RV Refrigerator Parts: Common Questions
What are the most common RV refrigerator brands?
The most common RV refrigerator brands are Norcold, Dometic, Furrion, and InVision. These manufacturers make absorption refrigerators and 12-volt compressor refrigerators designed for RV travel. RV Fridge Guys specializes in replacement parts and complete refrigerators for all four brands.
Where can I buy RV refrigerator parts online?
Right here. RV Fridge Guys stocks thousands of parts for Norcold, Dometic, Furrion, and InVision refrigerators, including control boards, cooling units, doors, thermistors, fans, and sensors, and our techs can help you confirm fitment before you order.
How do I find the correct part for my RV refrigerator?
Find the model number and serial number on the data label inside the refrigerator compartment. With those, you can shop by model number or by part category. Every product description lists the models it fits, and some parts change at a serial-number break, so have both numbers ready. If you're unsure, email info@rvfridgeguys.com or call 800-712-8822.
What are the most common RV refrigerator parts that fail?
The most commonly replaced RV refrigerator parts are:
- Cooling units: Norcold, Dometic
- Control boards: Norcold, Dometic, Furrion
- Thermistors and temperature controls: Norcold, Dometic, Furrion thermostat controls
- Front optical/display boards: Norcold, Dometic
- Interior fans
- Gas valves, burners, and igniters
- Door seals and gaskets
Most of these can be replaced individually, which restores the refrigerator without replacing the whole unit.
Can I replace an RV refrigerator cooling unit instead of the whole fridge?
Yes. On most absorption refrigerators the cooling unit can be replaced on its own, which is usually less expensive than a new refrigerator. Replacement cooling units are available for many Norcold and Dometic models.
Do RV refrigerators run on propane or electricity?
Most traditional RV refrigerators are absorption refrigerators that run on propane or 120-volt AC power, and some (3-way units) also run on 12-volt DC. Newer compressor refrigerators typically run on 12-volt DC only.
How long do RV refrigerators last?
A well-maintained RV refrigerator typically lasts 10–20 years. Components such as cooling units, control boards, thermistors, and fans may need replacing during that time.
Do you sell complete RV refrigerators?
Yes. We sell complete Norcold, Dometic, Furrion, and InVision refrigerators as well as replacement parts.
Do you sell genuine OEM RV refrigerator parts?
Yes. We sell genuine new OEM parts and compatible replacement parts for Norcold, Dometic, Furrion, and InVision refrigerators. Each product page states which it is.
Can I install RV refrigerator parts myself?
Many repairs, including control boards, thermistors, fans, doors, and shelves, are well within reach of a handy RV owner; most take more time than technical skill. Jobs that involve the propane system or a cooling-unit swap need more care. If you aren't comfortable working with gas connections, have a qualified RV technician do that part of the job.
RV Refrigerator Troubleshooting Questions
RV refrigerators work very differently from residential refrigerators. These are the questions we hear most from Norcold, Dometic, and Furrion owners.
Why is my RV refrigerator not cooling?
The most common causes are poor airflow behind the refrigerator, a failed thermistor, a faulty cooling unit, or the RV being out of level. Absorption refrigerators rely on gravity to circulate refrigerant, so being significantly out of level can stop cooling completely. Read the full not-cooling guide.
Why does my RV fridge work on propane but not electricity?
If it cools on propane but not on electric, the problem is usually the 120-volt heating element, a fuse, or the AC power supply to the refrigerator, not the cooling unit. Read the electric (AC) troubleshooting guide.
Why does my RV refrigerator work on electric but not propane?
Check the propane supply, burner assembly, igniter, and gas valve. Problems in the propane system often prevent ignition even though the rest of the refrigerator works normally. Read the propane troubleshooting guide.
How do I reset a Norcold RV refrigerator?
Many Norcold refrigerators can be reset by disconnecting AC power, DC power, and propane for several minutes so the control board reboots and clears faults. If the board is in lockout mode, it may need a manual reset at the power board. See the Norcold lockout reset steps.
How do I reset a Dometic RV refrigerator?
Most Dometic refrigerators can be reset by disconnecting AC and 12-volt DC power for several minutes, then restarting the unit to clear temporary control-board faults. See the Dometic troubleshooting guide.
What does "NO CO" mean on a Norcold refrigerator?
The NO CO code means the refrigerator detected a no-cooling condition and the control board shut the system down. Resetting clears the code but not the cause, so check ventilation, leveling, and the cooling unit. See all Norcold error codes explained.
Why is my RV freezer cold but the refrigerator warm?
This is usually related to airflow, the interior fan, a thermistor, or how the cooling unit distributes cold between compartments. Read the freezer-cold, fridge-warm guide.
Do RV refrigerators need to be level?
Yes. Absorption refrigerators rely on gravity to circulate ammonia through the cooling unit. If the RV sits significantly out of level for long periods, cooling can drop sharply and the cooling unit can be damaged.
How long does an RV refrigerator take to get cold?
Most RV refrigerators need 8–24 hours to cool fully, especially when first turned on. Start yours the day before a trip.
Why does my RV refrigerator stop cooling in hot weather?
In very hot weather, heat builds up in the vent cavity behind the refrigerator faster than it can escape. Clearing the vents and adding a ventilation fan usually improves cooling.
What is a cooling unit in an RV refrigerator?
The cooling unit is the sealed assembly on the back of the refrigerator that circulates ammonia, hydrogen, and water to remove heat from the compartments. If it fails, the refrigerator won't cool on any power source.
Why does my RV refrigerator smell like ammonia?
A strong ammonia smell or yellow residue behind the refrigerator usually means the cooling unit is leaking and must be replaced. Turn the refrigerator off and ventilate the area until it's repaired. Read the ammonia smell guide.
Why does my RV refrigerator have no power?
Check the 12-volt fuse, wiring connections, and control board. Most RV refrigerators need 12-volt DC power to operate even when running on propane or 120-volt AC.
Why does my RV refrigerator keep shutting off?
Common causes are control-board faults, overheating protection, propane ignition failures, or interrupted power.
What does a thermistor do in an RV refrigerator?
The thermistor measures the temperature inside the refrigerator and tells the control board when to cool. A failed thermistor can make the refrigerator overcool or stop cooling.
Why does my RV refrigerator ice up inside?
Ice buildup is usually caused by a leaking door seal, high humidity, or frequent door openings.
Can I run my RV refrigerator while driving?
Yes. RV refrigerators are designed to run on the road. If yours stops cooling while underway, wind may be blowing down through the roof vent and putting out the propane flame; check the roof vent and cap. Turn propane appliances off while refueling.
Still have a question? Email info@rvfridgeguys.com or call 800-712-8822 with your model and serial number.