Fridge and microwave install

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by ThomasTrucker21, Apr 11, 2021.

  1. ThomasTrucker21

    ThomasTrucker21 Medium Load Member

    I didn’t know where to start this thread so I guess this should work. I’m trying to put a microwave and fridge in my truck since It didn’t come with one but both the space for the fridge and microwave both only have 12v plugs. Does anyone have any recommendations or ideas of how I could make It work out?
     
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  3. Arctic_fox

    Arctic_fox Experienced mx13 execrator

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    2000-3000 watt inverter and just drill a hole for an extension cord if you own the truck. If you dont and the company wont let you have an inverter then your basically SoL save for 12 volt coolers
     
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  4. Anywhichwaybutloose

    Anywhichwaybutloose Light Load Member

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    If there is a cabinet space for the fridge, you can install one there. Dometic is a popular model. It runs on 12v. Many options for a 12 or 120 v option, there are many threads to search for ideas. Microwave will need an invertor.
     
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  5. ThomasTrucker21

    ThomasTrucker21 Medium Load Member

    It is a company truck and It does have an inverter I’m not sure how many watts but I will look. For the fridge their is a small area where It could go. Thanks for the input!
     
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  6. Espressolane

    Espressolane Road Train Member

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    A hand full of companies make a 12 volt operated refrigerator for trucks. Just get ready to hand out some nice cash for them. If the factory installed inverter is 1500 watts or less, it will have trouble or may not run a small microwave. Start up can be 3 times operating wattage.
     
  7. Ace Brothstein

    Ace Brothstein Bobtail Member

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    I've run a 700 watt microwave on a 1500 watt stock inverter for almost 3 years now. 700 watts is what it throws at the food, it pulls around 1100 watts, (according to the inverter remote). The inverter will run a hotplate, teapot, coffee maker, laptop and multi function laser printer, just never at the same time. I bought a 1500 watt teapot, but it didn't work, had to get an 1100 watt.

    The 12 volt coolers for $100 +/- seem to use a peltier junction with heatsinks and fans. They cool something like 40 degrees lower than the ambient temperature. So if the truck is not running and it's too hot or cold, your food will freeze or spoil inside it. They also ice up easy and need to be defrosted every few days.
     
  8. ThomasTrucker21

    ThomasTrucker21 Medium Load Member

    The inverter in a thermo king one but i don’t know how many watts It is. I’ve been powering my tv with since I got the truck
     
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  9. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    I always had a problem with the cigar lighter type of plugs getting hot and melting after a time. Last couple I had I wired in direct but he couldn't do that in a company truck. And you're right, if you keep the truck below 70 they will freeze you stuff if you aren't opening the cooler door often.
     
  10. Frank Speak

    Frank Speak Road Train Member

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    I always had the same issue. I did a little research and found that those 12v type coolers aren’t designed to run 24/7 for extended periods. They’re basically for going camping. i went through a couple with neither lasting more than around a year or so.
     
    Last edited: Apr 11, 2021
  11. ThomasTrucker21

    ThomasTrucker21 Medium Load Member

    Guess I’ll be buying bags of ice for my cooler then lol
     
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