Standard Glass vs Heated Glass Doors | What’s the Real Difference?

A clear fridge door helps the drinks inside look inviting and keeps your power bill in check. Below is a plain‑English guide for Aussie households comparing the four main door options—standard glass, heated glass, Low‑E glass, and double or triple glazing—plus a nod to where commercial models fit in.

Why the Door Matters

• Cuts condensation – no one wants to wipe fog off the glass before grabbing a beer.
• Saves power – better doors mean the motor doesn't need to run as often.
• Shows off your drinks – clear glass makes the fridge a feature in the lounge room or outdoor alfresco area.
• Stands up to our harsh Australian climate – from Tassie winters to Darwin’s wet season.

1. Standard Single‑Pane Glass

What it is
One sheet of toughened safety glass.

Positives

• Cheapest to buy.
• Light, so the hinges last longer.
• Easy to replace if you crack it during a party.

Things to consider

• Fog builds up fast in warm or humid areas.
• The fridge works harder, adding to your power bill and reducing its lifespan.

Great for
A spare‑room bar fridge in cooler states. If you’re cooking outdoors, pair it with our wood‑fired pizza ovens to keep guests moving between food and drinks.

2. Heated Glass

What it is
An invisible tungsten filament or transparent conductive film sits between two thin panes. A thermostat feeds 10–30 W per door, warming the outer skin to 22–24 °C, just above dew point—so water vapour can’t condense.

Positives

• Stays crystal clear even when the summer humidity hits 90 %.
• Stops mould on the door seals.
• Looks sleek in a modern kitchen.

Things to consider

• Uses a little extra power (about the same as a phone charger).
• Costs more upfront than standard glass.

Great for
Outdoor kitchens, pool rooms, or homes in coastal Queensland. Busy cafés and pubs also rely on it for spotless presentation—no wiping between rounds.

3. Low‑E (Low Emissivity) Glass

What it is
A nano-thin layer of silver or tin oxide is baked onto the inside face of the outer pane. It reflects long-wave infrared (heat) while letting visible light pass.

Positives

• Cuts heat sneaking into the fridge, so the motor takes more coffee breaks.
• Blocks most UV, keeping labels bright and hops fresh.
• No wires or heaters, so nothing extra to break.

Things to consider

• Still needs at least double glazing to stop fog in sticky weather.
• The coating can scratch if you clean with rough cloths.

Great for
Indoor bar fridges where you want lower power bills without extra tech. Ideal next to a stainless‑steel spit rotisserie—less heat drift from the roast to the drinks.

4. Double vs Triple Glazing