Upright Fridges - Built In
Upright 3-Way Absorption Fridges for Caravans & Motorhomes.
Upright 3-way fridges are a popular refrigeration choice for New Zealand caravans, offering a familiar home-style layout with the ultimate off-grid flexibility. Unlike compressor models, these absorption fridges have no moving parts, which makes them incredibly resistant to wear and tear. Their standout feature is completely silent operation, ensuring your sleep isn't disturbed by a humming motor.
We stock the best 3-way brands in NZ, including Dometic, Vitrifrigo, Thetford and Challenger, with sizes ranging from compact wheel-arch models to large-capacity family fridge-freezers.
The Freedom of Auto Energy Select (AES) Technology
A "3-way" fridge allows you to run on 12V DC, 230V AC, or LPG gas. Many of our premium models feature AES (Auto Energy Select), a smart control system that automatically finds the best available power source. AES prioritises your energy use in this order:
- 230V Mains: Selected automatically when you plug into a powered site or home outlet.
- 12V DC: Draws power from your towing vehicle’s alternator while you are driving to maintain temperature.
- LPG Gas: Starts up automatically once you park up at a remote campsite, providing weeks of cooling from a single 9kg gas bottle.
Installation Requirements for Performance and Safety
To ensure your absorption fridge performs correctly in the New Zealand climate, correct installation is vital. These units rely on a gravity-fed chemical reaction and heat exchange, meaning they must be installed perfectly level. Key installation factors include:
- Sealed Cabinetry: The fridge must be installed against an external wall within a sealed enclosure to keep combustion fumes out of the living area.
- External Venting: Side vents must be fitted to the caravan wall to provide a steady flow of air across the back of the unit. Without proper ventilation, the fridge will struggle to cool in summer.
- Gas Certification: In New Zealand, all gas connections must be performed and certified by a registered gas fitter to comply with safety regulations and maintain your warranty.
Reliable Cooling for the Kiwi Road Trip
Whether you are freedom camping by the coast or parked in a premium resort, a 3-way upright fridge gives you the freedom to travel without worrying about battery capacity. Browse our extensive range today to find the perfect upright fridge for your caravan layout and enjoy the peace of silent, reliable refrigeration. If you have questions about sizing or installation, our expert team is here to help.
Challenger 90L 3 Way Fridge Freezer. 90L 12V/230V/Gas. Wheel Arch Model
Product Code: R1419Special Price $2,295.00 Regular Price $2,395.00
Challenger 185 Fridge Freezer. 185L 230V/Gas
Product Code: R1412Special Price $3,195.00 Regular Price $3,299.00
Challenger 225 Fridge Freezer. 218L 230V/Gas
Product Code: R1420Special Price $3,575.00 Regular Price $3,650.00




