If you smell ammonia or see yellow residue on the back of your refrigerator, that is a sign of a leak and it is time to call an RV service tech. The magic gas inside needs to be able to move freely for proper cooling.
This Dometic fridge has two produce “crisper” drawers and a separate freezer. It also has an automatic door locking system that is great for campers that are on the go.
Size
The size of your camper refrigerator is one of the most important factors to consider. You’ll want to make sure that your new fridge can fit into the cut-out in your RV without any issues. This means carefully measuring the space and then finding a refrigerator that fits that space perfectly.
For a small RV fridge that can really feel like home, try the Dometic two-door model. This refrigerator has a lot of features that will make your trip much more enjoyable, including a hidden digital display, through-the-door water, and an automatic locking system.
Another great option is the Norcold Polar refrigerator. This refrigerator is also a two-door model that comes with a separate freezer and has a lot of great features, such as a large storage capacity, a produce drawer, and clear crispers. It also has a right-swing door, which makes it perfect for RVs with a kitchen cut-out that is located to the right of the cooktop and sink.
Energy Efficiency
There are refrigerators designed for RVs that only use electricity, some that run on propane, and others that can operate on both. It’s important to know how often you plan on using your fridge and where you will be camping to decide which option is best for you.
If you only camp at developed campgrounds that provide electric hook-ups, a fridge that runs solely on 12V DC power will be the most efficient choice. It will reduce the strain on your battery bank and allow it to recharge between campsites.
An average 12V fridge uses about 200 watts to maintain temperature, which isn’t too bad for a large appliance that can be powered by your house battery. It will still drain the battery over the course of a day, so it’s important to keep this in mind as you select your refrigerator.
Convenience
RV refrigerators are convenient for camping trips. They are more efficient than residential fridges and don’t require a lot of space, making them a good choice for RVers who like to travel light. They also come with built-in safety features such as flame failure and oxygen depletion sensors.
RV fridges use a process called absorption cooling to keep food cold. This process requires that you add propane gas, which boils away and turns to vapor or gas. This vapor or gas then goes through a special part of the fridge where it’s recondensed into pure ammonia liquid.
This process takes about 24 hours to complete, so you’ll want to be sure that your fridge is completely stocked before heading out on the road. Additionally, RV fridges can take a while to cool down when it’s hot outside or at higher altitudes, and they may freeze food on certain shelves if there’s not enough empty space for air to circulate.
Price
A camper refrigerator is a convenience that most RVers don’t take for granted. But it comes at a price. Especially the ones that run on gas and electricity. These fridges need to be plugged in at a campsite or on the road for power, and they depend on your RV batteries for the other kind of power.
A refrigerator is expensive, and it’s even more so when you’re looking at a luxury unit with high-tech features. In addition to the cost of the fridge itself, you’ll need an inverter to convert DC power from your RV batteries into AC power that your fridge can use.
One way to cut costs is by purchasing a 3-way fridge that runs on propane, 12 V electric, or both. Also, by freezing or refrigerating your food and drinks ahead of time. This will make your fridge work less hard and keep temps more stable. It’s also best to leave the door closed during travel – each time you open it, you’re releasing precious refrigerated air.
