Why did the fridge in my caravan stop working?

Well, recently whilst we were on holiday in Cornwall our caravan fridge stopped working. It wasn’t staying cold and there was water dripping as it slowly defrosted. Luckily this happened the day before we were due to head home and the fridge was almost empty. So, although a little inconvenient, it was no big deal. But it was a puzzle.

What makes an automatic defrost refrigerator stop working?

Automatic-defrost units include heaters that cycle on and off automatically to prevent frost buildup. Failure of any of these components or systems can make your fridge stop working.

What kind of power does a caravan fridge need?

Normally the fridge will only work on 12v power when the caravan is connected to the vehicle (via the grey plug) and the engine is running. Powering the fridge on 12v is really only meant to keep an already cold fridge cool whilst on the move.

Can a conventional refrigerator work in a Dometic RV?

A conventional fridge wouldn’t have that flexibility. No appliance is without its problems, which means a section on Dometic RV refrigerator troubleshooting is necessary. Here are a few common fridge challenges along with solutions.

How can I find out if my Dometic refrigerator is working?

Check the outlet on the back of the refrigerator. Use a multi-meter to check for power voltage. If the voltage checks out okay and all lights work, then check the electric heating element. Beware this has dangerous voltage….

Is the cooling unit on a Dometic refrigerator gravity operated?

Below is a useful diagram of the gas absorption cooling unit on your Dometic refrigerator: The first thing to know is that the cooling units on every Dometic gas absorption refrigerator are gravity operated and MUST be level in order to run properly.

How to troubleshoot a Dometic EA 3120 refrigerator?

Dometic EA 3120 refrigerator troubleshooting 1 Immediately turn the refrigerator off. 2 Open windows and door to air out the coach and evacuate. 3 Contact a Dometic dealer or Service Center. 4 Do not use the refrigerator until it has been repaired.