The 3 way in my Northstar appears to be dead. Looking to replace it with a compressor fridge. Any differences between the Dometic and Novacool units? I believe those both use the same compressor. Similar efficiency? Experience with either?

I have no experience with either... but have researched other brands for future use. You should also investigate Engel & ARB. According to the mfrs numbers and some tests I've read, they pull less amps than the number you quoted.HERE is some comparison info.

I don't see any compressor units on Dometics site

Years ago it seems that there were issues with some of the Dometic units. I went with NovaKool and have been happy with the unit. I also liked the idea that Dometics is a conglomerate and NovaKool only makes refrigerators. Novakool is Canadian and uses German Donfoss compressors.

spadoctor wrote:I don't see any compressor units on Dometics siteI installed a Dometic CR110 in my Lance. No issues. I've seen these fridges under the name of Waeco as well....could be same company just different brand; I think these are targeted as a marine fridge while the evaporator versions are targeted to RVs.

spadoctor wrote:I don't see any compressor units on Dometics siteDometic lists the compressor refrigerators under their marine products.To the OP, I have the Dometic CR-110 in my Northstar and I'm happy with it. Afraid can't offer any comparisons to the Novakool, all I can say is I have no complaints with the Dometic.PS: Be aware you're going to want to have solar if you plan to camp without hookups, if you don't already.

Compressor fridge, Dometic or Novacool? | Good Sam Community

Geewizard
Explorer
Aug 29, 2015
I replaced my 3-way refrig with a Tundra TJ42RE about 9 years ago. It has been a great refrig for me. I run it off my 120W solar and single 100AH battery since it draws 3.2A at 12vdc. Once it is cold, the current draw goes down considerably.
sabconsulting
Explorer
Aug 28, 2015
The 4500 is 122 litres capacity isn't it?

My Waeco / Dometic is 140 litres, but draws more like 6 amps. So sounds like the Novacool is a bit more efficient litre for litre.

Steve.
DWeikert
Explorer II
Aug 28, 2015
Sounds about the same, maybe just a bit less than my Dometic.
Thanks for the data point.
DieselBurps
Explorer
Aug 28, 2015
About 4 amps when running. Maintains set temp.
DWeikert
Explorer II
Aug 27, 2015
DieselBurps wrote:
Installed the Novacool 4500 yesterday. WOW! I really like it. started cooling instantly. Currently I am working on figuring out what solar I want to go with.

Congratulations. Have you measured current draw?
DieselBurps
Explorer
Aug 27, 2015
Installed the Novacool 4500 yesterday. WOW! I really like it. started cooling instantly. Currently I am working on figuring out what solar I want to go with.
KansasKen
Explorer
Aug 01, 2015
sorry a little late to the dance, but just wanted to add that I had a NovaKool RFU9000 installed when I had a new Host Everest built in July 2011. It has run almost continuously since with no problems. Like your home frig, there is a fan sound but have never thought it objectionable. To support frig, also had installed two 145W panels and 4 100A/H Lifeline AGMs. Very happy, never have to worry about being level.
DieselBurps
Explorer
Aug 01, 2015
I ended up ordering the Novacool 4500 4.3 cubic foot DC only fridge. I have a maggie rack on the way and now it's time to size up how I am going to do Solar on my northstar.
crosscheck
Explorer II
Jul 31, 2015
DieselBurps wrote:
Dave, how much solar do you have and is it able to keep up?

Started out with 190w and 4 AGM batteries and could keep up unless it was hot. Added a 140W panel and with the 4 battery storage, has never been a problem even with cloudy days.

I carry the genny along but never use it.

Sorry if I don't get back to you quickly as we ride all day in Europe and some campsites do not have Internet.

Dave
DWeikert
Explorer II
Jul 31, 2015
ticki2 wrote:
~DJ~ wrote:
I may be posting prematurely as I have not heard back from Dometic yet. About 2 years ago we put in the Dometic CR 1110. It seemed to me to be running excessively since new. It has gotten worse this last year and my Dealer just figured out the hinge side of the door is not closing properly. In fact it won't close good enough to turn out the interior light.

Since it's been this long Dometic will more than likely say tough but we'll see.

If they won't help me out on this I'm not sure what I will do. Not relishing the idea of replacing it with another new one, $$$$, that may have the same problems.

Perhaps adjusting or replacing the hinges will do the trick . Any chance you can check the dimensions of the hinges on a known good one .

I have the same unit and, although it does run a lot, I don't think it runs excessively. At least my light goes off as I close the door. If there's any measurements/photo's you'd like from my unit, just ask. Maybe it's something as simple as the door was installed improperly...

PS: Apologies for the thread hijack.