The Problem with Stock RV Absorption Fridges
Every Black Series HQ camper comes with a Dometic absorption fridge. For most campers, it works well enough. But if you're running serious off-grid setups in peak summer conditions, you'll hit the limitations fast: poor cooling above 32°C (90°F) ambient, high 12V draw, level-dependency, and slow temperature recovery.
The Dometic CoolMatic CRX 80 is the factory-fitted upgrade Dometic designed specifically for these situations. Here's what you need to know.
Dometic CoolMatic CRX 80 Specifications
| Spec | CRX 80 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 78L (21 gal) total (with small optional freezer compartment) |
| Power supply | 12V DC / 24V DC / 120V AC |
| Rated current | About 5.6A at 12V |
| Temperature range | +2°C to +10°C (+36°F to +50°F) (adjustable) |
| Compressor | Danfoss/Secop |
| Door reversible | Yes |
The CRX 80 holds 78L (21 gal) total and includes a small optional freezer compartment.
Cooling Performance: Where It Shines
The CRX 80's biggest advantage is compressor cooling — the same mechanism in your household fridge. Unlike absorption, compressor fridges maintain temperature regardless of ambient heat or whether the unit is perfectly level.
In high ambient conditions (a typical hot summer), a compressor fridge like the CRX 80 holds a stable interior temperature by cycling its compressor, whereas a standard absorption unit struggles to stay cool and consumes significantly more energy on 12V.
For chilling warm items (e.g., after a grocery run), the CRX 80 drops temperature noticeably faster than an absorption unit.
Energy Consumption: Better Than You'd Expect
The concern with compressor fridges is always power draw. The CRX 80 is rated at about 5.6A at 12V, but because it cycles (rather than running a constant element like absorption), the duty cycle effect matters — actual daily energy use depends heavily on ambient temperature and how often the compressor runs.
Compared to a 12V absorption fridge's continuous draw, the CRX 80 is more efficient in heat because it cycles, while delivering far superior cooling.
On propane, a standard absorption fridge would beat the CRX 80 on cost — but the CRX 80 requires no propane at all, simplifying your gas system and eliminating propane safety concerns while driving.
Fit in Black Series HQ Campers
Fitting the CRX 80 to a Black Series requires verifying cabinet dimensions. The CRX 80 fits most HQ12, HQ15, and HQ17 cabinets with minimal or no modification. The HQ19's larger cabinetry accommodates it even more easily.
Key fitment considerations:
- The CRX 80 needs ventilation clearance on top, sides, and back — more than an absorption unit which vents through a dedicated roof vent. Remove or cap the gas line and rooftop vent if replacing absorption
- Ensure your 12V wiring to the fridge cavity is rated for the unit's start-up current (10mm² / 8 AWG minimum is a sensible baseline)
- A dedicated blade fuse or circuit breaker sized to the manufacturer's specification is recommended
- Mount the fridge per Dometic's instructions — the compressor is vibration-sensitive, so use anti-vibration mounts if your HQ sees rough tracks
Real-World Off-Grid Performance
With a 200Ah lithium battery and 200W solar (Victron SmartSolar), the CRX 80 runs continuously off-grid in most conditions. A 200Ah LiFePO4 battery paired with 200W solar should maintain charge balance across a sunny day with normal use.
For those doing extended remote travel with no hookup, this is a viable setup — something that would've required propane or a much larger battery bank with a less efficient fridge.
What We Like
No propane dependency is the standout feature. Driving with an absorption fridge on gas is a fire risk that many insurers flag. The CRX 80 runs purely on 12V/120V, eliminating that entirely. Temperature consistency is the other major win — stable cooling regardless of ambient is simply not achievable with absorption in peak summer heat without an Arctic insulation setup.
What We Don't Like
The price is the main objection — it sits at a premium, roughly 2–3x the cost of a replacement absorption unit. For occasional users who rarely camp in extreme heat, the absorption fridge is adequate and cheaper.
The compressor produces a faint cycling noise. It's quiet, but compared to a completely silent absorption fridge, some users notice it — especially in a compact camper bedroom adjacent to the fridge.
It is also heavier than most absorption fridges of similar capacity, adding to tongue weight in smaller HQ models.
CRX 80 vs Standard Dometic Absorption: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the CRX 80 if: You camp regularly in summer conditions above 30°C (86°F), you run lithium batteries with solar, you want to eliminate propane from your power system, or you frequently carry temperature-sensitive items (dairy, vaccines, certain medications).
Stick with absorption if: You mostly camp in cooler seasons, propane is your primary power source, your budget doesn't extend to the upgrade, or you do infrequent weekend trips where precise temperature control isn't critical.
The Bottom Line
The Dometic CoolMatic CRX 80 is the right upgrade for serious off-gridders who want reliable cooling in peak summer conditions without propane dependency. It's not the cheapest option, but for frequent campers building out capable 12V systems, it's a worthwhile investment that pairs well with Victron solar and lithium batteries.
For anyone building a Black Series HQ for extended remote travel, we'd include the CRX 80 on the upgrade shortlist alongside a lithium battery upgrade and Victron SmartSolar MPPT.
Shop Dometic CoolMatic at RV Parts Giant
We stock Dometic CoolMatic accessories, replacement parts, and compatible 12V power components. Browse our Dometic range for handles, door seals, and fridge components for Black Series HQ models.