Dometic CFX3 55IM Powered Cooler + Icemaker
Quick Verdict
Car camping, overlanding, van-life, tailgating and RV/home backup where ample 12/24V or AC power is available and you need full fridge/freezer capability plus on-board ice
Budget or ultralight backpacking, moto-camping, or solo hiking — too heavy, bulky and power-hungry for pack-based use
Key Specifications
About This Gear
This powered cooler provides the convenience of refrigeration and ice-making on the go. Its energy-efficient design can run off a car battery without draining it. On the downside, its high price point may be a deterrent for some.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
6 positive findingsVery large usable capacity (~53 L) that holds ~80+ cans without wasting space on ice
Most reviewersStrong cooling/freezer performance (can reach about −7 °F/−22 °C and hold stable fridge temps even in hot ambient)
Most reviewersQuiet and energy-efficient compressor (rated ~48 dB; draws ~8.9 A on 12 V; efficient daily draw in tests)
Most reviewersSturdy build with reinforced ExoFrame, stainless hinges and strong handles
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
6 considerationsHigh price — MSRP around $1,000–$1,080 (often rarely below ~$800 new)
Most reviewersHeavy and bulky (~47 lbs / 21.3 kg) — needs a vehicle or two-person lift and can be difficult to fit in tight spaces
Most reviewersIce-maker significantly increases power draw (roughly double draw when on) — heavy battery drain if used off-grid
Most reviewersSingle-zone design (aside from small ice compartment) — cannot independently set two separate temperatures
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Designed for normal to tropical ambients (climate class N/T). Performs best in moderate temps; will operate in hot conditions if adequately powered.
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- keeping perishables cold on vehicle-based trips
- coastal and temperate environments
- moderate to high ambient temps when powered
Limitations
- requires sufficient battery/shore power in hot ambient or when using ice-maker
- not suitable for pack-based or ultralight travel
- do not plug AC and DC simultaneously (recall/advisory)
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users praise the CFX3 55IM for roomy capacity, strong cooling and smart controls, but many note the steep price, weight, and that the ice-maker increases power draw; a minority report early QC issues or mixed warranty experiences.
What Users Love
- large capacity
- reliable cooling/freezing
- quiet operation
- durable ExoFrame build
- easy app/display control
Common Concerns
- high cost
- heavy/bulky
- ice-maker drains battery
- occasional quality-control issues
- mixed parts/warranty support experiences
- many owners report long service life and CFX series longevity
- some reports of early compressor faults and latch/screw issues in a minority of units
runs large (bulky/tall for some vehicle setups)
manufacturer warranty typically 2 years; mixed reports on claim turnaround and on availability of replacement accessories/parts
Expert Reviews
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- drain and dry after trips; clean interior with mild soap
- store with lid slightly ajar in long-term storage to avoid mold
- check cables, inline fuse and seals regularly; avoid over-tensioning DC cord
- turn off ice-maker if not needed to save power
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- compressor start faults / 'Warning 33' in a minority of units
- latch/hinge or missing screw issues on some early units
- DC cigarette-plug cable failures or blown inline fuses
Safety Notice
safety advisory/recall issued warning not to connect AC and DC simultaneously (risk of backflow/damage/fire)
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Dometic CFX3 55 (no ice-maker)
- about $150 cheaper
- roughly 1 kg lighter
- more internal usable space (ice compartment removed)
- lower power draw when compared to the ice-maker model
if you want the same cooling performance and build but more usable volume and slightly better efficiency without the ice-maker
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear
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