What's the difference between a gas fridge and a 12v compressor fridge?

A lot! - and finding the right fridge will depend on your situation.

Here's a summary on the differences between gas and compressor fridges, and a simple guide to help you choose the best fridge for your needs.

Quick Summary – LPG Gas Fridges (Absorption)

How they work
They work off heat, so most efficient running on Gas.

They perform best when
In a stable and level situation, therefore not mobile friendly.

Best suited to
Houses, cabins, farms or longer term camping.

Benefits
No power needed. A bottle of gas will last for weeks or months at a time, so the up-front costs are minimal. 

Maintenance
The burner needs to be kept clean, especially when the fridge is not in use, and should be inspected every 6 months.

Quick Summary – LPG Gas Fridges (Absorption)

How they work
They work off heat, so most efficient running on Gas.

They perform best when
In a stable and level situation, therefore not mobile friendly.

Best suited to
Houses, cabins, farms or longer term camping.

Benefits
No power needed. A bottle of gas will last for weeks or months at a time, so the up-front costs are minimal. 

Maintenance
The burner needs to be kept clean, especially when the fridge is not in use, and should be inspected every 6 months.

Quick Summary – 12V Compressor Fridges

How they work
They run off a low power 12V / 24V compressor.

They perform best when
All the time, providing the cooling unit has enough ventilation.

Best suited to
Will handle any fixed or mobile situation, like caravans, Camping, RV’s, boats, tiny houses and offgrid.

Benefits
Compressor fridges cool very quickly and can run for years on a solar setup.

Maintenance
DC fridges don’t require any ongoing maintenance.

Quick Summary – 12V Compressor Fridges

How they work
They run off a low power 12V / 24V compressor.

They perform best when
All the time, providing the cooling unit has enough ventilation.

Best suited to
Will handle any fixed or mobile situation, like caravans, Camping, RV’s, boats, tiny houses and offgrid.

Benefits
Compressor fridges cool very quickly and can run for years on a solar setup.

Maintenance
DC fridges don’t require any ongoing maintenance.