With the latest advancements in power station, solar panel, and 12V outdoor fridges, these gears are now better and more convenient than ever. Investing in a 12V refrigerator is a great decision for outdoor activities. Installing a refrigerator in your camper or RV is a smart move! But should you go for a chest-style (top-loading) or an upright (front-loading) model? Choosing the right refrigerator can make all the difference, and this article will guide you through the options to help you make the best choice.
More Efficient Energy Consumption
We’re all used to front-loading refrigerators because they fit our habits, and the side-door design helps us organize our space without worrying about the door's swing. However, many users have shared that chest-style 12V fridges are actually more efficient. Because when you open the top, less cold air escapes (cold air stays at the bottom, right where it belongs). This means they use less power.
But if you think this is the only reason chest-style fridges are awesome, you’d be selling them short. Actually there are even more convincing reasons to love them.
More Freedom in Storage Planning
Here's where things get really interesting: your sanity is at stake! Many front-loading refrigerators come with a tiny, token freezer box that forces you to choose between your meat and your ice cream during shopping trips. With a 12V chest-style fridge which can achieve temperatures as low as 0℉. By planning your storage order wisely, you can fit in all your meats, ice cream, drinks, and even veggies.
Especially with some dual-zone chest fridges, you can have both a fridge and a freezer without being constrained by space. This means you get to enjoy your outdoor adventures without compromising on your food choices.
12V Compressor Refrigerators
The cooling principle of compressor refrigerators involves compressing refrigerant gas with a compressor, then circulating it through coils at the back of the fridge to lower the internal temperature, repeating this cycle continuously. SECOP compressors are the industry benchmark, known for their high efficiency and quality.
ICECO's 12V fridges use SECOP compressors, providing consistent and low-energy cooling in both 120V AC and 12V DC modes. For instance, the VL75PROD, a large-capacity model, consumes about 0.635 kWh/24H (26.4 Wh/H), making it a reliable choice for efficient cooling.
Sliding Out Multi-opening Lid 12V Refrigerator
As mentioned, front-loading refrigerators offer easy access, but modern chest-style 12V fridges have evolved to solve this issue too. With the addition of a fridge slide, you can conveniently tuck your fridge away under a cabinet or even a bench when not in use. When you need it, just slide it out.
Many brands have also gotten creative with lid designs to fit various vehicle spaces. For example, ICECO's VLPRO series is known for its Multi-opening lid. You can open it from the left, right, or even remove the entire lid. This gives you greater flexibility and freedom in organizing your space.
What Size Of 12V Refrigerators
Having a larger refrigerator isn't always better, as excess storage space only consumes more power—something crucial to conserve outdoors. We previously wrote an article on choosing the right fridge size based on different needs and scenarios. Click here to find the perfect fit. ICECO's VLPro series offers a range of options from 35L to 90L, catering to various needs. You can also complement it with a basket to easily access your food items.
In the realm of outdoor living, the evolution of 12V refrigerators has brought unprecedented convenience and efficiency. Brands like ICECO lead with SECOP compressors, ensuring reliable cooling in any setting. Choosing the right size fridge, such as ICECO's versatile VLPro series from 35L to 90L, ensures you maximize space without compromising energy conservation. With these innovations, outfitting your camper or RV with a 12V refrigerator promises to elevate your outdoor adventures with practicality and sustainability in mind.
