12V Caravan Fridge Power Use - Battery and Solar Sizing Guide

12V Caravan Fridge Power Use - Battery and Solar Sizing Guide

Intro
A fridge that sips power keeps food safe without flattening your batteries. Use these simple steps to plan an electrical setup that works in real conditions.

Work From Real Numbers

  • Check the fridge Watts or Amps on the spec label.
  • Estimate daily energy: Watts × duty cycle × 24.
  • Duty cycle varies with load and heat - allow extra for summer and frequent door openings.


Battery Sizing Basics

  • Convert daily Wh to Ah at 12V: Ah ≈ Wh ÷ 12.
  • Add 30-50% headroom for hot weather and other loads.
  • Use lithium for usable capacity and quick recharge.


Solar and Charging

  • Daily solar target should exceed your daily fridge usage plus other loads.
  • Include alternator or DC-DC charging on drive days.
  • Shade, clouds, and winter sun angles reduce yield - plan conservative.


Efficiency Tips

  • Pre-chill food and drinks before loading.
  • Set a sensible temperature and avoid frequent door openings.
  • Ventilate the cabinet so the compressor breathes cool air.
  • Use correct cable size to keep voltage drop low.


Bottom line
Size battery and solar from the specs, then build in comfortable margin for summer touring and everyday usage.

Find efficient 12V caravan fridges

Why Choose VanDIY?

VanDIY is a Queensland-based supplier of quality caravan parts and accessories. We’ve been supporting Australian travellers and DIY builders since 2006, offering proven products and real local support.

  • With warehouses in Gympie, Brisbane and Melbourne – we dispatch Australia-wide
  • Authorised SJRV distributor and product partner
  • 3-year warranty on major components
  • All stock tested and backed before it reaches our shelves
  • Fast, transparent freight and reliable customer service

Frequently Asked Questions

What caravan parts do you stock?


We offer a wide range of caravan parts and accessories including windows, fridge vents, roof fans, lithium batteries, 12V fridges, hot water systems, toilets, and washing machines – all designed for Australian conditions.

Where do you ship from?


We have 3 warehouse options - Gympie, Brisbane and Melbourne - Providing an item is in stock we will ship ex Gympie or Brisbane. If not in stock here, we'll ship ex Melbourne via the SJRV warehouse with fast and reliable freight options available Australia-wide.

Do you offer pickup?

Yes, we offer pickup from our Brisbane warehouse. If the item is out of stock in Brisbane, we'll ship it up ex Melbourne to the warehouse and notify you when ready.

Do you sell to trade and DIY customers?


Yes – VanDIY supplies both trade customers and DIY builders. Contact us for wholesale or volume pricing if you’re building or fitting multiple vans.

Shop Caravan Parts & Accessories Australia-Wide


Whether you’re building, repairing or upgrading your caravan, VanDIY makes it easy to find the right parts for your project. We stock a complete range of caravan parts and accessories including windows, vents, fans, fridges, lithium batteries and more – all tested for durability in Australian conditions. With warehouses in Gympie, Brisbane and Melbourne, we ship fast across Australia, offering real local support and advice. Browse online today or contact our team for help choosing the right gear for your build.