RV refrigerator repair is sometimes easy and other times not so much. If you know how to troubleshoot your fridge and understand what can go wrong with it, it may save you money in the long run by not having to call in professional help. This article will discuss some of the most common problems and how to fix them yourself, even if you are not an expert mechanic or electrician.
The first thing you will need to do is make sure your RV refrigerator is actually plugged in. This is a simple and obvious step that can often be overlooked. If the refrigerator isn’t plugged in, it is unlikely to work. If you find it is plugged in and the power light is on but the refrigerator isn’t cooling, there is probably a problem with the evaporator fan or ductwork that needs to be cleaned.
Another common reason for refrigerators not working is a tripped or blown fuse. This can be a serious problem that prevents the fridge from turning on at all, and it is usually an indication that there is a bigger electrical problem at hand. If the breaker keeps tripping it is likely that there is a problem with the electrical heating element or circuit board, and this will need to be professionally fixed.
If you smell ammonia coming from your RV refrigerator it is usually a sign that the evaporator coils are leaking. This can be very dangerous and it is best to turn off your refrigerator immediately if you notice this smell. It is also a good idea to open all doors and windows in your RV so the fumes can escape.
Sometimes, the easiest way to get your RV refrigerator to start working again is an old-timer trick. If you remove the refrigeration unit from the camper and flip it upside down, this can sometimes unclog the ammonia sediment that is clogging up the tubes. However, this is only a temporary solution as the sediment will again build up over time.
Finally, it is a good idea to check the drip tube of your RV refrigerator and make sure that it has not been tampered with or closed off. This can allow moisture and ammonia to leak into the food compartment, which can cause odors and mold. If the drip tube is open, it will need to be replaced or re-sealed with silicone sealant.
So before you give up on your RV Refrigerator and call in the professionals, be sure to try some of these simple troubleshooting steps. The internet is a treasure trove of information and there are plenty of guides to help you with the most common refrigerator issues. If you have a lot of time on your hands, you can even find rebuilt refrigerator circuit boards and cooling units online that will save you some money over the cost of a new one! Just be careful when performing any of these DIY fixes and don’t attempt anything that could be dangerous or void the manufacturer’s warranty.