Retrofit Fridge Question

[Tzara]

I searched first, but didn't find a thread exploring this. Apologies in advance if I missed one (The closest I saw this but it's a different situation).


What I'm wondering: there's a ton of 12v "camping fridge" fridges out there for ~$200-500. They use a compressor, have a built in control module, and get fairly large etc etc. In contrast, the cheapest new marine fridge kit I've seen still comes in around $700-800 for a compressor, control module, evaporator, etc.


Has anyone tried retrofitting the internals of one of those camper fridges into a boat? If so, how did it work? If not, is there some really good and obvious reason not to try it? I've got an icebox that I'm looking to convert to refrigeration, but don't want to break the bank on that project if possible.

[OzeLouie]

Suggest leave it as is and use as a freezer to make ice to support your icebox. Dismantling and reinstalling in another cabinet will most likely end in tears if you are not of the trade.

[akopac]

If you are going long cruising. Refrigeration is the biggest power hog. You need to take the time and effort to do it right especially if you are going to the tropics. I’m in the process now. Did it 20 years ago in MX and had really poor materials to work with when I got there. Now I have to do it aGain.

[akopac]

How did it go?

[Stu Jackson]

Here's a different approach:


Sailorchic34's New Dorm Fridge - inverter driven dorm fridge
https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums...ge-180007.html

[AndyEss]

Originally Posted by akopac

If you are going long cruising. Refrigeration is the biggest power hog. You need to take the time and effort to do it right especially if you are going to the tropics. I’m in the process now. Did it 20 years ago in MX and had really poor materials to work with when I got there. Now I have to do it aGain.

If your fridge hack lasted for 20 years in a marine environment, I’d say you got much more than your money’s worth.