Troubleshooting an Everchill 12v RV Refrigerator Not Getting Cool Enough

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Everchill RV Refrigerator w/ Freezer - Reversible Doors - 10.7 cu ft - 12V - Stainless Steel

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$2124.41

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

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Question:

I have a 3 year old Everchill 12volt refrigerator. I have the dial set to 7 and it won’t get colder than 42° in the fridge. The freezer is at 10° and is taking 4-5 days to freeze a pound of hamburger. Any ideas? The fan is working and cycling on and off. I have tried pulling the fuse for a couple hours and no change.

asked by: Scotternjj

Expert Reply:

The most common issue for a 12v fridge like an Everchill RV Refrigerator w/ Freezer # 324-000119 having that sort of issue is a lack of power. You need at least 11.5v DC to properly work. You can use a voltage meter like the # PT89ZR to check the voltage running to the outlet and if you're getting less than 11.5v DC you'll need to increase the gauge of your wiring running from the battery to the outlet.

If you have had the fridge for the past 3 years and are just now getting the issue, then it could be something else. If you do have the correct voltage then the next thing to do is unplug the unit from the wall and let it fully defrost. You will then want to remove the back panel and clear out the drain tube using a long pipe cleaner. You could potentially have a clog causing your issues.

If neither of the above options fix your issues then I would recommend having a licensed technician repair your fridge as there is most likely an internal issue.

expert reply by: Scott S

Jeff

6/26/2024

I have the same brand fridge with the same issue. I have 14 gauge wire and I am measuring 12 volts at the unit. Any other suggestions? At 7 it will freeze our vegetables but will not keep previously frozen items frozen. Thanks Jeff

Jameson C.

6/26/2024

@Jeff It's still too light of a gauge of wire. I would replace with 10 gauge like part # 10-1-1 if you can. The voltage you are seeing does not indicate a problem as it's not a voltage issue it's an amperage issue.

Jeff

6/27/2024

@JamesonC I will try upsizing the wire but wouldn’t I be blowing a fuse if it’s an amperage problem? Currently I have 14 garage wire and a 10 amp fuse. You recommend 10 garage wire should I go to a 30 amp fuse to match the wire

Jameson C.

6/27/2024

@Jeff You shouldn't be blowing fuses with the heavier gauge wire. The only way that would happen is if the fridge has a problem and is overdrawing.