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Everything you need to know about your
Caravan
Refrigerator
Caravan fridges are very different to household ones!
They are called absorption type refrigerators and instead
of using a compressor top distribute the cooling fluid
they rely on convection from a heat source. The heat is
generated by a 240 or 12 volt electrical element or a gas
powered naked flame. Hence their description as a three
way fridge.
Absorption refrigerators offer brilliant flexibility in terms of
their range of fuel sources, a very long working life and are
capable of performing well in all climates. It is fair to say
however, that these refrigerators have some idiosyncrasies that need
to be understood to allow you to get the best out of your unit.
The cooling unit is the heart of your fridge
Ammonia circulates through the cooling tubes to create the
cooling effect. Similar to cholesterol which reduces blood flow
through our own arteries, the tubes in your fridge can gum up and
reduce or annul performance. This explains the commonly held belief
that removing the fridge and turning it upside down will bring a
dead unit back to life. Whilst this may be successful it will be for
very short term outcome and the only real genuine fix is to replace
the cooling unit.
Points to note:
- Overheating of the cooling unit will impair the fridge
performance.
- Due to the convention system the fridge will not operate
unless it is precisely level and in fact operating it off the
level will damage the cooling unit.
- In hot climates you should treat the cold air in your fridge
as precious and avoid excessive opening of the fridge. Our
suggestion is to take an esky and use a bag of ice to keep your
drinks nicely chilled for the day ahead.
- Maximise cool airflow in whatever way possible. For example,
don't forget the commonsense rule of parking the fridge side of
the caravan in the shade.
- To operate the fridge using the 12 volt element will require a
heavy duty auxiliary wire in the towing vehicle. Talk to us about
this important installation.
- The fridge will take a number of hours to cool to an effective
operating temperature. Ensure that you pre cool the fridge
overnight before leaving for your trip.
- Always wipe any moisture off the outside of containers before
putting them into the fridge.
- A 'tired' door seal can allow the escape of cool air. Tip:
Sometimes the life of a seal can be extended by the use of a
hairdryer and your fingers to reshape it.
Refrigeration installation: How does yours score?
The cooling unit produces warm air that must be able to escape to
the atmosphere or performance will be impaired. Below are some of
the critical points of installation the will effect performance.
Score yourself one point for each yes answer.
- Is there at least 4" between the top of the fridge and the
bench top above it?
- Is there an effective heat deflector plate between the fridge
and the top vent?
- Is the side of the fridge packed with insulation to eliminate
any gaps into the cabinet?
- Is the bottom of the upper vent higher than the top of the
fridge?
- Are the vents on openable doors?
- Is there an Electrolux flu kit installed?
- Is there a cooling fan installed?
- Do you use a spirit level to ensure your refrigerator is dead
level?
- Do you have a fridge awning?
How did you score out of nine?
1 - 3 You need help, don't leave town yet.
4 - 7 You are in reasonable shape, however some further improvement
may be achieveable.
8 - 9 Enjoy your holiday!
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