Since the release of the Harrier Plus in 2020 Dometic have been working to improve and modernise the inverter technology within their range of caravan air conditioners. This extensive amount of field testing and improvements has finally led to the Dometic FreshJet air con designs, and now a market leading range specifically known as the FreshJet FJZ Series.
This new series of caravan inverter air conditioners represents a significant product development for Dometic, as they have used their previous knowledge and expertise to create three new models that are set to replace some of their most popular units. Introducing the FreshJet FJZ Lite, FreshJet FJZ Plus and FreshJet FJZ Pro taking the reins from the FreshJet 7 Series Air Conditioners and the original Harrier Lite, Harrier Plus and IBIS 4.
Dometic is proud to be one of the few companies in Australia offering such advanced inverter technology, so let’s check out what makes the Dometic FreshJet FJZ air cons stand out from the rest by looking at each new model.
FreshJet FJZ Series Lite:
The FreshJet FJZ Lite, the smallest among the three models, is truly remarkable. It serves as an excellent upgrade and replacement for the Harrier Lite air conditioner, specifically designed for vehicles with lengths of up to 7 meters.
The FreshJet FJZ Lite is a game changer for those with limited roof space, with its increased cooling output this is the perfect solution for van or bus conversions and poptop caravans. Lightweight, small outer dimensions, packed with the grunt to keep you cool over summer.
During extensive testing, the FreshJet FJZ Lite emerged as one of the most impressive models, significantly outperforming its predecessor, the Harrier Lite, by cooling down an RV remarkably 41% faster. Additionally, the testing revealed a substantial decrease in power consumption, further solidifying the FreshJet Lite's status as an outstanding and efficient RV air conditioning solution.
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|
7 Series Lite | FJZ Series Lite | |
|
Cooling |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
2600 |
3000 |
|
Power consumption (W) |
1550 |
1392 |
|
|
Current draw (A) |
6.9 |
5.8 |
|
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
426 |
426 |
|
|
Heating |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
2300 |
2300 |
|
Power consumption (W) |
1050 |
1008 |
|
|
Current draw (A) |
4.7 |
4.2 |
|
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
449 |
449 |
|
|
Installed weight (kg) |
35 |
34 |
|
|
Refrigerant |
R32 |
R32 |
|
|
Max Vehicle Length (m) |
6 |
7 |
|
|
Other features |
Air Purifier |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Wi-Fi/BT |
|
Yes |
|
FreshJet FJZ Series Pro:
Catering to vehicle lengths of up to 7 meters and replacing the beloved IBIS 4, the FreshJet FJZ Pro is a top choice. Let's examine the enhancements it offers in comparison.
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|
|
FJZ Series Pro |
||
|
Cooling |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
2900 |
3400 |
|
|
Power consumption (W) |
1650 |
1488 |
||
|
Current draw (A) |
7.3 |
6.2 |
||
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
487 |
487 |
||
|
Heating |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
2700 |
3000 |
|
|
Power consumption (W) |
1350 |
1392 |
||
|
Current draw (A) |
5.9 |
5.8 |
||
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
492 |
492 |
||
|
Installed weight (kg) |
41 |
41 |
||
|
Refrigerant |
R32 |
R32 |
||
|
Max Vehicle Length (m) |
7 |
8 |
||
|
Other features |
Air Purifier |
Yes |
Yes |
|
|
Wi-Fi/BT |
Yes |
Yes |
||
FreshJet FJZ Series Plus:
Taking over from the well-liked Harrier Plus, the FreshJet FJZ Plus is ideally suited for vehicle lengths of up to 8 meters. Let compare the two models.
|
|
7 Series Plus |
FJZ Series Plus |
|
|
Cooling |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
3400 |
4000 |
|
Power consumption (W) |
1748 |
1654 |
|
|
Current draw (A) |
7.80 |
6.2 |
|
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
502 |
502 |
|
|
Heating |
Capacity (W) [ISO5151] |
2900 |
3000 |
|
Power consumption (W) |
1445 |
1392 |
|
|
Current draw (A) |
6.44 |
5.8 |
|
|
Airflow (m3/h) |
502 |
502 |
|
|
Installed weight (kg) |
43 |
43 |
|
|
Refrigerant |
R32 |
R32 |
|
|
Max Vehicle Length (m) |
8 |
9 |
|
|
Other features |
Air Purifier |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Wi-Fi/BT |
Yes |
Yes |
|
It is clear the Dometic FreshJet FJZ Series air con's boast an array of impressive features that set it apart from its predecessors. The Dometic FreshJet FJZ Plus boasts a whopping 4kw cooling capacity, making this the largest air conditioner in the caravan cooling market. One of the ranges standout qualities are their superior energy efficiency, resulting in reduced power consumption. This not only allows for a longer run time on batteries and generators, ideal for extended off-grid adventures, but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable experience.
Installing A FreshJet FJZ Series:
The FreshJet FJZ Series all require a 360x360mm or a 400x400mm cutout which makes it an easy swap out from the existing Dometic air con models. The ADB (plenum) in the FreshJet FJZ series is used on all three models unlike the previous models which contained different sized plenums. This makes for an overall easy installation and unified design inside the vehicle.
When considering the installation of a Dometic FreshJet air con, it is crucial to note that, as the unit operates on 240V, it is strongly recommended to have it installed by a certified electrician. Safety and proper installation are paramount in such cases.
Running A FreshJet FJZ Series:
The FreshJet FJZ Series models have been tested under strict conditions to design and manufacture an air con that can be run on and off-grid. With their improved inverter and efficiency technology the FreshJet FJZ series tested with significant improvements in running time. Dometic’s focus was to design a unit that can be run off a lithium battery system effectively.
The Dometic FreshJet FJZ Pro and Plus series transforms off-grid living by stripping away the "range anxiety" of running an air conditioner on batteries; with the in-app current limiter, you’re no longer guessing if your lithium bank will survive the night. It gives you the ultimate "vibe check" for your electrical system—simply dial back the amperage to match your solar intake or battery state, allowing the inverter compressor to sip power gracefully while still keeping the cabin crisp and cool. It’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re in total control, letting you chase the sun further and stay off-grid longer.
If batteries are not an option, inverter generators are great alternative to get you off the beaten track and stay cool. The Dometic FreshJet FJZ range is specifically engineered for small generators because its inverter-driven soft-start eliminates the massive power spikes of traditional units, allowing even a compact 2kVA to 2.4kVA generator to handle the load with ease.
Improved Cooling Capacity:
Field testing across various locations in Australia has showcased the FreshJet FJZ Series as the leader of the pack when it comes to rooftop cooling. The FJZ Lite now has the cooling capacity of the IBIS 4 and the FreshJet Pro while keeping it's small and sleek size and weight. The FJZ Pro now has a greater cooling capacity to the Harrier Plus and the same cooling capacity as the FreshJet 7 Series Plus. Which brings us back to boast about the FJZ Plus coming in with a market leading 4kw cooling capacity. No matter the size of your caravan, you can trust that Dometic has an air conditioner perfectly suited to meet your cooling needs.
Modern Design and Comfort:
What set’s the FreshJet FJZ series apart from the previous models you ask? It’s their new in-built air purification system. This means you can enjoy clean air whilst using the air conditioner, keeping your caravan smelling fresh.
Another modern feature included in the FJZ series includes its whisper quiet compressor. This ensures you can get a good night’s sleep without the annoying rattle from your old air con that kept you and your camping neighbours up all night. The FJZ Pro and Plus now come with improved rubber dampening on their compressors making them even more quieter that previous models, perfect for the light sleeper.
After an eventful day of exploration, the Dometic FreshJet air con offers you the convenience of regulating the air conditioner's temperature or turning it on from the exterior of your caravan. Relax and unwind with a refreshing beverage in your Dometic Go Compact Camping Chair, enjoying the soothing shade of your exterior caravan awning while managing the interior temperature of your caravan, ensuring a comfortable night's rest. This is all done using the Dometic App allowing you to control the settings with a simple touch on your smartphone device. Even better, if you've had enough of the kids misplacing the remote you never have to worry again.
Plan to run your caravan air con from a generator? - then find out more from our experts.
Or do you plan to run your caravan air con from a battery? - then find out more from our experts.
Impressed but want to know more? Feel free to give our team a call on 1300 400 122 or chat with us using the LIVE chat function on our website. Alternatively view the Dometic FreshJet air con range on our website here.
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
