What Size Fuse for a 12V Fridge?
What Size Fuse for a 12V Fridge?
For a 12 V fridge, the correct fuse is the fridge maker’s specified value for its supply cable. A 10 A fuse is common on some portable compressors, but “10 A for every fridge” ignores different compressor, controller, plug and cable designs.
Check the fridge and supply
Read the input-current label and wiring instructions. Distinguish a compressor fridge, which cycles and has startup behavior, from a thermoelectric cooler, which may draw current steadily. Check any fuse already built into the DC plug or supplied lead; an added battery circuit still needs protection for its own cable near the source.
Long or thin 12 V wiring causes voltage drop and can trigger a fridge’s low-voltage cutout. Measure voltage at the fridge while it starts, inspect plug/socket contacts, and size cable for both ampacity and voltage drop. Raising the fuse rating does not cure voltage drop. If thicker wire is needed for a long run, retain the device’s specified protective rating unless its instructions say otherwise.
For a dedicated feed: follow the fridge maker’s fuse recommendation, protect the smallest cable section, use a DC-rated fuse and holder, and route the cable away from abrasion and heat. Repeated fuse opening calls for checking the plug, wiring and fridge, not simply fitting a larger fuse.