Engel v new ARB

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2manycruisers

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I'm looking for a fridge and have likely narrowed it down to an Engel 45 qt or an ARB 50qt, but curious for feedback.

I borrowed an Engel and liked it for simplicity, steady temp, and very quiet operating. Looking at the ARB, I like it for the extra capacity, produce compartment, thermometer, and low voltage shutoff.

I'm curious if there is a noticeable difference in noise between the two compressor types? Any concerns or experiences with reliability given the extra bells and whistles on the ARB? Engel claims highest reliability for it's "swing arm" compressor; any verification of this?

4x4 Connection has both on sale right now and the ARB is about $40 less than the Engel.

thanks
 
I have used both Engel with the swing arm compressor and Waeco with the DanFoss compressor. My recollection is the Danfoss compressor to be a little quieter and with less vibration but I don't think it is a big enough difference to make a decision on. Between your two choices, I'd go with the new ARB.
 
I have the new ARB fridge/freezer and love it. It's very quiet, cools down quickly, and does a great job of maintaining its target temp. I don't have anything to compare it to other than the standard ice chest. The ergonomics/design/size of the ARB were the big influences on my choice.
 
Just bought a new Waeco from Dometic. Does not work. The low voltage shut off has three settings, Lo Med Hi. I set mine to med (11.4v)and it was giving me indication that battery was low and then shut off but it isnt. Then put it on low setting (10.1v) and it still turns off like battery is below 10.1v. I like the design of this fridge but not happy it is not working. Not sure what I am going to do now. I bought it from American RV Company and they say Dometic handles it after it is shipped.

I bought an edgestar 8 months ago and it worked great until I went off road, then it died. I guess I need to get an ARB if I can get my money back from this one. Beginning to feel like I am not supposed to use a fridge. Back to coolers and ice.:mad::mad::mad:
 
The Waeco fridges is sensitive to voltage loss. First try connecting it to the battery directly and see if it works. If it works, run a larger, dedicated 12V cable to your trunk. Also think about changing the Waeco supplied accessory plug to something better like an Anderson plug (and fused too).
 
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