The Halfords 40L Electric Coolbox (item code 456686) is a portable thermoelectric cooling device designed for temporary use in vehicles, camping, caravanning, and leisure activities. It is not intended for permanent installation as a fridge or cooker, nor for storing medicines or chemicals.
Function Description
The primary function of this coolbox is to keep foodstuffs cool. It operates by lowering the internal temperature to approximately 16°C below the surrounding ambient air temperature. The cooling performance is comparable to a household fridge, not a freezer. It can be powered by either a 12/24V DC (negative earth) supply, typically from a vehicle, or a 230-240V AC mains supply for home or campsite use.
When connected to a mains supply, the coolbox offers two modes:
- ECO mode: Consumes less energy, with the dial range set between MIN to ECO.
- MAX mode: Provides maximum cooling, with the dial set to MAX.
The cooling control knob, located inside the cable storage compartment, allows adjustment of the cooling intensity when on AC power. Turning the knob clockwise increases cooling (towards MAX), while turning it counter-clockwise decreases cooling (towards MIN). When connected to a 12V/24V DC socket, the coolbox operates at its maximum cooling setting, and the cooling cannot be adjusted.
Important Technical Specifications
- Capacity: 40 Litres
- Product weight: 8.35 Kg
- Exterior dimensions (L x H x W): 57.1 cm x 43.2 cm x 37.8 cm
- Input Voltage Requirement: 12/24 Volts DC (negative earth) or 230-240 Volts AC / 50Hz
- Current draw:
- 3.5A at 12/24 V DC
- 0.4A at 230-240 V AC
- Power consumption:
- 42 Watts at 12 V DC
- 52 Watts at 24 V DC
- 4 Watts at 230 V AC (MIN mode)
- 55 Watts at 230 V AC (MAX mode)
- Energy consumption:
- E16°: 0.038 kWh/24h
- E32°: 0.485 kWh/24h
- Cooling performance: Max. 16°C below ambient temperature
- Refrigeration system type: Peltier device, thermoelectric solid state heat pump with fan
- Climate Class: N (intended for ambient temperatures between +16°C and +32°C)
- Insulation material: High quality polyurethane foam insulation, CFC-free
- Case material: Polypropylene
- Power cord length 12/24V: 2.7 metres (approx.)
- Power cord length 230-240V: 1.5 metres (approx.)
- Energy efficiency class: F
- Airborne acoustical noise emissions: 40 dB (A) re 1 pW
Usage Features
The coolbox is designed for ease of use and portability. It features fold-out handles and wheels, allowing it to be pulled along, manoeuvred, and lifted.
- Loading: For optimal performance, it is recommended to load the coolbox with items that are already cold. Adding substantial amounts of food at room temperature will slow down the cooling process.
- Power Supply Selection: Users can choose between a 12/24V DC plug for vehicle use (note: vehicle ignition may need to be on to supply power) or a 230-240V AC three-pin mains plug for home or campsite use.
- Placement: Ensure the unit is placed on a firm, flat surface and in a position where it cannot fall over easily, especially in a vehicle.
- Cable Management: The supply cable should be fully unwound before use to prevent overheating. A convenient cable storage compartment is provided for tidying the cable after use.
- Safety Precautions:
- Always check cables, plugs, and casings for damage before use. Do not use if any parts are damaged or worn.
- Avoid using in rain or wet conditions, and do not handle with wet hands.
- Ensure ventilation slots are clear to prevent overheating.
- Do not place in direct sunlight or enclosed spaces with restricted ventilation or other heat sources.
- Keep away from children and animals.
- When using with a 230-240V AC mains supply, it is advisable to use a residual current device (RCD).
- When using the 12/24V DC supply, ensure the vehicle socket is clean and free of debris for good electrical contact to prevent overheating of the plug/socket.
- Connect the 12V DC plug only when the vehicle's engine is running to avoid power surges and prevent battery drain.
- Disconnect the unit when the vehicle's engine is off to prevent battery drainage.
- Never fill the unit with water or ice, and do not immerse the unit in water.
- Exercise caution when lifting or manoeuvring a fully loaded coolbox due to its weight.
- Avoid pulling the plug out of the 12V socket by tugging on the cable.
Maintenance Features
Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential for maintaining the coolbox.
- Cleaning:
- Switch the unit OFF and disconnect the electrical supply cable before cleaning.
- Wipe the coolbox surfaces clean with a cloth and a mild detergent solution.
- Do not clean with running water, by immersing in water, or using abrasive cleaning materials.
- Storage:
- After use, carefully fold up the cable and store it in the provided cable storage compartment.
- When not in use, the coolbox lid should be left ajar to prevent mould growth.
Troubleshooting
The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues:
- Coolbox not turning on (DC plug inserted, LED not glowing): Possible cause is no electrical power from the 12V socket (vehicle ignition might need to be switched on).
- Coolbox not cooling (plug inserted, LED glows): Possible causes include a defective fan or cooling element (requires a qualified electrician), or a dirty/debris-filled 12V socket leading to poor electrical contact (clean plug/socket with non-metallic tool).
- Coolbox not working or switching off (DC plug inserted, LED not glowing continuously): Possible causes include the plug not being inserted properly (re-insert firmly until secure), a blown fuse in the 12V plug (replace 8A fuse), or a blown vehicle fuse (replace 15A vehicle fuse, refer to owner's manual).
- Water inside the coolbox: This is due to moisture in the air condensing at low temperatures and is not a product fault. Dry the condensed water periodically.
- Ice formation near inner ventilation slots: This occurs when moisture condenses and freezes on the cooling plate. This is not a product fault. Switch the unit off, let the ice melt, remove water, and check periodically for ice formation.
Guarantee
The Halfords 40L Electric Coolbox comes with a two-year Quality Guarantee, covering defects attributable to flaws or defects in materials or workmanship. This guarantee is subject to specific terms and conditions, including proper use, installation, maintenance, and the availability of a purchase receipt. It does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, or unauthorized repairs.
To Next Page
Need help?
General
