How to Keep Rv Fridge Cold While Driving
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Isn’t it nice to have cold drinks and fresh food at your fingertips during a road trip? Keeping your RV refrigerator cold will help preserve food and comfort you during travels. A well-maintained fridge differentiates between a delightful journey and a trip filled with spoiled food and disappointment.
But keeping your fridge at the ideal temperature is crucial. Eventually, we are here to walk you through every step.
Learn with us how to keep Rv fridge cold while driving.
What is an Rv fridge?
RV (recreational vehicles) fridges usually have refrigerators explicitly designed to work in a moving environment. It is often powered in various ways. The refrigerators in RVs typically use one of three power sources: propane gas, 12V DC battery power, or 120V AC shore power. These refrigerators are known as absorption refrigerators because they use a chemical process to absorb heat and cool the inside.
Most RV fridges are absorption refrigerators, unlike your home’s compressor fridge. If you understand, how your RV fridge works, it will assist you in applying the right strategies for keeping it cold while on the move.
Type of RV Fridges
There are primarily two types:
- Three-way refrigerators: These can operate on AC power, DC power, or propane.
- Two-way refrigerators: These operate on either AC power or propane.
How to Keep RV Fridge Cold While Driving?
We have pointed out a few techniques that will help to keep your fridge cool in the long run. Try to follow each method carefully.
Action 1: The Importance of a Pre-cooled Fridge
Never start your journey with a warm fridge. We recommend turning your fridge on at least 24 hours before you leave. It will ensure your fridge reaches the optimal temperature and your food starts cold.
Action 2: Level Matters: Perfect Positioning
You know what they say – it’s all about the balance! Where your fridge is located and how it’s positioned within the RV is critical. It should be level. If the RV is not level while driving, it’s best to adjust the fridge so that it is. It ensures optimal performance. Use leveling blocks or air suspension systems to maintain a balanced position.
Action 3: Maximize Airflow
Allowing proper airflow around and inside the fridge is necessary. We suggest keeping space between items inside the refrigerator. Also, ensure enough space around the fridge’s exterior for airflow.
Action 4: Monitoring Fridge Temperature
Keeping an eye on the fridge temperature is key. We suggest using a fridge thermometer. The ideal temperature range for an RV fridge is between 34°F and 36°F (1°C and 2°C).
Action 5: Using Fridge Fans
Utilize internal and external fridge fans. Internal fans help circulate cold air inside the fridge, while external fans cool down the coils at the back.
Action 6: Battery and Power Management
Your RV’s fridge requires a power source to keep running. We recommend using your RV’s alternator for power while driving. Make sure your battery is in good condition and fully charged.
Action 7: Utilize Ice Packs
Placing ice packs or frozen bottles of water in the fridge can help maintain low temperatures, especially on longer journeys. It also gives your fridge less work to do, conserving energy.
Action 8: Fridge Vent Maintenance
The fridge vent allows for air exchange, which aids in cooling. Ensure it’s not blocked and is free from debris. Regularly clean the vent for optimal performance.
Action 9: Choosing the Right Settings
Many RV fridges have different settings for different power sources. Ensure you use the correct settings for running off the RV’s alternator while driving.
Action 10: Adapt to External Temperatures
Understand that external temperatures can affect your fridge. On hot days, try parking in the shade or using a fridge vent cover to assist in keeping the fridge cold.
Action 11: Securing the Door
Make sure the door is securely closed and locked. Imagine it as a treasure chest – you don’t want your precious cargo to spill out!
Action 12: Properly Packing Your Fridge
Packaging your fridge can also impact how well it maintains cold temperatures.
- Don’t Overpack: Allow air to circulate.
- Keep Frequently Used Items at the Front: This minimizes the open door time.
- Use Bins: Use plastic bins for loose items to prevent them from moving around.
Action 13: Parking in Shade
Whenever possible, park your RV in a shaded area. The less direct sunlight hitting your RV, the cooler the interior will stay, which will help keep the fridge cold.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your RV Fridge Cold
- Avoid opening the fridge frequently and limit the duration when you do.
- Consider using ice packs or frozen water bottles to help maintain the cold temperature.
- Park your RV in shaded areas or use awnings to reduce exposure to direct sunlight.
- Regularly check the fridge’s vents and cooling fans to ensure they are clean and unobstructed.
- Travel during cooler times of the day to reduce the strain on the fridge’s cooling system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold should my RV fridge be while driving?
Answer: The ideal temperature for an RV fridge is between 34°F and 40°F to keep your food fresh and safe.
Can I run my RV fridge on propane while driving?
Answer: While possible, it’s generally not recommended due to safety concerns. Instead, use your RV’s battery or an auxiliary power source.
How long does it take for an RV fridge to get cold?
Answer: Typically, it takes about 4-24 hours. It’s best to turn it on a day before using it.
Do I need to defrost my RV fridge regularly?
Answer: Defrosting is essential as it helps the fridge cool more efficiently and saves energy.
Can solar panels help in keeping my RV fridge cold while driving?
Answer: Definitely! Solar panels can provide the extra power needed to keep your fridge running efficiently.
Is it safe to run my RV fridge on battery power while driving?
Answer: Yes, but monitor your battery levels closely.
Final Words
Keeping your RV fridge cold while driving is achievable if you follow these strategies. With some preparation and vigilance, you can ensure that your drinks stay chilled and your food stays fresh. Like a well-packed suitcase, an efficiently packed and maintained fridge can make your journey smoother. So, remember to cool it down in advance, pack it right, and monitor it like a hawk!
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