RV refrigerator repair is something we never want to have to do. It’s can be intimidating, and seems like a daunting task for the average RV owner. But keep in mind that there are a few things you can repair yourself before calling in the professionals.
First, a few simple tips to keep your RV refrigerator running. These tips can prevent prevent damage or fix a non-working RV refrigerator. They could also save you a repair bill!
- Make sure the RV is level when you are stationary. Your RV has to be level enough so you feel comfortable walking around inside. This will be enough to satisfy the refrigerator. In only 20 minutes you can damage your RV refrigerator if left running while parked on a steep slope.
- If you are running your RV refrigerator on propane, be sure your house batteries are charged. In addition to propane, the fridge needs 12volt power to run, and it you don’t have enough of a charge in the batteries it will not run properly.
The following are a few things that can go wrong and how to troubleshoot and repair them.
1. You Smell Ammonia
If you smell ammonia you have a leak. This is a service tech repair job. Ammonia will make your eyes water and affect your breathing. This usually means the cooling unit is in trouble. Turn off the refrigerator as quickly as you can if you suspect an ammonia leak. This repair needs a service tech to determine if it’s repairable, or you need to purchase a new RV refrigerator.
Be aware that if it has been leaking for awhile you won’t necessarily smell the ammonia. Another sign that indicates a leak is if you hear a “bubbling” sound from the back of the fridge after its been turned on? Or maybe all the controls are working but the RV refrigerator still isn’t cold. Check to see if there is a yellowish or greenish stain on the back of fridge near the burner. If you see the stain, chances are you have a leak.
2. The Refrigerator Works on Propane but Not on 110V Power
Check all the circuit breakers and fuses. Check the outlet on the back of the refrigerator. Use a multi meter to check for power voltage. If the voltage checks out okay and all lights work, then check the electric heating element.
3. The Refrigerator Works on 110V Power but Not on Propane
First of all, make sure you aren’t out of propane. Now check the pilot light flame. Is it strong, or does it go out almost right away? If it goes out this could be an indication that the thermocouple is bad. It may need to be replaced. The thermocouple is a probe with two wires coming out of one end. It isn’t a difficult item to replace.
If the flame stays lit, how does it look? If it’s not great, you could have some rust or debris causing the flame to be weak. Vacuum out the area around the burner. If it doesn’t light at all, you will have to vacuum out the entire burner area. The jet most likely has debris blocking it.
Test the RV refrigerator by plugging into 110V power and check if the heating element is getting hot. Sometimes a poor gas flame still produces heat. Does it get hot? Tap the heating element very lightly. It could burn you otherwise. If it isn’t warm it may be an electical probolem. Give it a good half hour to heat up first before giving it the touch test.
Cleaning & Maintenance
To keep the refrigerator running efficiently, remove the outside lower vent that allows access to the back. Shut off the fridge and make sure all connections are tight. Driving down the road can sometimes wiggle connections loose. Turn it back on. What color is the flame? If you see yellow, it’s not running properly. The baffle inside the flue could be covered in soot. You will need to clean the flue and burner. Shut off the fridge again. Locate the burner. Above is the flue. Inside the flue is the baffle. Use an air compressor to blow it out. Then use the compressor to blow clean around the outside compartment. Turn it back on and hopefully, you’ll see a nice blue flame.
These basic do-it-yourself RV refrigerator repairs should help keep that RV refrigerator in top shape.
