Dometic DM2852LBFX Not Cooling After Working Fine  

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That definitely isn't what you want to come home to after a good camping trip Bill. Since your Dometic worked great all week and then suddenly quit cooling, I wouldn't assume the refrigerator has failed just yet. There are a few simple things I'd check first.

I'd start by making sure the RV is sitting level. Absorption refrigerators need to be level to cool properly. I'd also take a look inside and make sure the little thermistor clipped to the cooling fin hasn't slid out of place. Then check the outside access panel for any dirt, spider webs, or anything blocking the vents, especially if you've been traveling on dusty roads.

One thing that surprises a lot of people is that the refrigerator still needs good 12 volt battery power, even if you're plugged into shore power or running on propane. The 12 volt battery powers the refrigerator's control board, and if the voltage gets too low, usually around 10.5 volts or less, the fridge can stop cooling. If you have a voltmeter, I'd check your battery voltage. It's a quick check that rules out a really common problem.

If it turns out the cooling unit has failed and you decide to replace the refrigerator instead, I'd recommend the Invision RV Refrigerator, part # NV94FR. It's very close to the same size as your Dometic, so it makes for a much easier swap. Since it's a compressor refrigerator, it cools much faster, keeps a more consistent temperature in hot weather, and you never have to worry about being perfectly level. It also gets rid of the propane burner and the maintenance that comes with an absorption refrigerator. It's one of those upgrades that a lot of RV owners are really happy they made. Hopefully we can get your current fridge cooling again, but if not, that's the route I'd take.

expert reply by: Heather A

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