VanCool Compression Refrigerator BCD 50L — The design model with brushed aluminium panel
📐 Technical specifications
Capacities and temperatures
- Total capacity: 50 L (usable 44 L: 37 L refrigeration + 7 L freezer)
- Freezer temperature: −18 °C
- Thermostat: 5 levels
- Defrost: manual
Power supply and performance
- Power supply: 12 V / 24 V (230V via 230V-12V voltage adapter)
- Maximum consumption: 60W
- Average consumption: ~30 W (cycling compressor)
- Compressor: Huayi high performance
Dimensions and weight
- Width: 38 cm
- Height: 53.5 cm
- Depth: 50 cm
- Weight: ~16.6 kg
Equipment and finish
- Front panel: brushed aluminium Clean Touch (anti-smudge)
- Reversible door (left / right)
- Mounting: screws included
Approval
- Certification: ECE R10 (VASP compatible)
- Warranty: 2 years
Why choose the BCD 50L?
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Cycling compressor — a market-leading 12/24V DC compressor chosen for reliability and efficiency.
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Compact size — 38 × 53.5 × 50 cm, 16.6 kg - Ideal for L1H1 to L2H2 vans
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Brushed aluminium Clean Touch front panel — premium finish that resists fingerprints.
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Reversible door — opens left or right depending on your layout.
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5-level thermostat — precise temperature adjustment.
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Controlled average consumption of 30 W on cycling compressor (max 60W).
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ECE R10 compliant.
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2-year warranty.
For which fit-out
The BCD 50L is designed for layouts where space is limited but you want a reliable fridge with a renowned compressor:
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Short vans (L1H1 up to L2H2) and converted commercial vehicles
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Weekend vans or semi-permanent setups
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Compact motorhomes or pop-top camper units
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Boats and boat cabins
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Rental vans or company vehicles where component reliability is paramount
For a full-time residential fit-out with greater storage needs, consider the BCD 85L instead (same series, double capacity).
Battery consumption and autonomy
At an average consumption of 60 W in cycles, expect about 20-30 Ah per 24 h on a 12 V battery depending on outside temperature and frequency of opening.
Approximate autonomy without solar input or alternator:
- LiFePO4 100 Ah Battery: ~3-5 days
- LiFePO4 200 Ah Battery: ~7-10 days
- LiFePO4 314 Ah Battery: ~12-15 days
Adjust according to outside temperature: in summer at 30 °C, the compressor runs longer and consumption increases.
Installation
The BCD 50L is installed built-in into a dedicated cabinet:
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Allow for ventilation — at least 3 cm behind the condenser and 2-3 cm on the sides for heat dissipation
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Configure the door — reversible left/right according to your layout (to be done before installation)
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Connect the 12V or 24V power supply from your leisure battery with an appropriate fuse — or use the voltage adapter for 230V connection
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Secure the unit to the furniture with the provided screws
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Plug in and set the thermostat — level 3 is a good starting point for ~5 °C inside the compartment
⁉️ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Difference with the BCD 85L? A: Same series, same proven components (Huayi compressor, brushed aluminum panel, reversible door), just a reduced capacity (50 L vs 85 L) and a more compact size (38 × 53.5 cm vs 47 × 63 cm). Choose based on available space and your storage needs.
Q: Is manual defrosting inconvenient? A: Expect a defrost every 2-3 months with normal use. Simple procedure: empty, unplug, let thaw for 1-2 hours, wipe dry, plug back in.
Q: Compatible with 230V? A: Yes, via a dedicated 230V-12V voltage adapter — useful for campsite hookups or testing the fridge at home.
Q: Is it compatible with VASP registration? A: Yes. The ECE R10 certificate covers the vehicle approval requirement for electrical equipment in French VASP vehicles.
Q: Is the door reversible — is it complicated to switch? A: No, it is designed for this and can be done with a screwdriver in a few minutes before installation.