THE REFRIGERATOR IS AN all-important centerpiece of any RV’s kitchen. And whether you are replacing yours or shopping for a new RV, you should know the best RV refrigerator options available. From boondocking to camping with a large group, we’ll explore the best RV fridges in this helpful buying guide.
Key Takeaways
- RV refrigerators come in three main types: compressor-driven, absorption, and residential. Each has distinct advantages for boondocking, full hookups, or hybrid camping styles.
- Top brands like CONTOURE, Dometic, Furrion, GE, and Norcold offer models for various power needs, cooling performance, and space requirements, with standout options like the Dometic DMC 12V and CONTOURE residential fridge.
- Choosing the right RV refrigerator depends on your power setup, space constraints, and camping habits. Proper installation and maintenance are key to maximizing performance and lifespan.
What Is the Best Type of RV Refrigerator?
RV refrigerators can be broken into three main types:
- Compressor-Driven (12 V or 120 V): These refrigerators in RVs tend to be fast-cooling and efficient. They can be powered by external AC power or onboard DC battery reserves. They are also less affected by external temperatures but rely entirely on electrical power.
- Absorption (“2-way” or “3-way”): These RV fridges run on propane and electricity, making them ideal for off-grid use. However, they generally deliver slower cooling and need to be level. “Two-way” refers to models that can run on propane or 120VAC; “three-way” refers to models that can run on propane, 12VDC, or 120VAC.
- Residential (120 V only): The best residential RV refrigerators offer the most capacity and excellent cooling speed. However, their reliance on 120VAC power makes them best suited for camping with full hookups or an appropriately sized RV generator.
For RV owners needing a replacement, you’ll need to balance compatibility with your existing systems—size, energy type (12V/120V/propane), and wiring.
For those currently shopping for a new RV, the best RV refrigerator often depends on how you plan to camp. A residential RV fridge offers the most storage and cooling capability, but you’ll be limited to full hookup campsites. If you want the freedom to camp off-grid, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of a two or three-way absorption fridge unless your solar array and battery bank support a 12V fridge for extended stays.
Who Makes the Best RV Refrigerator?
RV manufacturers select refrigerators from suppliers based on many factors: compatible sizes for specific floor plans, appropriate power needs like electrical and propane, and, of course, price. Some of the top-rated RV refrigerator brands include GE, CONTOURE, Furrion, Dometic, and Norcold.
GE offers several popular 12V, compressor-driven models, such as its 9.8-cubic-foot RV fridge replacement. However, it also offers 120V mini-fridges and larger residential-style units.
CONTOURE is perhaps best known for the frost-free features of its RapidCold 12V compressor refrigerators, which come in sizes ranging from 7.5 to 10.7 cubic feet.
Furrion is a popular OEM supplier known for its 12V Arctic series. Their designs include a double-door model and another with a dual-swinging door that can be opened from either side.
Dometic has a strong and longstanding reputation in the RV industry for its absorption refrigerators. However, it is increasingly offering 12V models with multi-speed compressors and digital controls.
Norcold is another traditional leader in the absorption refrigerator space. It also offers 12V compressor-drive models to meet modern RV needs.
Based on user reviews from sources like the Good Sam Community and Forest River Forums, 12V compressor fridges from Dometic and Furrion are gaining traction for dependability and off-grid adaptability. While GE units are common and reliable, some owners have reported issues like poor rear airflow and cooling imbalance.
Picks for the Best RV Refrigerator
Enjoy our selections to find the best-rated fridge for your RV:
Best 12V RV Refrigerator: Dometic DMC Series
Specs
- Capacity: 8 cubic feet
- Power: 12VDC compressor, variable-speed
- Weight: 114 pounds
- Dimensions: 53.6″ H x 23.6″ W x 27.5″ D
The DMC Series is a standout 12V compressor fridge designed as a drop-in replacement for the old 8 cubic-foot absorption units, yet it delivers an extra two cubic feet of storage. It features a modern stainless‑steel finish, digital controls with Eco/Silent/Performance modes, dual crispers, and tempered glass shelves for organization and easy cleaning.
The variable‑speed compressor adapts to cooling demand, improving energy efficiency and noise levels compared to earlier models. Although it draws around 8–13 A, ensure solid 12 V wiring and 20 A protection to maintain reliable operation.
Compare the GE Top-Freezer Refrigerator and the Furrion Arctic Series.
Best 2-Way RV Refrigerator: Dometic Americana II
Specs
- Capacity: 7.31 cubic feet total (5.6 in fridge + 1.7 in freezer)
- Power: 120 VAC
- Weight: 124 pounds
- Dimensions: 24-7/8″ W x 26″ D x 60-13/16″ H
The Americana II continues Dometic’s legacy in reliable, campground-friendly refrigeration. This absorption model runs on AC or DC power, providing automatic switching and consistent cooling for RVers with hookups. Well‑regulated and with solid build quality, it offers dependable performance in daily travel.
Compare the Norcold Polar absorption series.
Best Residential RV Refrigerator: CONTOURE Side-by-Side
Specs
- Capacity: ~19 cubic feet
- Power: 120VAC
- Weight: 172 pounds
- Dimensions: 69⅜″ H × 35⅝″ W × 26⅛″ D
The CONTOURE side‑by‑side refrigerator brings full-size residential convenience to RV kitchens that can accommodate 120V power. Its RapidCool™ system ensures groceries are chilled quickly, without waiting for startup delays, while maintaining zero frost buildup. The integrated ForeverFresh™ crispers and flexible shelving allow you to maximize storage and stay organized on the road. Its sleek stainless finish and seamless design elevate the look and functionality of any RV interior, even those used as full-time homes.
Compare the GE Energy Star fridge.
Best RV Mini Fridge: CONTOURE Compact
Specs
- Capacity: ~3.3 cubic feet
- Power: 12VDC
- Weight: 49 pounds
- Dimensions: 18-7/8″ W x 17-9/16″ D x 32-7/16″ H
Contoure’s compact mini fridge is tailor‑made for van‑lifers, bunkhouse RVs with larger outdoor kitchens, or as a secondary standalone fridge plugged into an exterior outlet. Its compact footprint, quiet operation, and portability make it ideal for smaller campers or expanded storage in an RV outdoor kitchen. The only downside of this model is that it must be hardwired into your RV’s 12V electrical system.
Compare the Everchill Compact fridge.
How To Pick an RV Fridge
Let’s examine the top factors when selecting the best RV refrigerator for your camping style.
Define Your Power Scenario
Some RVers only camp with full hookups. In this case, you might be more likely to upgrade to a 120V residential fridge to maximize food storage and access features like a built-in ice maker.
However, most campers want more flexibility.
A two or three-way fridge allows you to keep perishables cold using propane while you’re off the grid. Then, you can conserve that propane for appliances like your furnace and water heater while plugged in.
With improvements in solar technology, more manufacturers are incorporating at least a small 100 or 200-watt panel on the roof. This makes the best 12V RV refrigerators more attractive because the panels help to keep your RV batteries charged when you aren’t plugged in. These 12V fridges can also remain powered while you drive. For towable RVs, this is an advantage over two-way fridges, as you won’t have 120VAC, and you should shut the valves on LP containers before driving.
Match Size and Layout
Measure the exact cutout in your RV before choosing. Some models are made to fit a specific existing cutout size while offering expanded interior storage compared to your old fridge. Note the width, height, and depth of the cutout and factor in the need for any additional space around the new fridge for proper venting.
Consider which direction the door swings and ensure enough interior shelving to maximize food storage and ergonomic access. A model with a dual-swinging door might be the perfect RV fridge replacement.
Assess Power Needs and Installation
The simplest method for selecting your RV refrigerator replacement is to match your existing fridge’s size and power needs. If swapping from an absorption fridge to a compressor-driven model, you must ensure proper gauge wiring and fuses for your 12V system to support the new fridge’s amperage draw.
While modifying your RV’s 12-volt electrical system, you may consider adding solar components or upgrading batteries for improved off-grid capability.
If you are changing from a 12V compressor fridge to an absorption model, you may need to make modifications to ensure proper propane venting and level installation. Once installed, absorption fridges also require more burner maintenance.
Evaluate Cooling Performance
Compressor-driven refrigerators cool fast and consistently. They also remain efficient when your RV can’t be parked completely level. Many newer 12V models can also drop to a usable temperature more quickly when your RV has been in storage.
While absorption fridges are reliable once they reach their set temperature, they take longer to cool, meaning you’ll need to turn them on 8-24 hours before loading your perishables. If your RV isn’t stored on your property, this can be a challenge as you prepare for a trip. These fridges can also be more susceptible to leveling errors, but with proper use and maintenance, they are more than capable of maintaining crisp temperatures.
How Long Do RV Refrigerators Last?
Absorption refrigerators typically deliver 8 to 15 years of service when regularly serviced. This includes, but isn’t limited to, maintaining proper leveling, inspecting/cleaning/replacing seals, and ensuring the burner is clean and free of debris. They offer simplicity, but their performance will suffer if the burner is clogged or the cooling lines lose efficiency.
Compressor RV refrigerators often last comparably, though longevity hinges on electrical stability. A variable‑speed design reduces wear on the compressor. However, improper wiring, voltage fluctuations, or running at low battery levels can shorten the lifespan. With correct installation and maintenance, compressor fridges can rival or exceed the lifespan of absorption fridges.
Can I Make My Fridge Work Better?
Improving your RV fridge’s effectiveness requires a type-specific approach:
- For compressor-driven units: Add more solar panels or battery capacity, install thicker 12 V wiring, and pre-cool before trips.
- For absorption units: Keep them level, clean, and serviced. Run it frequently on propane to prevent clogs and pre-cool before departure.
Additionally, minimizing the frequency and duration of door openings, ensuring the thermometer is calibrated correctly, and avoiding overpacking can improve your RV fridge’s performance.
Use these additional resources to ensure your perishables are kept cool, and your meal preps go smoothly:
- How Does an RV Refrigerator Work?
- RV Refrigerator Maintenance Tips
- How To Replace Heating Element in RV Fridge
What questions do you have about the best-rated RV refrigerators? Let us know in the comments below!
