How Do Rv Refrigerators Work and What Problems Are Common?

How Do Rv Refrigerators Work and What Problems Are Common?

The basic refrigerator technology is ammonia gas absorption, invented some years ago. It provides rugged construction that time (50 years) has proven to be dependable for Rv refrigerators.

Basic Operation.

Most Rv refrigerators work with propane being burned or electricity being used to heat a sealed generator that is filled with water and ammonia. As the aggregate begins to boil, it is passed to a separator, which separates the water from the ammonia. The water then goes to an absorber and the ammonia to a condenser. The condenser allows the heated ammonia to dissipate its heat and dry back into a liquid. The ammonia is then sent to an evaporator where it mixes with compressed hydrogen gas and evaporates into a vapor that is very cold. The vapor is then pumped straight through cooling coils inside the refrigerator, cooling the interior and any food you have there. The vapor then goes to the absorber to recombine with the water and start the process all over again.

Common Problems.

A coarse problem in the control ideas may occur with the main power board. The board components are typically encased in an epoxy for protection. However, this reduces heat transfer from the component to the board resulting in an overheated component failing. The only fix is to replace the board.

A coarse problem in the refrigeration ideas is it not cooling down adequately to keep the food from spoiling. This can be from a variety of causes, the most coarse is the unit is not level (i.e. The Rv is not level) or the door not staying finished when driving the Rv. To solve, turn off the Rv refrigerator for one or two hours, level the Rv again and turn it back on. With the door arrival open, check the door latches and replace if weak or it is too easy to open the door.

Maintenance Tips.

Some maintenance things you can do to ensure allowable doing and longevity of the Rv refrigerator include:

1. Clean your flue/burner

On the surface of the Rv is a door giving you access to the back of the refrigerator. Inside you will see flue/orifice /burner. explore for loose soot and rust. Clean with rubbing alcohol or replace as necessary.

2. explore rubber seal nearby door of unit

The seal nearby the door needs to be uniform with no dents or tears. If you find tears then replace. A seal must be good to retain the low temperature in the unit.

3. Have refrigerant ideas pressure checked

Every combine of years, if possible, have a technician check the pressure on your refrigerant ideas and explore for leaks. Keeping this in top shape will ensure best operation.

4. Turn on before use

Always turn on your Rv refrigerator 24 hours before use to allow it to cool down. You want it to be at least 40 degrees. Check with a small thermometer you leave in the refrigerator.

5. Help on hot days

When it is very hot out, the refrigerator will work hard to stay cool. Be sure there is some room in the refrigerator to allow enough air circulation nearby the food. Take your cold drinks out and put them in an ice chest to minimize opportunity the refrigerator door during the hot day.

Rv refrigerators are designed to last a long time and reliable. With enough care and maintenance, you should enjoy its benefits for the life of your Rv.