Many RVs come equipped with a Norcold refrigerator. These fridges are well known for their durability and energy efficiency. But, like any appliance, they can encounter some issues. Fortunately, there are things you can do to troubleshoot and fix these issues.
Norcold is one of the oldest makers of RV fridges, making them since 1959. They are a subsidiary of Thetford Corporation, the world’s leading supplier of sanitation and refrigeration products for RVs, boats, and tractor trailer trucks. They have a number of models to choose from, including absorption fridges and compressor fridges.
Most Norcold RV refrigerators are designed with portability in mind, so they can be moved easily from one vehicle to another. They are built to be rugged enough to withstand the bumps and vibrations of traveling over rough roads. This is a key benefit when you’re camping away from home for weeks at a time.
These fridges use either propane or AC/DC power to cool. They are often rated for both types of power, which means they can operate in a wide range of temperatures. They are also insulated and hermetically sealed, which helps keep food and ice cold on the road.
Some Norcold refrigerators have an LED or standard control panel. It will usually include a power, mode, and temperature button, as well as an indicator light or code display (LED versions). It is important to understand how these controls work so that you can identify and replace fuses when necessary.
In addition to the basic controls, Norcold refrigerators typically have a few other features. For example, some have an automatic defrost system that works when the fridge is plugged in and cooling. Some refrigerators also have a “night mode” that reduces the compressor’s runtime and fan speed to save electricity. They are also a good choice for RVers who want to be more environmentally friendly, as they use far less gas than electric fridges do.
One downside to Norcold fridges is that they are not frost-free, so they will require periodic defrosting. This is especially true if you’re using them in very cold weather. However, the amount of maintenance they require is a small price to pay for the ability to enjoy your RV adventure in any season.
While Norcold fridges are durable and efficient, they do occasionally have problems. The good news is that most of these problems can be prevented with a little bit of knowledge.
If your Norcold refrigerator isn’t cooling, there may be a problem with the freezer door gasket or a problem with the cooling unit. To diagnose these problems, you should check the fuses first. This is usually done by removing the cover of a small black box. This box contains a variety of different fuses, and you will need to know which ones have blown so that you can replace them.