The ICECO GO12 is small and compact and the quality is excellent. Watch the video for the unboxing and read on for my initial thoughts about this amazing little camping refrigerator and why I think it’s the Best 12v refrigerator for camping
I purchased the ICECO GO12 – 12v Refrigerator for my T@G
ICECO GO12 – Best 12v Refrigerator for Camping
The ICECO GO12 runs on 12/24V DC or 110V AC and there are 2 modes to the refrigerator, Max mode, which you can use when first starting up to cool it down quickly, and Eco mode, which I use to conserve as much power as possible.
How much power does the ICECO GO12 use when running?
The compressor is very quiet while running, it would be perfect if you used this in a van build out or car camping. In my testing, it uses about 4.0 amps of power when the compressor is running. Keep in mind the compressor does not run all of the time, only when cooling down the temperature.
ICECO GO12 Phone App
The phone app that works with the ICECO GO12 is called “CAR FRIDGE” and is very helpful as you can control the temperature with the app – in my case this is really helpful because I have the refrigerator in the clamshell kitchen in the back of my camper, and I can check or change the temp when in my camper without opening the clamshell. The app will also tell you how much battery life you have left on your camper battery or battery pack. Here is a screen shot from the app.
ICECO GO12 Safety Setting – Battery Saver
The ICECO GO12 has a safety setting or battery saver mode meant to protect your car battery from draining too low. If you are plugged into your car battery, you will want to set the safety mode to Medium or High. However, when running the ICECO GO12 with a power station such as the GOAL Zero 400 like I do, and find that the ICECO GO12 is not working while plugged into the power station, you will want to adjust the battery saver setting to low for the ICECO to run properly.
Using the ICECO while Boondocking
When boondocking, I use the Goal Zero Yeti 400 and solar panel to power the iCECO. I plug the 12v connector into the 12v plug in the Yeti, and I plug the power station into my car with a 12v charger when driving between destinations. When I am at the campsite, I use the solar panel to charge the power station. If you are car camping, or in an area with bears, you can keep both the refrigerator and the power station in your car, put the solar panel on the roof of your vehicle and run the cord through the window to the power station. This method has worked great for me, just make sure you keep both the Goal Zero and the ICECO out of the sun so they don’t overheat. Reflectix window coverings can help with this.
**Since writing this review I have upgraded to the ICECO GO20 for more room and dual zones for refrigerator and freezer. ICECO seems to no longer have the GO12 in stock. Goal Zero has also discontinued the Yeti 400 and replaced it with the Yeti 500. Same concept, just more power.
Shop for ICECO and Goal Zero
Separate Control, 21 Quart/20 Liter, DC & AC, 0℉ to 50℉, with Danfoss Compressor, Mini Fridge Cooler Refrigerator for Outdoor, Home Use, White
Used to safely and efficiently charge a Sherpa 100AC, Goal Zero Yeti X, Lithium, or Lead-Acid from a 12V source, featuring a protective 15A user-replaceable fuse.
This power station’s 505 Watt Hours pack a punch. Complete your overlanding rig or prep for extended camping trips – this station will power everything from portable fridges to phones.
