Will RV Fridge Run Off Battery While Driving?

If you're considering a road trip in your RV, you might be wondering if your fridge will run off the batteries as you drive. The answer to this question is dependent on a number of things, including the type of fridge you have and the size of your RV's battery.

In this post, we'll look at the many types of fridges used in RVs, how they function, and if they can run on a battery while driving. We'll also share techniques for increasing the efficiency of your refrigerator and extending the life of your RV battery.

Table of Content

Part 1. Types of RV Fridges
Part 2. Determining Your Energy Requirements
Part 3. Will Your RV Fridge Run Off Battery While Driving?
Part 4. How Long Will an RV Fridge Run Off a Battery?
Part 5. Tips for Maximizing Efficiency and Prolonging Battery Life
Part 6. Conclusion

Part 1. Types of RV Fridges

RVs have two types of fridges: absorption fridges and compressor fridges.

1.1 Compressor-Powered Fridge

A 2-way refrigerator, also known as a compressor-powered fridge, may run on either 12V DC (battery power) or 120V AC (shore power), hence the "2-way" name. It, like a household refrigerator, relies on a compressor to keep food cool and fresh.

1.1.1 Advantages of Compressor-Powered Fridge

The compressor motor allows it to attain low temperatures and sustain consistent cooling regardless of external ambient conditions.
It works well on uneven terrain, making it perfect for boondocking (dry camping).
Operates efficiently on battery power, but may require additional solar power because these refrigerators are largely powered by electricity rather than gas for cooling.

1.1.2 Disadvantage:

To operate, sufficient battery or solar power is required.

1.2 Absorption Refrigerators

A 3-way fridge, also known as an absorption fridge, may run on DC or AC power and use LP gas, with a heat exchange mechanism to remove warm air and chill the inside.

Attention: Some people advise against operating the fridge on liquid propane gas while driving owing to safety risks.

1.2.1 Advantages:

Can operate off-grid for extended periods of time by utilizing a gas flow exchange system; while this burns more propane, it is a more energy-efficient solution.

1.2.2 Disadvantages:

When powered simply by 12V, 3-way fridges are inefficient and can quickly exhaust batteries. Solar power and DC-to-DC chargers can help to address this issue.
Because of the gas flow exchange system, an absorption refrigerator must be level and have adequate ventilation to function properly.
Unlike compressor refrigerators, they are more sensitive to ambient temperatures and can only drop interior temperatures to a set degree below ambient.
Running the 3-way on propane consumes more fossil fuels than using rechargeable batteries powered by solar energy.

Now that you understand the many sorts of fridges, let's look at the solar components need to power your fridge from a battery bank.

Part 2. Determining Your Energy Requirements

To begin, calculate the watt hours required to power your refrigerator. While reviewing your RV or vehicle manual for anticipated watts or amps is preferable, you can refer to the following formula. However, there are substantial changes depending on the method of operation (AC, DC, LP) for an absorption fridge, as well as the size and style of your compressor fridge.

For example, if you have a compressor-style fridge that runs on 12V/DC power straight from the battery, you can compute the power consumption as follows: Volts x Amps = Watts. Using 12V power at an average current of 8.5A, the consumption would be 102W. Assuming the fridge runs for about 6 hours each day, the daily consumption would be 102W x 6 hours = 612 watt hours (WH).

Because of the 50% safe depth of discharge, a single 12V-100Ah lead-acid battery in your RV provides 600 usable WH every cycle (12V x 100Ah x 0.5 = 600WH). Alternatively, with a 12V-100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, the 80% depth of discharge yields 960WH each cycle;(12V x 100Ah x 0.8 = 960WH).

If your lead-acid battery is fully charged at the start of the day and you don't have another way to recharge it (e.g., solar, DC to DC charger), the fridge's energy consumption will entirely empty it. However, with an LFP battery, you would have around 348WH of energy available for various electrical equipment. Learn more about the differences between AGM and lithium batteries in Which Is Better For RV.

2.1 Running a Fridge on Battery More Efficiently with These Components

When you're not near an electrical outlet, you have three options for charging your batteries: 1. Solar Panels, 2. Engine Charge (with DC to DC Charger), 3. Solar or Gas Generator.

Each method has its own pros and disadvantages. Solar panels are a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution that use the sun's power to charge your batteries. They are quiet, low-maintenance, and suitable for long-term off-grid use. However, their efficiency varies according to sunshine and meteorological circumstances.

On the other hand, charging the engine using a DC to DC charger is a dependable and speedy way, especially while you're on the go. This option allows you to charge your batteries while driving, which is very useful for individuals who travel regularly. It's an excellent solution for keeping power levels stable during long journeys or when you need a quick refresh.

Power Queen 12V 40A DC to DC Battery Charger with flexible charging solutions

Power Queen 12V 40A DC to DC Battery Charger

Finally, a solar or gas generator offers versatility in terms of power source. A solar generator is a clean and renewable energy solution, whereas a gas generator provides continuous power regardless of weather conditions. Both alternatives are adaptable and may be utilized in a variety of settings, making them appropriate for a wide range of off-grid scenarios.

Finally, the charging method you choose is determined by your unique needs, resource availability, and the amount of time you will be away from regular power sources. Each strategy has its own distinct advantages, allowing you to adjust your approach to your specific needs.

For lengthy periods of running your fridge from a battery bank and regular boondocking, it is strongly advised to invest in high-quality, long-lasting Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries and consider adding a solar array.

In general, the best time to use your RV battery bank to power your fridge is when driving, because it is constantly recharging from your vehicle's electrical system via the 7-way connector. This connector, which operates the RV's outside lights, brakes, and other functions, allows for a trickle charge (about 5A) from your alternator to keep your battery bank completely charged while traveling. For example, if you leave your home or campground with your battery bank completely charged, this trickle charge system is meant to keep it charged while you're on the road.

Nonetheless, many RV owners have realized the limitations of alternator trickle charging, particularly after utilizing their batteries for off-grid camping (boondocking or dry camping). As a result, if you plan on boondocking more often than connecting at a campsite, a DC to DC charger will make your life much easier. This device converts the trickle charge from your alternator into a 20-60A current, depending on the type and size of charger you install. As a result, it can effectively recharge a drained battery between campsites, boondocking areas, and so on, regardless of whether you have solar panels on your roof. For more information, see the kind and size of the DC to DC charger.

Part 3. Will Your RV Fridge Run Off Battery While Driving?

The answer to this query is determined by the type of fridge you have and the capacity of your RV's battery. If you have an absorption fridge, it will continue to operate as long as there is propane gas or AC power available, regardless of whether your RV's motor is running or not. This means that an absorption fridge will operate on propane gas while traveling but will not take electricity from the battery.

If your RV's engine is running, the compressor fridge will only run off the battery. This is because the alternator in your RV's engine charges the battery while traveling, providing the power required for the fridge to function. If you stop driving and turn off the engine, the fridge will lose electricity from the battery.

Part 4. How Long Will an RV Fridge Run Off a Battery?

Let's get started estimating how long an RV fridge can run on a battery. To accomplish so, we utilize the formula watts/voltage = amps to calculate the number of amps consumed by the fridge each hour. An ordinary RV fridge requires about 150 watts and runs on a 12 volt battery, thus it consumes 12.5 amps each hour. If the battery has a capacity of 100 amp hours, the fridge can operate for around 8 hours before needing to be recharged. The fridge can run for longer if the battery has more amp hours or the fridge uses fewer watts. Using an inverter may allow the fridge to operate, but it will not considerably increase its runtime.

A better option is to use propane gas in conjunction with the battery because it provides a current that allows the battery to run for longer without depletion. The style of fridge also influences how long it can run on a battery; absorption fridges last less time than compression fridges. Knowing the kind and capacity of the battery is critical for calculating the fridge's runtime.

We propose that you replace your lead-acid batteries with LiFePO4 batteries due to their smaller weight, higher energy density, and longer lifespan.

For example, Power Queen 12V 280Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery has low-temperature protection, making it suited for a wide range of applications including RVs, boats, cabins, and more.

the size of Power Queen 12V 280Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

It has a built-in 200A BMS (Battery Management System) that provides complete protection, such as overcharge prevention and recovery, dustproof, waterproof, and salt spray resistance, and low-temperature cutoff protection. It uses EV-grade A LiFePO4 battery cells that have over 4000 cycles of life, support high-power devices, and provide 3584Wh of energy with a maximum load power of 2560W.

Visit Power Queen RV lithium batteries to choose the right battery for your RV.

Part 5. Tips for Maximizing Efficiency and Prolonging Battery Life

Regardless of the type of refrigerator you own, there are various things you can do to improve its efficiency and extend the life of your RV's batteries.

Keep Your Fridge Full

A full fridge is more efficient than an empty one because the food and drinks inside function as insulation, helping to keep the optimum temperature. Keep your fridge as full as possible, even if it means filling it with water jugs.

Use A Thermometer

Insert a thermometer into your fridge to ensure that it maintains the right temperature. The optimal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Park in the Shade

When parking your RV, attempt to find shade to keep the interior cool. This reduces the workload on your refrigerator and extends the life of your battery.

Use A Solar Panel

Consider adding a solar panel to your RV to assist recharge its battery throughout the day. This can assist counteract the power consumption of your refrigerator and lessen your reliance on your RV's engine to keep your battery charged.

Turn off Unnecessary Appliances

Turn off any superfluous appliances, such as lights or televisions, while driving to save battery power. This will help ensure that your battery has enough power to keep your fridge operational.

Part 6. Conclusion

Finally, whether your RV fridge will work on battery power while driving is determined by the type of fridge you have and the size of your battery. While driving, absorption fridges continue to run on propane gas, but compressor fridges only run on the batteries when your RV's motor is operating.

Keep your fridge full to improve efficiency and battery life, use a thermometer, park in the shade, consider utilizing a solar panel, and turn off superfluous appliances while driving. By following these guidelines, you can keep your fridge cold and your batteries charged during your road trip.

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