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.

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