The Dometic CoolMatic RPD218, originally sold under the Waeco CoolMatic brand, is one of Dometic's largest upright compressor refrigerators designed for caravans, motorhomes, commercial vehicles and marine applications. With a generous 218-litre capacity, separate freezer compartment and premium compressor cooling technology, the RPD218 delivers reliable refrigeration performance in even the harshest Australian conditions.
Unlike traditional 3-way absorption refrigerators, the RPD218 uses a high-performance Secop (formerly Danfoss) compressor system, providing rapid cooling, superior freezer performance and dependable operation on uneven terrain. Its ability to operate efficiently in ambient temperatures up to 43°C has made it a popular choice for travellers exploring Australia's hottest regions.
About the Dometic CoolMatic RPD218
The RPD218 is the larger sibling to the RPD190, sharing the same cabinet width and depth while offering additional storage capacity through increased height.
Key Specifications
Capacity
- Total capacity: 218 litres
- Refrigerator compartment: 174 litres
- Freezer compartment: 44 litres
- Separate upper freezer door
Dimensions
Overall Dimensions
- Height: 1445 mm
- Width: 610 mm
- Depth: 655 mm
Cabinet Cut-Out
- Height: 1437 mm
- Width: 612 mm
- Depth: 605 mm
Weight
Power Supply
- 12V DC
- 24V DC
- 100–240V AC (50/60Hz)
Compressor
- Secop (Danfoss) BD50F compressor
Refrigerant
Climate Rating
- Tropical (T)
- Rated for ambient temperatures from +16°C to +43°C
Key Features
Heavy-Duty Compressor Cooling
The RPD218 uses proven Secop compressor technology, providing:
- Fast cool-down times
- Consistent freezer temperatures
- Excellent tropical climate performance
- Reliable operation on slopes and uneven ground
- Efficient operation with solar and lithium battery systems
Unlike absorption refrigerators, compressor fridges do not require the vehicle to be level for effective operation.
Automatic AC/DC Power Priority
The integrated smart power management system automatically switches to 240V AC power when available, preserving battery capacity and improving overall energy efficiency.
Multiple Operating Modes
The RPD218 allows users to select from three operating modes:
Turbo Mode
- Maximum compressor performance
- Rapid cooling of warm food and drinks
Normal Mode
- Optimised everyday operation
- Balanced cooling and efficiency
Economy Mode
- Reduced power consumption
- Extended battery runtime
- Ideal for overnight operation
Premium Touring Features
The RPD218 includes:
- Separate 44L freezer compartment
- Interior LED lighting
- Automatic refrigerator defrosting
- Adjustable shelving
- Bottle retainers
- Mechanical travel-lock latches
- Shelf retaining wire system for rough road travel
RPD218 vs RPD190
| Feature |
RPD190 |
RPD218 |
| Total Capacity |
190L |
218L |
| Refrigerator Capacity |
146L |
174L |
| Freezer Capacity |
44L |
44L |
| Height |
1310mm |
1445mm |
| Width |
610mm |
610mm |
| Depth |
655mm |
655mm |
| Cut-Out Height |
1303mm |
1437mm |
Because both models share the same width and depth footprint, the RPD218 is often chosen as a direct upgrade where additional cabinet height is available.
Replacement Information
While the RPD218 remains a highly regarded refrigerator platform, replacement may eventually become necessary due to age, wear or cooling system damage. Main reason for replacement is development of an internal coolant leak.
Suitable modern alternatives may include:
- Dometic RUC Series refrigerators
In many cases, however, replacing individual components remains significantly more cost-effective than replacing the entire refrigerator.
Why Buy Dometic Spare Parts from Everything Caravans?
Everything Caravans has supplied and serviced Dometic products since 1975. As Australia's longest-standing Dometic Service Agent, we provide genuine spare parts backed by real workshop knowledge and decades of hands-on experience.
When you buy from an authorised Dometic distributor, you get reliable parts, accurate advice, and support from a team that works with these products every day.
Whether you're replacing a thermostat, temperature sensor, shelf, door seal, latch, control board, fan motor or electrical component, our team can help identify the correct part for your refrigerator and provide practical advice based on real-world servicing experience.
Spare Parts Available
We stock a wide range of Dometic RPD218 spare parts, including:
- Door seals and gaskets
- Freezer door seals
- Door shelves and bottle retainers
- Interior shelves
- Shelf retaining wires
- Thermostats
- Temperature sensors
- Electronic control boards
- Interior LED lighting components
- Door latches and lock assemblies
- Cooling fans
- Power supply modules
- Compressor electrical components
- Ventilation components
- Crisper components
- General service and maintenance parts
Many components are shared across the wider Dometic and Waeco compressor refrigerator range, including the RPD190.
Whether you're replacing a damaged shelf, faulty thermostat, worn door seal or electronic control component, our range of Dometic RPD218 spare parts can help keep your refrigerator operating reliably for years to come.