RV refrigerators work by pressurizing refrigerant that gets hot, then cools in a set of fins. The cold vapor then goes to the fridge, where it cools your food and drinks.
The only grouse we have is that Dometic doesn’t include the door panels in the price, but it still works just fine.
Size
RV refrigerators are smaller than residential refrigerators and don’t have as much storage space. However, they’re designed specifically for travel, so bumps on the road aren’t as likely to cause damage. In addition, they’re built to be durable and are often easier to clean than a home fridge.
When looking for a used RV refrigerator, be sure to check for a working cooling unit and that the cabinet isn’t damaged. Also, make sure the refrigerator is level. If it’s off even a few degrees, it can cause major damage over time.
If the refrigerator isn’t functioning properly, you may be able to fix it with an inexpensive DIY solution. Try using a fan to speed up the cooling process and keep temperatures stable. This trick can save you money and help you get back on the road.
Energy Efficiency
An RV refrigerator uses a compressor to cool the food. This refrigerator is powered by alternating current (AC) electricity, which comes from an electric post at a campground or a generator. It may also be plugged into a standard outlet in your home.
To keep the food cold, it is vital that air passes through and around it. Keeping the refrigerator clean will also help the refrigeration unit work more efficiently.
It’s also a good idea to check regularly for obstructions in the fridge ventilations that may interfere with the cooling process. For example, cobwebs or tree leaves could be obstructing the vents.
Many newer models of RV refrigerators have an auto feature that switches to liquid gas when there is no AC power available. This will save you the hassle of switching over from electricity to gas manually, and it will ensure that your food stays cool while you’re traveling. This feature is very useful for full-time RVers or those who spend a lot of time in the wilderness.
Storage Capacity
When buying a used RV fridge, it’s important to check that it has the capacity you need. Whether that’s enough room for your trip-prepped meals or an extra pint of ice cream for happy hour. You’ll also want to make sure that you can easily get in and out of the freezer when necessary.
You should also pay attention to the condition of the refrigerator’s boiler and absorber. If they’re hot, that could indicate a leak. You can also smell ammonia in the refrigerator if there’s a problem.
Absorption refrigerators require more power than compressor-style refrigerators to cool down food, and can struggle to keep foods cold at higher altitudes. A refrigerator fan can improve air circulation, keeping your food fresher longer. It’s also important to use a thermometer to check that the temperature is accurate. Otherwise, food may go bad and rot or grow harmful bacteria. You can even upgrade to a residential refrigerator in your RV, which will consume less energy and offer more storage space.
Noise
RV refrigerators make a variety of noises during normal operation. These sounds can include light clicking when switching from electric to propane, the sound of a small propane flame burning, gentle fan noises and gurgling sounds. These are all normal and OK to hear. However, excessive humming, dripping and other loud or offensive sounds could indicate that the fridge is not working properly.
Humming Noises on Electric Only
A humming noise from an RV fridge on electric only may suggest that the refrigerator is “bubbled.” The bubbles restrict coolant flow and reduce cooling efficiency. To fix this, the fridge must be “burped.” This requires removing the fridge and turning it upside down to force the coolant through all the plumbing, thereby releasing the bubbles. This can be expensive, so it is a good idea to contact a professional.
The other alternative is to replace the fridge. This is a much more costly option. Regardless, it is important to determine the cause of the problem before diving into a repair or replacement.refurbished rv refrigerators
