Absorption technology has been used with satisfaction by entire generations of motorhome owners, and continues to serve certain travel needs well. However, the evolution of vehicle design, the increasing capacity of batteries, the spread of solar energy systems and changing travel requirements are making compressor refrigeration an increasingly relevant choice for today's motorhomes and caravans.
Absorption fridges are flexible systems because they can run on 12V, 230V or gas. Unlike a domestic fridge, they don't use a compressor. Instead, a heat source, powered by gas or electricity, triggers a cooling process that lowers the temperature inside the fridge. This process also releases heat, which is why external ventilation grilles are an essential part of the system.
Compressor fridges work in a way that's more familiar to most of us, as the technology is similar to that of the fridges we use at home. They run on electricity, usually via the vehicle's 12V battery system. A compressor circulates refrigerant through the cooling system, while the evaporator absorbs heat from inside the fridge. This allows the interior compartment to be cooled quickly and efficiently.
The main differences between absorption fridges and compressor fridges:
Switching to compressor fridges
Today, compressor refrigeration is becoming increasingly established because it fits perfectly with the new design trends of modern recreational vehicles. As manufacturers work with ever more powerful battery systems, solar power provisions and configurations increasingly geared towards electrification, appliances are evolving in the same direction.
This also brings benefits for vehicle design and energy consumption. Since compressor fridges run solely on electricity, no gas systems or piping are required. Furthermore, as they don't need an external ventilation grille, they give manufacturers greater flexibility in vehicle design, allowing them to create sleeker exteriors.
This shift in approach also brings many practical benefits for travellers. The fast, stable and reliable performance offered by compressor fridges helps keep drinks cool and food properly preserved, even in high outdoor temperatures. Moreover, compressor technology requires less technical space inside the fridge than absorption technology does, increasing the available shelf space for everyday food items. And since compressor fridges are not affected by the vehicle's tilt, travellers can stop and park with peace of mind even on uneven ground or surfaces.
Some typical concerns of the past, such as noise and limited operating capacity when not connected to the mains electricity supply, are becoming less relevant thanks to the rapid evolution of technology. Modern compressor fridges are increasingly efficient, which helps reduce both noise and energy consumption. At the same time, the boom in lithium batteries and solar photovoltaic provisions is making extended off-grid stays a more concrete reality than ever.
"Absorption technology has served the market's needs well for many years and will remain a sensible choice for many travellers in future too," says Dennis van den Berg, Product Manager RV/OEM at Thetford. "Today, with a clear trend towards electrification and travellers seeking flexibility in energy management, compressor technology is increasingly gaining ground. Thetford's mission is to offer a varied and comprehensive range, capable of meeting the needs of every motorhome owner, both now and in the future.
Thetford sees this transition as a natural step forward in the world of touring holidays. Thetford knows full well the value of tried-and-tested solutions, but it is equally aware that the recreational vehicle world is constantly evolving. That's why the company continues to design refrigeration solutions for motorhomes and caravans, helping manufacturers, dealers and travellers look to the future with confidence.
Thetford's compressor fridges are designed to go a step further. Thanks to a wide climate class range, from Subnormal (10°C to 32°C) to Tropical (18°C to 43°C), they are developed to offer reliable performance in a variety of travel conditions. From the cooler landscapes of Scandinavia to the warmer climate of southern Spain, motorhome owners can count on cool drinks and well-preserved food, wherever the road takes them.
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