12 Volt Refrigerator

[jsprad]

I have seen a few new trailers/coaches with three way refrigerators (electric, propane and 12 volts). I have not seen them in any of the new Airstream information, are they available? Can a 2011 International be retrofitted? I have a feeling to do it would be more than I want to spend on a functioning refrigerator, but it does make one think! To be able to run the refrigerator on the 12 volt system while towing would be wonderful.

[lewster]

Originally Posted by jsprad

I have seen a few new trailers/coaches with three way refrigerators (electric, propane and 12 volts). I have not seen them in any of the new Airstream information, are they available? Can a 2011 International be retrofitted? I have a feeling to do it would be more than I want to spend on a functioning refrigerator, but it does make one think! To be able to run the refrigerator on the 12 volt system while towing would be wonderful.

3-way operation of your present fridge will not be possible if:

• your cooling unit does not have the extra steel tube to accept the 12VDC heating element
• your control board is not 3-way compatible with connections on the board to facilitate 12VDC operation
• you do not have sufficient 12VDC wiring available to handle the amp draw of the 12VDC heating element.

All of the above will be required for a conversion from 2-way to 3way operation.

[Airtandem]

I have a Koolltron AC/DC cooler that I carry. There are several different sizes from 6 pack to 60 qt. (?). The one I have has the reversible plug to convert from heat to cool.
It can be used alone when traveling in the truck or in the AS. The cool side operates about 40 degrees below ambient; can freeze beer.
This is NOT a big frig, but can be used as a back-up.
AND, I DON'T HAVE TO BUY ICE.

[perryg114]

The 12V Gas Absorption Fridges typically don't work well on 12V and they will suck your batteries down quick. They do make conventional compressor based fridges that will work on 12V.

Perry