Things to Consider When Buying an RV Fridge
Fridges are one of the most essential and important components in a recreational vehicle. dometic cooling units They allow you to store fresh food and beverages, ensuring that your food stays safe and delicious while you’re on the go.
RV fridges are available in various styles and come with a range of features. If you’re looking to buy a new fridge for your RV, here are some things to consider:
Power Draw
A fridge will use a significant amount of energy so it is vital to choose the right size and style that suits your needs. Whether you are running your RV on electricity or propane, the size of the fridge will make a huge difference in its power draw.
Thermoelectric Coolers
Thermoelectric fridges don’t require a refrigerant, but rather move electricity around to bring warm air into the unit and cool air out. This type of cooling is popular for small RVs or camper vans since they don’t take up much space.
Absorption Refrigerators
Aside from the size, absorption fridges also require a little more power than other types of refrigerators. However, they tend to be more efficient and have a longer lifespan than other kinds of fridges.
They also typically come with a freezer compartment so you can keep foods like frozen meals and ice cream in the fridge as well.
Three-Way Refrigerators
Often called “dual voltage” refrigerators, these fridges offer flexibility and can be powered by a 12V electric connection or a propane gas supply. They also have a feature that allows you to switch between the two power sources at will.
These types of refrigerators are great for people who want the option to boondock, dry camp or run off of solar panels. They are a little more expensive than other kinds of refrigerators, but they are worth it for those who plan on living off the grid.
Temperature Control
If you’re traveling in the summer, a fridge that lets you adjust its temperature is a must. You can set the refrigerator to either colder or warmer to accommodate the outside climate, and then just adjust it as needed to keep your food at the perfect temperature.
Leveling the RV
The refrigerator system in an RV relies on gravity, which means that if your RV is not level, it can impact how well it works. The chemicals inside the refrigerator will not be able to circulate properly, which can lead to damage.
A good tip to prevent this problem is to load your RV’s fridge with cold items before you start using it. This will help it to cool down faster.
Choosing the right capacity
The number of people in your family is an important factor when determining the size of the fridge. If you have a larger family, then you will likely need a larger fridge that can hold more frozen meals and snacks.
Storage Capacity
When packing your fridge, try to avoid overcrowding it with large objects. This can cause your food to lose its freshness and taste. It is also helpful to place smaller, lightweight items in a plastic bin to organize them more easily.