Best Refrigerators for Food Trucks (2025) — Top 5 Picks & Buying Guide

Last updated on September 18th, 2025

Running a food truck is a balancing act. Space is tight, power is limited, and every piece of equipment has to earn its keep. A refrigerator isn’t just another appliance—it’s the heart of your food safety and efficiency. Choose the wrong one, and you risk spoiled food, wasted money, and failing health inspections.

This guide is written for food truck owners and operators who need reliable refrigeration solutions. We’ll cover the five best refrigerators for food trucks in 2025, explain how to match the right unit to your setup, and share power, installation, and food-safety essentials. By the end, you’ll know exactly which fridge fits your business—and how to keep it running smoothly.

Comparison Table: Best Portable Refrigerators for Food Trucks

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the portable refrigerators we reviewed, so you can quickly decide which model best fits your food truck or mobile kitchen needs.

Model	Capacity	Temp Range	Power Options	Special Features	Best For
Alpicool C15	16 Quart (15L)	-4℉ to 68℉	12/24V DC, 100–240V AC	Compact size, fast cooling	Small trucks, backup fridge, drink storage
BougeRV 23 Quart	23 Quart (22L)	-8℉ to 50℉	12/24V DC, 110–240V AC	Compressor cooling, lightweight	Mid-size trucks, camping, road trips
Alpicool CF55	52 Quart (49.4L)	-4℉ to 68℉	12/24V DC, 100–240V AC	Large capacity, ECO/MAX modes	Larger trucks, extended service days, bulk storage
Kohree 42 Quart Dual Zone	42 Quart (40L)	-4℉ to 68℉	12/24V DC, 100–240V AC	Dual zone (fridge + freezer), dual doors	Trucks needing both fridge & freezer at once
EUHOMY 38QT (35L)	38 Quart (35L)	-4℉ to 68℉	12/24V DC, 100–240V AC	APP control, ECO/MAX modes	Mid-size trucks, tech-friendly operators

Which Refrigerator Is Right for You?

Choosing the right refrigerator for your food truck comes down to your space, your menu, and your daily needs. Let’s break it down:

• Small food trucks or drink-only setups → Go for a compact fridge like the Alpicool C15. It’s small, light, and perfect for keeping drinks or a few ingredients cold.
  
• Medium food trucks or light storage needs → A mid-size option like the BougeRV 23 Quart or EUHOMY 38QT gives you more space without taking up too much room. These are great if you need to keep sauces, toppings, or ready-to-use ingredients fresh.
  
• Busy food trucks with heavy storage needs → Choose a large-capacity fridge like the Alpicool CF55. It can hold bulk items, proteins, and supplies for long service days.
  
• Trucks that need both a fridge and freezer at the same time → The Kohree 42 Quart Dual Zone is your best bet. One side works as a freezer, the other as a fridge — no need for two separate units.

Key Tip

Ask yourself: Do I need more space, or more flexibility? If you’re serving lots of customers or storing bulk ingredients, go bigger. If space in your truck is tight, pick a compact or mid-size unit.

By thinking about what you cook, how much you store, and how often you restock, you can pick the refrigerator that truly fits your food truck.

Food Safety Comes First

According to the FDA, refrigerators should be kept at 40°F (4°C) or below and freezers at 0°F (-18°C) to keep food safe. Always:

• Place an appliance thermometer inside your unit.
  
• Check and log temperatures during service.
  
• Never overload your fridge—it blocks airflow and raises temps.
  

👉 FDA guidelines on refrigerator safety

Top 5 Refrigerators for Food Trucks (2025)

1. Alpicool C15 Portable Car Freezer Review

The Alpicool C15 Portable Car Freezer is one of the most practical small refrigerators for food trucks, RVs, and mobile businesses. With a 16-quart (15-liter) capacity, it’s not meant to handle bulk storage, but it’s perfect for keeping drinks, sauces, or backup ingredients cold during service.

Key Features

• Compact size (16 qt/15 L): Holds about 20 cans or a few meal prep containers.
  
• Dual power options: Runs on 12/24V DC from your vehicle or 100–240V AC from shore power/generator.
  
• Wide temperature range: -4℉ to 68℉ (works as a fridge or freezer).
  
• Fast cooling: Compressor-style cooling is much more reliable than thermoelectric coolers.
  
• Energy efficient: Average power draw around 40–60W, cycling to save energy.
  

Why It Works for Food Trucks

Food trucks often struggle with power limits and space. The C15 solves both: it’s lightweight, small enough to tuck under a counter, and doesn’t overload your generator. Many truck operators use it as a secondary unit for specialty items—think frozen desserts, drink cans, or emergency backup ingredients.

Pros

• Compact and portable
  
• Freezer-capable down to -4℉
  
• Runs on both vehicle and wall outlets
  
• Low energy draw (great for small power systems)
  
• Affordable compared to commercial fridges
  

Cons

• Limited capacity—not suitable as a primary truck fridge
  
• Not NSF-certified, so use mainly for non-critical storage or backup
  
• Needs to be secured with straps to prevent sliding during transit
  

Expert Tip

If you plan to use the Alpicool C15 in a food truck, dedicate it to backup or specialty storage rather than relying on it as your main refrigeration. Always secure it properly and check temps with a separate thermometer to stay food-safe.

Verdict

The Alpicool C15 is a budget-friendly, reliable, and highly portable solution for mobile operators who need a compact fridge/freezer. It won’t replace your prep table or commercial fridge, but it’s an excellent secondary unit that adds flexibility without draining your power system.

2. BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator Review

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator (23 Quart) is a step up in size and performance compared to smaller portable fridges. With 23 quarts of capacity, it’s large enough to handle daily operations in a food truck, camper, or mobile kitchen, while still being compact and power-friendly.

Key Features

• Capacity: 23 qt (22 liters) — fits ~30 cans or several meal containers.
  
• Power Options: Runs on 12/24V DC or 110–240V AC, giving you flexibility for truck, generator, or wall outlet use.
  
• Temperature Range: -8℉ to 50℉, making it capable of both refrigeration and deep-freezing.
  
• Compressor Cooling: Cools down fast, maintaining steady temperatures even in hot environments.
  
• Energy Efficiency: ECO and MAX modes let you balance between saving power and faster cooling.
  
• Noise Level: Quiet operation, usually below 45 dB — won’t distract during service.
  

Why It Works for Food Trucks

Food truck operators often need a reliable mid-sized fridge/freezer that doesn’t overwhelm their power system. The BougeRV hits that sweet spot. It’s large enough to store fresh toppings, proteins, or drinks for the day, yet efficient enough to run off a truck battery or small generator. For trucks that serve chilled beverages or need a small deep-freeze backup, it’s a great fit.

Pros

• Larger capacity than compact 12V fridges (ideal daily-use size)
  
• Dual power support (vehicle DC + household AC)
  
• Works as both fridge and freezer
  
• Energy-efficient ECO mode
  
• Sturdy build, quiet compressor
  

Cons

• Still limited compared to full-size prep tables
  
• Not NSF-certified, so may not pass stricter inspections alone
  
• Heavier than smaller 15–20 qt units (requires secure mounting)
  

Expert Tip

If you plan to use the BougeRV as a primary fridge in a small truck, pair it with an appliance thermometer to confirm safe food storage temps. Secure it with brackets or straps, since compressors perform best when stable.

Verdict

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator (23 Quart) is a versatile, mid-sized portable fridge/freezer that balances capacity, portability, and efficiency. Perfect for smaller food trucks, catering vans, or as a backup freezer in larger operations.

3. Alpicool CF55 Portable Freezer Review

If you need serious storage capacity for your food truck or mobile kitchen, the Alpicool CF55 Portable Freezer (52 Quart / 49.4 Liter) is a powerhouse. With its large size and reliable compressor cooling, this unit can serve as a primary refrigerator or freezer for small to medium food truck operations.

Key Features

• Capacity: 52 quarts (49.4 liters) — holds ~60 cans or plenty of fresh ingredients.
  
• Temperature Range: -4℉ to 68℉, easily switching between fridge and deep freezer.
  
• Power Options: Works with 12/24V DC (vehicle use) and 100–240V AC (generator or shore power).
  
• Cooling Power: Fast cooling compressor with consistent performance even in hot outdoor environments.
  
• Design: Sturdy construction with side handles, digital temperature control, and LED display.
  
• Energy Control: ECO and MAX cooling modes for either energy saving or faster chilling.
  

Why It Works for Food Trucks

Unlike compact 12V coolers, the CF55 gives you true refrigeration capacity. It can comfortably handle proteins, sauces, vegetables, or prepped items for service. For trucks that do events, festivals, or long days without frequent resupply, this size is a game-changer. Its ability to run on both DC and AC makes it easy to switch between truck batteries and generator power.

Pros

• Large storage — great for extended food service needs
  
• Reliable compressor cooling down to deep-freeze levels
  
• Dual power flexibility (vehicle + wall/generator)
  
• Digital controls for precision temperature settings
  
• Energy-efficient modes
  

Cons

• Bulkier and heavier than smaller models (needs more truck space)
  
• May require dedicated battery or generator for long-term use
  
• Not NSF-certified, so best as supplemental refrigeration for compliance
  

Expert Tip

If you use the CF55 as your main truck fridge/freezer, invest in a portable power station or dual battery setup. This ensures it keeps running during downtime without draining your main truck battery.

Verdict

The Alpicool CF55 Portable Freezer (52 Quart) is one of the best portable options for food trucks that need ample, reliable cold storage. Whether you’re storing drinks, frozen goods, or prepping for a long service day, it provides the space and performance you need to stay on top of demand.

4. Kohree 12 Volt Car Refrigerator Review

If you’re looking for a mid-size, professional-grade portable refrigerator that can handle both freezing and cooling at the same time, the Kohree 42 Quart (40L) Dual Zone Car Refrigerator is a standout choice. With its dual-zone and dual-door design, it’s perfect for food truck owners, RV travelers, and mobile caterers who need flexible storage solutions.

Key Features

• Capacity: 42 quarts (40 liters) — fits ~57 cans or a mix of frozen and fresh items.
  
• Dual Zones: Two separate compartments with independent temperature control (fridge + freezer at the same time).
  
• Temperature Range: -4℉ to 68℉, adjustable for both sections.
  
• Power Options: Runs on 12/24V DC (vehicle) and 100–240V AC (home/generator).
  
• Control Panel: Digital LED display with separate controls for each zone.
  
• Design: Dual lids for easy access, rugged build, and reinforced corners.
  
• Modes: ECO (energy saving) and MAX (fast cooling).
  

Why It Works for Food Trucks

The dual-zone functionality sets the Kohree apart from single-compartment units. In a food truck, you can keep proteins or frozen ingredients in one side while chilling drinks, sauces, or prepped items on the other. This versatility reduces the need for multiple coolers and helps keep service efficient.

Pros

• True dual-zone cooling (fridge and freezer in one unit)
  
• Large enough for day-to-day food truck use without being oversized
  
• Flexible power options (vehicle + AC)
  
• Sturdy design built for mobile environments
  
• Easy-to-use digital controls
  

Cons

• Heavier than single-zone models (due to dual compressor system)
  
• Slightly higher power draw when running both zones
  
• May take up more space compared to slimmer fridges
  

Expert Tip

For food truck operators, set the freezer zone at -4℉ for proteins or ice and the fridge zone at ~35℉ for fresh produce or drinks. This setup ensures your ingredients stay safe while keeping beverages ready for customers.

Verdict

The Kohree 42 Quart Dual Zone Car Refrigerator is a professional-grade solution for mobile kitchens and serious travelers. Its dual-zone flexibility makes it a great investment for food trucks that need both freezing and cooling in one compact, reliable unit.

5. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator Review

The EUHOMY 38QT (35L) 12 Volt Refrigerator is designed for those who want modern convenience and dependable performance in a portable package. With its APP control feature, you can manage temperature and settings right from your smartphone — a big plus for food truck owners and frequent travelers who need to multitask.

Key Features

• Capacity: 38 quarts (35 liters) — fits ~48 cans or a mix of drinks and food.
  
• Temperature Range: -4℉ to 68℉, suitable for both fridge and freezer use.
  
• Power Options: Works with 12/24V DC (vehicle) and 100–240V AC (home/generator).
  
• Smart APP Control: Adjust temperature, switch modes, and monitor status via your phone.
  
• Design: Compact, lightweight build with sturdy handles for portability.
  
• Modes: ECO (energy saving) and MAX (fast cooling).
  
• Compressor Cooling: Provides quick, stable cooling even in hot conditions.
  

Why It Works for Food Trucks

For food truck operators, this fridge offers mid-size storage without taking up too much space. The APP control adds real convenience — you can check temperatures from your phone while prepping food, instead of constantly opening the fridge. Its balance of portability and cooling power makes it great for keeping drinks, sauces, and small batches of ingredients at the right temp.

Pros

• Handy APP control for remote management
  
• Mid-size capacity, ideal for limited space setups
  
• Wide temperature range for both freezing and cooling
  
• Dual power compatibility (vehicle + AC)
  
• Energy-efficient compressor with ECO mode
  

Cons

• Smaller than large-capacity models (may not handle bulk storage)
  
• App requires initial setup and Bluetooth connection (not ideal for everyone)
  
• Single-zone design (no separate freezer/fridge compartments)
  

Expert Tip

If you run a food truck with limited space, the EUHOMY is perfect as a secondary fridge for drinks and perishables. Use the APP to set reminders for temperature checks — it helps maintain food safety compliance without extra hassle.

Verdict

The EUHOMY 38QT 12 Volt Refrigerator is a tech-friendly, mid-capacity solution that’s especially useful for food trucks, campers, and travelers who value convenience. With smartphone control, dual power options, and reliable cooling, it strikes an excellent balance between functionality and modern features.

Power & Installation Essentials

A fridge in your food truck isn’t just about keeping food cold—it also needs the right power and setup to work properly. Here’s what you need to know in simple terms:

1. Power Options

• 12V fridges: These run on your truck’s battery. Most small fridges use 40–100 watts, which is easy for a vehicle battery to handle.
  
• Larger fridges or prep tables: These can use 400–600 watts and may need a generator or extra battery.
  
• Dual power: Many portable fridges also run on 110–240V AC, so you can plug them into a generator or shore power when parked.
  

2. Installation Tips

• Secure the fridge: Use straps or brackets so it doesn’t slide around while driving.
  
• Give it space: Make sure vents aren’t blocked. Fridges need airflow to stay cool and prevent overheating.
  
• Check the level: Keep the fridge as level as possible. Some compressors work best on flat surfaces.
  

3. Extra Tips

• If you’re using a high-powered fridge, make sure your generator can handle the starting surge when it turns on.
  
• Always monitor the temperature with a thermometer to make sure your food stays safe.
  

By planning your power setup and installation carefully, your fridge will work efficiently, last longer, and keep your food safe.

👉 ENERGY STAR commercial refrigeration guide

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Keeping your food truck refrigerator running smoothly doesn’t have to be complicated. A little regular care can prevent problems and keep your food safe.

1. Keep It Clean

• Condenser coils: Dust and dirt on the coils can make your fridge work harder. Wipe them clean every 1–2 months.
  
• Interior: Wipe down shelves and walls with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
  
• Drip trays or drainage: Check for water buildup and clean as needed.
  

2. Check the Door Seals

• Make sure gaskets are clean and not cracked.
  
• A bad seal lets cold air escape and wastes power.
  
• Replace damaged gaskets promptly.
  

3. Defrost When Needed

• Ice buildup reduces cooling efficiency.
  
• Manual defrost units should be defrosted regularly to keep them working well.
  

4. Monitor Temperatures

• Use a thermometer to check the fridge and freezer regularly.
  
• Make sure your food stays at safe temperatures: below 40°F (4°C) for the fridge, 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer.
  

5. Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Fridge not cooling: Check the power connection and vents. Make sure it’s level.
  
• Strange noises: Make sure the fridge is on a flat surface and nothing is touching the compressor.
  
• High temperature: Reduce the load, clean coils, and check the door seal.
  

Key Tip

Small, regular checks save money and prevent food spoilage. Treat your fridge like an important tool—it’s critical for safe and smooth food service.

Final Buying Checklist

Before you choose a refrigerator for your food truck, use this checklist to make sure it meets your needs:

✅ Size and Capacity: Make sure the fridge can hold all the food and drinks you need for your service day. Small trucks need compact fridges; larger trucks can use mid-size or large units.

✅ Type of Fridge: Decide if you need a single-zone fridge, dual-zone (fridge + freezer), or a prep-table style fridge for easy access to ingredients.

✅ Power Source: Check whether your fridge can run on your truck battery (12V/24V) and/or a generator (110–240V AC). Make sure your power system can handle it.

✅ Temperature Range: Make sure it can reach safe temperatures for both refrigeration and freezing. Fridge: below 40°F (4°C), Freezer: 0°F (-18°C).

✅ Portability & Installation: Consider the weight, size, and how easy it is to secure in your truck. Fridges should be stable and ventilated.

✅ Energy Efficiency: Look for fridges with ECO or energy-saving modes to reduce battery or generator drain.

✅ Durability & Build Quality: Check for sturdy construction, quality compressors, and reliable door seals.

✅ Extra Features: Smart features like APP control, digital displays, or dual-zone compartments can make operation easier.

✅ Food Safety Compliance: Ensure it meets local health code requirements if you’re storing perishable items.

By following this checklist, you can pick a refrigerator that fits your food truck, keeps your food safe, and makes your daily work easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What temperature should my food truck fridge be set at?
Keep your fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower. Freezers should be at 0°F (-18°C) to keep food safe.

2. Can I run a fridge on my truck battery?
Yes. Small 12V fridges use 40–100 watts, which most truck batteries can handle. Larger units may need a generator or extra battery.

3. Do I need a dual-zone fridge?
Only if you want to store frozen items and fresh ingredients in one unit. A dual-zone fridge has separate compartments for fridge and freezer.

4. How often should I clean my fridge?

• Wipe the inside every 1–2 weeks.
  
• Clean condenser coils every 1–2 months.
  
• Check door seals regularly.
  

5. Can a portable fridge handle long service days?
Yes, if it’s large enough and your power source is reliable. For very long days, consider using a backup battery or generator.

6. Do I need NSF certification for my food truck fridge?
Not all portable fridges are NSF-certified. Check your local health codes. For critical ingredients, an NSF-certified or commercial-grade fridge is safest.

7. How do I prevent my fridge from sliding in the truck?
Use straps, brackets, or anti-slip pads to secure it. Make sure it’s on a level surface and vents are not blocked.

8. Can I use a fridge in hot weather?
Yes, but ensure good ventilation around the unit. High ambient temperatures may make it work harder, so keep it shaded if possible.

9. Should I defrost my fridge?
Yes. Ice buildup reduces cooling efficiency. Manual defrost units should be defrosted regularly to maintain performance.

10. What’s the difference between ECO and MAX mode?

• ECO mode: Saves energy, uses less power, ideal when ambient temperatures are mild.
  
• MAX mode: Cools quickly, uses more power, good for loading warm food or drinks.
  

Conclusion

Choosing the right refrigerator for your food truck can make a big difference in keeping your ingredients fresh, your service efficient, and your customers happy. Whether you need a small portable fridge for drinks, a mid-size unit for daily ingredients, or a large dual-zone fridge for both fridge and freezer, there’s an option to fit your needs.

Remember to consider size, power, temperature, and installation before buying, and follow simple maintenance tips to keep your fridge running smoothly. With the right choice, your food truck will stay cool, organized, and ready to serve customers all day.