The choice between Dometic compressor and absorption caravan refrigerators depends on your travel style, energy preferences, and where you plan to use your caravan. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of each fridge type:
Dometic Compressor Caravan Refrigerators
Compressor fridges operate like the one in your home, using a motor-driven compressor to circulate refrigerant and maintain cooling.
Key Benefits:
Efficient Cooling Power
Fast Cooling: Cool down quickly and can reach very low temperatures, including freezing.
Reliable in All Weather: Maintain a consistent temperature even in high ambient temperatures, suited to Australia’s wide temperature variations.
Energy Efficiency
Low Power Consumption: Highly energy-efficient and typically use less power compared to absorption fridges when connected to electricity or a battery.
12V/24V and Mains Operation: Can run on either 12V or 24V from your caravan’s battery system or be plugged into mains electricity, offering flexible power options.
Eco-Friendly Operation
No Gas Required: Don’t need gas to operate, so you won’t need to carry extra gas bottles for refrigeration. This is cost-effective and better for the environment.
Ideal for Off-Grid Use
Battery and Solar-Friendly: Compatible with solar panels and battery setups, making them perfect for off-grid camping. They consume minimal energy, allowing them to run longer on limited power sources.
Best For:
People who frequently travel off-grid and want efficient, reliable cooling using 12V or 24V systems.
Travellers who need a freezer function or require refrigeration in high temperatures.
Absorption refrigerators use heat to create a cooling effect through a migration and separation of chemicals. This technology, though older, remains relevant in the RV market and is enhanced by modern electronics and internal fans (some models). They can run on multiple power sources: 12V battery, mains electricity, or gas (LPG), although use on 12V is primarily for travelling due to high power consumption on DC. LPG is the most efficient power source.
Key Benefits:
Silent Operation
Virtually No Noise: Operate quietly because they lack a motor or compressor. Ideal if you’re sensitive to noise while sleeping or camping in peaceful locations. Modern units, such as the Dometic RUA, have internal and external fans for efficient cooling, which are not noticeable to most people.
Multi-Power Source Flexibility
3-Way Operation: Can run on mains power (240V), 12V battery power, or LPG gas. This flexibility is excellent for long journeys or camping where electricity may be scarce.
Gas Option: Using LPG gas helps preserve battery life, making these fridges great for extended trips where power resources are limited.
Few Moving Parts
Durable and Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts, with less wear and tear, potentially increases their lifespan, with rare mechanical breakdowns.
Gas Efficiency
Highly Efficient on Gas: Offer long-term cooling without relying on electrical power, when running on gas. Especially useful in remote areas with no access to mains electricity or where solar or battery options are limited. Ensure you have enough LPG supplies for your trip.
Best For:
Caravanners who camp in areas without reliable access to electricity or prefer to use gas for long-term refrigeration.
People looking for very quiet operation and the ability to run the fridge on multiple power sources.
Fast, reliable, and efficient in a wide range of temperatures
Slower cooling, works harder in extreme heat
Power Sources
12V/24V, 240V mains electricity
12V, 240V mains electricity, LPG gas
Energy Efficiency
Low power consumption, good for solar/battery, faster cooling
Very efficient on gas but less efficient on DC
Noise Level
Low-level compressor and fan noise, can be reduced with the silent function
Relatively silent with low fan noise, which can be turned off if necessary
Maintenance
Periodic cleaning of the condenser needed, especially after dusty trips
Low maintenance but gas system should be serviced regularly by a qualified technician
Off-Grid Suitability
Great for solar/battery setups
Ideal for gas-powered, off-grid camping
Durability
More mechanical parts, but long-lasting components
Long-lasting with very few mechanical failures
Which Fridge is Right for You?
Dometic Compressor Fridge: Best for travellers who prioritise cooling efficiency, especially in hot climates, and those using solar panels or battery power for off-grid adventures. If you need a freezer, this is a better choice for high ambient conditions.
Dometic Absorption Fridge: Ideal for caravanners seeking multi-power flexibility, particularly gas operation, and quiet operation in remote or off-grid locations. Great for places without reliable access to mains electricity.
Ultimately, your choice depends on how and where you plan to use your caravan, as well as your preferences for power sources, cooling efficiency, and noise levels.
Dometic Service offers a range of services to give you peace of mind on your next adventure. Contact us and mention this article to receive up to $250 trade-in on your fridge when upgrading, whether working or not, or a 10% discount on your fridge service.
