Cannot run refrigerator on gas

When we were in Flagstaff, Arizona this past summer the refrigerator would not light because the pressure of the gas to the burner too low and we were at high altitude. Turned out the gas regulator was faulty.

The thermocouple on all that I have seen keeps the gas flow going after it is lit. It is lit by a spark when the button on the refrigerator is pushed in gas mode.

The burner has always been the culprit when ours fails to stay started on gas. The burner needs to be cleaned regularly and replaced eventually. Ours burner has narrow slots that the gas comes through and they get blocked by rust/dirt over time and the flow won't warm the thermocouple enough to hold the gas valve open.

If there is not even enough gas flowing to light the burner when the button is pushed, that is a different problem entirely that ours has never exhibited.

Dick_B wrote:
Isn't there some kind of thermocouple or thermister that has to be heated to open the gas valve. If so, it could be bad.

Not unless it is an older small cabinet type

Most use a Spark Electrode with high voltage spark to ignite propane flame

It would be HELPFUL if Brand/Model was included in post




RV propane system is only 0.4 psi so it doesn't take much to disrupt the propane flow and the propane/air ratio is critical for proper combustion

Burner slot(s) obstructed.....spider web, rust etc
Gas orifice clogged
Bad wire connections on spark electrode
Incorrect gap for spark electrode (1/8" - 3/16")
Loose/poor ground
Circuit board ------faulty circuit for gas valve

Typically a good cleaning of burner components will be all that is needed

Isn't there some kind of thermocouple or thermister that has to be heated to open the gas valve. If so, it could be bad.

Gunk in the tube can be removed with compressed air. If you have spark and no gass, run your stove burners wide open for 30 seconds or so, if they don't light, then you know. But that will also remove any trapped air in the line. I have had both issues in the past.

ever taken it out and cleaned the burner assembly? they do get dirty with rust. its not a hard job but if you need to have a friend or mobil tech do it. #1 got gas? #2 good 12v battery. #3 have a helper try it while you watch for spark. if your in a rv park ask the manager if he knows some one to check it out.

Check the metal tube where the flame comes out. See if it is rusted out. Mine was and
worked much better after replacing it. Got the part off eBay. Check that the igniter is sparking.
If not try lighting with a match and see if it fires up.