Is there a reason to buy a 12 v cooler over one that plugs into the socket?

I don't know what they've done to those 12 volt coolers in the pat couple years but hey don't make them like they used to. My first one lasted two years and then I had two In a span of six months. Those were Coleman brand so maybe there is another one out there that's better. As far as the outlet, I prefer a standard three prong to a 12v but that's just me.

 

12v can plug into any truck. Two or three prong outlets aren't on every truck.

Before I bought my 12v cooler I carefully read a few threads about the topic on this forum. Based on recommendations I bought a Koolatron brand cooler a few years ago. It's still going strong. You can't go wrong with a Koolatron. I bought the "Funcool" model. I've seen that model priced anywhere from $80-130. Keep your eye out for sales.

Coleman brand, according to the TTR reviews, will have a failure of the fan unit. The recommendation from Coleman owners was to pick up a replacement fan at a computer parts store. The computer fan works like a champ.

 

My experience is that the coolers mean kinda cool-not cold
The plugs don't last
If you get one with the vents near the top, you can still add ice
I used to cut the top off 2 litre bottles and fill them with ice
The 12 vlt cookers are crap
They fall apart
Get a 1500 watt inverter
The shop will put it in for you most likely as they don't want you to hack a hole in the floor.
I have a microwave that I paid 29 bucks for at Wal Mart
And a 1.7 fridge/freeze for 59 bucks
All on a 1500
It's just like home.

 

IIRC Swift won't install inverters on company trucks unless you are required to use a CPAP. That leaves you with either an ice cooler or 12v.

Ice coolers require a bag or two a day in the heat of summer. I hated the expense, hassle, and the strange science experiments in the melt water. Threw away a LOT of food that was floating in that. 12v all the way IMO.

 

Dunno why ppl buy those things.

I guess if your company doesn't allow it.

I know one thing that cigarette type won't stop the border military or prison folks from crawling in the passenger side. Need a big fridge riding shotgun with the seat belt across it. I hardly use that right side mirror anyway

 

Had a mini fridge and lasted almost 2yrs from wally world. Compressor went out on it. Bought the iceless cooler 12v from TA and has lasted so far. Difference I'd say is its lighter quieter and more convenient.

 

My igloo 12v still going strong after one and a half years. Just replaced the plug on it. Stepped on the cord too many times. They key to making them last is making sure the plug stays tight: I jam about 4 toothpicks in the outlet so that sucker can't move around.

 

My 12v kooltron been going strong for 3 years, had to replace the plug cause one of my students step on it. I have a 12v because the mini fridge that's meant for truck is expensive. Also a regular mini fridge could break due to vibration. It has more components vs a thermoelectric cooler which the only moving part is the fan. never had a problem keeping sandwich meat cold or water/pop, but I wouldnt put a raw meat inside it

 

Don't need a cooler just crank the ac full blast lol

Seriously i bought one of those 26 qt koolatron coolers used over a year ago and it works like a champ

Dint have much longgevity with the Coleman ones