Keep Your Cool on the Road: Top 7 RV Refrigerator Alternatives
Are you tired of using a traditional RV refrigerator that consumes too much energy, takes up too much space and requires constant maintenance? Fortunately, there are numerous RV refrigerator alternatives available in the market that offer a wide range of benefits and functionalities.
10 RV refrigerator alternatives
- Ice Box
- 12-Volt Compressor Fridge
- Absorption Fridge
- Thermoelectric Cooler
- Portable Freezers
- Chest Freezers
- Mini Fridges
- Propane Fridges
- Electric Coolers
- Solar-Powered Fridges
1 Ice Box
An icebox is a simple and cost-effective alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It consists of an insulated container with a lid that can be filled with ice to keep food and drinks cool. The ice will eventually melt, so it needs to be replaced regularly. Iceboxes are lightweight and require no electricity, making them ideal for boondocking and dry camping. However, they are not as efficient as other alternatives and require regular maintenance to keep them clean.
Iceboxes can also take up a lot of space, and may not have as much storage capacity as a traditional RV refrigerator. Additionally, they are not suitable for storing perishable items for an extended period of time, as the temperature can fluctuate and cause food to spoil. Despite these limitations, an icebox can be a great option for shorter trips or for those who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness over convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Not as efficient as other alternatives |
| Lightweight | Requires regular maintenance to keep it clean |
| No electricity required | Limited capacity |
2 12-Volt Compressor Fridge
A 12-volt compressor fridge is a popular alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It operates on 12-volt DC power and uses a compressor to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. They are efficient, and quiet, and come in a variety of sizes to fit different RVs. However, they can be expensive to purchase and install, and they require a reliable source of 12-volt power to operate.
If you plan to use a 12-volt compressor fridge while off-grid, you will need to have a sufficient battery bank and solar panels to keep it running. Additionally, these fridges require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality 12-volt compressor fridge and have a reliable power source, it can be a great alternative to a traditional RV refrigerator, providing you with efficient cooling and plenty of storage space.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Expensive to purchase and install |
| Quiet | Requires a reliable source of 12-volt power |
| Comes in a variety of sizes |
Absorption Fridge
An absorption fridge is another popular alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It uses a combination of heat, ammonia, and water to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. Absorption fridges are efficient and run on propane or electricity, making them ideal for boondocking and dry camping. However, they can be expensive to purchase and install, and they require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Expensive to purchase and install |
| Runs on propane or electricity | Requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly |
| Ideal for boondocking and dry camping |
Thermoelectric Cooler
A thermoelectric cooler is a portable alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It uses the Peltier effect to transfer heat from one side of the device to the other, effectively cooling the interior. Thermoelectric coolers are lightweight, compact, and can be powered by 12-volt DC or AC power. However, they are not as efficient as other alternatives and require a reliable source of power to operate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Portable | Not as efficient as other alternatives |
| Lightweight | Requires a reliable source of power to operate |
| Compact | Limited capacity |
Portable Freezers
A portable freezer is another option for RVers looking for an alternative to traditional refrigerators. It operates similarly to a traditional freezer and uses a compressor to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. Portable freezers are efficient and come in a variety of sizes to fit different RVs. However, they can be expensive to purchase and install, and they require a reliable source of power to operate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Limited capacity |
| Comes in a variety of sizes | Requires a reliable source of power to operate |
| Ideal for storing frozen food |
Chest Freezers
A chest freezer is a larger and more permanent alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It operates similarly to a portable freezer and uses a compressor to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. Chest freezers are efficient and can hold a significant amount of food and drinks. However, they can be expensive to purchase and install, and they require a reliable source of power to operate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Takes up a lot of space |
| Comes in a variety of sizes | Requires a reliable source of power to operate |
| Ideal for long-term storage |
Mini Fridges
A mini fridge is a compact and affordable alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It operates similarly to a traditional fridge and uses a compressor to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. Mini fridges are efficient and can be powered by electricity or 12-volt DC power. However, they are not as large as traditional RV refrigerators and may not hold enough food and drinks for extended trips.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Limited capacity |
| Compact | Requires a reliable source of power to operate |
| Ideal for small RVs |
Propane Fridges
A propane fridge is an efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It operates on propane gas and uses a combination of heat, ammonia, and water to circulate refrigerant and maintain a constant temperature. Propane fridges are ideal for boondocking and dry camping but require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Expensive to purchase and install |
| Runs on propane | Requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly |
| Ideal for boondocking and dry camping |
Electric Coolers
An electric cooler is a portable and affordable alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It uses a fan and a thermoelectric module to circulate cool air and maintain a constant temperature. Electric coolers are lightweight, compact, and can be powered by electricity or 12-volt DC power. However, they are not as efficient as other alternatives and require a reliable source of power to operate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Not as efficient as other alternatives |
| Compact | Requires a reliable source of power to operate |
| Can be powered by electricity or a 12-volt DC |
Solar-Powered Refrigerators
A solar-powered refrigerator is an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional RV refrigerators. It uses solar panels to generate electricity and power a 12-volt compressor fridge. Solar-powered refrigerators are ideal for boondocking and dry camping but require a reliable source of sunlight to operate. They can also be expensive to purchase and install.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eco-friendly | Expensive to purchase and install |
| Cost-effective in the long run | Requires a reliable source of sunlight to operate |
| Ideal for boondocking and dry camping |
RV refrigerator replacement and steps
RV refrigerators can be costly to repair, and sometimes it’s more practical to replace them instead of fixing them. Here’s a guide to replacing your RV refrigerator, step by step:
Step 1: Determine the type of refrigerator you need
Before you start shopping for a new RV refrigerator, you need to know what type and size you need. Measure the space where the old fridge was located and decide if you want to stick with the same type or upgrade to something different, like a larger unit or a different cooling system.
Step 2: Remove the old refrigerator
To remove the old refrigerator, you’ll need to disconnect the power and gas lines, remove any screws or brackets holding it in place, and slide it out of the RV. Make sure to properly dispose of the old fridge, or recycle it if possible.
Step 3: Install the new refrigerator
Installing the new refrigerator will depend on the type you purchased, but most will require a similar installation process. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and make sure to secure the fridge in place with brackets and screws to prevent it from shifting during travel.
Step 4: Connect the power and gas lines
Once the new fridge is in place, you’ll need to connect the power and gas lines. Make sure to use the correct size of gas line and connectors, and test for gas leaks before using the fridge.
Step 5: Test the new refrigerator
Before you start loading up the new fridge, it’s essential to test it first. Plug in the power and turn on the gas to see if the fridge is running properly. If you notice any issues, double-check the installation and connections, or call a professional for assistance.
Overall, replacing an RV refrigerator can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary one if your old fridge is no longer functioning correctly. By following these steps and being careful during the installation process, you can have a new and improved refrigerator in your RV in no time.