Towing a fridge / freezer

[BigAl1]

Well we have gone and done it....Ordered a Fleetwood Heritage a the N E C yesterday and can't wait to get it.

My question is.......What current does the fridge / freezer draw from the towing vehicle when on the move?

My tow truck is wired to the 7S socket with 17 Amp rated cable with a 10 Amp fuse, which is adequate for my current fridge only set up. But I am sure this will neec to be uprated....Advice Please.

 

[WatsonJohnG]

Does this help from the Dometic website??

Leaflet

Manual

FAQ

Compare

RM 7601 L

Two doors for perfect performance

This new top absorption model combines vast storage space with a separate compartment for frozen food. The kind of luxury you expect at home - inside your vehicle! The unique 7-series offers the ultimate in great design, superior comfort and safety.

More images 1 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MES manual energy Selector with only two knobs

Electronic Re-ignition

Thermostatic control on all energy sources

Ergonomically shaped security locking system with integrated winter position

Switch-operated heatable frame for the frozen food compartment prevents door from freezing to the frame

Interior light

Image showing RM 7605 L

Characteristics

Total gross volume (l) 142

Refrigerator volume (l) 116

Freezer volume (l) 26

Height (mm) 1245

Width (mm) 525

Depth (mm) 543

Weight (kg) 42

Built-in dimensions (hxwxd) (mm) 1248 x 530 x 510

Energy consumption @ amb temp +25

 

[m_374230109]

Hi big al, well i hope you are not too big al as you will not fit on that bed. Mind you if you are like me you can always put the mrs up the top end of the van. I am sure she will be very happy with the big fridge to put all your beer in. At least she will only have to make one bed up at the front now while you relax on the fixed one. We have a friend with the same van and we look on with envy. Mind you he puts his wife on a camp bed in the awning. So you can always get an all weather proof one and she will be fine. You could always store your beer outside and she could pass it through the window for you.

 

[m_374230109]

I must say it is a smashing van. I too went to the NEC with the hope of buying one. However I returned empty handed, as my wife ended up with a new conservatory. What more can I say about the heat in one in summer and the extra hidden cost of furniture. So I wish I could now part exchange a conservatory for a new heritage. Oh and the wife would go free.

 

[BigAl1]

Sorry m. But your comments have not been very clear. Have you bought an awning style conservatory for your van??????????

Sensible answers please to my original question.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi Big Al,

JohnG posted the answer about halfway down his reply - the new fridge has a maximum current consumption of around 14 amps on 12 volts.

So:

1. The 10 amp fuse will blow the first time you connect up.

2. The 17 amp wire to the 12S will show massive voltage drop and won't deliver the voltage to make the fridge work properly.

The solution is to replace the 17 amp fridge wire with a minimum of 30 amp wire (45 amp rated would be better), replace the return feed with the same rated cable, and fit a suitable fuse in place of the 10 amp.

Then each time before you set off, make double sure the 12S connectors are in perfect condition and a good fit - otherwise expect issues (plug melting) caused by poor electrical contact.

Robert

 

[BigAl1]

Hi Big Al,

JohnG posted the answer about halfway down his reply - the new fridge has a maximum current consumption of around 14 amps on 12 volts.

So:

1. The 10 amp fuse will blow the first time you connect up.

2. The 17 amp wire to the 12S will show massive voltage drop and won't deliver the voltage to make the fridge work properly.

The solution is to replace the 17 amp fridge wire with a minimum of 30 amp wire (45 amp rated would be better), replace the return feed with the same rated cable, and fit a suitable fuse in place of the 10 amp.

Then each time before you set off, make double sure the 12S connectors are in perfect condition and a good fit - otherwise expect issues (plug melting) caused by poor electrical contact.

Robert

Thanks Robert.

That's what I needed to know.

 

[WatsonJohnG]

Have a look on

www.towitall.co.uk

Under FAQ it tells how to use unused wires in 12S plug/socket to reduce volage drop

 

[BigAl1]

Have a look on

www.towitall.co.uk

Under FAQ it tells how to use unused wires in 12S plug/socket to reduce volage drop

Thank you Very Much

 

[milliesdad]

Just an add on to rob's excellent answer iw ould also check the feed and earth cables in the 'van. Only once have i had a fridge fitted with the correct gauge wire by the manufacturers. It should be the same as you use on the car, as rob said to avoid voltage drop.

Fridge and fridge freezers do wor superbly well on 12 volts BUT only if installed correctly.

Hope this helps.

PS. we have the Thetford version in our Bessie and love it!

 

[Dustydog]

Hi Guys.

Always check the car and caravan pin no 7 on the 12s plug and socket. It's the earth for the fridge and carries a heavy amperage. The male part of the plug tends to close up with use causing a poor connection and ultimately overheating and melting. Every so often just ensure the male part has a gap of at least 1mm between the two parts of the prong ensuring a good contact. I also spray both car and caravan plugs / sockets with a good electrical contact spray, NOT WD40.

Cheers

Robbo

 

[Pelyma1]

Big Al, I'm not a techie, but we bought a Fleetwood Heritage last year (640 ES with modified rear end)and have had no problems with the fridge when towing, I have a Disco3 if that helps. You'll love the van by the way!