Wiring an external on/off switch on a 12v fridge

[jdlatx]

Hi everyone,

We just picked up our new Geo Pro and it has a Magic Chef 4.3 cu. ft. 12v only fridge. Like a lot of other people apparently, I'm surprised there is no way to completely turn off the fridge short of the battery disconnect switch or pulling the 15 amp fuse. This model has no on/off switch. Here is what I'd like to be able to do:

1. Turn off all power to the fridge while dry camping but leave everything else powered that runs on 12vdc.
2. Turn off all power to the fridge while on 110vac in storage but leave the battery switch on. I want the batteries maintained while plugged in, but I don't want the refrigerator running while the camper is not in use.

After reading through some posts it seems like a good solution would be to install an external 12v on/off switch. Has anybody done this on their 12v fridge? Any advice on switch type? Do I need a fuse?

I’m also not really sure how to access the wiring. The fridge is built in pretty securely and I've never removed one like this before.

Thanks for any help!

John

[llr]

A switch would be fine, no fuse needed as the wire is already fused.

As far as location that completely depends on your layout. If you can't find a location near the fridge you could try by the fuse panel.

Does this have adjustable temperature? If so all the way to warm may be off.

[jdlatx]

Hi,

I'll look closer after work today to see if I can find a good location by the fridge. My electrician skills are primitive so I'm not sure about wiring a switch near the fuse panel. There are other appliances using that fuse.

The fridge does have a temp control that can be turned to zero. But it's still drawing power and the light remains on if the door is open.

[Mikec557]

Originally Posted by jdlatx

Hi,

I'll look closer after work today to see if I can find a good location by the fridge. My electrician skills are primitive so I'm not sure about wiring a switch near the fuse panel. There are other appliances using that fuse.

The fridge does have a temp control that can be turned to zero. But it's still drawing power and the light remains on if the door is open.

Is there an access panel to the back of the refrigerator on the outside of your camper? And if there is, post a picture with the access panel removed.

[jdlatx]

I am able to turn off the compressor - spin the dial to zero. The fridge is still getting power I just don't know how much. I think I'm try that before I install a switch.

And no, there isn't an access panel from the outside.

Thanks
John

[toninorini]

Hi! I was curious about doing the same. Did you have any luck?
Thanks in advance.

[jdlatx]

I just turn the dial on the inside of the fridge to zero so the compressor doesn't kick on.
John

[toninorini]

Thanks! I wonder if there is any phantom draw even with the compressor off.
I just moved mine to 0 as well I’ll post back here if I notice anything.