Best Fridge Type
We have had 2-way and 3-way fridges for years. I need to replace out discontinued Atwood unit that is a headache, and have been reading about the 12V compressor fridges. We are 99% RV Park type folks,...
Forum Discussion
Absorption refrigerators don't seem to do very well in the hotter southern summers, unlike compressor units. However they are less power hungry, especially when run on propane. Compressor units have been used for years in the boating industry and newer models seem to be getting a lot more energy efficient. As others have said, they're probably the wave of the future in the RV industry (thankfully!).
If you intend to camp in the south in the summer you really need to look at the compressor units.
If most of your camping is in RV parks with hookups, then the compressor unit is probably the best way to go.
If you boondock a bit the compressor can be a tough call, unless you have a good battery bank and possibly solar.
If you go the solar route then best to look into something like Lithium-Ion for batteries. A second alternator on the engine for a quick recharge is probably a good idea too, especially if your coach batteries are Lithium-Ion. Solar with flooded cells is pretty much a gimmick since it's almost impossible to get the batteries fully recharged and without a daily full recharge. You'll be running the refrigerator during the day on the surface charge so they'll deplete faster with each day.
If you intend to camp in the south in the summer you really need to look at the compressor units.
If most of your camping is in RV parks with hookups, then the compressor unit is probably the best way to go.
If you boondock a bit the compressor can be a tough call, unless you have a good battery bank and possibly solar.
If you go the solar route then best to look into something like Lithium-Ion for batteries. A second alternator on the engine for a quick recharge is probably a good idea too, especially if your coach batteries are Lithium-Ion. Solar with flooded cells is pretty much a gimmick since it's almost impossible to get the batteries fully recharged and without a daily full recharge. You'll be running the refrigerator during the day on the surface charge so they'll deplete faster with each day.
