Review: Dometic CFX 65W Fridge

Electric Icebox

This Dometic CFX 65W fridge was hand delivered to us at the top of a 12,000-foot mountain pass in southwestern Montana. If that is not the best way to start this story, we are not sure what is. Generally you have all of your gear set up in a vehicle before the start of a 5,000-mile road trip, but in this instance, we threw out the guide book and decided to do most of our outfitting at the destination. This allowed us an incredible opportunity of comparing two methods of keeping cold foods cold: the ice-filled cooler on the way there and the Dometic CFX 65W on the way back.

Ice Crisis

Running around with a cooler is a familiar experience for everyone, stopping every few hours for ice­—most of us have lived this life. It is effective, but not always convenient or optimal for the situation, especially if you are in the middle of nowhere or your trip has you away from services for multiple days at a time. Suddenly, the idea of having to deal with ice goes from being the everyman’s solution, to another item on the list that is giving us anxiety.

Having a fridge is not something you will be able to say in the long run is cheaper because it will take a few years for the weekend warrior to recoup the cost of a portable fridge versus an ice chest and dollar bags of ice from the gas station. It does, however, make your life easier in three big ways.

Special Delivery

We got ahold of our Dometic CFX 65W test fridge mid-adventure, moving onward from the blazing summer heat of the Midwest and Great Plains, before the long-awaited peaks of the Rocky Mountains cooled the air. Up until then, we traveled with an ice chest. As one would expect with ice chests, the tradeoff for the benefits of the chilling effect that they provide is reduced storage volume, soggy food, and required ice replenishment. People often forget that half the ice chest is filled with ice, which cuts the amount of food and drink you can chill in half.

Upon receiving the hand-delivered fridge trailside, we were able to route the 12V plug through the catacombs of the cabin into an auxiliary port to get it plugged in. We then transferred our meager contents into the Dometic CFX 65W’s cavernous insides, dumped the remaining ice and water and were on our way. The Dometic CFX 65W instantly sputtered to life the moment it was plugged in, with a faint 42-decibel whisper of the compressor working to bring its internal temperature down. Within 10 minutes, the fridge was well into the high 30-degree zone, heading for a target of a freezing 32 degrees.

Throughout the trip, the Dometic CFX 65W worked tirelessly throughout the day and night, our stock battery and electrical system not even flinching at the super-low draw of the optimized compressor, and its built-in low-voltage cutout keeping our battery safe. For the next several days, we were able to restock our perishable stores without much concern for remaining space or room for extras, and never a concern of buying a bag of ice. With such amenities, our buying confidence increased and even went as far as having fresh fruit on hand. When was the last time you had fresh fruit at your campground, if ever? We could not answer that question ourselves, and were blown away by our newfound grocery freedom.

3 Things to Consider

The biggest gain is the increase in efficiency of your space available. Everyone that has rocked an ice cooler knows the familiar pain of shoving your hand blindly into the hard-edged ice, hoping that the vague memory of the last can of your favorite soda in the bottom righthand corner under 5 pounds of ice, and whatever else you have in there, is accurate. It is pretty easy to lose items when you are trying to make the most of your space, especially if you load up on ice because you will be out for a few days in the heat.

Thanks to the wonders of technology, ice can be a thing of the past with the Dometic CFX 65W. Capable of cooling the interior all the way down to a balmy -7 degrees F, shelving ice forever means that 106 soda cans can fit inside its cavernous 65L interior space. Dometic claims that because the fridge cools without the need for space-hogging ice, their CFX fridge allows for a 60 percent increase in storage capacity over a comparable size ice chest. We experienced it firsthand because not only could we take a frozen pizza with us on the trail now, we did not need to worry about it getting water logged.

The second factor to consider is there is no longer the need to deal with ice. While ice may not be the biggest headache in the world, not having to be restricted on how far away from services you can travel, while keeping your perishables from not perishing, is a nice weight off your shoulders. Plus, the aforementioned concerns of waterlogging your food are totally gone, not to mention the possibility of leakage and wet floors.

The third thing is the fridge’s super-efficient compressor and electronics, despite the ability to turn your fridge into a sub-zero freezer, drawing less than one amp when running on 12V power with 90-degree ambient temperatures. The ability to take frozen goods with you on a trip is a game changer for meal prep, as well as keeping sensitive medical supplies chilled.

With these points in mind, the best fit for our application was Dometic’s CFX 65W. Priced at $1,130, the CFX-65W is the tallest and largest of the single-zone fridges that Dometic makes. Because we planned to place the fridge in our pickup truck bed, we did not have a height restriction. Those placing a fridge in a car, SUV, or Jeep will want to consider the fridge’s dimensions, as Dometic makes fridges in a wide variety of sizes and applications. The footprint of the Dometic CFX 65W fits perfectly in a multitude of places from the space between the rear-wheel arch and tailgate, to occupying the 40 side of the 60/40 rear bench seat. The unit’s settings can be controlled wirelessly via its built in Wi-Fi antenna and Dometic mobile app.

The Verdict

As the new centerpiece of our camping equipment collection, the Dometic CFX 65W has also found use in daily life, chilling our groceries and keeping drinks cool and on-hand during the sweltering summer months even when we are not at the campground. Built for rugged durability, efficiency, and ease of use, we have been thoroughly impressed with this unit. The Dometic CFX 65W is here to stay.

For more about Dometic’s fridges and other products, visit them at dometic.com.

Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared in the July/August 2019 print issue of Tread Magazine. 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What digital controls are available on the cooler and what can they adjust?

Available Digital Controls on the Cooler

The cooler comes equipped with a variety of digital controls, offering you ultimate convenience and customization. Here’s what you can adjust:

• Temperature Settings:Easily set the desired temperature to keep your items chilled to perfection. Fine-tune the cooling level for different food and drink needs, ensuring everything stays fresh.
• Battery Protection:Safeguard your vehicle’s battery with adjustable protection settings. This feature prevents the cooler from draining the battery by automatically switching off when the battery drops to a certain level.
• Brightness Adjustment:Customize the screen brightness for easy visibility in any lighting conditions. Whether you’re in direct sunlight or using the cooler at night, adjust the brightness to a comfortable level.

Each control allows you to personalize your cooler experience, enhancing both functionality and ease of use.

 

What specifications detail the cooler’s electrical and refrigeration technology?

Cooler Electrical and Refrigeration Specifications

When evaluating the electrical and refrigeration technology of this cooler, several key specifications stand out:

Electrical Specifications

• AC Input Voltage:The cooler requires an alternating current (AC) input of 120 volts.
• DC Input Voltage:It also supports direct current (DC) inputs of either 12 or 24 volts.
• AC Rated Input Current:At 120 volts, the cooler has an input current rating of 0.88 amps.
• DC Rated Input Current:For DC power usage, the current is rated at 8.2 amps.
• Power Consumption:The cooler consumes 58 watts of power.
• Operating Frequency:It functions efficiently at frequencies of both 50 and 60 Hz.

Refrigeration Technology

• Type of Technology:The cooler utilizes compressor-based refrigeration, known for its efficiency and effectiveness.
• Refrigerant Used:It employs R134a refrigerant.
• Refrigerant Quantity:The system requires 57 grams of this refrigerant.
• Noise Levels:The cooler operates at a noise level of 42 dB(A), ensuring a relatively quiet experience while in use.

These specifications collectively highlight the cooler’s advanced electrical and refrigeration capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various power sources and cooling needs.

 

How can the temperature be controlled and monitored on the cooler?

How Can You Control and Monitor the Cooler’s Temperature?

Managing the temperature of your cooler is a breeze thanks to advanced digital controls and connectivity options. Here’s how you can fine-tune and keep an eye on the temperature:

• Digital Display Precision: The cooler is equipped with an intuitive digital display that allows you to easily adjust the temperature. This ensures your items are kept at the ideal conditions with precision, typically maintaining a range of within ±2°F.
• WiFi and App Connectivity: For those who prefer a modern touch, many coolers offer WiFi capability. By using a compatible app, you can monitor and adjust settings remotely on your smartphone or tablet. This convenience lets you manage the cooler’s environment from anywhere, ensuring peace of mind.

With these user-friendly features, ensuring that your cooler maintains the perfect temperature is simple and straightforward.

 

What are the dimensions and weight of the cooler?

When considering the dimensions and weight of this cooler, here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

• Depth:The cooler boasts a depth of 17.91 inches, ensuring ample internal space.
• Height:Standing at 22.09 inches tall, it is designed for convenient storage and access.
• Width:The overall width of the cooler measures 28.54 inches, offering substantial capacity.
• Width Without Handle:If you remove the handle, the width adjusts to a more compact 26.02 inches.
• Weight:Weighing in at 49.17 pounds, the cooler is manageable for transport while still sturdy enough for durability.

This versatile cooler is engineered to meet your storage needs with its spacious yet portable design.

 

Does the cooler include an interior light and organizational features?

Yes, the cooler is equipped with an energy-saving LED light inside, making it easy to see its contents in any lighting conditions. Additionally, the cooler includes removable wire baskets with dividers, allowing you to organize your items efficiently. Whether you’re packing up for a camping trip or a day at the beach, these features ensure everything is neatly arranged and easily accessible.

 

What are the key features of the electric cooler with refrigeration and deep freezing capabilities?

The biggest gain is the increase in efficiency of your space available. Everyone that has rocked an ice cooler knows the familiar pain of shoving your hand blindly into the hard-edged ice, hoping that the vague memory of the last can of your favorite soda in the bottom right-hand corner under 5 pounds of ice, and whatever else you have in there, is accurate. It is pretty easy to lose items when you are trying to make the most of your space, especially if you load up on ice because you will be out for a few days in the heat.

Thanks to the wonders of technology, ice can be a thing of the past with this electric cooler. Capable of cooling the interior all the way down to a balmy -7 degrees F, shelving ice forever means that 106 soda cans can fit inside its cavernous 65L interior space. The cooler allows for a 60 percent increase in storage capacity over a comparable size ice chest. We experienced it firsthand because not only could we take a frozen pizza with us on the trail now, we did not need to worry about it getting waterlogged.

Key Features

• Dimensions & Power Options: Measuring 22″ H x 28.5″ W x 17.9″ D, this cooler is designed to operate seamlessly using AC, DC, and solar power, granting you the freedom to venture off-grid with ease.
• Advanced Cooling & Efficiency: The super-efficient compressor and electronics allow the fridge to function as a sub-zero freezer, drawing less than one amp when running on 12V power even in 90-degree ambient temperatures.

The second factor to consider is there is no longer the need to deal with ice. While ice may not be the biggest headache in the world, not having to be restricted on how far away from services you can travel, while keeping your perishables from not perishing, is a nice weight off your shoulders. Plus, the aforementioned concerns of waterlogging your food are totally gone, not to mention the possibility of leakage and wet floors.

Additional Features

• Battery Protection & Control: A 3-stage dynamic battery protection system ensures your car battery remains charged, while precise temperature control can be managed via a digital display or WiFi app.
• Convenience & Organization: With an energy-efficient LED interior light and removable wire baskets with dividers, organizing your contents is a breeze. A handy drain plug makes cleaning effortless, and reversible lid hinges simplify loading.
• Durability & Utility: Equipped with a durable powder-coated steel handle and glass-filled nylon mounting brackets, this cooler is built to last. Plus, an innovative USB port allows for charging small electronic devices on the go.

The third thing is the fridge’s super-efficient compressor and electronics, despite the ability to turn your fridge into a sub-zero freezer, drawing less than one amp when running on 12V power with 90-degree ambient temperatures. The ability to take frozen goods with you on a trip is a game changer for meal prep, as well as keeping sensitive medical supplies chilled.

 

Does the cooler have any additional features for charging devices?

Yes, it has a USB port for charging small electronic devices.

 

What features aid in organization and convenience?

The cooler includes removable wire baskets with dividers, a drain plug for easy cleaning, and reversible lid hinges for flexible loading.

 

How can the temperature be controlled and monitored?

Temperature control and monitoring are available through a digital display or a WiFi app.

 

What kind of battery protection does the cooler have?

It features a 3 Stage Dynamic Battery Protection System to prevent draining the car’s starter battery.

 

What is the temperature range the cooler can achieve?

It can deep-freeze to temperatures as low as -7°F.

 

What is the exact capacity of the cooler?

The cooler can hold up to 106 cans or has a 60-liter capacity.

 

How is the cooler constructed to withstand rugged use?

Built for rugged durability, efficiency, and ease of use, we have been thoroughly impressed with this unit. The Dometic CFX 65W is here to stay.

This cooler is designed for those who need a reliable companion in the great outdoors. Its construction features reinforced corners and stainless steel hinges, ensuring that it stands strong against the toughest of loads. The robust lid lining adds an extra layer of protection, making it an ideal choice for those who demand performance and resilience.

The tall design of the CFX 65W not only provides a generous refrigeration or freezing capacity but also allows for a modest footprint. This clever design maximizes space in the back of your vehicle, offering more room to pack other essentials around it.

With the convenience of a WiFi App, temperature management is at your fingertips, making the CFX 65W not just durable but also smart and user-friendly. Whether you’re off on a family adventure or a solo expedition, this coolerdelivers dependable cooling performance, anytime and anywhere.

 

What kind of use is the cooler designed for?

Designed with larger groups or families in mind, it caters to extensive refrigeration or freezing needs and is suitable for those unconstrained by height limitations.

 

What additional features does the cooler offer for convenience?

The cooler includes a Wifi App, which facilitates easy and convenient management of temperature settings.

 

What is the design focus of the cooler?

It features a tall design that optimizes space usage with a modest footprint, allowing for efficient packing around it in a vehicle.

 

How is the cooler designed for durability and ease of use?

The Dometic CFX 65W has also found use in daily life, chilling our groceries and keeping drinks cool and on-hand during the sweltering summer months even when we are not at the campground. Built for rugged durability, efficiency, and ease of use, we have been thoroughly impressed with this unit.

Designed with adventure seekers in mind, this cooler offers a robust set of features that ensure long-lasting performance. It boasts reinforced corners and stainless steel hinges, making it a reliable companion for even the most demanding journeys. The tall design maximizes internal storage without taking up excessive space, allowing you to pack it seamlessly into your vehicle.

For convenience, the CFX 65W comes equipped with a WiFi App, which allows easy temperature management from your smartphone. This tech-forward feature ensures your items remain at the perfect chill, whether you’re on the road or relaxing at home.

The cooler’s folding handles are another thoughtful touch—serving as tie-down points when necessary but easily detachable for streamlined transport. These user-friendly features combine to deliver a premium cooling experience that is tough, portable, and versatile enough to fit into any lifestyle.

 

How can the cooler be handled or secured?

The cooler features folding handles that can be used as tie-down points for secure transportation or detached when not needed.

 

What technology features are included for ease of use?

It includes a WiFi-enabled app that allows you to conveniently manage the temperature settings remotely.

 

How does the cooler’s design optimize space?

Its tall structure allows for a smaller footprint, which means you can easily pack additional items around it, making efficient use of space in your vehicle.

 

What are the specific design features that enhance durability?

The cooler is built with heavy-duty elements such as reinforced corners and stainless steel hinges, designed to withstand demanding conditions.

 

How does the cooler ensure low power consumption and what power sources can it use?

The fridge’s super-efficient compressor and electronics, despite the ability to turn your fridge into a sub-zero freezer, draw less than one amp when running on 12V power with 90-degree ambient temperatures. This impressive efficiency is achieved through advanced compressor technology, ensuring ultra-low power consumption.

Power Versatility

• AC Power: Perfect for home use or when connected to a generator.
• DC Power: Ideal for vehicles, RVs, and boats.
• Solar Power: Embrace the freedom to go completely off-grid, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious adventurers.

With such versatility, you can enjoy the flexibility of multiple power sources, allowing your adventures to be more sustainable and less dependent on traditional electricity. Whether you’re on a road trip or camping under the stars, this fridge keeps your goods cool with minimal environmental impact.

 

What are the potential benefits of the cooler’s power capabilities?

With its ability to use solar power, the cooler offers the advantage of going off-grid, providing freedom and flexibility for adventurous or remote applications.

 

What technology contributes to the cooler’s low power consumption?

The technology responsible for its low power consumption is its advanced compressor electronics, which are designed for maximum efficiency.

 

What types of power sources can the cooler use?

The cooler is versatile and can operate using AC, DC, and solar power, making it adaptable for various settings and needs.

 

What makes the cooler suitable for family and group adventures?

The biggest gain is the increase in efficiency of your available space. Everyone who has used an ice cooler knows the familiar pain of shoving your hand blindly into the hard-edged ice, hoping that the vague memory of the last can of your favorite soda in the bottom right-hand corner under 5 pounds of ice, and whatever else you have in there, is accurate. It’s pretty easy to lose items when you’re trying to make the most of your space, especially if you load up on ice because you’ll be out for a few days in the heat.

Thanks to the wonders of technology, ice can be a thing of the past with the Dometic CFX 65W. Capable of cooling the interior all the way down to a balmy -7 degrees F, shelving ice forever means that 106 soda cans can fit inside its cavernous 65L interior space. Dometic claims that because the fridge cools without the need for space-hogging ice, their CFX fridge allows for a 60 percent increase in storage capacity over a comparable size ice chest. We experienced it firsthand because not only could we take a frozen pizza with us on the trail now, we did not need to worry about it getting waterlogged.

Designed for Group Adventures

This cooler is perfect for families and groups heading out on adventures. Its generous refrigeration or freezing capacity caters to the needs of larger families, making sure everyone’s favorite snacks and drinks are kept perfectly chilled. The tall design of the cooler results in a modest footprint, leaving ample room to pack items around it in the back of your vehicle—essential for maximizing space on family trips.

The second factor to consider is there is no longer the need to deal with ice. While ice may not be the biggest headache in the world, not having to be restricted on how far away from services you can travel, while keeping your perishables from not perishing, is a nice weight off your shoulders. Plus, the aforementioned concerns of waterlogging your food are totally gone, not to mention the possibility of leakage and wet floors.

Built for Durability and Reliability

Adventure seekers will appreciate the cooler’s robust reinforced features, ensuring a quality cooling performance you can depend upon anytime and anywhere. This makes it an ideal companion for rugged journeys, where reliability and durability are non-negotiable.

Embrace the future of cooling technology that enhances your adventure experience, whether you’re hitting the trails or enjoying a family camping trip. With this cooler, every outing becomes a little more organized and a lot less stressful.

 

What are the available power input options and requirements for the cooler?

Upon receiving the hand-delivered fridge trailside, we were able to route the 12V plug through the catacombs of the cabin into an auxiliary port to get it plugged in. We then transferred our meager contents into the Dometic CFX 65W’s cavernous insides, dumped the remaining ice and water and were on our way. The Dometic CFX 65W instantly sputtered to life the moment it was plugged in, with a faint 42-decibel whisper of the compressor working to bring its internal temperature down.

This cooler isn’t just about convenience; it’s engineered for versatility and efficiency. Powering it up is a breeze:

• Input Voltage:Whether you’re near a standard outlet or on the go, the cooler accommodates both 120V AC and flexible 12/24V DC inputs.
• Rated Input Current:It efficiently draws 0.88A on AC at 120V, while requiring 8.2A on DC, ensuring compatibility with various power sources.
• Rated Input Power:At just 58W, it’s designed for energy conservation, vital for extended trips.
• Input Frequency:Compatible with both 50/60Hz, it adapts seamlessly to international power standards.

With such a robust power setup, the cooler guarantees that wherever your adventures take you, keeping your supplies chilled is one less thing to worry about.

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