Heat exposes weakness of absorption fridges in motorhomes

In hot weather, interior temperatures in a motorhome or caravan can exceed 30°C, making it unbearable. Opening windows during midday is counterproductive as it draws hot air inside. Ventilation is effective only in the evening or early morning when outside air is cooler. Key measures: install reflective mats on the outside of windows, use roof fans to actively expel hot air, park with the refrigerator ventilation side in the shade, deploy an awning to shade walls and windows. For personal comfort, cooling gel mats can be used. Air conditioning (roof-mounted or portable) is effective but adds 20–30 kg, requires a 230 V hookup, and generates noise.

Bürstner has placed a 138-liter compressor refrigerator (with a 12-liter freezer compartment) in the lower part of the kitchen unit of its Signature SMT 7.4 model based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. This layout frees up space but requires bending to access items. The optional Premium kitchen includes an electrically adjustable shelf, a pull-out cutting board, and a mineral worktop. The German starting price is €93,999 including VAT for the base version; the cost of a fully equipped vehicle has not been announced. With a full 200-liter water tank, the curb weight increases by 180 kg, potentially exceeding the 3.5-tonne limit for a standard B driving license.

Police in Lippstadt stopped a Bawemo camper that had its windshield, side windows, and rear window removed. The driver said he did it to cope with the heat inside the cabin. He was fined and banned from driving the vehicle. Police described the vehicle as a 'rolling scrap heap'.