Fridge w/inverter or Cooler?

[rbakeremai]

I’m trying to figure out whether I should get a mini fridge from Wally World and use the inverter I will already have (for CPAP), or if I should use a good cooler like a koolatron. I like the temp regulation of a fridge as opposed to a cooler, but I imagine I could get more storage with a cooler. What would you guys do? Money of course is an issue, but not a huge one. Thanks much, great site!

[JLKKLJ777]

Whatever you decide stay away from Coleman! Those coolers are junk! I went through 3 cords (they melted!) And sent my second cooler back (after they replaced it due to a shorted out motor) and the second one started making a grinding sound.

With that said I went to Wal-Mart and bought a mid size dorm fridge. I removed the cabinet from behind the drivers seat and it fits perfect!. The refrigerator has a small freezer inside it too. We have the temperature setting on less than 1 but the little thing still freezes bottles of water and soda.

At least we do not have to worry about spoiled milk or dairy products. Cold cuts last longer too.

Oh yeah the Coleman cooler was $99.99 at a Pilot t/s when I bought it. The Fridge at Wal-Mart was $98.00 (plus tax of course).

[rbakeremai]

Thanks, didn't think of removing the cabinet, I was trying to figure out what size would fit. Interesting. Have to check and see if the company would mind... Thanks much!

[rkms]

While you are shopping at wally world - those Green bags really do work - in case you are into fruit. I tried a head of lettuce to see and it took over 4 weeks before it started turning. I had to try a test case before I bought them for my mom and son.

[Butt Plug]

The koolaton works good I had one. Place it next to an air conditoner outlet so kool air is passed over its heat disapation fins. Insulate it from the hot floor.
The compressor type requires an inverter and those require heavy gauge DC feed lines. No way the 12 volt plugs can supply that voltage. If the truck has one already it could be a great way to go. Be carefull with any accessory, they could drain your batteries when you leave the truck for a few days.

[rbakeremai]

RKMS: Thanks for the bag idea, be sure to try those out...Fresh produce can be a challenge.

Hamburger: Yeah, that's my concern is the draw down on the batts. My wife and I will be driving team, so there won't be much down time, and we will likely have an APU, but it's the time off I wonder about. Suppose we'll just empty the fridge, leave it's door open, and turn off the inverter. If the company lets me take out that cabinet I'll likely go with a decent sized fridge, otherwise a Koolatron.

Thanks for all the help, fantastic board!