Having an absorption fridge comfortably level has always been essential for long life. Does new tech work better? What's the best? By CHRIS DOUGHERTY JAN 28
I concur with Chris Dougherty: When an absorption refrigerator fails, we have choices: replace with another new absorption refrigerator; replace with a new compressor refrigerator; or replace just the existing failed absorption cooling unit with a compressor cooling unit (either 120VAC or 12VDC).
JC Refrigeration has successfully quality replacement and conversion cooling units for several years.
When the cooling unit on our Dometic LP/AC refrigerator failed in the fall of 2019, JC Refrigeration converted it to 120VAC compressor style (Embraco compressor). It works well, and the advantages Chris mentions, such as not being as sensitive to leveling, is a nice quality. For those who routinely travel with the refrigerator on, no more worries about turning off the refrigerator (and remembering to turn back on) at refueling stops, on ferries, and going through tunnels.
Yes, there is increased electrical energy consumption and need for batteries SOC management when boondocking. But there are also no more open flames, no more open refrigerator vents needed in extreme cold and heat, and a notable decrease in LP consumption.
Not mentioned: the available refrigerator cooling volume can be more a compressor-style refrigerator. For instance, an 8 cu ft compressor refrigerator (such as the DMC4081) may replace a 6 cu ft absorption refrigerator (such as the DM2672) in almost the same space (assuming you can get it in the door)...and is significantly lower cost (retail $1386 vs $2241, respectively).
True, absorption refrigerators remain preferable for some RV'ers and in some circumstances, as do gas lanterns.
Like I commented in his article. some of us do not have solar, lithium or inverters to run such a reefer.
We're up the creek if ours fails and absorption is outlawed aren't we? Big $$$$ for no reason. We like our old fashion reefer and have used one for 30 years.....why change?
Most certainly the old adage applies: if it ain't broke, don't fix it. However, if it is broke, and you cannot get another absorption model, then you have to make hard choices, and that is where this article can help.
I concur with Chris Dougherty: When an absorption refrigerator fails, we have choices: replace with another new absorption refrigerator; replace with a new compressor refrigerator; or replace just the existing failed absorption cooling unit with a compressor cooling unit (either 120VAC or 12VDC).
JC Refrigeration has successfully quality replacement and conversion cooling units for several years.
When the cooling unit on our Dometic LP/AC refrigerator failed in the fall of 2019, JC Refrigeration converted it to 120VAC compressor style (Embraco compressor). It works well, and the advantages Chris mentions, such as not being as sensitive to leveling, is a nice quality. For those who routinely travel with the refrigerator on, no more worries about turning off the refrigerator (and remembering to turn back on) at refueling stops, on ferries, and going through tunnels.
Yes, there is increased electrical energy consumption and need for batteries SOC management when boondocking. But there are also no more open flames, no more open refrigerator vents needed in extreme cold and heat, and a notable decrease in LP consumption.
Not mentioned: the available refrigerator cooling volume can be more a compressor-style refrigerator. For instance, an 8 cu ft compressor refrigerator (such as the DMC4081) may replace a 6 cu ft absorption refrigerator (such as the DM2672) in almost the same space (assuming you can get it in the door)...and is significantly lower cost (retail $1386 vs $2241, respectively).
True, absorption refrigerators remain preferable for some RV'ers and in some circumstances, as do gas lanterns.
Like I commented in his article. some of us do not have solar, lithium or inverters to run such a reefer.
We're up the creek if ours fails and absorption is outlawed aren't we? Big $$$$ for no reason. We like our old fashion reefer and have used one for 30 years.....why change?
Most certainly the old adage applies: if it ain't broke, don't fix it. However, if it is broke, and you cannot get another absorption model, then you have to make hard choices, and that is where this article can help.