Discover the Ultimate Electric Coolers for Your Car - Tried and Tested!
Portable Electric Coolers: Keep Food and Drinks Cold Anywhere You Go
Looking to keep your food and drinks cold (or even warm) while on the go? A portable electric cooler might just be what you need! These smaller appliances can be plugged into a variety of power sources, including a 120-volt AC wall outlet, the 12-volt cigarette lighter outlet in your car, and/or a portable power source. Just be sure to research the power sources required for your specific model, and pick up an adapter or power inverter if needed.
How to Use Your Portable Electric Cooler
To ensure optimal performance from your electric cooler, it's best to prime it the night before your trip. Plug it into a 120-volt wall outlet and begin cooling it down to your desired temperature. Once it's cooled down, transfer your refrigerated items into the electric cooler. This method maintains the cooler at a colder temperature, which is more efficient and uses less power than cooling down the items inside the cooler.
Thermoelectric vs. Compressor Coolers
There are two types of electric coolers: compressor coolers and thermoelectric coolers. Compressor coolers work similarly to a home refrigerator, relying on a series of compressed air and refrigerants to cool. They are more effective in cooling and perfect for drivers who need a consistent temperature.
Thermoelectric coolers, on the other hand, work through solid-state cooling and do not use a compressor or refrigerants. Instead, they rely on transferring heat or cold through solid metal. These coolers are highly effective but are dependent on the ambient temperature in which they are operating. If you're using them in the middle of the desert sun, the cooler may struggle to cool down because the transfer begins with a high temperature.
Answers to Common Questions
- Are electric coolers noisy? Not typically, but some may produce a low humming sound when in use.
- Can electric coolers be used while driving? Yes, most electric coolers can be powered through a 12-volt DC outlet, but do check for product specifications.
- Can I use an electric cooler while the car is off? Yes, but remember that it's powered by your car's battery, so if you run it too long, it might drain the battery. Many electric coolers come with a "low voltage" alert that lets you know when the vehicle's battery is getting low.
- How long do electric coolers stay cold? It depends on various factors, such as insulation, ambient temperature, and contents. As long as your cooler is plugged in, it will remain cool, but an unplugged cooler will lose temperature at different rates.
- Can electric coolers freeze food and drinks? Some models offer a freeze function that can lower the temperature inside the cooler below freezing.
Why Trust Us?
Hearst Autos is the collaboration of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track, three of the world's largest and most influential automotive publications. Our Gear Team has tested a vast array of automotive products, parts, accessories, and gear, including GPS trackers, OBD2 scanners, and electric car chargers. We test each product we review, often purchasing them ourselves. Our reputation, legacy, and the trust our readers place in us are crucial, which is why we never promote poor products to earn a quick buck.
Take a look at the creme de la creme of the automotive gear world by heading over to our Tested & Trusted page. Delve into the ins and outs of our product testing and evaluation process by perusing our dedicated page here. Discover why we're the trusted source for automobile enthusiasts everywhere."

Discover the latest trends and opportunities in the global beer box market. Uncover key players and their strategies to gain a competitive edge. Explore this dynamic industry and unlock potential growth.

Discover how to tap into the full potential of Tesloid with our comprehensive guide to Tesla accessories. Maximize your Tesla experience with top-notch add-ons and enhancements for unparalleled performance and style.

Score big discounts on popular RTIC tumblers, coolers, and more in the Early Black Friday RTIC Deals 2023. Discover unbeatable savings and gear up for your adventures now!

Explore the thriving Outdoor Camping Cooler Box Market with insightful analysis, future demand projections, and compelling 2029 forecasts. Stay updated on the latest trends and make informed decisions for your next adventure.