Everyone has an opinion when it comes to RV refrigerators, and the topic is sure to start up a lively debate among RVers. Like all other things RV-related, your RV refrigerator is a matter of personal preference, and your travel style will highly influence that preference.
These basics will help you know what you’re looking at when you’re out on the showroom floor.
RV Refrigerator Types
Most new and used motorhomes offer either absorption refrigerators or compressor-driven refrigerators. You will also see the term “residential-style,” which can be confusing as it sometimes refers to the design and other times to a fridge meant for a fixed home.
Absorption Refrigerators
The most common type found in RVs. These are unique because they can run on propane in addition to electricity.
- 2-Way Fridge: Runs on AC power and LP gas.
- 3-Way Fridge: Runs on AC power, LP gas, and DC power (house batteries).
Pros: Highly flexible; allows you to stay off-grid longer by switching to propane to conserve battery.
Cons: Cools slower and less evenly; the RV must be perfectly level to function properly.
Compressor Refrigerators
These require AC/DC power to run. They are similar to the fridge in your home but optimized for travel.
Cons: Can drain a stock battery bank quickly when boondocking without solar or an upgraded battery setup.
Pros: Cools faster, stays more efficient in high heat, and is not affected by altitude or being unlevel.
Residential-Style Refrigerators
Found in large travel trailers and Class A RVs, these are popular for their massive capacity and even cooling.
- Power: They generally only work on AC power (shore power).
- Off-grid use: To run these while traveling or boondocking, you must have an inverter to convert battery power to AC, or run a generator.
Which RV Refrigerator Is Right For You?
There is no “perfect” choice—it depends on how you use your rig.
- Propane lovers: Prefer absorption fridges for the freedom to boondock without massive solar arrays.
- Full-timers: Often prefer residential or compressor fridges for the extra space and residential-grade cooling performance.
Things To Consider When Shopping for RV Refrigerators
How Much Food Do You Want to Store?
If you cook for a large family, the capacity of a residential-style fridge is a game-changer. However, if you boondock, you’ll need to upgrade your battery bank or add solar panels to keep it running.
Would You Like To Refill Propane Less?
If refilling propane tanks feels like a chore, go with a compressor fridge. While your water heater or furnace may still use propane, you’ll significantly reduce your overall consumption.
Are You Always Perfectly Level?
Absorption fridges require the coach to be level to prevent damage to the cooling unit. If you do a lot of “quick stops” at Walmarts or driveways where you don’t want to set up leveling blocks, a compressor fridge is a better fit.
Do You Primarily Boondock?
If you love camping deep in nature without hookups, an absorption fridge is the safest bet for stock RVs. If you want a compressor fridge for boondocking, plan on upgrading to Lithium batteries immediately.
RV Refrigerator Maintenance
Keeping your unit efficient requires routine care:
- Minimize Door Openings: Limit the time the door stays open to maintain internal temps.
- Airflow is Key: Do not overstuff the fridge. Consider an internal fridge fan to circulate air.
- Defrost Regularly: Absorption fridges should be defrosted every 1–2 months.
- Annual Service: Get a professional flue cleaning and airflow check.
- Don’t Let It Sit: Disuse can cause more damage than frequent use. If the RV is stationary for long periods, ensure the appliance is checked regularly.
Technician Tip: If you can’t have it all “out the dealership door,’ err on the side of upgrading your power capacity (batteries/solar). It is much easier to add a battery than it is to swap out a refrigerator later.
To learn more about operating and equipping your RV, check out the following resources:
- What’s the Best RV Tankless Water Heater?
- All You Need to Know About RV Air Conditioning
- Do You Need An RV Water Filter?
What type of refrigerator is in your RV? Leave a comment below.
Do you know if I can remove the panel above my Dometic refrigerator in my 2019 flagstaff micro lite 25bds and create more storage? What’s behind that panel? Thanks!
Where do I find the fuse to activate the side by side refrigerator in my moter home?
I have a question. Can a absorption refer be transported on it’s side safely?
Hi Lisa, I’d call your local Camping World service center to discuss it with them before doing that just to be sure.