12 Volt Compressor Refrigerator Tips - And Joy Tutus CR50 Review

Are you thinking about buying a 12 Volt compressor refrigerator? These are an incredible upgrade to an ice chest full of melted water and soggy food, but the sheer number of them on the market is absolutely confusing and the prices vary a lot! This video is a review of the Joy Tutus CR50 but it's also a talk on what you can expect from any portable refrigerator including power consumption at different settings and what problems may occur along with remedies. I also discuss compressors, maintenance and features.
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Getting out on the road is what Linda and I love to do with our converted cargo trailer camper. We're part time nomads and the nomadic lifestyle suits us to a Tee. Whether your RV is a camper van, camp trailer, travel trailer, motorhome or just a car and a tent, there's going to be something interesting for you in the videos we produce. Back roads and overlanding are part of what we do while exploring the western states for beautiful, peaceful and sometimes remote places to camp on BLM and National Forest land (public land). Taking care of ourselves as much as possible and doing our own repairs is a must because we travel on a fixed income and a limited budget. If your into being off-grid and boondocking, or doing dispersed camping whenever possible then you'll appreciate the discussions on batteries, solar panels and solar chargers or power stations and 12v refrigeration. Come on along, we're happy to have your company!
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[@tm8747]

what ever works, works, i m installing a 6 cu. ft. refer, with freezer, runs on 12 volt/120 volt, i do like that mini refer/freezer, . i placed a exercise pad under the bottom , its about 3 " thick, L braces floor, and sides,. installing a vent opening out the rear of the unit, . the opening is the same opening that you see to vent out a toy hauler for fumes or smell of fuel, . the handle opening is opens facing backwards. and also installed a little sucker fan , like the ones in a computer or laptop, . that fan will run only during the time your stay up the camper at your location, on 120 volt. great video again.

[@ernestpaul2484]

Haha. You mentioned the reliability of our home refrigerators. We have a 1988 Whirlpool that has given zero problems over the years. At the time it was just the right size. Now I would like to upsize for more cubic inches, like a side-by-side fridge and a lower freezer, but I am really leary about buying one of these newer versions. The brand names are still out there but the quality isn't the same.

[@rebeccastout6317]

Thank you for the information ☺️

[@alikawhite6903]

Thank you!

[@lindagolden9892]

enjoy the thorough product reviews 🐝

[@shopart1488]

There yougoagain with another great detailed review. Thank you!!!

[@untetherednomad6393]

Great video and review. We got the 26 Joytutus and tested at home and on a camping trip. Unit was powered off a Jackery 500 and I was amazed how little watts it used. I like that you noted "Avg Watts" used over 24 hrs, since the unit has a watt draw higher when compressor runs, but then it goes into a very low watt draw when compressor is not on....so your avg watt of 13w is the info that nomads need to calculate if their solar setup can keep up. Our 26 size fridge had an avg draw of 6w per hr over 24hr with fridge set at 34 degrees using the Jackery 500. I was impressed! it makes very little noise even inside a Kia Soul. I like the long 12v cord, as many nomads or overlanders types will have this in the rear of the vehicle away from a vehicle 12v port. Anyhoo, I intend to get another larger one soon, tired of buying ice every few days!

[@gonagain]

That's great info from real life usage! Thanks Greg, I hope you're well.

[@aztrails1]

Keep providing these very helpful reviews. Cheers.

[@jlrilea3083]

I think you give great detailed info. Keep up the great work 👍👍

[@chrislonsberry1974]

Thank you! Great review!

[@murrayandru7527]

Good Stuff , thanks for Sharing.

[@teresaf5480]

Great review...thanks again

[@gonagain]

Thanks Teresa!

[@philmickey7247]

Yep! No surprise, an excellent video! 👏 Thanks!👍

[@rvlifeafterretirement1498]

Very informative. Thanks.

[@Blackopsmechanic338]

You are one my top reviewers. You do a very thorough and honest review. I like how you go into the common does and don’t of the product. Peace and Blessings During Easter.

[@seansteede]

Another great review! First time to hear I'm supposed to clean out the cooling fins. Of course that makes sense, but I just never would have thought about it! Always a pleasure to watch your videos.

[@justlivelovelaughfrugally]

There is always a lesson learned with you. I normally won’t open any contraptions. I’m glad you did.

[@gonagain]

I appreciate your watching and being part of this channel.

[@tonyyost7125]

Thank you for the information...thanks again.....t

[@dalen.tenney5210]

Most informative! Thank you :)

[@catoka]

Have had mine for 3years....no problems..luv it

[@MrKim-kv2vv]

Very good Information, thank you 👍🏻

[@steelfist65]

I have a smaller, older model Joy Tutus. My wife and I love it for road trips or just distant supermarket shopping. I think it's a great brand and has been a wonderful purchase for us.

[@Steve-Goff]

Seems like a very good unit especially if the electronics hold up for several years. Might have to add one of these to my home preps. I’m sure I can find other uses as well

[@williammccaslin8527]

I RV, but I don't boondock like you do, but this is food for thought in the future, thx for the vid.

[@arnoldreiter435]

on your comment about going back to Amazon with problems on anything purchased thru them. i had a problem with one of a group of solar panels i got thru Amazon, when i notified Amazon i was told to go to the shipper which happened to be Bouge. Bouge replaced the defective panel and all was good and i never heard from Amazon. I have been told that Amazon only gets involved when the shipper cant satisfy the customer. Always enjoy your videos, your take on products is refreshingly real world!

[@frankg8178]

Awesome review was a little life wisdom added still having fun with the rice cooker use it all the time the experimenting with it made the pancake big fan of you guys

[@gonagain]

When Linda got that little rice cooker I didn't think much of it, after all we've been making rice in a regular 1 or 2 qt. pot for years, but I'm really impressed with it now.

[@jayecurry1369]

Good video. Did you give me the information I needed? Hell, yes. Thanks.

[@larryv4249]

All likes and no dislikes.....yay!!! You must be providing a good service....I think so. Keep 'em coming.

[@gonagain]

Thank you Larry, I will.

[@Nomadiccamping]

Next to CVK , you and Linda have become my favorites

[@gonagain]

Thank you very much for coming along!

[@Nomadiccamping]

@@gonagain we are common folks and we love common videos. When the channel gets too professional we move on. I don’t blame them because they are trying to earn money. We have earned our money and just want to share our lives so the grandkids will have something to watch when we are gone. We will be moving into our 35 ft Motorhome in May

[@hldye7442]

Thanks for good advise :) Am just now starting my suv build out and then buying gear . next year will be building my flatbed trailer into a C.T. camper 6x10. One thing at a time.

[@gonagain]

That's how you get it done, one step at a time!

[@SoonerGirltravels]

😆 I was just typing about the new paint in the trailer when you said you had just painted it. Looks good.

[@gonagain]

Linda wanted a warmer color for those cold days. I had my doubts, but I like it!

[@drillsergeant5338]

I have an ICECO about that size. I run it on 34 degrees and stuff is fine. Barely moves the meter using solar or 110 . Excellent product.

[@buckbuchanan9807]

Thanks for the info. I am a full time trucker looking for a compressor fridge for my truck.

[@gonagain]

Glad I could help

[@TiredOldMann]

I am surprised the 12 volt plug didn't have a glass fuse inside the tip. Keep up the good work.

[@gonagain]

My thought too at first, but the fuse is on the refrigerator.

[@lawnvett]

I'm in the market to buy one, your timing was impeccable. I 've said this before but I'll say it again, your easy going style and great content make it a lot of fun to watch your videos.

[@lawnvett]

oh one more thing, what is your opinion of getting a. smaller fridge, I'm a solo camper, any differences in power consumption, or quality? My runaway trailer is 4' x 8' and 4' tall, just right sized for me and my tow vehicle a 1973 MGBGT with a chevy V-6.

[@gonagain]

The power usage is about the same up to a point unless the refrigerator is really small or a lot bigger, so don't let that determine your choice. Putting it on freezer mode makes the biggest difference.

[@lawnvett]

@@gonagain thanks for the reply, you are so helpful hope to see you on the road someday

[@rn588]

Hey something to add to the hardwiring you’re fridge to the battery is also showing how to charge your battery with your tow vehicle. Love your videos!

[@gonagain]

Nice idea!

[@gail-sw9xg]

For long-term storage, colder freezer temps are good. However, for short-term storage it is not necessary to keep your freezer that cold. I set mine at 20 degrees and have no issues with food spoilage.

[@gonagain]

Thanks for that tip Gail1984.

[@borandell9915]

That is a good tip gail1984. I absolutely love my apicool 60q. But I'm learning to conserve my power consumption for max efficiency when boondocking.

[@landrover2548]

Good review Rick. I also want to congratulate you on your choice of paint colors. The color has completely improved the comfort appearance IMO. Just shows that it's the little things that count sometime.

[@gonagain]

You're right about that. Linda chose the paint color, she wanted to "warm up" the interior and make it more homey instead of looking like the inside of a fridge. Thanks for watching, Land Rover.

[@RVingwithG]

so true... I like "white" but I like other colors too. The kids did MINT Green...mmmm maybe, I have to go see what the paint stores have.

[@cajunjamis9001]

Well done! Thank you, Sir! Cajun

[@0556rick]

Nice review. Very Informative. You do very thorough reviews. Can you do a review of the jackery 1500 and 2000 and the bluetti 200p, I am curious about the charge cycle ratings. Excellent job. 👍👍👍👍

[@vincenzodemarco7983]

Wow, More Info to consider. The 'Equipment Expansion Dilemma ' Rides Again. I do believe I need a Secretary to help me sort all this out.😁✌ Your New Interior Color Looks Great.👏👏👏 Nice.

[@gonagain]

Thanks Vincenzo, Linda wanted a warmer color inside.

[@jamesgriffin7971]

I think you should change your name to “Gonreviewagain” The reviews are all top notch, but I do miss your outdoors content.

[@gonagain]

Hi James, did you see last week's video from the Bear Paw Battlefield? We're just coming out of hibernation right now but we're gaining momentum!

[@jamesgriffin7971]

@@gonagain Thank you for the heads up, I had not seen that video. It was a very informative one. My hat is off to you, braving the cold, and all of the excellent research effort. I’m glad you are receiving all of the items to review too! Those manufacturers are relying on the right folks for honest and concise reviews. James Griffin

[@weswalker1208]

Nice video. I think it would be very interesting to know what you refrigerate and what you don't. Not all vegetables need Refrigeration and as well a lot of vegetables can be bought in can form. So when your shopping what do you pick to go in the fridge and what does not? I know you have this down to an art but I don't know if you have ever shared it. Ultimately we would like our water and food to last 2 weeks. I do know that eggs last one month on the counter. I don't know if that applies to them refrigerated first. That is the rule on farm fresh eggs. That is why free range chickens eggs are fine you may not find their nest for a couple of days

[@gonagain]

That's great info you just shared! Eggs can actually last longer than that, but if they're older, don't break them directly into your recipe, break them into a bowl first just in case they're bad. Wrapping citrus in aluminum foil individually makes them last many weeks.

[@weswalker1208]

@@gonagain that is valuable information if you can come up with more I think it would be a great video

[@skipsamples2647]

I really like your video and it is informative. I recently purchased an Alpicool C30 and I have been testing it for the past couple of weeks. It appears to be working very well. I have found to keep things from freezing I put the setting to 39 and the thermometer says 35. Still get some ice in water I put in. I have been running test with the Rockpals 520wh unit and I got 11 hours with the fridge running at 11.7 after about 6 hours. I didn't think that was bad of a drop for the amount of time with a unit that is not regulated. When the compressor comes on the lowest voltage was 10.7. This is in Florida with the unit outside on the porch so I am thinking I can make it through the night and then using the solar panel to charge during the day.

[@gonagain]

Yeah, that sounds about right because of the higher ambient temperature there. Also, the longer cord and the smaller gauge of the wires the more voltage drop you will get.

[@skipsamples2647]

@@gonagain I like your suggestion to shorten the cable and I think I will try that. Also, you have any recommendation as to the gauge to use to make a new cable?

[@irishgrl]

Am I the only one who wonders whether having the fridge next to the stove is a bad idea? Does that force the fridge to work harder? Edit to add: I just found you yesterday, I love your thorough reviews! Great info, with common sense tips. I subbed!

[@gonagain]

Thanks for subbing. The fridge is portable, we move it when the stove is lit. So, no worries!

[@rn588]

Have you done a video on hard wiring one?

[@gonagain]

No, but it's very easy. You use the cable it came with and just connect the two wires to a positive and a negative. You have to make sure you know which... Hmmm.. I'll make a video for you.

[@FirstSuiGeneris]

_Just wondering, will it use more power when the ambient temperature is more? That is pretty good, only using just over 13 watts an hour! That is a win, win for a solar system and the battery! It doesn't overtax either one. Sounds like a great little refrigerator. Can't wait for the long-term review on it._

[@gonagain]

Yes it will, but I can't say how much exactly because I haven't measured it in that situation.

[@alanosborne1947]

One issue no one seems to address is what do you do with your fridge when between trips and it's not needed. Should you turn it off, run it on low and if you live in an area that has high summer temps do you leave it run or shut it down....your thoughts? I only ask this because I'm ready to purchase a 12 volt fridge and at this point the wife and me only travel maybe 2-4 times a month or less depending on her schedule.

[@gonagain]

I just turn it off. It only takes about 20 minutes to get it down to freezing again.

[@stanmorgan4628]

Rick, love your videos. We (the wife and I) watch them all. We click and support. It would be great if these were posted on Rumble too. Just an idea. Awesome content. We greatly appreciate it. Thank you.

[@gonagain]

I moved my firearms videos over to Rumble but need to leave the rest here for the increased exposure (so far).

[@stanmorgan4628]

@@gonagain I see. I was misspelling Gonagain. Appreciate the reply.

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

@@gonagain what is and where do I find this Rumble?

[@Jixton]

Great info. Do you have a favourite in all the one you had a chance tonyry out?

[@gonagain]

I don't, but Linda likes the Alpicool because it's not as deep for it's size, making it easier to get things out.

[@3generations393]

Thank you for the review Happy Easter everyone. You mentioned that in freezer mode-the outside of the basket works like a frig. If the unit is in refrigerator mode- how warm does the outside of basket get? Would this be a good place to store fruits/veg's? Thanks again. 🙏✌️🌎💞

[@gonagain]

With 34 degrees in the main compartment it was 40-44 degrees in the side compartment. Good for vegetables and drinks I think.

[@Nomadiccamping]

Lights would be a nice nightlight, unless you want it pitch black

[@gonagain]

I don't mind them myself, but some do, judging by other reviews. I don't need a flashlight in the middle of the night, that's for sure.

[@evaburns6292]

Hi, We were wondering if you would have a web we could go to for parts to for the joy tutus. ? Thank You

[@gonagain]

Hi Eva, I would try going to the Joy Tutu website www.joytutus.com/ and start there.

[@dennisp3273]

Wondering if wiring to load on mppt controller is a good or bad idea ? Any thoughts? Thanks!

[@gonagain]

I've used that feature to run the lights in my trailer before without problems.

[@marcireale]

They need to sit to let the oil drain back down into the compressor, not the refrigerant.

[@gonagain]

Thanks for telling me because I didn't know that! When you hear me say that in the future you will know where I learned it.

[@wrbruce6100]

I was wondering, does the compressor ever cut off or does it run all of the time. I know the lower the temperature the more it has to run to maintain the temperature you have it set on. If it was eighty degrees in your camper could it maintain the zero setting and what kind of wattage draw would you have if it was eighty degrees in your camper all day if it never cut off. Good video

[@gonagain]

Hello WR! The compressor cycles on and off, just like the one on your home refrigerator. At 80-85 degrees it's off more than it's on and hotter than that I couldn't say. On freezer setting and 80 degrees I'd be guessing, but it will still be cycling off and on. With one good battery, better two, and 200 watts of solar, you should be able to use it as a freezer in those temps, no problem and still have electricity left over for other purposes.

[@rn588]

About to pull the plug on one of these. Which do you recommend alpicool, this one, or iceco?

[@gonagain]

That's a hard question! I did have problems with my Alpicool but their warranty service is fast and friendly. The Alpicool is not as tall for the same size so it's easier to use. The other two are quieter and have given me no problems so far. I do like the aluminum liner of the Joy Tutus and the ICECO. I currently no longer have the Alpicool because their warranty is an immediate refund and not a replacement.

[@Yukonjackman1]

What is the warmest temperature you used it

[@gonagain]

About 90 degrees, but I had no way to measure the watthours used. I can tell you that each night, at around 9pm, my battery would show fully charged at 12.6-7 volts and by sun-up it would be down to 12.3. That's an elderly lead acid battery.

[@stoneyrunva]

Black is not a good color for a 12v fridge. Black absorbs more heat and has to work harder in sunlight than lighter colors when in a windowed vehicle or outdoors, for instance. You should never keep a fridge in close proximity to an active heat source like a wood stove or propane heater. Shortening the cable means less options for a portable fridge if you ever want to use it in other areas where a longer cable is convenient. Some good info here. Thanks.

[@gonagain]

Hello StoneyRun, we just move the refrigerator whenever we need the heat. I got an extra 12volt power cord when I bought my first refrigerator and leave it long, just in case I need it. So far all the refrigerators I've seen use the same type cord. The length of the cord becomes an issue when the battery voltage gets low and the refrigerator shuts off to protect the battery. The longer cord makes that happen sooner than is necessary because the drop in voltage is between .5 to 1.0 volt.

[@TheZrpilot]

Do you think that 14W draw would be the same on 12Volts? How long would you Jackery run it?

[@gonagain]

Hello Max, it's the same. On eco mode and 34 degrees, a 500 watt power station will run it for about 30 hours.

[@bigdavesoutdoors9761]

Would this fit between the front seats in your burban? That's the route I'm going. Thank you, say hi to Linda🤙

[@gonagain]

Hello Big Dave! I don't think so.

[@bigdavesoutdoors9761]

@@gonagain I got 13". The iceco I was looking at was 12.5" but 21qts. This says 13.5" on the specs. Thank you. Happy Trails

[@justlivelovelaughfrugally]

My fridge is done and so am I. I’m ready to buy a compact fridge (without Freon) and hit the road.

[@gonagain]

Don't buy a thermocouple fridge like the ones that Walmart sells, they don't work very well, only cooling to 40 degrees below whatever the ambient temperature is and they use a LOT of power. See you on the road!

[@justlivelovelaughfrugally]

@@gonagain I was trying to not inhale a ton of chemicals during road life. Do you have a suggestion? Perhaps, no fridge at all is the way to go. Thank you so much for warning me.

[@gonagain]

Oh! I see where your coming from. Ok, a new 12 volt compressor refrigerator, like the ones I've been reviewing, do give off some plastic odors when you first get them, but it goes away fast. The refrigerant that's in use these days isn't freon anymore, it's R134, which is safe for our environment and the system is well enclosed, so I don't think you need to be concerned about it any more than you would about your home fridge.

[@justlivelovelaughfrugally]

@@gonagain oh, thank you so much! I really appreciate you responding. It helps so much and for the plethora of knowledge you always provide.

[@dadams19111]

Out of all the ones that you have had, what is your personal preference?

[@gonagain]

I don't have a favorite myself, but Linda likes the Alpicool because it's not as deep for it's size.

[@RVingwithG]

Rick, did you ask them to send you this unit to review???

[@gonagain]

No, I get several requests a week and choose the most pertinent ones to do. Products that I think you guys may be shopping for.

[@RVingwithG]

@@gonagain How do I get on that list? I want to do reviews too.

[@RVingwithG]

OH, I might have to have a real channel / following first???

[@saxologist1]

All these 12v refrigerators are too tall and too narrow. You always have to take a lot out to get to what you need. Thanks for the video.

[@gonagain]

There are some on the market that are wider and more shallow but still have the large capacity.

[@saxologist1]

@@gonagain thanks. I'll have to keep looking.

[@tkaald]

I do not understand your Watts. Are you meaning Watthours or something else. Kindly explain.

[@gonagain]

Watt hours used. When these type of refrigerators are running they are at about 45-60 watts, but my test shows that after 24 hours I've only used .288 kilowatts. I hope that clears things up, I'm certainly not an expert, but I do play one on TV.

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

@@gonagain hahaha! I always say “I don’t need a _______ (fill in the blank), I AM a _______. My frequent choices? Cardiologist, plumber, electrician, vet, etc. it a family joke about my independence and willingness to learn. After I say my piece I call the cardiologist. Hahaha.

[@gonagain]

I like that!

[@stevenblevins8113]

I love your channel ! but enough with all the reviews lets go camping.

[@gonagain]

I agree!!!!! Just so you know though, unless I have a message to go along with the review, like I did in this particular video, I always do my reviews in addition to our regular Friday programing. We're currently do some car repairs and trailer upgrades and then we'll be heading out. Soon!

[@gonagain]

Working on it! Plan on heading out in a couple of weeks.....yay!

[@stevenblevins8113]

@@gonagain we are heading out on the 16th April to salome az . for 6 days.

[@jamesbailey4374]

Get on the road life is too short.