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sgreene_1963's avatar
sgreene_1963
Explorer
Mar 10, 2016

Residential vs Absorbtion Refers (Pros and Cons)

I've been evaluating the possibility of changing to a residential style refer when I get a new RV at some point. I've been trying to research the pros and cons of having a residential refer in a 5th wheel that is used 4-6 times a year (seasonal).

One of my biggest concerns is that I've read the residential style are more prone to damage due to the movement being inside an RV as it travels from location to location. This makes sense to me but how big an issue is it in the real world.

If others have had experience with residential style refers in an RV I'd like to hear your thoughts on the topic.

Thanks!!

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  • timflood's avatar
    timflood
    Explorer
    Mar 10, 2016
    If you always go to a place that you are plugged into AC go for it, if you go to the boonies and run off of battery power you will need a LOT more batterys and a 2000 W converter. Remember, residential refrigerators only run on AC not DC
  • wildtoad's avatar
    wildtoad
    Explorer II
    Mar 10, 2016
    I suspect the residential refers are made of sturdy stuff, but going quickly down washboard roads could be a problem. The main issue I think some have with residential units is the increased size of a battery bank required while boon docking.

    If it were me and only used it 4-6 times a year, I'd not bother.

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