Having fridges in garages back in the day was primarily due to historical reasons, technological limitations, and practicality. Here are some factors that contributed to this trend:
Limited Home Space: In the past, homes were often smaller and lacked the spacious kitchens and utility rooms that are more common in modern homes. As a result, some families kept their refrigerators in the garage as an alternative storage location due to space constraints.
Mechanical Refrigeration Technology: Early refrigerators were mechanical devices that required specific environmental conditions to function optimally. Placing them in unconditioned spaces like garages provided better ventilation and helped dissipate the heat generated by the cooling systems, which improved their efficiency.
Climate Considerations: In regions with colder climates, the temperature inside garages might have been more stable and cooler than inside the house during certain seasons. This relatively stable temperature could have helped the refrigerator maintain its internal temperature without working as hard, leading to potential energy savings.
Noise and Vibration: Older refrigerators were often noisier and generated more vibration during operation compared to modern, quieter models. Placing the fridge in the garage helped minimize the impact of noise on the living spaces inside the house.
Backup Storage: Some families used the garage fridge as additional storage for groceries, beverages, or overflow from the main refrigerator in the kitchen. It provided extra space for storing items that didn't fit in the main fridge.
Convenience: Having a fridge in the garage also offered convenience, especially for outdoor gatherings or workshops in the garage. It saved the hassle of going back and forth to the kitchen for cold drinks or snacks.
It's important to note that while some of these reasons were more prevalent in the past, today's technological advancements, larger homes, and improved refrigerator designs have made it more common to have refrigerators integrated into the kitchen or utility areas. Modern refrigerators are also designed to operate efficiently in a wide range of temperatures and environments, making garage placement less necessary for most households.