What Gauge Wire Should I Use To Install RV Mini Fridge 15 Feet From Battery?

Updated 08/15/2025 | Published 07/23/2025

Question:

What gauge wire should I use for the install? My run is about 15 feet from the battery.

asked by: Tyler

Expert Reply:

For a 15-foot run on a 12V circuit like with the Everchill RV mini fridges, you’ll want 10 AWG wire minimum to handle the amp draw safely and reduce voltage . The mini fridges typically draws around 5 amps when running, but spikes can hit 10-15 amps, so pairing that with a 20A inline fuse or breaker is the way to go.

What size is your old mini fridge?
Here are two sizes from Everchill that you can compare to:
-Everchill 3.3 cubic feet 12v RV Refrigerator # EV66RR (left handed hinges are on left side as you look at it from the front)
-Dimensions: 19" wide x 32-3/4" tall x 19" deep

-Everchill 4.5 cubic feet 12v RV Refrigerator # EV96RR (also left-handed)
-Dimensions: 19" wide x 43-1/2" tall x 21-1/2" deep

expert reply by: Andrew N

ev66rr dimensions
(click to enlarge)

ev96rr dimensions
(click to enlarge)

Andrew N.

8/15/2025

Hey, did you decide on the right wire gauge for your fridge installation? I'm curious to know if the 10 AWG wire and 20A fuse worked out for you, as it could really help others in a similar situation.