The RV refrigerator is one of the most important appliances for a recreational vehicle (RV). It stores food, drinks and other perishables, so keeping it running at peak performance is key.
There are many things that can affect a refrigerator’s efficiency, and some of them are easy to fix. One of the most common problems is when the fridge is too full, which can lead to poor airflow and decreased cooling. Another problem is when the fridge is not level — this can cause the chemicals that circulate in the fridge to stop working properly. Finally, leaving the door open for too long can also reduce the refrigerator’s efficiency. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s worth troubleshooting them before replacing the fridge.
Refrigerators are complex, but the basic process is relatively straightforward: The refrigerant flows through coils inside the freezer and fridge areas, where it absorbs heat and cools the contents down. Once it reaches the freezer or fridge temperature, it evaporates into gas form and vents to the outside. To keep the system running smoothly, it’s important to use your fridge only for foods and beverages that will be consumed within a few days. This will help ensure the fridge maintains a more stable temperature, and it’ll also prevent the compressor from overworking to compensate for warm food or drinks.
In addition to storing perishables and drinks, an RV refrigerator can be used to store ice, frozen foods and medications. When storing frozen foods, be sure to thaw them out ahead of time to avoid a buildup of ice crystals in the freezer. Also, be sure to check your RV fridge regularly for clogs and leaks.
While there are a wide range of RV refrigerators on the market, there are some common features that most refrigerators share. The most popular type of RV refrigerator is the compressor model, which uses a compressor to create cold air and then moves it through the freezer and fridge compartments to keep them cool. Another popular option is the absorption fridge, which utilizes heat and ammonia to keep foods and drinks cold.
Both types of RV refrigerators typically require a standard 12 volt DC power supply to operate the control panels and either propane gas or 120-volt AC power from a shore connection or generator to fuel the cooling process. If your RV refrigerator isn’t cooling, first check to see that the fridge disconnect switch is on and that the coach battery is fully charged. If the fridge still isn’t cooling, it may be a sign that it’s time to replace the cooling coils. If your fridge is making a gurgling noise or you notice an ammonia smell, it’s definitely time to call an RV technician for service.