One thing that is common among traveling on the open road, a remote camping spot, and living in a van is that your supplies must stay fresh. A 12V refrigerator is more than just an appliance for outdoor travelers, van-lifers, and campers; it’s a way for them to get healthy food and refreshing drinks.
How do you keep these important refrigerators working when there is no electricity? Portable power stations are the solution.
In this article, we'll talk about how to choose portable power stations and take care of them while connecting them to a 12V fridge that can handle heat when you move around.
The Ice-Cold Convenience of a 12V Fridge
A 12-volt refrigerator is a combination of an icebox and a kitchen appliance. These refrigerators, also known as travel fridges or compressor fridges, operate on 12V DC nominal voltage. This has changed the way people enjoy the outdoors, retire, or go into van life. There is no longer a need for messy short-lived coolers or compromise over food safety.
The Van Life Verdict
The 12V fridge gets a lot of praise from people who live in vans. The van's tiny world values every square inch and watt of power. The 12V fridge has a small footprint and draws little power, making it a great gadget, but only if it can be powered sustainably.
The Camper's Companion
Similarly, campers and those on extended outdoor trips can benefit from the compact convenience of a 12V fridge. However, the challenge of power supply is even greater when you are miles away from the nearest socket.
The Power Problem for 12V Fridges
The 12V fridge solves many challenges, but it also requires a steady power source. Simply plugging into your vehicle's power outlet is not a sustainable option. You could damage your battery and be stuck without a way to restart it.
Balancing Act
It's a delicate balance to figure out how to power a 12V fridge without hurting other important vehicle systems or draining the battery.
Remote Cooling
For those who spend a lot of time off the grid, such as in remote campsites, it is essential to have a power solution that is independent of your vehicle.
Enter the Portable Power Station
Portable power stations, commonly referred to as'solar generators' or 'power banks on steroids', have come out in response to the growing demand for off-grid electricity. Essentially, they're a large rechargeable battery that can store a significant amount of power and offer multiple outlets, including those compatible with 12V fridges.
Advantages of Portability
Their weight and size allow for easy packing in your vehicle or shelter because they are designed to be carted.
Versatility of Power
Power stations that are portable are very versatile. You can charge them from a wall socket, a car's 12V outlet, or solar panels. This makes them great for all seasons and different weather conditions.
Picking the Right Power Station for You
Portable power stations are not all created equal when it comes to compatibility with 12V fridges. It's important to find the right portable power station for your specific 12V fridge before you hit the 'Buy' button. Think about how much power the battery can hold, how many 12V outlets it has, and how long it can keep running.
Assessing Capacity
The first question is always, 'How long do I need it to run?' Capacity is measured in watt-hours and dictates the runtime. A small fridge may only need a portable power station with 100Wh, while larger models will require 600Wh or more.
Compatibility Checklist
Not all 12V fridges are the same, so you need to choose a power station that has enough power for the fridge. A small mistake here could make either device perform poorly or damage it. Check the type of outlet and the voltage and current needed.
Connecting the Dots (And Fridge)
Once you have your portable power station, it's time to hook it up to your 12V fridge. Follow these steps to establish a safe and effective connection.
Sizing Up the Connection
Your power station will have either a 12V socket, a DC plug, or you might need an adapter. Make sure your fridge's plugs match the power station's outputs.
Correct Cable Configuration
The shortest, thickest power cable suitable for your setup should be used. Longer cables result in a greater loss of energy through resistance.
Secure the Power
Make sure all connections are tight and secure. A loose connection can cause power loss or wear to the machinery over time.
The Final Test
Before hitting the road, do a test run. Check your fridge, freezer, and power station for any issues. Replicate the conditions as close to your actual trip as possible.
The Cool Choice for Your Adventures
For people who enjoy being away from everything, having fresh food and cold drinks is a luxury that is very important to the experience of living off-grid. A portable power station is more than just a tool for powering things. You can make off-grid comfort a reality by connecting it to your fridge with 12V, once you get the hang of it. The right power station can keep your fridge, and perhaps your whole off-grid lifestyle, alive. When you take the leap into the wild with your trusty 12V fridge, remember that you can keep cool. Ready to power up and stay chill? Your next adventure awaits!
