I run SolarCalc.fyi, a free off-grid solar planning calculator. I'm sharing it here because refrigerator energy can be a confusing starting point when planning a small cabin system.
One useful distinction: running watts are not the same as daily energy consumption. If an appliance energy label says 365 kWh/year, the starting estimate is:
365 × 1,000 ÷ 365 = 1,000 Wh/day.
That is an illustrative example, not a claim about every refrigerator. Temperature, usage and the actual appliance matter; measured consumption is useful when available. Compressor startup also needs a separate check when selecting an inverter.
I made a page where you can convert your annual energy-label number, see an example load budget, and open it in the calculator to change the inputs. There is also a printable sizing worksheet. No signup is required to calculate.
https://solarcalc.fyi/solar-calculator/refrigerator?utm_source=permies&utm_medium=community&utm_campaign=fridge_guide_202609
The results are planning estimates, not a complete installation design. I would welcome feedback on which assumptions are unclear or which inputs you find difficult to estimate.
Disclosure: this is my website. It contains Amazon affiliate links, and we may earn from qualifying purchases. Using the calculator does not require buying anything.
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