Common RV refrigerator issues

Here we have a couple of tips to keep your refrigerator running in top condition during the hot summer months! 

The first thing to be aware of is that heat must be created in order to produce cold air. This is why there is a burner assembly behind the unit, whether it is hooked up to propane or electricity. Make sure that if you have a cooling fan installed for summer use (which I do not recommend), that it is turned off if it is not set up with a thermostat, otherwise the burner assembly is unable to produce the heat needed to create the heat transfer needed to cool the unit.

Now, if it is too cold inside the refrigerator, or not cold enough, you will need to look at the back of the unit, at the top, for what is called a thermistor. A thermistor is a simple piece of wire with a clip attached that is in turn attached to the fins. Simply move the clip up if you would prefer the temperature to be cooler, and move it down if you would prefer it to be warmer. It is important to note that you may only move the thermistor if your unit is equipped with a manual thermostat. 

Now, if you have a dial thermostat with dials located on the belly board or eyebrow board, you simply touch the dials (in the plus or minus range 1-9) and you do not have to manually move the thermistor.

As we have addressed previously, if you have ice build up behind your unit, refrigerators are a closed system. So, if you notice ice build up, you will need to check the drip tube in the back as well as the seals to ensure there is no air finding its way into the refrigerator.

And that’s it! The primary goal during cold weather is to ensure that the back of the unit is kept warm, and that everything is sealed up nice and tight to keep the temperature regulated and the refrigerator working properly during your travels.

And there’s your Tech Tip!

If you would like to be able to fix the majority of the problems on your RV, or let’s say you want to open a business and become a certified technician or inspector? Head over to our website at www.nrvta.com, select the programs tab and get started today!