If you’ve ever considered adding or replacing a refrigerator on your boat, this is a great time to do it. We took a look at three that are considered universal voltage. In other words, they run on AC or DC power.
Dometic CoolMatic CR Compressor
The Cool: The CR series features a full-width freezer compartment and adjustable shelves, including an egg tray and stainless-steel hardware. Other features include double locking doors with a vent position. Capacity is 2.3 cubic feet, and it draws 5.7 amps at 12 volts DC. It weighs 49.7 pounds and measures 20.5 inches tall by 21.5 inches wide by 17.6 inches deep.
The Melt: It's the most expensive of the three, and some reviewers complained about the flip-up handle.
Price: $859; dometic.com
Isotherm Cruise 49
The Cool: The lowest priced of our trio is one of the most popular. Capacity is 1.75 cubic feet, and the compressor can be remote-mounted up to 4.9 feet away. It draws 2.5 amps at 12 volts and 1.25 amps at 24 volts. The Isotherm Cruise 49 weighs 35 pounds and measures 20.75 inches tall by 15 inches wide by 18.5 inches deep.
The Melt: It's the smallest of the three, and some users have complained that the finger clearance for the door is tight.
Price: $675; indelwebastomarine.com/us
Norcold Universal Voltage Marine
The Cool: It's equipped with a Danfoss BD35 compressor and has an interior capacity of 2.7 cubic feet. Amperage draw is 3.75 amps at 12 volts DC and 1.87 amps at 24 volts DC. It has adjustable shelves and door bins. It weighs 59 pounds and measures 20.5 inches tall by 15.25 inches wide by 17.5 inches deep.
The Melt: You have to buy a universal voltage refrigerator cord, which is not necessary for the other two refrigerators. It is also the heaviest of the three models.
Price: $719; norcold.com
