The Great Caravan Fridge Showdown: 3 Way vs 12v Compressor

Caravan Fridge Survival Guide: Which Type Keeps Food Coldest in Aussie Summers? (Spoiler: It’s Not What You Think!). For Australian caravanners, a reliable fridge is not merely a convenience – it is an essential component of life on the road.

Whether traversing the rugged Outback, coastal highways, or alpine regions, the choice between a caravan fridge 3 way and a 12 volt caravan fridge compressor will profoundly influence comfort, convenience and even safety. This guide offers an exhaustive comparison of these two dominant technologies, evaluates the viability of using domestic fridges in caravans and addresses common challenges faced in Australia’s diverse climates.

Caravan Fridge Comparison

Caravan Fridge 3 Way: The Off Grid Champion

Absorption refrigerators, often referred to as 3 way fridges, operate using three power sources: liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), 12 volt battery power, or 240 volt mains electricity. This versatility has cemented their status as a staple for remote adventures, particularly in regions like the Kimberley or Cape York where grid power is scarce.

Advantages Of 3 Way Fridges

1. Fuel Flexibility: A standard 9 kilogram gas bottle can sustain a 3 way fridge for up to three weeks, making it indispensable for extended off grid stays.
2. Silent Operation: Without a compressor, these fridges produce no mechanical noise, preserving the tranquillity of campsites.
3. Proven Reliability: Brands such as Thetford and Dometic have refined absorption fridge designs over decades, ensuring robust performance in harsh conditions.

Limitations Of 3 Way Fridges

1. Heat Sensitivity: Performance declines sharply in ambient temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, necessitating shade, ventilation and sometimes auxiliary cooling fans.
2. Levelling Requirements: These fridges must remain within 3 degrees of level to function correctly – a challenge on uneven terrain or during sudden stops.
3. Slow Cooling: Achieving optimal temperatures can take 6 to 8 hours from a warm start, requiring pre-cooling on mains power before trips.

According to Marvel RV, adding a 12 volt vent fan to the fridge’s external casing can improve cooling efficiency by up to 30% in hot weather.

12 Volt Caravan Fridge Compressor: The Modern Cooling Solution

Compressor driven fridges, such as those manufactured by Bushman or Engel, rely on 12 or 24 volt DC power or 240 volt AC electricity. Their rapid cooling capabilities and resilience in extreme heat have made them a favourite among travellers prioritising performance.

Strengths Of 12 Volt Compressor Fridges

1. Superior Cooling Capacity: These units can reach temperatures as low as minus 18 degrees Celsius, outperforming 3 way models during heatwaves.
2. Terrain Versatility: Unlike absorption fridges, compressor models operate efficiently at any angle, making them ideal for corrugated roads or steep inclines.
3. Energy Efficiency: Modern inverter compressors adjust cooling output based on demand, reducing power consumption by 30% compared to older fixed speed models.

Drawbacks Of 12 Volt Compressor Fridges

1. Higher Power Demand: A 100 litre compressor fridge can deplete a 100 ampere hour battery in 12 to 18 hours without solar replenishment.
2. Audible Operation: The compressor emits a low hum (40 to 50 decibels), which may disturb light sleepers in compact caravans.
3. Initial Cost: Prices for compressor fridges start 20% to 40% higher than equivalent 3 way models, though long term energy savings can offset this.

Bushman’s buying guide recommends pairing these fridges with lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and a minimum of 200 watts of solar panels for extended off grid use.

Head To Head: 3 Way Vs. 12 Volt Compressor Caravan Fridges

To simplify the decision making process, the table below contrasts key features of both fridge types:

Domestic Fridges In Caravans: A Practical Choice?

Some caravanners attempt to cut costs by installing household fridges with inverters. While this approach has merits, it introduces unique challenges.

Arguments In Favour Of Domestic Fridges

1. Cost Efficiency: A $700 domestic fridge combined with a $300 inverter often costs less than a premium $2,000 caravan specific model.
2. Energy Savings: Modern inverter driven domestic fridges consume as little as 0.8 to 1.2 kilowatt hours daily, rivaling dedicated caravan fridges.
3. Familiar Features: Household fridges often include ice makers, water dispensers and adjustable shelving absent in caravan models.

Arguments Against Domestic Fridges

1. Power Requirements: A 200 litre domestic fridge typically demands a 2000 watt pure sine wave inverter and a 400 ampere hour battery bank – impractical for most caravans.
2. Durability Concerns: Domestic compressors are not engineered to withstand vibrations from corrugated roads, increasing failure risks.
3. Space Constraints: Standard household fridges rarely fit caravan cabinetry, requiring custom modifications.

A Caravaners Forum discussion highlights mixed outcomes, with multiple users reporting inverter failures or fridge damage within months.

Head To Head 3 Way Vs 12 Volt Compressor Caravan Fridge Showdown Comparison

Caravan Fridge Hot Weather Performance: A Critical Analysis

Australia’s summer temperatures routinely exceed 40 degrees Celsius, testing the limits of both fridge types.

3 Way Fridges In Heat

In gas mode 3 way fridges function reliably up to 32 degrees Celsius. Beyond this, their ammonia based cooling cycle struggles as external heat reduces the temperature differential needed for refrigerant circulation. Solutions include:

• Installing reflective foil on the fridge’s exterior.
• Using 12 volt fans to boost airflow around the condenser.
• Parking the caravan in shaded areas during peak heat.

12 Volt Compressor Fridges In Heat

Compressor fridges excel in hot conditions with models like the Bushman 4WD Fridge Freezer maintaining internal temperatures of minus 5 degrees Celsius even at 45 degrees Celsius ambient. Their hermetically sealed systems are unaffected by external heat, though excessive power draw can strain batteries.

Performance While Driving: 12 Volt Power Showdown

3 Way Fridges on 12 Volt

When switched to 12 volt mode during travel, 3 way fridges consume 10 to 12 amperes per hour – enough to drain a 100 ampere hour battery in under 9 hours. Consequently, most users switch to gas mode while driving, despite safety concerns about open flames in moving vehicles.

12 Volt Compressor Fridges While Driving

Compressor fridges draw 3 to 5 amperes per hour on 12 volt power, making them sustainable with a dual battery system. Advanced models like the Dometic CFX3 feature low voltage cutoffs to prevent starter battery depletion.

Common Caravan Fridge Problems And Solutions

3 Way Fridge Issues

• Slow Cooling: Often caused by improper levelling or obstructed flues. Regularly check the fridge’s spirit level and clear debris from ventilation paths.
• Excessive Gas Use: Dirty burners or faulty thermostats increase LPG consumption. Annual servicing by certified technicians is advised.
• Ineffective 12 Volt Mode: Designed only for short term use, 12 volt mode should be avoided during extended drives.

12 Volt Compressor Fridge Issues

• Rapid Battery Drain: Insufficient solar input or undersized batteries are common culprits. Monitor power usage with a battery management system.
• Condensation Buildup: Frequent door openings in humid climates cause internal moisture. Use desiccant packs and minimise access during peak heat.
• Compressor Failures: Voltage spikes or continuous operation on uneven surfaces can damage compressors. Invest in a surge protector and ensure stable mounting.

Allbrand Caravan Service reports that 70% of compressor fridge failures result from poor battery maintenance or incorrect installation.

Maximising Efficiency And Longevity

• Precooling: Always cool the fridge on 240 volt power for 12 hours before departure.
• Ventilation: Maintain at least 50 millimetres of clearance around the fridge’s vents and consider installing additional fans.
• Battery Care: Keep lithium batteries above 20% charge and lead acid batteries above 50% to prolong lifespan.
• Routine Maintenance: Clean door seals monthly, defrost freezer compartments quarterly and service gas components annually.

Regional Considerations For Australian Travellers

• Tropical North: High humidity and temperatures favour compressor fridges, though 3 way models can suffice with diligent ventilation.
• Arid Interior: Dust storms can clog 3 way fridge burners; compressor fridges with sealed systems are less vulnerable.
• Alpine Regions: Both fridge types perform well in cold climates, though 3 way models may struggle if your gas bottle freezes.

Final Recommendations

Selecting the ideal caravan fridge hinges on travel habits, power resources and environmental conditions:

• Frequent Off Grid Travellers: The 3 way fridge’s gas efficiency and quiet operation make it ideal for extended remote stays.
• Weekend Adventurers: Opt for a 12 volt compressor fridge for rapid cooling and hassle free operation on short trips.
• Tech Savvy Users: Consider hybrid systems combining a small compressor fridge for perishables and a 3 way unit for beverages.

Ultimately, pairing your fridge with a robust solar setup, quality batteries and smart energy practices will ensure reliable performance across Australia’s diverse landscapes.

6 Caravan Fridge FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Way vs 12v Compressor Style Caravan Fridges

List Of Australian Caravan Brands

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