RV refrigerator not cooling? What to check first
Most RV fridges are absorption units that cool slowly and are sensitive to power, propane and how level the RV is. Start with these checks.
Checks for absorption fridges (propane and electric)
- Level: absorption fridges need the RV close to level to work well. Level the RV and give the fridge time.
- Time: they cool slowly. A warm fridge can take many hours to reach temperature, so start it the day before a trip.
- Batteries: the controls need 12-volt power even when running on propane or electric. Weak batteries cause odd behavior and error codes.
- Propane: confirm the tank isn't empty and the valve is open. Light a stove burner to check gas is flowing.
- Electric mode: check that you have shore power and that the fridge's breaker and fuse are good.
- Airflow: make sure the outside vents behind the fridge aren't blocked by nests or debris.
Stop using it and call a tech if
- You smell ammonia or see yellow residue at the back of the fridge. That points to a leaking cooling unit.
- It works on one power source but not the other after the checks above.
- It won't light on propane and shows the same error code again.
Residential fridges
Many newer RVs have a household-style fridge that runs on 120-volt power through an inverter when you're not plugged in. If it stops while boondocking, check the inverter and the batteries first.
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Mobile RV refrigerator repair in Alabama · Mobile RV propane system repair in Alabama
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