New camper without 12 volt fridge
We are considering downsizing our camper. We have a 28 foot fifth wheel now. Wife really wants a smaller travel trailer. Problem we are having is that everything we see has a 12 volt fridge. We do a f...
Forum Discussion
Pbutler97 wrote:
It's simple, it's all about the bottom line for the RV manufacturer. They've collectively never once done anything or made a change because it's better.
12v fridges are cheaper to buy, and much cheaper / faster for the manufacturer to install. Most are already throwing cheap solar on as mandatory options anyway no matter if it's capable of supporting a 12v fridge or not, so that does not get added into the equation. As an example an absorbtion fridge is an option with Forest Rivers Rockwood/Flagstaff brands, starting at around $550.00 on the smaller units that have a standard size fridge. It's more for a double door on the larger ones.
At least at the retail level, price is about a wash. The upcharge for absorption on new RVs is to discourage customization. It's cheaper to install the same appliance every time.
If they are throwing in a low end solar system, it's probably more expensive to put in 12v vs running an extra branch on the propane system...but again, probably not by much.
The bigger reason is marketing. We probably have 50% more interior space in our 12v fridge for the same size cabinet opening. That is a selling point and to be honest, it's a good one that provides value.
