Wiring 12v fridge to 240v

[sjmtlewy]

I've got a 2-way 12v/gas fridge that currently takes the leccy from the starter battery, the idea being that you only ever use it with the engine running. I'd quite like to be able to use it when hooked up to save on gas. My ZIG instructions say never to plug a fridge into it on virtually every page, so I guess it can't cope with the power needed.

Does anyone know what sort of current these typically pull? Or have a tried and tested solution? I was thinking of finding a suitable 240v-12v adapter.

[R0B]

they are rubbish on 12v.whats wrong with using gas when parked up.they dont use that much.get rid and buy a 3 way.if you want to run it on electric when parked.

[yeti]

must admit gas is the best opption...but i can run mine when im hooked by having a good battery charger plugged in to the hook up and charging the leisure battery..i do have the amp info but not on me at mo.will repost the current for my fridge with the fridge type incase its the same..the battery charger is installed in a cupboard and is connected to the battery at all times. just plugg in when hoocked up.

[AngeloEvs]

Change the element to a 240V one or get a 10A 240V - 12V PSU (doesn't have to be DC either) but probably pricey. For mains operation would need to wire the 240V element through the switch and provide a 5A mains plug and lead to connect to your mains socket. When on the move, you could connect the fridge to a 12v - 240V 200W Invertor. No thermostat so it has to be switched on and off as needed. Current consumption on a 12V element is about 8 Amps and you may find that the battery charger will take longer to recharge compared to how quickly it will discharge. 240 V element is about 0.5 amp.

Thats all you can do really if you want to keep the existing fridge. A good second hand unit would probably be the best option and cost slightly more than converting yours.

[Red Westie]

I think this is covered but was just going to add:
The cost of transformers/chargers and other to make this work properly will probably be more than buying a second hand 3 way fridge.

Martin

[sjmtlewy]

It does seem a bit rubbish on 12v, but its hard to gauge whether its better on gas or not when you can only run it on dc with the engine on. I would have thought that a servicable second hand fridge would be quite expensive though..

[AngeloEvs]

I sold my RM212 3-way in fully working condition for £55-00 and seen others similarly priced (+ or - a tenner or so).

A 240 V element is the cheapest option and easy to change over to. I have a brand new one in my spares box which I will never use, .£20-00 if its of any use to anyone......

[sjmtlewy]

But I assume if I change it for a 240v element, I wont then be able to run it while I'm running?

[Plasticman]

Heck you do want your cake and eat it.
mike

[AngeloEvs]

Run it off a cheap 200W invertor while you are running, if you have one that is! If you haven't its another additional expense and your back to the question is it worth it in the end.

[1664]

I'd just leave it as it is. I very rarely use 240v to power my fridge as it uses next to bugger all gas and I'm not paying extra for hook up for the sake of a fridge - although I might in freezing conditions but that's so I can run a fan heater not the fridge.