Dometic CFX2 28 Portable 12V Refrigerator Freezer – 28L (97000040395)

The Dometic CFX2 28 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer (97000040395) brings dependable compressor cooling to RVs, camper vans, trucks, boats, and off-grid adventures. With a 28-liter capacity, adjustable temperatures down to -7°F (-22°C), and the ability to operate on 12V DC, 24V DC, or household AC power, the CFX2 28 keeps food and drinks cold without the need for ice.

Unlike traditional coolers, the Dometic CFX2 uses an electrically powered compressor to maintain a controlled temperature regardless of whether you're connected to shore power or running from a compatible battery system. It can operate as either a refrigerator or a freezer, giving you flexibility for camping trips, road travel, and additional food storage.

The compact design includes an easy-to-read digital control panel, Bluetooth app connectivity, removable storage basket, interior LED light, USB charging port, and durable folding handles.

Whether you're adding extra refrigeration to your RV, outfitting a camper van, or looking for a portable refrigerator you can take from your vehicle to the campsite, the CFX2 28 delivers convenient cooling without melting ice or soggy food.

Key Features

• 28-Liter Storage Capacity: Compact portable refrigerator/freezer with room for up to 36 cans, depending on can size and packing arrangement.

• Refrigerator or Freezer Operation: Adjustable temperature range from -7°F to 68°F (-22°C to 20°C).

• 12V/24V DC Compatibility: Operates from compatible vehicle and RV electrical systems.

• 100–240V AC Operation: Can also run from household electricity, shore power, or a compatible generator.

• Energy-Efficient Compressor: Variable-speed compressor adjusts operation to meet cooling demands.

• Three-Stage Battery Protection: Selectable battery protection helps reduce the risk of excessively discharging a vehicle's battery.

• Bluetooth App Control: Monitor and adjust temperature using the Dometic Mobile Cooling app.

• Digital Temperature Display: Built-in controls make temperature adjustments easy without a smartphone.

• USB Charging Port: Integrated 5V USB output for compatible small electronic devices.

• LED Interior Light: Makes it easier to find food and drinks in low-light conditions.

• Removable Storage Basket: Simplifies loading, unloading, and cleaning.

• Drain Plug: Allows easier draining and cleaning.

• Durable Construction: Reinforced corners, stainless steel hinges, and folding handles for portable use.

• No Ice Required: The entire cooling compartment can be used for food and drinks instead of ice packs.

Technical Specifications

How Much Battery Power Does the Dometic CFX2 28 Use?

One of the biggest advantages of a portable 12V compressor refrigerator is its ability to operate from an RV house battery without constantly running a generator.

Unlike a refrigerator heating element, which may draw power continuously, the CFX2's compressor cycles according to the cooling demand.

Actual battery consumption depends on several factors:

• Ambient temperature

• Refrigerator temperature setting

• How frequently the lid is opened

• Amount and temperature of food inside

• Ventilation around the compressor

• Battery voltage and electrical connections

• Whether the cooler is being used for refrigeration or freezing

Understanding Battery Consumption

Dometic has published an average consumption figure of approximately 0.611Ah per hour at 12V under specified test conditions for the CFX2 28, with a 4°C refrigerator setting, Bluetooth enabled, Wi-Fi disabled, and 32°C ambient temperature.

Under those particular conditions, that works out to approximately:

These are estimates based on the published test figure, not guaranteed real-world consumption.

Actual power usage may be substantially higher during initial cool-down, freezing operation, extreme heat, or frequent lid openings.

Important: The published rated input current and average energy consumption are not the same measurement. The compressor draws substantially more current while operating than its average consumption over a full day.

Can You Run the CFX2 28 From a 100Ah RV Battery?

Yes. The CFX2 28 can operate from a properly configured 12V battery system, including many AGM and LiFePO4 RV house battery installations.

For example, a fully charged 100Ah lithium battery could theoretically supply approximately 100 amp-hours of energy before accounting for battery protection limits and other electrical loads.

Using the published 14.7Ah-per-day test example, refrigeration alone would account for approximately 15% of the battery's nominal capacity each day.

That does not mean the refrigerator will automatically operate for nearly a week from a 100Ah battery. Actual conditions, battery condition, other loads, and usable battery capacity all affect runtime.

For AGM batteries, routinely limiting depth of discharge may reduce the amount of capacity available for planning purposes.

If you're camping off-grid, combining the CFX2 with a properly sized house battery, solar charging equipment, and battery monitor can help you manage refrigeration without unexpectedly draining your battery bank.

Understanding the Three-Stage Battery Protection System

The Dometic CFX2 28 includes a three-stage battery protection system designed to reduce the chance of discharging your vehicle battery too far.

This is especially useful when operating the cooler from a car or truck battery that must still have enough power to start the engine.

Battery protection settings allow different levels of protection depending on the installation.

Which Battery Protection Setting Should You Use?

Vehicle Starter Battery: A higher protection setting is generally preferred when operating from the same battery used to start your engine. The refrigerator will stop operating sooner as voltage drops, helping preserve starting power.

Dedicated RV House Battery: A lower protection setting may allow greater use of available battery capacity, provided the battery manufacturer's operating limits are respected.

Lithium Battery System: Use a setting appropriate for the lithium battery and its BMS. The refrigerator's built-in protection is not a replacement for a lithium battery management system.

Why Does My CFX2 Shut Off When the Battery Still Has Power?

A refrigerator can shut down because of low voltage at its electrical input even when the battery itself still has usable capacity.

Possible causes include:

• Battery voltage dropping under compressor load

• Undersized DC wiring

• Loose or corroded connections

• Excessive voltage drop through an extension cable

• A poorly connected 12V accessory socket

• Battery protection set too high for the application

If your cooler works on household AC power but shuts down intermittently on 12V DC, checking voltage at the refrigerator while the compressor is starting is an important troubleshooting step.

Refrigerator or Freezer: Can the CFX2 28 Do Both?

Yes. The CFX2 28 is a single-zone compressor refrigerator/freezer.

You can adjust the temperature for refrigerated food and beverages or lower the setting for frozen foods.

For normal food refrigeration, a setting around 37°F (3°C) is a common starting point.

For frozen food storage, 0°F (-18°C) is a typical target when operating conditions allow.

The CFX2 can reach temperatures as low as -7°F (-22°C) under suitable conditions, but maximum cooling performance depends on ambient temperature and available ventilation.

Important: The CFX2 28 has one independently controlled cooling zone. It cannot maintain separate refrigerator and freezer temperatures simultaneously like a dual-zone model.

Installing the Dometic CFX2 28 in an RV or Camper Van

Because the CFX2 28 is portable, installation is relatively straightforward. However, correct electrical connections and ventilation are important for reliable operation.

Installation Recommendations

1. Choose a Stable Location: Position the cooler on a secure, level surface with adequate space for ventilation.

2. Check Available Space: Verify the cooler's outside dimensions and allow additional clearance for opening the lid, folding handles, and air circulation.

3. Connect the Correct Power Supply: Use the appropriate included cable for 12/24V DC or 100–240V AC operation.

4. Avoid Undersized Extension Cables: Long or undersized DC cables can create voltage drop, potentially causing compressor startup or low-voltage problems.

5. Protect Against Movement: Secure the cooler appropriately when traveling so it cannot tip, slide, or obstruct passengers.

6. Set Battery Protection: Choose the appropriate protection setting for your starting battery or dedicated house battery.

7. Allow Initial Cool-Down: When practical, pre-cool the refrigerator and its contents before leaving on a trip to reduce battery demand.

8. Keep Ventilation Openings Clear: Do not block the compressor ventilation areas or install the cooler inside a tightly enclosed cabinet without suitable airflow.

Can the CFX2 28 Be Permanently Installed?

The cooler can be used in a dedicated RV storage area if it is secured correctly and has the ventilation and access required by Dometic.

Its portable design makes it particularly useful for slide-out storage compartments, camper vans, cargo areas, and other installations where a traditional built-in refrigerator may not fit.

Verify installation clearances and mounting hardware requirements before creating a fixed installation.

Common Dometic CFX2 Problems & Troubleshooting

CFX2 Works on AC Power but Not 12V DC

If your cooler works when plugged into household electricity but not from your vehicle, begin by checking the DC supply.

Inspect the power cable, accessory socket, battery voltage, and electrical connections.

Voltage drop under load is a common reason portable compressor refrigerators struggle on DC power.

Compressor Runs but the Refrigerator Isn't Getting Cold Enough

Check the temperature setting and verify the lid is closing and sealing properly.

Make sure the ventilation openings are clear and the cooler isn't operating in a tightly enclosed, overheated compartment.

Warm food, frequent lid openings, and high ambient temperatures can increase cool-down time.

Refrigerator Turns Off Overnight

Possible causes include a discharged battery, voltage drop, or activation of the battery protection system.

Check the battery's state of charge and measure DC voltage at the cooler while it is operating.

If the refrigerator shuts off only when running on battery power, investigate the electrical supply before assuming the compressor is defective.

Refrigerator Temperature Reading Seems Incorrect

Allow time for the interior temperature to stabilize after changing the setting or loading warm food.

Temperature can vary within the cabinet depending on the placement of contents and whether the compressor is actively cooling.

If the temperature seems unusually inaccurate, compare readings using a separate reliable thermometer.

Bluetooth App Won't Connect

Confirm that Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone and that you're using the supported Dometic Mobile Cooling app.

Move closer to the cooler and check that it has electrical power.

If communication remains unavailable, consult Dometic's current pairing and troubleshooting instructions.

Refrigerator Is Making Noise

Compressor refrigeration normally produces some operating noise and vibration.

A small amount of humming or vibration during compressor operation may be normal.

If the cooler develops loud rattling or unusual vibration, verify that it is positioned securely and that objects are not contacting the cabinet or ventilation areas.

What's Included?

The Dometic CFX2 28 package includes:

• Dometic CFX2 28 Portable Electric Refrigerator/Freezer

• 12/24V DC Connection Cable

• 100–240V AC Connection Cable

• Removable Interior Wire Basket

• Manufacturer Operating Instructions

The unit does not include an internal rechargeable battery. An external electrical power source is required for operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Dometic CFX2 28 Need Ice?

No. The CFX2 28 uses an electric compressor to provide refrigeration or freezing without ice.

Can I Run the CFX2 28 on Propane?

No. This is an electrically powered compressor refrigerator, not a propane absorption refrigerator.

It operates from compatible DC or AC electricity.

Can the CFX2 28 Run From a Regular 12V Car Outlet?

Yes, provided the outlet, wiring, fuse, and electrical system can safely support the refrigerator's operating and startup requirements.

Not all 12V accessory outlets or extension cables provide the same electrical capacity.

Does the CFX2 28 Have a Built-In Battery?

No. The CFX2 requires an external power source, such as a compatible vehicle battery, RV house battery, or AC connection.

Can I Use the CFX2 With Lithium Batteries?

Yes. It can operate from a compatible 12V or 24V lithium battery system when the installation provides the correct voltage, current capacity, and electrical protection.

The lithium battery must have its own appropriate BMS protection.

Does the Dometic CFX2 28 Have Wi-Fi?

The CFX2 28 supports smartphone connectivity, including Bluetooth control through Dometic's Mobile Cooling app. Wireless features and availability may depend on the app version and supported device configuration.

How Many Cans Fit in the CFX2 28?

Dometic advertises capacity for up to 36 cans. Actual capacity depends on can dimensions and how the contents are arranged.

Is the Dometic CFX2 28 a Dual-Zone Refrigerator?

No. The CFX2 28 is a single-zone refrigerator/freezer, meaning the cooling compartment operates at one selected temperature.

Can I Power the CFX2 With Solar Panels?

Yes, when solar panels charge an appropriately configured battery system through a suitable solar charge controller.

Solar panels should not be connected directly to the cooler without the proper electrical system.

What Is the Difference Between the CFX2 28 and CFX2 37?

The CFX2 28 has a 28-liter capacity, while the CFX2 37 has a larger 37-liter capacity.

Both use compressor refrigeration, offer adjustable cooling, and operate on compatible AC and DC power sources.

The CFX2 28 is a good choice when portability and available space are priorities.

Important Compatibility Information

Dometic 97000040395 is the CFX2 28 portable 28-liter refrigerator/freezer.

It should not be confused with the larger CFX2 37, CFX2 45, or other CFX portable refrigerator models.

This unit requires an external 12/24V DC or 100–240V AC power supply and does not operate on propane.

The Dometic CFX2 28 (97000040395) is an excellent choice for RV owners looking for a portable, efficient refrigerator/freezer that can travel from the RV to the tow vehicle, campsite, or boat.

At RV Fridge Guys, we understand that refrigeration is only as dependable as the electrical system powering it. Choosing the right refrigerator, maintaining reliable battery power, and installing the correct wiring can make the difference between a great camping trip and a cooler full of spoiled food.