Overland Fridge Install Tips - Dual Battery Systems, Fridge Slides, Mounting

Here are our top tips and things to think about when installing vehicle fridges. Have something to add to the conversation? Let us know in the comments down below.
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[@caravann26]

Haven't bought anything from you guys in a while .i love velcro bags .the whole back of my van has hook compatible material so it looks like its time to order up! Great video

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Yeah, we have plenty of options that will work for that situation!

[@GenesisOffroad]

Lots of good information here, great job! One bit of info to expand on your points about the dual battery system and a dc-dc charger is that those are complimentary products, not competitive products, which is a common misconception. The Genesis dual battery system is great for running your hard-wired accessories without worrying about killing your cranking battery. The dc-dc charger is an on-board battery charger that runs from the alternator rather than from a wall outlet in your garage. You can use both products to get the best of both worlds - extra power for accessories, AND optimized charging while driving. Cheers! -Shane

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Very true. Just most "basic" dual-battery systems don't get an optimal charge for deep-cycle batteries so the ideal setup, in our experience, is a dedicated house battery. Especially if you're using lithium based deep cycle batteries that don't like the heat generated under the hood.

[@fabienpics]

WOWWWW, THAS A GREAT REVIEW. THANK YOU FOR ALL THIS INFORMATION. VERY GOOD . YOU ANSWER TO ALL MY QUESTIONS, I JUSTE PUT DOMETIC CFF45 WHIT THE DOMETIC 12V OUTLET IN MY TACOMA OFFROAD. AND I M GONNA BUY A BATTERY PACK FOR MORE POWER TIME ( ECOFLOW RIVER PRO 750W). HAVE A GOOD DAY 👍

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ec-norsemanzero-drake7031]

Well done video… been noting the same things in my build, still working out the things, this got you a sub and like from Acworth, Ga. 😊😊😊

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Thanks for the sub!

[@mena580]

Great video on everything you need to know about vehicle fridges.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@AudiSportFan1970]

Just inherited a CFX 55 and love it, this video gives me some great ideas and understanding of the unit. Thanks so much!!!!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it helped!

[@chaosncheckt9356]

Another outstanding video. We traveled for three months and used an ARB 50qt as our backup fridge/freezer. While traveling we had it plugged into a DC port in the rear of the Jeep. When we parked and had access to power, we used an all weather extension cord. When we stopped and did not have access to power, we used a LiPo 48 0 50W-110W with attached solar panels. Before our trip we tested the two together and the ARB was still running after 24-hrs with about 25% of power in the LiPo remaining. We did not have a rack to attach our ARB to the jeep cargo area, just used an assortment of gear bags, but care must be given to keep the vent ports on either side free/clear. What also helps with cooling is to get a insulated cover for whatever system you are using.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Yeah, an insulated cover is never a bad idea.

[@Utah_Mike]

“Lock your hubs 4wding” has a video showing the insulated bags don’t work.

[@tpseeker3367]

Ahh yes. Good to know I wasn't going deaf. Thanks for reposting.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

The joys of technical difficulties in the 21st century. LoL

[@frankcurulli1244]

Excellent presentation! Simple, concise and great explanation from someone who uses the products and knows what hints and tips are best without going to huge expense. Thanks

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JasonWh]

I have spent a great deal of time using and learing from my mistakes with different power systems for accessories like fridges, fans, laptop power, etc. Listen to what he says, the dual battery configuration is inherently complex and can be problematic when things don't work perfectly. The recommendation of a isolated "home battery" configuration is right on the money and by far the most affordable and least exotic solution avaialble.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Keep it simple!

[@LX450_Adventure]

I learned a few things. Thanks!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful! If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask.

[@sarahdell4042]

Power stations are the easiest, and game changer

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Very much so.

[@kiranchakra]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad you liked it!

[@kevinsmithey3224]

Great video! Lots of good information, thanks BROG

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad you liked it!

[@ArabRebel666]

Awesome info and tips, thanks. About to install my 55l fridge and dual battery + solar system.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Good luck! If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask.

[@grn9209]

Great info about DC to DC charger!! Thanks!!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad we could help. Don't hesitate to ask any other questions.

[@norsefalconer]

I 2nd this.

[@NigelNaughton]

Great tips!! The only thing I would add is for those that need to go out longer is just to skip the house battery in the traditional form. Go exclusively with a portable battery but just something bigger like a Jackery 1000 or similar and some efficient solar. You already highlighted that they are portable and can be used outside the vehicle whereas investing in an expensive Li battery will doesn't allow that. I have been getting by (sometimes barely) with a Jackery 240 in my 80 Landcruiser with a Dometic CFX50 even traveling to the deserts in Utah. When it's hot it makes a huge difference on how hard that compressor works in the fridges. Anyway, great vid.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Yeah, for those "Level 2" trips we highly recommend portable batteries. It's usually only worth the investment of time, money, and effort to do a house battery when your vehicle becomes your home-on-wheels for months at a time.

[@Cooperd0g]

@@BlueRidgeOverlandGear There is a big difference gap between your version of "extended trips" and "home on wheels." Overall I tend to agree with both you and Nigel. If you aren't living out of the vehicle full time then a portable battery system that can charge via your vehicle while moving and solar when parked is a pretty slick set up. This is how I currently run.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

The gap between "extended trips" and "home on wheels" is large, but most people don't take regular extended trips. So for the vast majority of "enthusiasts" who are going out for long weekends and the occasional extended trip (2 week vacation) the portable batteries probably make the most sense. Unless you're full-time on the road day-in and day-out a house battery is probably money wasted that could be spent elsewhere. Not to mention not needing to cut into the vehicle's wiring. That said, a clean house battery install is hard to beat and when you have made that kind of investment you find excuses to use it day-in and day-out even when not on an adventure.

[@NigelNaughton]

@@Cooperd0g and 1 more thing. While most provide this, you have to make sure the portable battery has pass through capabilities. That you can charge it while it's powering a device or a fridge or whatever. 👍

[@geographyinaction7814]

@@NigelNaughton This point is huge. Can you reccomend brands that have PPS that do not? I have heard that certain Goal Zero models do not have pass-through; am I wrong on this?

[@javiervillegas9114]

Nice video and interesting comments and advices !!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kbru78]

Awesome informative video. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Thanks for watching!

[@MusicLuv80]

I have watched several videos on camping fridge and you are the only one that gave real detailed information on the battery and also about the portable charging battery as well. Thank you! And that little charger lasting 2 days is real good! And could Jackery portable charger charge this fridge as well?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful! The Jackery should. How long depends on the size of the battery and the draw of the fridge.

[@andrewlinson3052]

Yes this video is much better with sound .

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

What's life without the occasional technical difficulties. LoL

[@solosaga5091]

"It happens to the best of us." Exactly, that's where most "tips and tricks" originate.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

That and all the times I say, "Ask me how I know..." when I'm teaching. LoL

[@norsefalconer]

Thanks! This is very timely information.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@markkennedy5547]

Great video! I love my Victron DC-to-DC charger. It works perfect with my Nomatic Supply Lithium battery. I can pump 30 Amps per hour into the battery.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Very cool!

[@flormaldonado8418]

Omg thank you for the information super helpful 😊

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chuckwinchester9939]

Great information!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Thanks for watching!

[@fred38178]

useful tips! thanks

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alfb152]

Well presented video

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Glad you liked it

[@fitnesssolutions7100]

Great video! Quick question, When trying to prolong camp fridge life is it better to unplug when not camping (at home)etc. Or do you recommend keeping plugged to power constantly Thanks..

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

While we don't have any science to back this up, I've left several fridges unplugged when not in use to limit compressor cycles without issue.

[@bendunkelberger7430]

thanks for the video, truly helpful.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

You're welcome!

[@shafmahar4974]

Comprehensive review

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Thanks

[@kellyoconnor9773]

I have a lithium battery in the back with a charge controller and a solar panel on my roof. I only run my fridge off it and it runs all year around and battery is full again by 7:30 am in the morning.

[@chetmakowski463]

Thanks!

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

No problem!

[@stevecleans]

Damn great info... thank you. I got the CFx3 45 today

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Nice. The 45 is a great size. I'm debating about the 55IM myself. I like a little bit of ice with my scotch when I'm camping. LoL

[@MRCGLAYA]

I bought an overlanding SUV. It came with ARB 38 qt ref/freezer and YETI 500X. I have both cables to plug in to cigarette auxiliary power outlet. I am missing both cables to charge them into house electrical outlet. I ordered a cable for the ARB 38 qt ref/freezer from Amazon. To use this cable to charge the ARB to my house electrical outlet, can I disconnect the cable that connects to cigarette auxiliary power outlet and switch the cable from Amazon to plug in to ARB outlet? Please advise.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

If we are understanding question, correctly, then yes the cables should attach to the fridge in the same connection.

[@KGX470]

subscribing. thanks

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Awesome, thank you!

[@kec2528]

Thanks for the video. I am looking for a fridge for my truck. I love the slide idea. Where did you get the slide and what fridge would you recommend? I am wanted around 75 liters. Thanks.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

I believe this is a Tembo Tusk slide. We're big fans of Dometic fridges here at the shop. They have several sizes and series so you can find one for just about any build.

[@kyle6703]

Which DC-DC charger and house battery configuration would you recommend for a four door JL Jeep Wrangler?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

The simple solution would be a stand-alone system like a Dometic PBL40, Jackery, Yeti, or similar portable battery. If you're looking for a more integrated system, a RedArc, Renogy, or similar dc-dc is good and then you can run either an AGM or Lithium battery, but you'll need to do a lot more wiring (not unlike wiring up a car stereo amp).

[@mytube3687]

Can you keep on Running during driving the vehicle?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

yes, most outlets in vehicles are powered while the vehicle ignition is on.

[@ELMENDORFX]

Thank you

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

You're welcome

[@thepaxtribe6942]

Or just add a solar panel that charges the battery

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Solar panels are a nice addition, but in wooded areas, especially during winter time, they may not provide enough power.

[@MichaelRoyDuckworth]

I usually go to a remote location for 7 to 10 days. I was thinking about installing a house battery system. With 100 amp hour batteries, should I get one or two?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

What do you plan on using for power generation? Are you doing solar? DC/DC? Both? 100 Amp-Hours should be fine if you have solar and/or DC/DC charging. So run just one battery and something like a Redarc 1225 charger or similar product by Renogy.

[@MichaelRoyDuckworth]

@@BlueRidgeOverlandGear I plan on using DC to DC and a solar about 50 watts.

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

Another question can i add ice 4 overnite, in my elec. fridge!? As long it doesn't leak right it's OK ( water destroys!?)

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Technically yes, but instead of just ice, a freezer pack or even bottles of frozen water would be a better idea so you don't have to drain fridge.

[@oscrm1760]

Need recomendation have an Lifetime Cooler 65qt dimensions are 28.5” L x 18.1” W x 17.5” H , what model of fridge slide do you can recomend me , need the slide can extend sufficient outside i can open the door . Thanks

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

We're not up to date on the slides currently available. Here are some of our friends that might have more insight: - Ok4WD - Apex Overland - Ashville Vehicle Outfitters - Traitec4x4

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

Battery , OR alternator or, fuses that blow.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Sorry, what are you referring to?

[@grillmastertoo]

Possibly asking what spare parts to carry to help fix the potential electrical gremlins that pop up

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

Always Have a 2nd battery incase your more expensive battery goes dead.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Great point!

[@davidlopez1708]

What brand of slide is this?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

I think that's an older Tembo Tusk.

[@integraloutdoors]

How much does the Bluetooth or wifi affect power usage? Is it significant?

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Not that much.

[@user-qz8ej3nq2n]

Your links do not work. That is really too bad.😢

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Sorry about that. We deleted the dead links. We no longer sale Dometic.

[@physicalstarfighter2131]

No to the dometic plb 40 not for 800 to 900 hundred dollars, get the jackery

[@coffeeisthepathtovictory1290]

What.. the hell is a drop slide? (Sees photo) ....This changes everything

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Yup. Game changer.

[@GForce101]

Links don’t work

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

They're working on our end. Let us know if you're seeing something different.

[@sdqsucks2]

Don’t. Block. The. Vents.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Exactly!

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

Why did i spend $400 on a yeti🥴

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Yeah, a cooler has it's place, but for lots of use a fridge is well worth it and adds a lot of convenience.

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

@@BlueRidgeOverlandGear yeah I think I’m gonna adopt a hybrid method. Cooler for drinks and small fridge for food. I’m a fire fighter so I like redundancy anyways. Now I just gotta pick out a fridge.

[@BlueRidgeOverlandGear]

Nothing wrong with that method. There are some 35 liter fridges and that's enough food for a several days, especially without drinks taking up room.

[@griffindeluce]

Cycle ice packs through from freezer to cooler and rotate back to refreze for another temp zone.