Replacing Absorption fridge with Inverter fridge

[KathC]

I have a 2016 17-B Escape trailer. The original 4.3 cu. ft. Dometic absorption fridge is giving out, and I want to replace it with a fridge that runs on 12V. My understanding is that more efficient technology exists (Danfoss compressor ?) that makes this possible. I'm wondering if anyone has done this, what brand they purchased (NovaKool, etc.), and what pitfalls may await. I'm not crazy about buying another Dometic product, but there may be dimension constraints etc. I live in Austin, Tx., and if there are recommendations for who might perform that work, I would really appreciate hearing from folks.
Thanks for any information and help out there!
Kathryn Chase

 

[CE Vogel]

I don't own an Escape trailer, so I can't recommend specific replacements, but I can say I am happy with my Norcold 12V compressor refrigerators. My current 2020 trailer is factory equipped with a Norcold DE0061 and it has always worked well. My prior 2010 trailer was factory equipped with a small Dometic 12V compressor refrigerator that lasted about 4 years. I replaced it with a Norcold 12V compressor refrigerator that was still working well when I sold the trailer six years later.
A larger cu. ft. 12V compressor refrigerator will fit into the space of your current 4.3 cu. ft. refrigerator, as less space is needed inside for cooling fins. The replacement will need to closely match the dimensions of your current refrigerator, and that will limit your options. Here is a vendor I have used for purchasing RV appliances: 12 Volt RV Refrigerators