How many watts does a 12 V RV fridge use?
Updated
Running watts
60 W
Starting watts
120 W
Energy per day
600 Wh
A 12 V RV fridge typically draws about 60 watts while running and up to 120 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. It cycles on and off all day, which works out to roughly 0.6 kWh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a 12 V RV fridge?
Plan for at least 144 W: 120 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 2,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a 12 V RV fridge? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Yes |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a 12 V RV fridge?
Based on its average draw over a day, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 120 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 34 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 2.8 days |
| 3,600 Wh | about 5.1 days |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the RV Generator & Battery Size CalculatorFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a 12 V RV fridge?
At least 144 W: 120 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a 12 V RV fridge?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 120 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a 12 V RV fridge?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 120 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a 12 V RV fridge?
About 34 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 120 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.