Skip to content
🌹Spring Sale: $10 off Each Battery and Charger, Coupon Code: SS!!!SHOP NOW
Search Close
Wish Lists Cart
0 items

News

How Many Watts Does an RV Refrigerator Consume, and How Long Can a 12V 100Ah Battery Last?

07 Mar 2025

Understanding your RV refrigerator's power use is key to managing battery life, especially when camping off-grid. Here's a breakdown:  

RV Refrigerator Power Consumption  

Most RV refrigerators are absorption-style (common in older models) or compressor-style (modern, energy-efficient units). Their wattage varies:  

- Absorption Fridge (Electric Mode): Draws 300400 watts when heating elements are active, but cycles on/off, averaging 100200 watts per hour.  

- Compressor Fridge: Runs more efficiently, using 60120 watts while running and cycling less frequently.  

Battery Life Calculation  

A 12V 100Ah battery holds 1,200 watt-hours of energy (12V × 100Ah). However, lead-acid batteries should not be discharged beyond 50% to avoid damage, leaving 600 usable watt-hours. Lithium batteries can safely discharge 8090%, offering 9601,080 watt-hours.  

 Example:  

- A compressor fridge drawing 100 watts while running (and operating 40% of the time due to cycling) consumes ~40 watts per hour.  

- Lead-Acid Battery: 600Wh ÷ 40W = 15 hours.  

- Lithium Battery: 960Wh ÷ 40W = 24 hours.  

  Real-World Factors  

- Ambient Temperature: Heat increases fridge runtime.  

- Door Openings: Frequent access raises power use.  

- Battery Efficiency: Voltage drop and inverter losses (if used) reduce runtime.  

 Maximizing Battery Life  

- Use propane mode for absorption fridges when possible.  

- Upgrade to a lithium battery and compressor fridge for efficiency.  

- Pair with solar panels or a generator for extended off-grid stays.  

Final Tip: A 12V 100Ah battery alone won't power a fridge long-term. Plan for supplemental charging to keep your food cold and your adventures uninterrupted!

Prev Post
Next Post

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

PowerUrus LiFePO4 Battery
Sign Up for exclusive updates, new arrivals & insider only discounts
Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification
this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items