Does the Car Engine Power the Refrigerator in an RV?

The answer to this question is a bit complicated, as it depends on the type of RV you have and the type of refrigerator it has. In general, there are two types of refrigerators in RVs: absorption refrigerators and compressor refrigerators.

Absorption Refrigerators

Absorption refrigerators are the most common type of refrigerator in RVs. They work by using a liquid refrigerant that is heated by a heat source, such as propane or electricity. The heated refrigerant turns into a gas, which then rises and cools down in the evaporator coils. This cooling process creates a cold environment inside the refrigerator.

Absorption refrigerators can be powered by the car engine, but they can also be powered by propane or electricity. If you are driving your RV, the car engine can power the refrigerator while you are driving. However, if you are parked and not connected to shore power, you will need to use propane or electricity to power the refrigerator.

Compressor Refrigerators

Compressor refrigerators are less common in RVs, but they are becoming more popular. They work by using a compressor to circulate a refrigerant through a closed system. The compressor compresses the refrigerant, which causes it to heat up. The heated refrigerant then flows through a condenser, where it cools down and turns into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant then flows through an evaporator, where it cools down and turns into a gas. This cooling process creates a cold environment inside the refrigerator.

Compressor refrigerators can be powered by the car engine, but they can also be powered by electricity. If you are driving your RV, the car engine can power the refrigerator while you are driving. However, if you are parked and not connected to shore power, you will need to use electricity to power the refrigerator.

Which Type of Refrigerator Is Right for Me?

The type of refrigerator that is right for you will depend on your needs and budget. Absorption refrigerators are less expensive than compressor refrigerators, but they are not as efficient. Compressor refrigerators are more efficient, but they are more expensive. If you are planning on using your RV for short trips, an absorption refrigerator may be a good option. If you are planning on using your RV for long trips, a compressor refrigerator may be a better option.

Conclusion

So, does the car engine power the refrigerator in an RV? The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of RV you have and the type of refrigerator it has. If you have an absorption refrigerator, the car engine can power it while you are driving. If you have a compressor refrigerator, the car engine can power it while you are driving, but you will need to use electricity to power it when you are parked.