Tech Blog
Troubleshooting guides, error code explanations and step-by-step repairs for Norcold, Dometic, Furrion and GE RV refrigerators, written by the techs at RV Fridge Guys. Find your model, look up the code on the display, and work through the checks before you buy a part.
Most RV refrigerators are one of two types, and they fail in different ways. Absorption refrigerators (2-way and 3-way models such as the Norcold 1200, 2118 and N8XX, and the Dometic Americana and DM2652) use heat from a propane flame or an electric heating element to move refrigerant. They have no compressor, need to be close to level and well ventilated, and can take several hours to cool down. Common problems are a failed heating element, a dirty burner or igniter, a bad thermistor, a failed power board, or a cooling unit that has stopped working.
12-volt compressor refrigerators (such as the Norcold N8DC, N10DC, N15DCSS and N20DCSS, and the Furrion Arctic) work like a home refrigerator but run on the RV battery. They cool quickly and don't need to be level. Most of their problems trace back to low battery voltage, poor wiring connections, or the compressor controller, and most report a flash code or error code that points to the cause.
On an absorption fridge, check that the RV is close to level, the outside vents are clear, and the fridge works on both gas and electric. If it cools on gas but not electric, the heating element or power board is the usual cause. If it doesn't cool on either, the cooling unit may have failed. On a 12-volt compressor fridge, check the battery voltage first, then look for a flash code. Search for your model above to find the guide for it.
Each brand and model uses its own codes, so the same letters can mean different things on different fridges. Find your model in the guides above for the exact meaning of each code and the checks to do before replacing a part.
The model and serial number are on a label inside the refrigerator, usually on a side wall or near the top of the fresh-food compartment. Having the model and serial number in hand makes it much easier to find the right guide and the right part.
Most failures, such as a power board, heating element, thermistor or igniter, are worth repairing. A failed cooling unit on an older absorption fridge is the most common reason owners replace the whole refrigerator instead. Our replacement guides above list which current models fit where discontinued ones were installed.
Many repairs, like replacing a thermistor, fuse or power board, are straightforward with basic tools. Repairs that involve propane, 120-volt wiring or the cooling unit carry more risk. Turn off the gas and disconnect power before working on the fridge, and call a qualified RV technician if you aren't comfortable doing the work.
Know which part you need? Shop parts by model number or ask a parts expert.
Posted by RV Fridge Guys on 15th Jun 2016
