Fixing Camper Propane Refrigerators: A Step-By-Step Guide

how do you fix a camper propane refrigerator

If your camper propane refrigerator is malfunctioning, there are several things you can try before calling a technician. First, check that your camper is level, as this can affect the operation of the refrigerator's cooling coils. Next, check your power sources. Propane refrigerators require a combination of 12-volt direct current (DC) to operate the control panels and either propane or 120-volt alternating current (AC) power to power the cooling process. If your refrigerator is electric, make sure the power cord is plugged into its dedicated outlet. If your refrigerator is still not working, you may need to reset the propane system or check the propane tank and service valve. If you're experiencing a propane lockout, turn off all propane appliances, close the service valve, wait a few minutes, and then reopen the valve. If your refrigerator still isn't cooling properly, you may need to replace the cooling coils or thermistor, or clean the burner assembly area.

Characteristics Values
Power sources 12-volt direct current (DC), propane, 120-volt alternating current (AC) power
Troubleshooting Check control panel, battery, fuses, propane level, circuit breaker, power cord, etc.
Pilot light issues May be due to a failing thermocouple or too much air in the gas line
Cooling unit issues Leaking, frozen, or ammonia sediment buildup
Propane system issues Appliances not lighting, determining propane levels, proper operation
LP detector issues Propane, butane, methane detection; low coach battery voltage; detector malfunction

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Check the propane tank is full and all connections are tight

To fix a camper propane refrigerator, one of the first things you should do is check that the propane tank is full and that all connections are tight. This is because a lack of propane or loose connections could be the reason why your refrigerator is malfunctioning.

To check if your propane tank is full, you can use the warm water, cool hand method. First, fill a bucket with warm to hot tap water. Then, pour the water down the side of the tank. Finally, run your hand along the side of the tank and feel for a cool spot. The top of the cool spot is the fill level of the tank. This method works because the liquid propane inside the tank absorbs heat from the water, which makes the metal wall of the tank cool to the touch.

Another way to check the level of propane in your tank is to weigh it. Most propane grill tanks have two numbers stamped on the handle: the water capacity ("WC") and "Tare Weight" (TW – the weight of the tank when it's empty). To measure how much propane is left in your tank, weigh the tank on a scale and subtract the TW number. For example, if a tank weighing 27 pounds has a TW of 17 pounds, there are about 10 pounds of gas left.

If you want to be more precise, you can try the tipping the scale method. First, disconnect your propane tank from the grill. Then, weigh the tank on a household scale and subtract the empty or "tare" weight, which is usually between 17 and 19 pounds. This will give you the number of pounds of propane left in your tank.

To ensure that your propane connections are tight, it is important to tighten them appropriately. If the fittings are too loose, propane can leak, posing a serious safety hazard. On the other hand, if the fittings are too tight, they can cause damage to the fitting itself or to other components in the system. The key is to find the right balance between a tight enough connection to prevent leaks, and a looseness that will not cause damage to the components.

The recommended method for tightening propane fittings is to use a wrench. Tighten the fitting until you feel resistance, and then give it an additional quarter to half turn with the wrench. This will help ensure that the fitting is tight enough to prevent leaks, but not so tight as to cause damage. It is also recommended to use Teflon tape or thread sealant on the threads of the fittings before tightening them to further ensure a leak-free connection.

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Turn on the propane tank

To turn on the propane tank for your camper refrigerator, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure your propane tank is full. Check that your RV's propane tank is full and that all hoses and connections are properly tightened. Confirm that your propane regulator is functioning correctly; it is recommended to replace this every five years.

Next, locate the On/Off switch for the propane. This is usually located near the tank itself or close to the refrigerator. Turn the propane on.

Now, switch the refrigerator to the propane setting. Depending on your model, this could be a simple button press, or you may need to turn a knob or move a lever.

At this point, you should hear a clicking sound, followed by a humming noise once the pilot light is lit. If you don't hear this, or the refrigerator doesn't turn on after 45 seconds, turn it off and wait a few minutes before trying again.

Finally, monitor your propane levels while the refrigerator is in use. Keep an eye on fuel levels, especially if you are using the fridge frequently or are on an extended trip.

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Switch the fridge to the propane setting

Switching your camper refrigerator to the propane setting is a simple process, but it differs depending on your RV fridge model. It is important to consult your owner's manual for exact instructions.

Step 1: Prepare Your RV

Before switching to propane power, ensure that your RV is perfectly level by placing a level in your fridge or on the counter next to it. Propane refrigerators also need a small amount of DC power to start, so make sure your RV's battery is on. Additionally, ensure that the valve at the LP gas tank is turned on.

Step 2: Locate the Control Panel

The location and design of the control panel vary by model, so refer to your owner's manual for this information. Typically, the control panel is located near the refrigerator.

Step 3: Adjust the Thermostat and Selector Switch

Locate the thermostat on the control panel and adjust it to the highest setting, usually denoted by a number or a flame icon. Then, locate the selector switch and move it to the propane setting, often indicated by a flame icon.

Step 4: Ignite the Propane

Hold down the Gas Safety Valve and quickly push the Piezo Igniter several times for no more than five seconds. Do not hold the Gas Safety Valve for more than 30 seconds. If the flame does not ignite, wait for at least five minutes before attempting again. You may need to repeat this step a few times until the flame is lit.

Step 5: Set the Fridge Temperature

Once the pilot light is lit, you can adjust the temperature using the thermostat. Please note that it will take several hours for the fridge to reach the desired temperature, so it is recommended to start the cooling process a day before you intend to use it.

Important Notes:

  • These instructions are general guidelines and may not apply to all camper refrigerator models. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions.
  • Running your camper refrigerator on propane requires regular monitoring of propane levels to ensure you don't run out during use.
  • Some camper refrigerators may have different power settings, such as LP or a switch between Gas and Auto. Refer to your manual to understand your specific model's settings.

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Monitor propane levels while in use

Monitoring your propane levels while using a camper propane refrigerator is an important safety precaution. Here are some detailed instructions to help you with this:

  • Check your propane tank regularly, especially if you are using your fridge frequently or going on extended trips. This will help you avoid running out of propane during your camping trip.
  • Pay attention to how much propane you are using and for how long. A 20-pound propane tank should last around 3-4 weeks if used regularly with the fridge running.
  • Always ensure your propane tank is full before you begin your trip. This is crucial as you don't want to end up with a low tank halfway through.
  • If you have an external propane tank, make sure it is securely connected and all hoses and connections are properly tightened.
  • Check that your propane regulator is working correctly. It is recommended to replace the regulator every 5 years as the rubber diaphragm inside deteriorates over time.
  • If you are unsure about the age of your regulator, it is best to assume it is expired and have it replaced.
  • You can ask an RV inspector, RV technician, or propane-certified technician to perform tests to confirm the integrity of your regulator, such as an operating pressure test and a regulator lockout test.
  • Be aware of the common issues with RV propane systems, such as appliances not lighting, difficulty determining propane levels in tanks, and proper operation.
  • If you experience issues with your propane appliances not lighting, it could be due to a propane lockout. Reset the system by turning off all appliances, closing the service valve, waiting a few minutes, and then reopening the valve.

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If the fridge works on electric but not propane, check for a propane lockout

If your camper fridge works on electricity but not propane, you might be experiencing a propane lockout. This can occur at the tanks or at the appliance. If you opened your service valve and turned on any propane-fuelled appliance inside the RV before the valve was opened, there is a safety device called the excess flow valve that can prohibit the proper flow of propane needed to ignite the refrigerator.

To reset the propane system after a lockout, turn off all appliances calling for propane, turn the service valve to the "closed" position, wait a few minutes, and turn the service valve back to the "open" position. This will reset the system. If you continue to experience issues, you might need to call an RV technician to check for issues like a dirty burner assembly area or a corroded electrode.

Frequently asked questions

First, ensure your propane tank is full. Then, locate the On/Off switch for the propane and turn it on. Next, switch your refrigerator to the propane setting. Lastly, monitor your propane levels while it’s in use.

If your refrigerator has a self-lighting function, never use a match to light the pilot. If it is not lighting, there may be a problem with the appliance. Contact the manufacturer for assistance. If your refrigerator requires the pilot to be lit manually, locate the access door for the refrigerator on the outside of the camper and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for pilot lighting.

If your refrigerator works on electricity but not propane, check the propane level on your tank and make sure that the service valve is open. If you’re still having trouble, you might be experiencing a propane lockout. Turn off all propane-fueled appliances inside the RV, turn off the service valve at the propane tank, wait a few minutes, and turn it back on.

Allow up to 24 hours for a propane refrigerator to get cold enough to use.

Yes, you can run your RV fridge on propane only.

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