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RV Refrigerator Maintenance Guide
Maintaining your RV refrigerator is crucial for keeping your food fresh and ensuring a pleasant trip. RV refrigerators (often absorption refrigerators) operate differently than residential units and require specific care.
Operation and Usage Tips- Leveling: An absorption refrigerator must be level to function correctly. If your RV is parked on a significant incline, the refrigerator fluid cannot circulate properly, leading to poor cooling and potential damage.
- Always use leveling blocks or jacks to ensure the RV is as level as possible when operating the refrigerator.
- Pre-cooling: Turn on the refrigerator 12–24 hours before loading it with food. Absorption units are slow to cool down, so starting early is essential.
- Loading: Do not overload the refrigerator. Air needs to circulate around the contents for efficient cooling.
- Door Seals: Check the door seals regularly. A damaged seal allows warm air in and forces the unit to work harder. Clean the seals with mild soap and water.
If your refrigerator isn't cooling properly, try these steps before calling a technician:
Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
Not cooling on AC or DC | No power, tripped breaker | Check fuses and breakers; ensure the power cord is securely plugged in. |
Not cooling on Propane | Gas flow issue, air in lines | Check propane tank levels; light a stove burner to purge air from the lines; check for a tripped safety valve. |
Poor overall cooling | Not level, blocked vents | Level the RV; ensure exterior refrigerator vents are clear of obstructions like dirt, leaves, or mud daubers. |
Frost buildup | Door opened frequently, high humidity | Minimize door openings; manually defrost the unit if frost is severe. |
Regular maintenance extends the life of your refrigerator and ensures peak performance.
Exterior Maintenance- Vents and Grills: At least twice a year, remove the exterior access panel and clean out any dust, spiderwebs, or debris from the burner area and cooling fins. This improves heat dissipation.
- Chimney Flue: If you are comfortable, inspect and clean the burner tube and flue for blockages. This is vital for propane operation. If unsure, have a qualified service technician perform this task.
- Cleaning: Use a solution of baking soda and water (about 2 tablespoons per quart) to clean the interior. Avoid harsh abrasives or chemicals that can damage plastic components.
- Storage (When not in use): When the RV is in storage, completely empty and clean the refrigerator. Leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mold and mildew growth. Many RV refrigerators have a "storage latch" feature to hold the door open just a crack.
It is recommended to have a professional RV technician inspect the refrigerator annually, especially the propane components.
- Check gas pressure and flame adjustment.
- Inspect electrical connections and heating elements.
- Confirm proper functioning of the thermostat and controls.
- Examine the cooling unit for signs of leakage (yellow residue).
