Van conversions are becoming increasingly popular as more people are choosing to live and travel in their vehicles.
A key component of any van conversion is a fridge, as it allows for the storage of perishable food and drinks, making life on the road more comfortable and convenient.
However, traditional fridges that run on mains power are not practical for van conversions, as they require a constant source of electricity.
This is where 12v fridges come in. These fridges are designed to run off a 12-volt battery, making them ideal for use in a van conversion.
They are also more energy-efficient than traditional fridges, which means they can be run for longer periods of time without draining the battery.
The purpose of this post is to provide a comprehensive guide to the best 12v fridges for van conversions. We will outline the criteria for choosing a 12v fridge and then review five of the best options on the market.
Finally, we will compare the fridges based on size and capacity, power consumption, durability and build quality, and price to help you make an informed decision.
Criteria for Choosing the Best 12v Fridges
Size and capacity
The size and capacity of a 12v fridge are important considerations when choosing the right one for your van conversion. You need to choose a fridge that is large enough to meet your needs but not so big that it takes up too much space in your van. Consider the number of people you will be travelling with and the length of your trips to determine the appropriate size and capacity.
Power consumption
As mentioned earlier, 12v fridges are more energy-efficient than traditional fridges. However, they still consume power, and it is important to choose a fridge that has low power consumption to avoid draining your battery. Look for fridges with a high energy star rating or those that use advanced technology, such as variable speed compressors, to reduce power consumption.
Durability and build quality
Durability and build quality are crucial factors to consider when choosing a 12v fridge. You want a fridge that can withstand the rigours of life on the road and is built to last. Look for fridges that are made from high-quality materials and have features such as reinforced corners and sturdy handles.
Price
Price is always a consideration when making a purchase, and 12v fridges can vary widely in price. You want to choose a fridge that fits your budget but also meets your needs. Keep in mind that a higher-priced fridge may have more advanced features, better build quality, and be more energy-efficient.
Top 5 12v Fridges for Your Van Conversion
Now that we've covered the criteria for choosing the best 12v fridges for your van conversion, let's take a closer look at the top 5 fridges on the market today.
Vitrifrigo C60
The Vitrifrigo C60 is a 60-litre 12/24-volt fridge that's perfect for campervans and motorhomes. It features a top-loading design, an internal LED light, and adjustable shelves for easy storage.
Features:
The Vitrifrigo C60 comes with several features that make it a great choice for van conversions. It has a low power consumption, averaging around 1.35 amps per hour, and it has a built-in battery protection system to prevent your battery from running down. Additionally, it has a quiet and efficient compressor, making it perfect for those who want a fridge that doesn't make a lot of noise.
Pros:
The Vitrifrigo C60 is a high-quality fridge with a durable design. It's easy to install and has a small footprint, making it perfect for those who have limited space in their vans. The low power consumption and battery protection system make it an efficient choice, and the adjustable shelves make it easy to organise your food and drinks.
Cons:
The Vitrifrigo C60 is one of the more expensive fridges on this list, which may be a deterrent for those who are on a budget. Additionally, the top-loading design may not be as convenient for some users who prefer a front-loading fridge.
Dometic CRX80
The Dometic CRX80 is an 80-liter fridge that's perfect for van conversions. It features a front-loading design, adjustable shelves, and a built-in freezer compartment.
Features:
The Dometic CRX80 is an energy-efficient fridge with a low power consumption of 5.6 amps per hour.. The fridge has a variable-speed compressor that adjusts to the ambient temperature, making it more efficient and quieter than other fridges.
Pros:
The Dometic CRX80 has a modern design that looks great in any van. It's energy-efficient and has a built-in battery protection system to prevent your battery from running down. The front-loading design is convenient and the adjustable shelves make it easy to organise your food and drinks.
Cons:
The Dometic CRX80 is one of the more expensive fridges on this list, which may be a deterrent for some users. Additionally, the built-in freezer compartment is relatively small and may not be suitable for those who need to freeze a lot of food.
12v Black Swan Fridge with Icebox
The 12v Black Swan Fridge with Icebox by inlanderlowvoltage.com is a compact and affordable fridge that's perfect for those on a budget. It has a 90l capacity and features a front-loading design, adjustable shelves, and a built-in icebox.
Features:
The 12v Black Swan Fridge has a low power consumption of 1.12 amps per hour, making it one of the most energy-efficient fridges on this list. It also has a built-in battery protection system to prevent your battery from running down. The fridge has a quiet compressor and a durable design.
Pros:
The 12v Black Swan Fridge is an affordable and energy-efficient choice for van conversions. It has a front-loading design and adjustable shelves for easy storage, and the built-in icebox is a nice
Vitrifrigo C85i
The Vitrifrigo C85i is a 12V compressor fridge that is designed for use in campervans and motorhomes. It has a large 85-liter capacity, making it suitable for extended trips.
Features:
The Vitrifrigo C85i features a user-friendly electronic thermostat, a built-in LED light, and a flush-mounted door that can be hinged on the left or right side. The fridge also has a built-in fan for improved ventilation.
Pros:
The large capacity of the Vitrifrigo C85i makes it ideal for long trips or extended stays. The LED light and flush-mounted door give it a sleek and modern look, while the built-in fan ensures that it operates quietly and efficiently.
Cons:
The Vitrifrigo C85i is one of the more expensive 12V fridges on the market, and its large size may make it difficult to fit in some van conversions.
JKF50 12-volt Compressor Fridge
The JKF50 12-volt Compressor Fridge is a versatile and affordable fridge that is suitable for use in campervans, motorhomes, and other vehicles. It has a 50-liter capacity and can be used as either a fridge or a freezer.
Features:
The JKF50 features a user-friendly digital display and electronic thermostat, as well as a built-in LED light and a removable basket for easy access to stored items. The fridge is also designed to operate quietly and efficiently, with low power consumption.
Pros:
The JKF50 is a versatile fridge that can be used as either a fridge or a freezer, making it ideal for those who need to store different types of food and drink. Its low power consumption makes it energy-efficient and cost-effective, while its digital display and LED light make it easy to use.
Cons:
The 50-liter capacity of the JKF50 may not be sufficient for longer trips or extended stays, and its relatively low price may indicate lower build quality compared to some of the more expensive models on the market.
Choosing the best 12v fridge for your van conversion requires careful consideration of various factors such as size, capacity, power consumption, durability, and price. Each of the five products reviewed in this article is unique in its own way, offering different features and benefits to suit different needs and preferences.
The Vitrifrigo C60 is a high-quality and energy-efficient fridge with a sleek and modern design. Its ample storage capacity and built-in freezer make it a great choice for longer trips or extended stays in your van.
The Dometic CRX80 is a versatile fridge with a removable freezer compartment and a spacious interior that can accommodate various items. Its low power consumption and silent operation make it ideal for use in off-grid scenarios.
The Black Swan 12v fridge with icebox is an affordable and compact fridge that can fit in tight spaces. Its built-in icebox is a convenient feature for those who want to keep their drinks cool without having to worry about ice melting.
The Vitrifrigo C85i is a premium fridge that offers exceptional cooling performance and durability. Its noiseless compressor and sturdy build make it a reliable choice for van lifers who want a fridge that can withstand rough terrain and extreme temperatures.
Finally, the JKF50 12-volt compressor fridge is a compact and efficient fridge that can be used as a fridge or freezer. Its versatile design and low power consumption make it a great choice for those who want to maximise their space and minimise their energy use.
Based on the criteria and comparison outlined in this article, we recommend the Vitrifrigo C60 as the best 12v fridge for your van conversion.
Its combination of ample storage capacity, built-in freezer, low power consumption, and sleek design make it a versatile and reliable choice for van lifers.
However, your ultimate choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so be sure to carefully consider all the factors before making your purchase.
In summary, a 12v fridge is an essential component of any van conversion, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your overall experience.
We hope this article has helped you understand the key criteria for selecting the best 12v fridge for your van conversion and provided you with useful insights into the top five products available on the market today.