28 TE refrigerator - DC only or AC/DC

[Nancy]

We'll need to replace the original fridge (Norcold DC340D) on our soon-to-be 28 TE. We've been weighing DC only versus dual voltage.

The dual voltage school of thought says that using AC while at the dock takes the wear/usage/load off the battery system.

The DC only crowd, including my husband's buddy, Nigel Calder, says this configuration is no-brainer simple for boats that spend much of the time plugged into AC at the dock with the battery charger running. The logic is that as long as the batteries are in good condition, it's no wear on them at all because the charger is doing the work, and that's what it's designed to do.

(Just kidding about the friend thing. We joke about it because he's spent so many hours reading and re-reading the Calder book.)

Reading a few threads here suggests that most people are replacing the original DC only units with AC/DC. Would love to understand your decision process.

[Froggy]

Hi Nancy,

I'm considering replacing my Norcold also. I'm looking at a NovaKool. The bottom line on this is pretty simple for me. I've owned the boat for 14 years and never had an issue with a 12v only system. The additional cost of the 110/12 V model is $140. Better to save the $$ and have a nice dinner out.