Product Overview
The BougeRV 12V Portable Refrigerator is a versatile electric cooler designed for various outdoor and travel applications, including RVs, campers, trucks, and boats. It functions as both a freezer and a refrigerator, offering a wide temperature range from -4°F to 50°F. Key features include rapid cooling technology, energy-efficient operation with ECO/MAX modes, and a 3-level battery protection system to safeguard your vehicle's battery.
What's in the Box
- 43 Quart Portable Refrigerator (E40)
- User Manual
- 12/24V DC Power Cord
- 110~240V AC Power Adapter

Figure 1: Included components of the BougeRV 42 Quart Portable Refrigerator.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Initial Placement
Upon receiving your BougeRV portable refrigerator, carefully remove it from its packaging. It is recommended to let the unit stand upright for at least 12 hours before plugging it in to allow the compressor fluids to settle, ensuring proper operation.
Video 1: Unpacking the BougeRV 42QT Refrigerator. This video demonstrates the unpacking process and initial setup steps for the unit.
2. Handle Installation
Attach the provided elastic handles to the designated points on the side of the refrigerator. Use the included tools to secure them firmly. The handles are spring-loaded for convenience and secure carrying.

Figure 2: The BougeRV 42 Quart Portable Refrigerator with its handles attached, ready for transport.
3. Power Connection
The refrigerator supports multiple power inputs: 12V/24V DC for vehicle use and 110~240V AC for home use. Connect the appropriate power cord to the unit's power input socket. Ensure the fuse is properly seated.
Video 2: This video illustrates how to properly connect the power supply to the refrigerator and adjust settings.
Operating Instructions
1. Power On/Off and Mode Selection
To turn the refrigerator on or off, hold the power button for 3-5 seconds. Once powered on, you can switch between MAX (fast cooling) and ECO (energy-saving) modes by pressing the snowflake button. The display will indicate the current mode.
2. Temperature Setting
Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust the desired temperature. The unit can cool down to -4°F. For quick cooling, it can reach 32°F in 15 minutes and -4°F in 60 minutes from 77°F ambient temperature.
3. Temperature Unit Switch
To switch between Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C), press and hold the '+' and '-' buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.
4. Battery Protection Mode
The refrigerator features a 3-level battery monitor (High, Medium, Low) to prevent draining your vehicle's battery. It is recommended to set the protection level to HIGH when connected to a car battery. For external batteries or power stations, MEDIUM or LOW settings may be suitable depending on the battery's capacity.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the control panel for temperature and mode adjustments.
5. Recommended Preservation Temperatures
| Item | Temperature (°C) | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Meat | -18°C | 0°F |
| Frozen Food | -18°C | 0°F |
| Seafood | -3°C | 26°F |
| Vegetables | 3-10°C | 37-50°F |
| Cooked Food | 4°C | 39°F |
| Water | 5°C | 41°F |
| Canned Drinks | 5°C | 41°F |
| Fruits | 5-8°C | 41-46°F |
| Soft Drinks | 8-10°C | 46-50°F |
| Alcoholic Drinks | 13°C | 55°F |
Table 1: Recommended preservation temperatures for common food items.
Maintenance
Cleaning
Regularly clean the interior and exterior of the refrigerator with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the unit is unplugged before cleaning.
Defrosting
This unit features manual defrost. When ice buildup becomes excessive (approximately 0.2 inches or 5mm thick), unplug the unit and allow the ice to melt naturally. Use a soft cloth to wipe away melted water. Do not use sharp objects to remove ice.
Storage
When storing the refrigerator for an extended period, ensure it is clean, dry, and unplugged. Leave the lid slightly ajar to prevent odors and mildew buildup.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues with your BougeRV portable refrigerator, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- Unit not cooling: Check power connection, ensure the power source is active, and verify the temperature setting.
- E1 Error: This error can occur if the DC power input is unstable or too low. Ensure a stable power source and check the battery protection setting (try switching to a lower setting if using a power bank).
- Excessive noise: Ensure the unit is on a flat, stable surface and that ventilation vents are not blocked. The unit operates at a low noise level (45dB).
- Poor insulation/temperature retention: While the unit cools quickly, it is designed to maintain temperature when powered. For extended unplugged periods, pre-cooling and minimizing lid openings are recommended. Consider an insulated cover for enhanced performance.
If the problem persists, please contact BougeRV customer support for assistance.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | BougeRV |
| Model Info | E40 |
| Item Weight | 32.7 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 13.39 x 22.44 x 17.32 inches |
| Capacity | 42 Quarts |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 168 Kilowatt Hours |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Special Features | Portable |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Defrost System | Manual |
| Certification | CE, FCC |
Warranty and Support
The BougeRV 12V Portable Refrigerator comes with a 2-year technical support warranty for the compressor and other accessories. For any questions or issues, please contact BougeRV customer support directly.
You may also be eligible to upgrade your warranty to a 3-year plan. Refer to the product documentation or scan the QR code provided in the user manual for details on warranty registration and upgrades.
For a digital copy of the user manual, you can access it via this link: BougeRV User Manual (PDF)





