A fridge is an essential piece of equipment for any RVer. It provides ice-cold drinks, fresh food and other perishables that make traveling in your RV more enjoyable. However, not all RV refrigerators are made the same, and different types can work best for different situations. For example, some RVs house residential refrigerators that can run on either propane gas or electric power while others feature fridges that are designed specifically for RV use and can only run on AC or DC power. Some RVers love the option of having both options, while others prefer the convenience of an electric-only fridge that’s easy to plug in. There are smart points for and against both choices, so let’s take a look at what you should consider when choosing an rv refrigerator.
Absorption Refrigerator
RVs that feature an absorption refrigerator don’t use a compressor to keep food cold, instead they rely on evaporation to do the job. First, the refrigerant is forced through a small hole — called a thermal expansion valve — or a tiny thermal expansion loop. This lowers its pressure and causes it to vaporize, which absorbs heat in the fridge compartment and cools everything down. The vapor then makes its way back through the refrigerator coils where it is pressurized again and cooled down. This cycle continues until the fridge reaches your desired temperature.
Another great feature of this model is its ability to run on either propane or electric power, giving you flexibility as to where and how you camp. It can also be parked at a slight tilt of up to 40 degrees without affecting its performance, making it an ideal choice for RVers who often travel in rugged terrain. This fridge is also known for its long lifespan as compared to other comparable models and its quieter operation.
If you’re planning to use your absorption fridge while boondocking, it is a good idea to precool it the night before your trip by turning on the fridge and leaving it on a low setting. This will help the fridge stay cold and save energy by allowing it to use cooler outdoor temperatures for cooling. Additionally, be sure to leave space so air can circulate through the fridge. It’s important to avoid packing it too tightly as this will prevent air from flowing freely, causing the fridge to work harder to keep your food and drinks cold.
When you’re in the middle of nowhere, having a functional RV refrigerator is crucial. In this video, RV expert Dave Solberg explains how the refrigerator mounted on your modern RV works, and how you can keep it running at its best. By the end of the quick lesson, you’ll know everything you need to know about operating and troubleshooting your RV fridge.