FRIDGE & HEATER: Whether you're travelling on the road or camping in an RV, camper or minivan, this large capacity storage container to heat & warm or cool & chill food & drink.
  • PLUGS IN ANYWHERE: The cooler/warmer combo has 2 built in cords - one for standard wall outlets, and one for car power adapters. Both have storage compartments to be hidden when not in use.
  • VAST STORAGE SPACE: This 34 quart cooler stores over 48 cans of soda or a large 2 liter bottle with plenty of space for food & snacks. A removable divider creates 2 compartments easier organizing.
  • CHILLS WITHOUT ICE: Forget ice packs that need constant refilling, take up precious space, and leave you with a watery mess when they melt. This cooler maintains a cool 40°F temp without any ice.
  • EASY TO CARRY AND STORE: Our ergonomic handle & compact design make this electric cooler/warmer easy to carry for even 1 person alone. It fits easily into car trunks & seats for bulk free travel.

User questions & answers

Question: Will it fit behind the third row in a Ford Expedition? The dimensions are very close
Answer: It fits behind the seat of our 2010 ford expedition perfectly. Ours is not the EL Expedition.
Question: can I keep an ice pack in it to make it colder
Answer: You shouldnt need to if it is plugged in, but if you do add an ice pack, keep it on the bottom away from the top fan. Having used this to store cold/frozen products before, if the frozen products are near the fan, it can temporarily freeze up.
Question: The dimensions in the Description are different from the dimensions in the photo. Which are the correct dimensions
Answer: Without getting into fractions of inches, the dimensions are: Interior - 13" W(ide) x 9" D(eep) x 13" H(igh). Exterior - 15" W (N/I the handle) x 12" D x 17" H. And this cooler works great!
Question: How is the noise level
Answer: Noise level is very low. Barely audible.

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