A great camper refrigerator can make or break your camping experience. Whether you’re looking for a fridge that plugs right into your cigarette lighter or a freezer that can withstand cold temperatures and the elements, there are options out there to meet every need.
Consider the amount of power your fridge uses as well. Thermoelectric models tend to eat up more electricity than absorption fridges.
Refrigerators
There are plenty of refrigerator options to consider for your RV – each one has its own smart points. It’s important to understand how these different fridges work to ensure you get the right one for your lifestyle.
For example, if you’re planning to use your RV for extended trips, it may be more economical to go with an absorption refrigerator. This type of fridge can run on both propane and electricity, but it also requires more maintenance than compressor style RV fridges.
Be sure to keep a thermometer inside the fridge to check food safety temperatures regularly. It’s also important to limit the amount of time the fridge door is open, and to not overpack it – that makes it harder for the cool air to circulate. A refrigerator fan can help with this, and it’s a good idea to keep a clean exterior vent clear of obstructions like debris or rodent nests. RV fridges also work best when the rig is level, as being out of level can affect how the chemicals in the fridge circulate.
Freezers
Many RVs use refrigerators with a freezer section, especially those that are meant for off-grid camping. These fridges are a hybrid between compressor and absorption fridges and work off either ac power or lap gas (depending on your choice of fridge).
When you’re using this kind of RV refrigerator, be sure it’s level so the magic gas absorption stuff works properly. If it isn’t level, you could find one area of the freezer to be much hotter than the others – this would indicate that there’s a blockage and that the cooling liquid hasn’t been flowing properly through the boiler and absorber.
If you go with a traditional, residential-style fridge like a Norcold, you may want to invest in a good RV fridge fan to keep the cool air moving throughout it. Also, be careful not to overpack the fridge as that makes it harder for cold air to circulate. Finally, remember to regularly inspect the seals to ensure they’re clean and tight and that no air is escaping.
Water Dispensers
A refrigerator is a big investment and a significant part of your camping gear. Choosing the right dispenser to work with it is essential to get the most out of your RV experience.
Whether you want a cool drink on a hot day or need to refill your water bottle, there’s an ideal solution for you. The Arrow Oasis drink dispenser fits into most fridges and is BPA-free. It holds up to 1.25 gallons and is easy-to-pour.
Most absorption fridges use electricity and propane for power, but some models can also be powered by LP gas (liquid petroleum gas). The fridge’s tubes help distribute the chemical reactions that heat up hydrogen gas, water, and ammonia. This causes evaporation, which helps keep the food in your fridge cold.
Accessories
There are a variety of RV refrigerator accessories to keep you organized and safe. Prevent those “oops, the fridge door swung open” moments with a refrigerator lock that keeps food and drinks in place. It also prevents food spoilage.
Another handy accessory is a refrigerator airing clip that keeps the fridge fresh and odor-free by reducing staining and odors in the freezer and refrigerator. The clip is easy to install and compatible with Dometic 6 and 8 c.f. fridges.
A refrigerator thermometer is essential for ensuring the temperature stays in the sweet spot, keeping your food at its best. You can even monitor humidity and odors with some models. Finally, bungee cords are a great way to secure your items so they don’t fall off the shelves during bumpy travel. They can be used for everything from securing dinette chairs to holding an ottoman in place. The possibilities are endless.