How to Power 12V Refrigerator While Driving

Question:

I have a utility trailer that I am building as an overland trailer. It has the traditional 4 pin flat plug. Can I change that to a 7 pin with junction box and run a 12 volt dometic fridge/freezer with the 12 volt hot wire or what is my options to run the dometic while i am driving

asked by: Dave C

Expert Reply:

One way or another you will want to run this off of a 12V battery like # BRW94FR if you don't already have one on the trailer. You could use the 12V line from the 7-way to keep power running to the battery. However, this is only a maintenance charge so you can expect to drain the battery while operating the fridge.

How long the battery will last depends on the power draw, length of time you're running it, and charge level of the battery when you start your trip. If you make sure it is already chilled before you head out that will keep it from running as much.

If you're planning on doing this a lot for long trips the best option would be to install the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1240D. This will allow you to actually charge the battery so you wouldn't have to worry about the battery draining or the initial charge level.

expert reply by: Robin H