TYPES OF FRIDGES
PEOPLE need to understand there are different types of fridges; you have thermoelectric, three-way and compressor fridges. Each work differently, and some are more efficient than others,” explains Ironman 4x4’s director of 4x4 products, Adam Craze.
You can’t buy a thermoelectric cooler and expect the same cooling functions as a three-way or compressor style. A thermoelectric ‘cooler’ can’t reach the same high and low temperatures of a three-way or compressor fridge, recording a much more limited temperature range. And, unlike the other two options, a thermoelectric cooler doesn’t cycle on and off. Generally, they’re a cheaper option.
In layman’s terms, a three-way fridge – also called an absorption fridge – doesn’t feature a compressor and uses heat to provide the required energy, with gas a source of power. A compressor fridge uses a compressor unit (obviously) to move refrigerant through the system, which also includes components found in domestic fridges such as an evaporator and a condenser, and it’s powered by 240V mains or 12V DC.
The benefits of a 12-volt compressor fridge include a lower current draw, they can be left running for longer periods, and they can be left running in a vehicle, whereas “a three-way fridge must be removed or have external vents when on gas,” Craze adds. Plus, you don’t need to hire a certified gas fitter to certify a fixed-mount compressor fridge. On that, there’s also no exposed flame.
Another benefit of a compressor fridge is that the temperature can be controlled on both DC and AC voltages. “Compressor fridges can run off existing dual-battery systems, whereas three-way fridges aren’t as efficient on DC battery power, meaning you would need to carry gas around with you,” says Evakool’s CEO Marc Jarvis.
A compressor fridge also maintains colder temperatures than a three-way fridge. “A compressor fridge is able to cool from ambient temperature by 50°C, meaning if it was 32°C your fridge can get to -18°C,” says ARB’S Shannon Diedrich. “However a three-way fridge is only able to manage 25 to 30°C from ambient, meaning in the above scenario, the three-way would only reach between 2 to 7°C.”
Another advantage of compressor fridges is they can be mounted on angles and can operate on uneven terrain. Three-way fridges, on the other hand, must stay level during operation so as not to affect the gas-flow cooling system.
“Generally speaking for a portable fridge and for my needs, the compressor-style is the way to go,” says Adam Craze.