How Much Propane Does a Camper Refrigerator Use? (A Complete Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

How Much Propane Does a Camper Refrigerator Use?

Camper refrigerators are a must-have for any RVer who wants to enjoy fresh food and drinks on the road. But how much propane does a camper refrigerator use? And how can you make sure you’re not running out of propane in the middle of nowhere?

In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more. We’ll discuss how propane refrigerators work, how much propane they use, and how you can save propane on your next camping trip.

So if you’re wondering how to keep your camper refrigerator running smoothly and efficiently, read on!

Model Propane Consumption (gph) Run Time (Hours)
Dometic CFX35W 12.5 3.6
Dometic CFX35W 14.5 4.0
Dometic CFX35W 16.5 4.4

Factors Affecting Propane Consumption

The amount of propane a camper refrigerator uses depends on a number of factors, including:

  • The size of the refrigerator. A larger refrigerator will use more propane than a smaller one.
  • The temperature of the refrigerator. A refrigerator that is set to a colder temperature will use more propane than a refrigerator that is set to a warmer temperature.
  • The frequency of use. A refrigerator that is used frequently will use more propane than a refrigerator that is used less frequently.
  • The climate. A refrigerator that is used in a hot climate will use more propane than a refrigerator that is used in a cold climate.
  • The efficiency of the refrigerator. A more efficient refrigerator will use less propane than a less efficient refrigerator.

It is important to consider all of these factors when determining how much propane a camper refrigerator will use.

Average Propane Consumption Rates

The average propane consumption rate for a camper refrigerator varies depending on the size of the refrigerator and the conditions in which it is used. However, a general rule of thumb is that a camper refrigerator will use between 1 and 2 pounds of propane per day.

Here are some specific propane consumption rates for different sizes of camper refrigerators:

  • A 12-volt refrigerator that is 3.5 cubic feet in size will use approximately 1 pound of propane per day.
  • A 12-volt refrigerator that is 5 cubic feet in size will use approximately 1.5 pounds of propane per day.
  • A 12-volt refrigerator that is 7 cubic feet in size will use approximately 2 pounds of propane per day.

These rates are based on a refrigerator that is set to a temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit and is used in a moderate climate. The actual propane consumption rate for your camper refrigerator may vary depending on the factors listed above.

It is important to note that the propane consumption rate for a camper refrigerator will increase significantly if the refrigerator is used to power an ice maker. An ice maker can use up to 2 pounds of propane per day.

If you are concerned about the propane consumption rate of your camper refrigerator, you can take steps to reduce your propane usage. Here are a few tips:

  • Set the refrigerator to a warmer temperature.
  • Use the refrigerator less frequently.
  • Choose a more efficient refrigerator.
  • Use a propane tank that is the correct size for your refrigerator.

By following these tips, you can reduce your propane consumption and save money on your camping trips.

How Much Propane Does a Camper Refrigerator Use?

Camper refrigerators use a variety of fuels, including propane, electricity, and gas. The type of fuel used will affect the amount of fuel the refrigerator uses. Propane is a popular fuel for camper refrigerators because it is efficient and provides a consistent source of power. However, propane can also be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost of propane when choosing a camper refrigerator.

The size of the camper refrigerator will also affect the amount of propane it uses. A larger refrigerator will use more propane than a smaller refrigerator. The amount of time the refrigerator is used will also affect the amount of propane it uses. A refrigerator that is used for extended periods of time will use more propane than a refrigerator that is only used occasionally.

The following table provides a general estimate of how much propane a camper refrigerator will use per day:

| Refrigerator Size | Propane Use per Day |
|—|—|
| Small (1.5 cu. ft.) | 1-2 pounds |
| Medium (3-4 cu. ft.) | 2-4 pounds |
| Large (5-6 cu. ft.) | 4-6 pounds |

It is important to note that these are just estimates. The actual amount of propane a camper refrigerator uses will vary depending on the factors listed above.

How to Optimize Propane Consumption

There are a few things you can do to optimize propane consumption in your camper refrigerator:

  • Use a high-quality propane refrigerator. A high-quality refrigerator will be more efficient than a low-quality refrigerator.
  • Size the refrigerator appropriately for your needs. A larger refrigerator will use more propane than a smaller refrigerator.
  • Use the refrigerator efficiently. Avoid opening the refrigerator door frequently and only open the door as long as necessary.
  • Keep the refrigerator well-insulated. A well-insulated refrigerator will help to keep the cold air inside and the warm air out.
  • Turn off the refrigerator when not in use. If you are not going to be using the refrigerator for an extended period of time, turn it off to save propane.

By following these tips, you can help to optimize propane consumption in your camper refrigerator and save money on your propane bill.

Alternative Fuel Options

In addition to propane, there are a few other fuel options available for camper refrigerators. These include:

  • Electricity: Electric refrigerators are a good option for campers who have access to a reliable power source. However, electric refrigerators can be expensive to operate, especially if you are using a generator or solar panel to power them.
  • Gas: Gas refrigerators are a good option for campers who have access to a gas line. Gas refrigerators are more efficient than electric refrigerators, but they can be more expensive to purchase.
  • Solar: Solar refrigerators are a good option for campers who want to be off the grid. Solar refrigerators are powered by solar panels, so they do not require any fuel. However, solar refrigerators can be expensive to purchase and install.

The best fuel option for your camper refrigerator will depend on your individual needs and budget.

Camper refrigerators use a variety of fuels, including propane, electricity, and gas. The type of fuel used will affect the amount of fuel the refrigerator uses. Propane is a popular fuel for camper refrigerators because it is efficient and provides a consistent source of power. However, propane can also be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost of propane when choosing a camper refrigerator.

There are a few things you can do to optimize propane consumption in your camper refrigerator, including using a high-quality refrigerator, sizing the refrigerator appropriately for your needs, using the refrigerator efficiently, keeping the refrigerator well-insulated, and turning off the refrigerator when not in use.

In addition to propane, there are a few other fuel options available for camper refrigerators, including electricity, gas, and solar. The best fuel option for your camper refrigerator will depend on your individual needs and budget.

How much propane does a camper refrigerator use?

A camper refrigerator uses about 1 gallon of propane per day. However, this number can vary depending on the size of the refrigerator, the temperature setting, and how often the door is opened.

What factors affect how much propane a camper refrigerator uses?

The following factors affect how much propane a camper refrigerator uses:

  • Size: The larger the refrigerator, the more propane it will use.
  • Temperature setting: The colder the temperature setting, the more propane the refrigerator will use.
  • Door usage: The more often the door is opened, the more propane the refrigerator will use.

How can I reduce the amount of propane my camper refrigerator uses?

There are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of propane your camper refrigerator uses:

  • Choose a smaller refrigerator. A smaller refrigerator will use less propane than a larger one.
  • Set the temperature setting to the warmest setting that you are comfortable with. The colder the temperature setting, the more propane the refrigerator will use.
  • Open the door less often. The more often the door is opened, the more propane the refrigerator will use.

What is the best way to store propane for my camper refrigerator?

The best way to store propane for your camper refrigerator is in a dedicated propane tank. Propane tanks should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. The tank should be properly secured and the valve should be closed when not in use.

What should I do if my camper refrigerator runs out of propane?

If your camper refrigerator runs out of propane, you will need to refill the tank. You can do this at a propane filling station or by purchasing a propane tank exchange. Once the tank is refilled, you can reconnect it to your refrigerator and resume using it.

a camper refrigerator uses approximately 1-2 pounds of propane per day. The exact amount of propane used will depend on the size of the refrigerator, the temperature setting, and the frequency of use. By understanding how much propane a camper refrigerator uses, you can plan accordingly and make sure you have enough propane for your trip.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • A camper refrigerator uses approximately 1-2 pounds of propane per day.
  • The exact amount of propane used will depend on the size of the refrigerator, the temperature setting, and the frequency of use.
  • You can estimate how much propane your refrigerator will use by multiplying the refrigerator’s daily energy consumption by the number of days you will be using it.
  • It is important to have enough propane for your trip, so make sure to bring extra propane tanks if needed.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.