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.
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Related Links:
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> Axel Service
> Caravan Touring - Accessories & Equipement CHECKLIST
> Refrigerators - Everything you need to know about your caravan refrigerator
> Insurance Work
> Pre Holiday Service
> Reversing A Caravan
> Outback Touring Preparation
> Suggested Hitch Up Checklist
> Electric Brakes
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