Dometic NRX Compressor Fridge: Tracing the Coolmatic Legacy

In 1974, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of West Germany, Waeco was founded. This company quickly established itself as a symbol of quality and innovation in mobile cooling, enhancing the experiences of travellers, adventurers, and families on the road.

As the years rolled on, Waeco's legacy caught the eye of the Dometic Group. The acquisition in 2007 was more than a corporate merger; it was a melding of minds, a fusion of visions. However, it wasn't until a decade later that Dometic fully integrated the Waeco brand name, a transition marked with respect and strategy. The CoolMatic, a flagship of the Waeco line, was rechristened as Dometic CoolMatic, a nod to its illustrious past.

Dometic's decision to retain the CoolMatic name was a tribute to a brand beloved by Australian consumers. The gradual phase-out of the CoolMatic name, culminating in the 2023 launch of the Dometic NRX series, illustrated a seamless transition, allowing customers to witness and appreciate the evolution of the brand.

The original Waeco CoolMatic CR series offered models that operated on 12V/24V DC power. This range included various sizes to suit different needs, with models like the CR-50, CR-65, CR-80, CR-110, and CR-140, providing a spectrum of options for mobile cooling.

Dometic enhanced the range with the ability to be run from 240V AC power sources. This addition, while expanding the range's capabilities, also led to some confusion due to similarities in model designations. For example the transformation of the popular CR-110 model into the CR-1110. The new model featured updated 240V capabilities, but this upgrade came with a catch - many components from the original CR-110, including shelves, doors, and fridge locks, were no longer compatible. This led to the informal naming of these models as the CR-1 range.

Further evolving, Dometic transitioned to the Coolmatic CRX series. This series, encompassing models like the CRX-50, CRX-65, CRX-80, CRX-110, and CRX-140, largely maintained compatibility with the CR-1 series. This demonstrated Dometic's commitment to improving their products while considering the needs and conveniences of their customers.

The latest era of caravan fridge is the Dometic NRX, a testament to modern compressor cooling technology, designed for the evolving caravan and marine lifestyles. The NRX range comprises two distinct series: the S series, which features a sleek stainless steel front panel, and the C series, characterised by its classic dark grey panel. Both series offer a versatile 3-in-1 cooling system, functioning seamlessly as a fridge, freezer, or a combination of both, depending on your travel needs.

One of the most remarkable features of the NRX Fridge is its exceptional energy efficiency, consuming up to 25% less energy than comparable models. This is largely attributed to its advanced compact compressor and electric module, which boast an impressive energy usage of just 0.22kw per 24 hours. The compressor's intelligent speed adaptation to varying ambient temperatures ensures efficient cooling under any climatic condition.

Each model in the NRX series is designed with practicality and style in mind. The units come with a frameless door, equipped with a full-width handle and a reversible door hinge, facilitating flexible installation in any layout. The interior is thoughtfully designed to maximise space and organisation. The easily removable freezer compartment, allows users to utilise the full cabinet capacity for either refrigeration or deep-freezing, based on their specific requirements. Surpassing the Coolmatic CRX series, the NRX not only continues Dometic's legacy of reliability but also advances it with contemporary design and adaptability, making it an ideal choice for today's mobile living enthusiasts.

The transition from Waeco CoolMatic CR to Dometic CoolMatic CRX, and ultimately to the Dometic NRX, represents a pivotal shift in mobile cooling technology. Each iteration has brought technological advancements, enhanced features, and greater energy efficiency, underscoring a commitment to superior quality.

The story of Waeco and Dometic is more than a corporate chronicle. It's a testament to innovation, a story of a journey that continues to evolve, much like the ever-changing landscapes these refrigerators travel through. It's a story that resonates with every traveler, every family, every individual who has ever sought the freedom of the road, with a reliable companion by their side.

Compare Dometic NRX Fridge Specifications