A gas-powered refrigerator is a household, RV, or commercial refrigerator operating from a gas source in order to create cooling. Usually, propane is used since it is portable and relatively easy to handle. Gas refrigerators are also powered by natural gas. Most RV units are manufactured as propane gas models and some have electric 110 and or 12-volt capability. Kerosene can be used, but it is not recommended. It’s not as popular and burns very dirty and requires constant maintenance of the burner to keep it clean. Gas-Fridge has a few answers for anyone who is new to the idea of a propane, or gas refrigerator.

Most household style gas fridges do not have electric power options. The gas fridge is intended to be operated in a home without electrical service. Compared to electric units, the household propane powered refrigerator models are simpler in design and construction. This keeps the failure of parts to a minimum. There are no moving parts of a household gas refrigerator other than the operator adjustable thermostat. The cooling unit, or the absorption system, is a completely sealed system with heat and gravity acting as the motivators.

Some off-grid appliance owners elect to use a gas refrigerator that has been salvaged from an RV motorhome or RV trailer to use within the household. There a few disadvantages to this:

•    The RV units are much smaller in capacity and usually will not provide enough space to feed a family for more than 2 or 3 days.

•    Most of the RV units require 12 volt DC electric to keep the gas solenoids open during gas operation. Two power sources are needed for operation. Gas and electricity

•    The cooling units are designed for the life expectancy of an RV which is much shorter than that of a home’s life expectancy.

Before you consider rebuilding a unit for an RV, we recommend a little research, such as internet search: “rebuilt RV refrigerator cooling units” or, “RV gas Fridge.” If you have more questions, we’re happy to answer them at 928-636-6674.