Tech Blog

My Norcold RV Refrigerator isn't cooling, but the freezer IS! 

If your Norcold RV refrigerator freezer is cold but the refrigerator section won’t cool, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common problems RV owners face, especially during hot summer camping trips. Norcold absorption refrigerators work differently than the residential compressor fridges you have at home, and when conditions aren’t right—like poor ventilation, extreme temperatures, running the unit off-level, or a weak heat source—the freezer may still perform while the refrigerator struggles. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it can save your food, your trip, and your wallet.

1. Poor Ventilation

Norcold RV refrigerators must have proper airflow behind the cooling unit. If your roof or sidewall vents are blocked by dust, nests, insulation, or debris, heat can’t escape. This prevents the absorption system from working efficiently. Adding RV refrigerator fans or cleaning the vents can restore airflow and cooling.

2. High Ambient Temperatures

In really extreme heat—90°F, 100°F, and beyond—the absorption cycle can’t shed heat fast enough. The freezer still cools (because it’s first in the process), but the refrigerator compartment won’t hold temperature. Parking in the shade, installing vent baffles or fans, and reducing direct sunlight on the fridge wall can help in these conditions.

3. Off-Level Operation

Unlike residential fridges, absorption units must be operated relatively level. Running your Norcold refrigerator off-level for extended periods can cause ammonia to pool instead of circulating, which starves the refrigerator compartment of cooling. Always make sure your RV is within the manufacturer’s level tolerance before operating the fridge. For gas absorption models, you should be within 3 degrees of PERFECTLY LEVEL from side to side. That's very level, so make sure you've checked the basics.

4. Insufficient Heat Source

The absorption system only works if the ammonia solution is properly boiled at the start of the cycle. If you’re running on electric (120V or 12V) and the heating element is weak, or if you’re on propane mode and the burner is dirty or misfiring, the system won’t create enough heat. Without strong heat input, the freezer will limp along but the refrigerator section won’t cool. Cleaning the burner, checking the heating element, or switching modes can often identify the issue.

? If you’ve addressed these four areas and your Norcold refrigerator still struggles, it may point to a failing Norcold cooling unit. In that case, professional service—or a replacement Norcold cooling unit—will be needed. You should schedule Norcold tech support so that we can help you pinpoint the failed part!