Mini Fridge Runtime on 100Ah Battery
A 100Ah battery can run a mini fridge for about 24 hours - enough to get through a typical power outage. This is the minimum recommended for fridge backup, providing a buffer while you wait for power restoration or set up a generator.
Typical Runtime
24hrs
Efficient/Low Power
32hrs
Worst Case
16hrs
Battery Energy
960Wh usable
- ✓Power outage backup (24-48 hours)
- ✓RV weekend trips with solar
- ✓Garage or workshop fridge backup
- ✓Keeping medications cool during emergencies
- !Only 1 day of runtime - not for extended outages
- !Compressor startup surge requires capable inverter
- !No buffer for other loads
- ↑You want 2+ days of backup
- ↑You need to run other appliances too
- ↑Your area has frequent multi-day outages
- ↓100Ah is the minimum for refrigerator backup
Minimum Solar
200W
Ideal Solar
300W
Recharge Time
~5 hrs
200W is minimum for sustainable fridge operation; 300W provides buffer for cloudy days.
Tips for Mini Fridge on 100Ah
- •Keep fridge full - thermal mass maintains temperature longer
- •A 500W+ pure sine wave inverter handles startup surge
- •Freeze water bottles as thermal backup
- •12V DC fridges are more efficient than running AC fridge on inverter
- •Minimize door openings during outage
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 100Ah battery run my mini fridge during an outage?
Yes, for about 24 hours. Mini fridges average 50W but compressors cycle on/off, so actual runtime can be 24-32 hours depending on conditions.
What size inverter for mini fridge on battery?
At least 500W pure sine wave. Compressor startup surge can hit 150W, and pure sine wave prevents motor issues.
Will solar keep my mini fridge running indefinitely?
With 200W of panels and 100Ah battery, yes in most conditions. The fridge uses about 400-600Wh per day, and 200W panels produce 600-1000Wh in good sun.