Dometic Fridge CF-25 long term review

July 10, 2018 by Ben Leave a Comment

It has been 5 years since I purchased this very handy and compact, 12v refrigerator. My Dometic Fridge CF-25 has been mounted for summers in 3 different vehicles and also had used as a garage and man cave fridge. After using this fridge for some time I feel I can give a reliable review.

Dometic Fridge CF-025 long term review

I had previously owned the Waeco CDF-35. (Same as Dometic CF-035) This unit served me well. Purchased back in 2003 to be used for a major Australian road trip. I mounted it in the back of my Toyota Hilux Extra Cab Ute. With no seats in the back, the Dometic CF-035was a perfect fit for this ute, enough room for a couple of days worth of food and some cold drinks. Having a fridge in the cab of your ute in Aus is just magic, nothing beats always having cold drinks on hand to cool that harsh Australia heat. This fridge still gets used regularly by my dad in his 4×4. The fact the fridge is still working like new is a testament to the build quality of these fridges.

In 2013, I purchased this compact 12v fridge freezer, so I have been using it on and off for 5 years.

Dometic Fridge CF-25 Compact size

The compact size of this unit allows for use in smaller vehicles. I had I secured into the rear of my Honda Element and there was still plenty of room left for cargo.

The small capacity does have its drawbacks. 25 liters is very small for a cooler so it fills quickly. However, with some smart stocking techniques, you can make it work for one or two people.

Dometic Fridge CF-25 Energy Efficient

One of the best things about the Dometic Fridge CF-025 is how efficient it is. I would regularly run the fridge for two or three days without starting the car to recharge the auxiliary battery. (12v 225ah). Admittedly, your energy consumption will vary depending on ambient conditions. If you do plan on getting a 12v fridge for your vehicle you should also plan to install some type of auxiliary battery system so you don’t run down your starter battery. There is nothing worse than being stranded because your fridge drained your start battery.

If you don’t plan on installing an auxiliary battery but still want the convenience of a 12v vehicle fridge.I would recommend the Dometic CDF-11 as an option. This still gives you the compressor refrigeration, just in a super slimmed down size.

Overview

Basically, this is the perfect day tripper size 12v refrigerator. A good size for one or two people. If you need capacity for more look toward a larger model like the CF-035 or CF-040.

My experience with reliability has been outstanding with the Dometic CF-25 still running strong after five years. I have no problems recommending this product and plan on purchasing one of the larger Dometic CF models once I progress with my Ram ProMaster Build.