Campervan Fridges: Compressor vs Absorption Explained

The fridge is the one appliance you can't switch off. It runs all day, every day, on whatever power you give it, which is why choosing the right type matters so much. Campervan fridges come in two families: compressor and absorption. They look similar from the outside but work very differently.

Compressor fridges

A compressor fridge is essentially a mini version of your kitchen fridge. It runs on 12V (or 24V), cools quickly and efficiently, and uses a compressor to pump refrigerant around the system.

• Power draw is low — typically 20–45W when running — so a 100W solar panel can keep one going in summer.
• They cool well even in hot weather and recover fast after the door's been open.
• They cost more: £300–£800 for a typical campervan size, with under-counter and drawer models at the top end.

If you're building your own van or the existing fridge has died, a compressor fridge is almost always the right upgrade. It works wherever you have 12V power, and modern units are quiet.

Absorption fridges

Absorption (three-way) fridges can run on 12V, 240V mains or gas — hence "three-way". On 12V they're inefficient, drawing 100W or more, so most people run them on gas when off-grid.

• Brilliant for long off-grid stays because gas lasts and works anywhere.
• The 12V mode is really only for keeping the fridge cool while you drive.
• They're sensitive to being off-level — an absorption fridge stops working properly if the van tilts much more than a few degrees.
• Prices are similar to compressor units, typically £350–£800.

Absorption fridges don't like UK hills. If you regularly camp somewhere unlevel, the fridge will struggle and you'll see it in the temperature.

Which one do you need?

For most UK van owners, the choice comes down to how you camp:

• Mainly on campsites with hookup, or staying put: an absorption fridge on gas is reliable and cheap to run.
• Mostly off-grid with solar, or using the van all year: a compressor fridge is the better buy.

Compressor fridges also hold their value and make a van easier to sell. If you're weighing up vans with different fridge setups, browse campervans for sale to compare what comes fitted, and our search page lets you filter by spec.