Why Dometic and Companion fridges are best for camping

Author: Your RV Good Guide   Date Posted: 7 May 2024

 

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or weeks away at a time, having the right gear is crucial for making the most of your motorhome trip. And at the heart of any well-equipped campervan is a reliable fridge to keep your food and drinks fresh and chilled.

In this helpful guide, we'll explore why Dometic fridges and Companion fridges stand out as top choices for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. We’ll also share everything you need to know to help you decide on the best camping fridge for you, including:

 

 

Can you put a regular fridge in a motorhome?

When it comes to outfitting your motorhome for the next big adventure, you might wonder if a regular household fridge could do the trick. After all, it's just about keeping your food and drinks cool, right? Well, not quite. Motorhomes present a unique set of conditions that are quite different from the stable environment of a home. The most obvious being, they're constantly on the move, which means they're subject to vibrations, temperature changes, and varying power availability.

Unlike an RV fridge, standard household fridges aren't built to handle the bumps and shakes that come with life on the road. These conditions can lead to decreased performance and even damage over time. Plus, household fridges are designed for continuous, stable power supply, something that's not guaranteed when you're exploring the great outdoors. This mismatch can lead to inefficiencies and inconvenience, making a regular fridge less than ideal for your motorhome lifestyle.

 

How are RV fridges different from regular fridges?

RV fridges stand out for their specialised design, catering specifically to the needs of life on the go. Unlike the typical household mini fridge, RV fridges are engineered to thrive in the ever-changing conditions of travel. Let's take a look at the two most popular types of RV fridge: the versatile absorption / 3-way fridge and 12v compression fridges.

 

Cooling system 

The core distinction between regular and RV fridges lies in the cooling technology. RV fridges often employ either absorption systems or compressor systems. Both are adept at handling the dynamic environment of a moving vehicle.

Absorption / 3-way fridges: These units utilise a unique cooling method that involves heating a solution of ammonia and water. This process causes the mixture to circulate through the system's coils, effectively absorbing heat from the fridge's interior and therefore lowering the temperature inside. This method is particularly quiet since it doesn't rely on a compressor, making it a popular choice for motorhomers who appreciate a silent night!

12v compressor fridges: Known for their efficiency, these fridges operate using a motor that compresses refrigerant and circulates it through the cooling system, similar to what you'd find in a typical home refrigerator. This system is highly effective at maintaining cool temperatures, even in the most demanding environments.

 

Power sources 

RV fridges are designed with versatility in mind, offering various power options to suit the diverse needs of travellers. Absorption / 3-way fridges offer the ultimate in flexibility, capable of running on 12v battery power while the vehicle is in motion, LPG gas, or 240v mains power when accessible. This adaptability makes them ideal for a wide range of camping scenarios, from remote off-grid locations to well-equipped campsites.

Often referred to as two-way fridges, 12v compressor fridges can switch between 12v DC and 240v AC, offering flexibility for travellers who have ready access to mains power.

READ MORE: Gas fridge vs 12v fridge: Which is best for your motorhome?

 

Mobility and durability 

The design of RV fridges takes into account the inevitable vibrations and movements of travel. They're built tough, with components that can withstand the rigours of the road, ensuring reliability and longevity. This is a critical feature, as the last thing you want is for your RV fridge to give up mid-journey! Household fridges, while perfect for the home or bach, simply aren't equipped to handle the bumps and jostles of life on wheels.

 

Why Dometic and Companion fridges are the best choice for camping

When it comes to selecting a fridge for your camping adventures, the choices can be overwhelming. However, two names stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and innovation: Dometic and Companion. Let's take a look at why:

 

Exceptional portability 

Portability is a standout feature for both Dometic and Companion fridges. Designed with the adventurous spirit in mind, these fridges offer sleek, lightweight designs without compromising on storage capacity. This makes them perfect for snugly fitting into your campervan or RV, ensuring your essentials are kept cool without occupying too much space.

 

Efficient energy consumption 

Energy efficiency is key for both Dometic fridges and Companion fridges, making them ideal for extended camping trips. These fridge models are celebrated for their refrigeration efficiency, offering innovations such as display panels and app technology for tracking the cooling status, and integrated lithium technology, allowing for extended off-grid adventures without the worry of draining your power sources. This efficiency means you can enjoy longer trips, relying on your fridge to keep things cool without constant power concerns.

 

Durability and build quality 

When it comes to withstanding the demands of outdoor life, Dometic and Companion fridges are built tough.

Dometic's offerings, from their absorption refrigerators to their compressor models like the CoolMatic series, are designed for the mobile environment, ensuring they can handle the bumps and shakes of the road. Companion fridges, celebrated for their robustness, come equipped with quality componentry and innovative features, making them reliable companions for any outdoor pursuit.

 

Versatile power options 

The versatility in power options provided by Dometic and Companion fridges makes them popular choices for motorhomers and campers. With a range of power options including 12v, 240v, and gas, these fridges offer the flexibility needed for any adventure. Whether you're parked at a campsite with mains power or exploring off the beaten path, these fridges will keep your food fresh and your drinks cool.

 

How to choose the best fridge for your motorhome

Selecting the right RV fridge for your motorhome is all about finding a balance between your travel needs, the available space, and the fridge's functionality. Here are some key factors to consider:

 

Size and capacity: The size and capacity of your fridge should align with your travel habits and the number of people in your motorhome. Think about the duration of your trips and the amount of food and drinks you typically need. A larger group or longer trips might necessitate a bigger fridge, while solo or short journeys could be well-served by a more compact camping fridge.

 

Power options: Your camping setup will influence your power needs. If you're planning to be off-grid, consider a fridge that can run efficiently on battery power or gas. For those who stay at campsites with power hookups, a fridge that runs on mains power could be more suitable. Assessing your usual travel plans will help you choose a fridge with the right power options for your adventures.

 

Temperature control: A good motorhome fridge should offer precise temperature control to accommodate different types of food and beverages. This feature is crucial for keeping your perishables fresh and your drinks at the perfect temperature, enhancing your overall travel experience.

 

Energy efficiency: The energy efficiency of a fridge is paramount, especially in a motorhome where power resources can be limited. Look for a fridge with a high energy efficiency rating to ensure it won't drain your motorhome's battery too quickly. This is particularly important for extended trips where conserving power is essential.

 

Durability and build quality: The constant movement and varying conditions of motorhome travel demand a fridge that's built to last. Choose a model known for its durability and high-quality construction to withstand the vibrations, temperature changes, and other challenges of life on the road.

READ MORE: Choosing the right fridge for your motorhome: A comprehensive guide.

 

The range of Companion fridges and Dometic fridges at RV Super Centre

Keen to pick out the perfect Dometic or Companion fridge for your travels? Here are a few of the popular options at RV Super Centre:

Companion Lithium Rechargeable Dual Zone Fridge/Freezer 75L

This model’s integrated/removable lithium battery not only powers the fridge but also serves as a power pack with two USB ports, making it incredibly versatile. With up to 24 hours of runtime on a single charge and direct solar connection capabilities for extended use, this model ensures you can stay longer off the grid. Additional features like the dual bottle opener, secure accessory storage area, and dual-speed SECOP compressor highlight its thoughtful design tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Companion Transit Fridge/Freezer 45L

Designed with portability in mind, this portable RV fridge features strong carry handles and a lightweight yet durable polypropylene construction, ensuring it can withstand the demands of outdoor adventures. The dual-speed LG compressor guarantees low power consumption, with an average power usage of just 1 amp per hour, making it an energy-efficient choice. The fridge/freezer also includes a 3-stage battery monitor and a digital display control panel for easy operation.

 

Dometic CFX3-45 Portable Fridge/Freezer 12/24/240V - 45 Litres

Designed for maximum internal capacity without the need for ice, this Dometic fridge allows you to extend your stay and experiences in the outdoors. The CFX3 operates efficiently, freezing down to –22 °C while consuming less power than a 60 W lightbulb. It's equipped with a user-friendly interface, soft-touch controls, and a high-resolution display for seamless operation.

 

Dometic RM2356 3-Way Fridge/Freezer 12/240V/Gas - 95 litres

Despite its compact exterior, this 3-way fridge boasts a generous interior – 10% larger than most 3 cubic ft models, ensuring you have ample space to keep everything cool. The user-friendly control panel with LED indicator lights makes operation easy. The fridge also features a reversible door, allowing you to easily change the opening direction to suit your motorhome's layout.

 

Find the right Dometic or Companion fridge with RV Super Centre

At RV Super Centre, we not only offer a wide range of Dometic and Companion fridges but also provide expert advice to help you choose the best model for your motorhome. Whether you need a compact fridge for weekend getaways or you’re thinking about upgrading your motorhome fridge for extended travels, we have you covered. We can also take care of professional installation.

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