Running a 'Dorm fridge' without an electric hookup?

[ScouterMom]

Thanks for all the input!  

I did get a 2.5 cu ft dorm fridge for our PUP - right now it's in the garage, though, we haven't used it in the PUP yet, as the last time we camped we didn't have a power site.  It's set up in the garage to provide refreshment  :! during all the strenuous remodeling work on the PUP!  

Actually, we are doing some mods, and hope to replace the vinyl flooring, so figured why put it in just to take it out again?

Meanwhile, a friend has offered us a FREE 3 way fridge from a camper he got for free.  Apparently the camper is not in good shape, and he's going to strip it down for a utility trailer.  But he says the appliances on it are good and working, so we could have anything from it we have a use for.  

I posted on the Mr. Fix it thread about installing it.

But there are some great things here - that amp site is great and I bookmarked it, too.   Since I don't want to limit myself to hookup sites only, I would still like to set up a battery to run lights and small accessories if needed.  So I'll probably add setting up a battery to my list of 'to do's for the pup.

laura

[tlhdoc]

One thing to remember if you are adding a dorm fridge to your camper.  They produce heat and need to have space to vent.

[ScouterMom]

yeah - that's why it's going in the space where we took out a "closet' cabinet and are not puttingit back up - it has plenty of room to hold the fridge with lots of space around it.  I need be, it is also against the back wall - which on my old '73 has a deep curve on the exterior.  If needed, I can put a vent in that wall which could further vent the fridge, yet keep out rain, etc. I could even install a fan in that small space.

['tiredTeacher]

A better solution to the "bags and bags of ice" is to do ALL of the following:

• Drain the water from it at least once a day.

This is the only item you and I differ on. That cold water is cold and taking up air space. Emptying the water creates a vacuum in the cooler which will be filled by warm, outside air. Empty only if necessary to protect food stuffs. My beverage cooler stays full of cold water until it's time to re-ice.

Wright

[AustinBoston]

A better solution to the "bags and bags of ice" is to do ALL of the following:

• Drain the water from it at least once a day.

This is the only item you and I differ on. That cold water is cold and taking up air space. Emptying the water creates a vacuum in the cooler which will be filled by warm, outside air. Empty only if necessary to protect food stuffs. My beverage cooler stays full of cold water until it's time to re-ice.

Wright

You'd be wrong.  Water conducts heat from the insulated sides.  Air keeps the inside cool and acts as additional insulation.  This is something the cooler companies have done plenty of testing on, and there is no question - drain the water to keep things cool longer.

Austin

[mike4947]

Austin, I hate to disagree but Both Coleman and Igloo with their 5 & 6 day coolers recommend NOT draining the water. It will be at apx 32 degrees and still retains a LOT of cooling power. A lot more than any heat transfer through the cooler.