RV refrigerators are the perfect way to keep your drinks cold and ice cream frozen while on the road. But just like your regular fridge, these RV units require proper care and maintenance to function properly.
Look for rv refrigerator parts that are designed specifically for your specific model of RV to ensure compatibility and quality. You should also pay attention to customer reviews and ratings before making a purchase.
Absorption Refrigerators
As long as humans have had stuff to store, they’ve tried to keep it cool. From the Chinese storing winter ice to modern RV absorption refrigerators, the basic principle remains the same.
Absorption fridges use less electricity than compressor models, and they’re great for off-grid camping. RVers who use these refrigerators frequently say they can’t imagine going back to the old ways of ice-based cooling.
These fridges are usually found in Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels. They’re quiet and don’t require a fan, but they may not be as energy efficient as residential refrigerators.
These units rely on a fired boiler that’s powered by LP gas. When the refrigerator is in propane mode, it typically uses very little electricity (except for the control circuit which runs on 12 volts DC from the coach battery and must be connected to a power converter).
Compressor Refrigerators
If you’re looking for an RV fridge with more power than a traditional absorption refrigerator, look for compressor fridges. These are more expensive than absorption refrigerators, but they offer more flexibility in terms of cooling capabilities and energy usage. They can chill to much lower temperatures and cool more consistently because they use a larger compressor motor.
Most compressor refrigerators are also able to run off of 12-volt batteries or 240-volt AC power. This means you can take your rv fridge on extended boondocking trips without worrying about running out of power or recharging your batteries.
Compressor refrigerators have a choice of compressor types, such as reciprocating or rotary compressors. The type you choose will depend on your needs and budget. For example, a rotary compressor is quieter and more efficient than a reciprocating one. It is also less costly upfront and uses fewer energy resources over time. It is a good choice for large or heavily used refrigerators.
Residential Refrigerators
If you’re tired of spoiled food, temperamental fridges, and the need for extra propane tanks, you can get an RV residential refrigerator installed in your RV. These refrigerators work similarly to a standard household appliance and use AC power to keep cool.
A residential fridge uses an electric motor to turn a compressor that squeezes gaseous refrigerant until it turns back into liquid. They aren’t as scientifically elegant as absorption refrigerators, but they’re far more reliable and much cheaper to run.
Unlike 2-way and 3-way RV fridges, a residential model doesn’t need rooftop or exterior wall vents, which can cut down on potential leak points in your rig. This will also save space on your roof, freeing it up for solar panels or more storage.
Like other RV appliances, a residential refrigerator needs a constant power supply. This can come from a campground’s pedestal or your generator. If you plan on boondocking and replenishing your power bank with solar energy, you’ll need a large battery bank and an inverter that can invert the 12 volts from your fridge into a clean 110 volt signal.
Power Options
RV fridges are powered in a variety of ways, and the type you choose should be based on your lifestyle. For example, RVers who spend most of their time at campgrounds will have different needs than those who boondock nearly exclusively.
There are four main types of RV refrigerators: absorption (two-way and three-way), 120V AC residential-style, propane gas, and the newest 12V DC compressor refrigerators.
If you decide to go with a residential refrigerator, consider how much power it eats and whether your RV’s electrical system can handle that. Also, measure the space where it will be installed to ensure that it will fit through your RV door. And finally, don’t forget that propane, electricity, and house batteries all need to be turned off before removing the fridge! This will prevent an accidental propane gas leak and a fire. And it will make it much easier to remove and reinstall the fridge if needed. Especially if it is in a hard-to-reach location.
