How Many Watts Does a Camping Fridge Need?

Jun 08, 2025

Camping refrigerators typically use 30 to 100 watts, depending on the type. That’s less than a hair dryer—but far more important when your bacon’s on the line. Want to know which fridge eats up power and which sips it slow? Read on before your ice cream turns into soup.

The Quick Answer: How Many Watts Does a Camping Fridge Use?

Camping fridges typically consume between 30 and 100 watts, depending on the model and type.

This range covers most compressor, absorption, and thermoelectric fridges. Size, insulation, and even the weather can impact how much power your fridge actually uses.

Knowing this helps ensure your cold food stays cold—and your power supply doesn't fall short.

Dometic fridge with door open showing drinks and produce on a white background.

Typical Wattage for a 12V Compressor Fridge

Average Running Watts (e.g., 40–60W)

Compressor fridges are the go-to choice for many campers. They're efficient, reliable, and work well in most climates.

Most 12V compressor fridges draw between 40 and 60 watts while running. Smaller models may use around 30 watts, while larger or dual-zone units can go above 60.

Understanding Startup Watts (Surge Power)

When the compressor starts, the fridge may briefly pull more power—known as surge or startup watts. This spike can double the usual draw, though it lasts just a few seconds.

It’s important to factor this in when using inverters or battery-powered setups.

Dometic fridge freezer with matte black finish and closed doors on a white background.

Why “Watts” is Only Half the Story

Introducing Watt-Hours (Wh): The Key to Daily Consumption

Watts show you the power at any given moment. But watt-hours (Wh) reveal how much energy is used over time.

For instance, a 40W fridge running for 8 hours a day will consume about 320Wh daily. This figure is what really matters when planning power sources.

What is a “Duty Cycle” and Why Does It Matter?

Fridges don’t run all day nonstop—they cycle on and off. This is called the duty cycle.

A fridge rated at 60W might only run 30–50% of the time. So, actual energy use is often far less than the rated wattage suggests.

Factors That Determine Your Fridge’s Real-World Power Use

The Biggest Influences on Wattage Consumption

Several real-world factors influence how much power your fridge uses.

Ambient Temperature: The #1 Factor

Hotter surroundings make your fridge work harder. In high heat, the compressor runs more frequently and for longer periods.

Your Temperature Setting

Turning your fridge to a colder setting increases power consumption. Keeping it at a moderate temperature helps conserve energy.

How Often You Open the Lid

Every time you lift the lid, warm air rushes in. This forces the fridge to cool back down, using more power.

Fridge Insulation and Cover

Well-insulated fridges hold their temperature better. Using an insulated cover or placing the fridge in the shade can also reduce energy use.

How to Calculate Your Fridge’s Daily Needs (in Watt-Hours)

Step 1: Find Your Fridge’s Running Wattage

Start by checking your fridge’s specs. Most 12V compressor fridges run between 30 and 60 watts.

Step 2: Estimate the Daily Duty Cycle (e.g., 30–50%)

Assume your fridge runs about 30% to 50% of the day, depending on weather and usage.

That’s roughly 8 to 12 hours of total runtime in 24 hours.

Thetford fridge-freezer with door open displaying assorted groceries on a white background.

Step 3: The Simple Calculation for Daily Watt-Hours

Multiply running watts by the estimated hours.
Example: 40W × 8 hours = 320Wh per day.

This gives you the daily energy demand to plan your battery or solar panel needs.

Sizing a Battery or Power Station for Your Fridge

Matching Your Battery’s Capacity (Wh) to Your Fridge’s Needs

To run a 320Wh/day fridge for two days, you’d need a battery with at least 640Wh of usable capacity.

Remember, most batteries can’t be fully discharged. A lithium battery can use around 80–90% of its total capacity, while lead-acid types may only allow 50%.

Why You Always Need a Buffer (20–30% Extra)

Always add a 20–30% buffer to your power calculations. This accounts for cloudy days, unexpected usage spikes, or battery efficiency loss.

It’s better to overestimate and keep your food safe than to run out of power mid-trip.

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