Camping Fridge Electricity Usage Explained

Jun 13, 2025

Worried your camping fridge will guzzle power like your mate at a BBQ? Don’t stress — short answer: most camping refrigerators sip, not chug, electricity. But it depends on the type, setup, and usage. Stick around for easy tips to keep things cool without draining your battery (or your sanity).

Understanding Camping Fridge Power Consumption

The Numbers Explained: Watts, Amps, and Amp-Hours

Understanding how camping fridges use electricity starts with the basics.

Watts (W): The Instantaneous Power Draw

Watts measure the immediate power your fridge is using. For example, a fridge may draw 40–60W when the compressor is running. This tells you how much power it needs in that exact moment.

Amps (A): The Rate of Flow from Your 12V Battery

Amps show how quickly electricity is flowing. A typical 12V compressor fridge might pull around 2–4 amps when actively cooling. This helps you estimate battery drain over time.

Amp-Hours (Ah): The True Measure of Daily Electricity Use

Amp-hours are the most useful number for campers. They show how much electricity the fridge uses over a full day. A compressor fridge generally uses between 30–50Ah in 24 hours.

Flat framed caravan fridge with closed black doors, on a white background.

How Much Electricity Different Fridge Types Use

Compressor Fridges (12V): The Most Efficient Option

Compressor fridges are the go-to choice for most campers. They’re efficient, reliable, and only use power when needed. That makes them ideal for battery setups and longer trips.

Thermoelectric Coolers: Constant Draw for Less Cooling

These coolers are simpler but less efficient. They run constantly and can’t reach low temperatures like compressors. They’re best for short trips or mild weather.

Absorption (3-Way) Fridges: The High Cost of Using 12V Power

Absorption fridges are versatile. They run on electricity or gas, but using 12V power is the least efficient mode. They’re far better on LPG or mains power if you have it.

Fridge Type	Average Daily Energy Consumption (Ah)	Power Source
Compressor	30–50	12V Battery
Absorption	50–80	Electricity / Gas
Thermoelectric	20–40	12V/24V Battery

Key Factors That Affect Your Fridge's Actual Usage

What Determines How Hard Your Fridge Works?

Several factors impact how much electricity your fridge will use in practice.

Ambient Temperature: The Biggest Power Drain

Hotter weather makes your fridge work harder to stay cool. That means more energy usage. Shade and airflow help reduce this.

Your Thermostat Setting: Colder Costs More

Turning your fridge down to its lowest setting uses more power. A moderate setting is often enough to keep food safely chilled.

Fridge Size and Insulation Quality

Larger fridges use more power, especially if they’re poorly insulated. Quality insulation helps the fridge retain cold air and cycle less often.

Dometic absorption fridge with open door showing assorted drinks and fruit inside, on a white background.

Ventilation: Why Airflow is Crucial for Efficiency

Without airflow, heat builds up around the fridge. That forces the compressor to run longer. Always allow space for ventilation, especially in enclosed setups.

How to Reduce Your Camping Fridge's Electricity Use

Pre-Cool Your Fridge and Contents at Home

Pre-cooling is one of the simplest ways to save energy. Chill your fridge at home and cool your food and drinks before packing. This reduces the initial load on your power source.

Keep the Lid Shut and the Fridge Full

Every time you open the lid, warm air gets in. Keeping the fridge closed and well-packed means less energy needed to maintain the temperature.

Dometic tall compressor fridge with triple door compartments open and food inside, on a white background.

Use an Insulated Cover and Park in the Shade

External heat has a big effect. An insulated fridge cover and a shady spot can help lower power usage significantly.

Putting It All Together: A Real-World Example

Calculating Your Daily Power Needs (in Amp-Hours)

Let’s say your fridge draws 2.5 amps and runs for 12 hours a day. That adds up to 30Ah daily. It’s a good average figure for a 12V compressor fridge.

Sizing a Battery and Solar Panel for a Typical Fridge

To cover 30Ah a day, a 100Ah deep-cycle battery should last about two days without recharging. Pair it with a 100W solar panel in decent sunlight, and you’ll stay comfortably powered off-grid.

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