No, you do not need to put ice in your mini fridge to make it cold. Unlike a cooler or an icebox, mini fridges are designed to work as self-contained cooling systems. They use electricity to power a compressor or thermoelectric cooling mechanism to lower the temperature inside the fridge.
When you first set up a mini fridge, it's important to allow some time for it to reach its desired temperature. This can vary depending on the model and ambient room temperature, but it usually takes a few hours for the fridge to cool down properly. During this time, it's recommended to keep the fridge door closed to help it cool more efficiently.
Putting ice in the mini fridge would be unnecessary and potentially counterproductive. It could make the fridge less efficient and create additional moisture inside, leading to potential issues with condensation and water buildup.
Simply plug in your mini fridge, set the temperature to your desired level, and give it some time to cool down. Once it reaches the right temperature, you can start storing your items in it. If you find that the mini fridge is not cooling properly, check for any obstructions to the vents or make sure the temperature settings are correct before considering any other troubleshooting steps or calling for assistance.