Propane smell from fridge?

Question

Hey guys,I have a Dometic fridge. When I unhook from electricity it automatically switches over to gas and vice versa. It seems that when this happens we get a propane smell inside the 5er. The smell never lasts long but is a little concerning, especially to the wife. What I would like to know is where to look for the source. I have soaked all the connections I can see with soapy water but none seem to be leaking. I am at a loss as to what to do next. Any ideas?Thanks, John

cajun_bill · Answer

might be the gas that escapes before the spark ignites the flame to start the fridge running on propane?  But never smelled it in mine.

old-biscuit · Answer

Very strange that you would smell it 'inside' the RV.......maybe if standing outside by vent/access cover when fridge swapped to propane BUT inside??
That means fridge is NOT properly sealed in cabinet.
Main propane line is outside of RV....fridge propane connection/feed line is outside rv

(Only stovetop/oven and maybe furnace---depending on type have a propane feed/connection inside rv inside the appliance.)

No leaks found....smell goes away quickly..........then could be when fridge gas valve first opens/before it lite off ----but that would mean fridge cabinet not sealed around fridge.

On-line photo shows grill below fridge. Have you removed grill and checked if that compartment has an opening to fridge compartment. Propane sinks so it would go into that 'space' if access hole/crack etc. then have access to inside of rv. :H

gmandjm · Answer

Does it happen every time or just sometimes?

And is there anything running inside that would cause the LP to be drawn into the camper? (Fan running? Door across from the fridge open?)

Like, Biscuit said, at the very least, make sure the fridge cabinet is as well sealed as possible.

shadows4 · Answer

Thanks guys, we have the 5er at home in the driveway now. I will go out and remove the grill below the fridge. That is the furnace under the fridge. I guess I would be looking for openings from the fridge?
Thanks, John

larry_barnhart · Answer

I would get a propane tech to test your complete fifth for a propane leak.  I have had this done 2 times.  Might save your life someday.  A better product than soap is available for propane.chevman

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Propane smell from fridge?

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