Beatrice Lang
Running an RV fridge on electricity is possible, and there are several ways to do so. The type and age of your RV, motorhome, or van will determine the kind of refrigerator you have. A 2-way refrigerator (compressor-powered) can run off of either 12V (DC battery power) or 120V (AC shore power). A 3-way fridge (absorption fridge) can run on DC or AC power, as well as LP gas. Using an inverter, you can convert the 12V DC power from the deep-cycle battery in your RV into 120V AC power. If your RV has a built-in generator, you can simply turn it on to power your refrigerator. Solar panels, engine charge, and solar or gas generators are also options for charging your batteries and powering your fridge.
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What You'll Learn
Using a 12V-100Ah lead acid battery
A 12V-100Ah lead acid battery can be used to power a 12V refrigerator in your RV, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, lead acid batteries can only use about 50% of their capacity before needing a recharge, so you will only be able to utilise 50Ah of the 100Ah capacity. This means that the battery will likely only last for one night, depending on usage.
To get the most out of your 12V-100Ah lead acid battery, it is important to manage the ambient temperature. In hot climates, the fridge will consume more power to maintain a cool temperature, reducing the overall run time. Conversely, in cooler conditions, the duty cycle decreases, extending the battery life. Therefore, parking your RV in the shade or using additional insulation can help reduce power consumption.
Additionally, keeping your fridge full can help maintain a consistent temperature, as there is less air that needs to be cooled. This will also reduce the impact of frequent door openings, which can increase power consumption.
To extend the run time of your 12V-100Ah lead acid battery, you can consider adding a solar panel setup. This will help keep your battery charged throughout the day, especially in sunny locations. When you have access to regular AC power, you can also use your RV's converter charger to recharge the battery.
It is worth noting that the power consumption of RV refrigerators varies, typically ranging between 20 to 50 watts. A more energy-efficient model will help extend the life of your 12V-100Ah lead acid battery. Upgrading to a lithium battery, such as the Redodo 12V 100Ah battery, can also provide longer run times due to their higher usable capacity.
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Using solar panels
Solar panels can be used to power an RV fridge, and they offer a green and reliable power source. Solar panels can be combined with a power station or battery to store energy and power a refrigerator.
The number of solar panels needed to power an RV fridge depends on the wattage of the panels and the type and size of the refrigerator. On average, 3-4 solar panels are needed to power a refrigerator. For example, a 12V portable fridge requires a 100-200W solar panel to charge it for a few hours. A larger household refrigerator will require multiple solar panels of high output to charge for extended periods.
When considering solar panels for an RV fridge, insulation is key to keeping the interior of the fridge cold. Newer refrigerators also come with highly efficient cooling methods, which can help reduce electricity needs.
For a 12V fridge, it is recommended to have 150 Watts of solar panels and 200 Watts of batteries. A 300-Watt panel system is a popular choice, as it can provide a continuous power supply and store energy for use when there is less sunlight.
Some products on the market, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, combine solar panels with a power station, providing a clean and dependable backup power option for RVs.
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Using a DC to DC charger
A DC-to-DC charger is an onboard charger that can be used to power your RV fridge while driving. It is much more effective than an engine trickle charge.
To install a DC-to-DC charger, you will first need to isolate the incoming 12-volt charge line from your tow vehicle where it exits the 7-way moulded pigtail on your towable RV. Typically, this wire will be black. Disconnect it from its factory location and be prepared to connect it to the incoming power wire on the DC-to-DC charger.
You will also need to verify whether the DC-to-DC charger receives continuous power from the tow vehicle or is only energised when the tow vehicle ignition is running. This can be done with a 12-volt test light. Once you have located the wire, connect the test light.
If you are installing a DC-to-DC charger with a higher current rating, you may need to upgrade the charge line and use a dedicated 20-amp connector.
When choosing a DC-to-DC charger, you will need to consider the amperage rating. For example, the REDARC BCDC1212T is rated at 12 amps, allowing users to utilise the existing charge line and 7-way connector in their truck.
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Using a generator
Running a generator to power your RV fridge is a viable option, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, check if your RV has a built-in generator, which is more common in motorhomes, but some travel trailers may also have them. If your RV has a built-in generator, you can use it to power your refrigerator while driving. Make sure to keep the fuel tank full, as most systems will shut down the generator when the fuel level drops below a certain point.
If your RV does not have a built-in generator, you can use a portable generator, but this comes with additional safety concerns. Never run a portable generator inside your RV. Always place the generator outdoors and away from open windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, ensure that you understand the fuel requirements of your generator. Some generators may be powered by gasoline, propane, or liquid petroleum gas. Be aware that operating a propane generator while on the road is prohibited in several states.
When using a generator to power your RV fridge, you may need to consider power output. RV refrigerators are typically 2-way refrigerators, meaning they can run on either 120V AC power or liquid petroleum gas. If your generator produces 120V AC power, you can connect it directly to the refrigerator. However, if your generator produces DC power, you will need a battery inverter to convert the power to AC.
It's worth noting that running a generator solely to power your RV fridge may not be the most fuel-efficient option. The generator will continue to run even when the fridge is not actively cooling, resulting in wasted fuel. Consider combining the use of the generator with other power-drawing appliances, such as the air conditioning unit, to make better use of the generator's output and reduce fuel wastage.
Lastly, always refer to your RV's manual for specific instructions and warnings regarding the use of generators and powering your RV fridge. Some manufacturers may have particular recommendations or restrictions that you should be aware of to ensure safe and efficient operation.
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Switching from propane to electric
There are a few ways to switch from propane to electric in an RV, depending on the type of appliance. Here is a step-by-step guide for switching from propane to electric for your RV fridge, water heater, and furnace.
RV Fridge
First, determine the type of fridge you have. A 2-way refrigerator can run off of either 12V (DC battery power) or 120V (AC shore power). A 3-way fridge can run on DC or AC power, as well as LP gas.
If you have a 2-way refrigerator, you can connect an inverter to convert the 12V DC power from the deep-cycle battery to 120V AC power. However, this will only work for a short time before needing to recharge.
If your RV has solar panels, you can use them to charge your batteries and run your fridge. Solar panels provide a charging current whenever they are illuminated by the sun, even on cloudy days.
Another option is to use a generator to power your fridge. Some RVs have built-in gasoline generators, while others may require a portable solar generator or a gas generator.
RV Water Heater
Switching your RV water heater from propane to electric is a simple process and can be done in five steps. First, locate the water heater switch inside the RV and turn it off. This switch controls the propane water heater.
Next, go outside the RV and look for a panel, usually on the driver's side. Open the panel and find the small switch that controls the electric power to the water heater. Turn this switch on, and your water heater will now be running on electric power.
RV Furnace
Traditional RV furnaces do not run on electricity alone, but many RV owners are opting to replace their propane-fueled heaters with alternative fuel sources or add additional heating options. One option is to install an electric RV furnace, which is the most commonly used alternative.
Another option is to add simple ceramic space heaters to your RV, which allows you to maintain the option of propane heat while also utilising campsite electricity.
The RV Comfort Systems' hybrid heating unit allows you to switch from gas to electric heat with the flip of a switch. This unit is mounted directly to the existing RV furnace and uses heating coils to warm the air before pushing it through the duct system.
When switching from propane to electric, it is important to consider the safety implications. Invest in a carbon monoxide detector and a propane detector to ensure your safety. Regularly check the batteries and replace them as needed.
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Frequently asked questions
If your RV has a built-in generator, simply turn it on before you start driving and power on your refrigerator. You can also use an inverter to convert 12V DC power from the deep-cycle battery in your RV into 120V AC power.
Running an RV fridge on electricity can help save money and energy. It also allows for more flexibility when camping in remote locations.
Running a fridge will take a lot of energy from the battery. Therefore, you will only be able to use this power source for a short time before needing to switch back to shore power to recharge.
You can run an RV fridge on propane or gas. Many RVs come equipped with a dual-fuel refrigerator, allowing you to switch between power sources.
The process depends on the type of model you have. Some models require a simple button press, while others may require turning a knob or moving a lever.
