Norcold 3 way fridge

DFord wrote:
The "true" 3 way refrigerators aren't around any more. I'm not sure when they stopped making them though.

They were able to operate on propane, 120v or 12v. The heaters were 12v and there was step-down transformer to run them on 120v power.

NO RV 3 way absorbsion fridge has a step down transformer. They have a 120 element for 120 operation and a 12 volt element for 12 volt operation. They still make 3 way RV refers, they are used in small B and B+ vans. And some Truck Campers.

They still make 3 way fridges. https://thenorcoldguy.com/n3150-5-3-cubic-ft/

Can you find the model of the refrigerator, I think the identification label is inside the refrigerator door. With the model we can probably get you some better ideas what to check.

definitely pull the outside panel off and take a look. Just use a nickel or quarter to turn the latches 90 degrees and pull out. There should be a 120v household style outlet behind the door. Make sure the refrigerator is plugged into this outlet.


The refrigerator requires 12v DC for both AC and DC operation so check all the fuses in the breaker panel as well as on the back of the refrigerator. If the refrigerator is plugged into the RV check the outlet for power or try unplugging it and running a separate extension cord from the house to the refrigerator.

midnightsadie wrote:
most need a 12v battery ,even when on shore power.

The 12v power is needed to make the control board work. Without it, nothing will work.

DFord wrote:
The "true" 3 way refrigerators aren't around any more. I'm not sure when they stopped making them though.

They were able to operate on propane, 120v or 12v. The heaters were 12v and there was step-down transformer to run them on 120v power.

Interesting. MY 3 year old truck camper has a Dometic 3 way in it. Propane, 12 volt or 110 volt and no transformer. The boiler has a 12 volt Mullion Heater and a 120 volt Mullion heater.

Of course it's coming out this year and getting replaced with a Marine Dometic compressor fridge.

Tired of the inefficient gas fridge.

DFord wrote:
The "true" 3 way refrigerators aren't around any more. I'm not sure when they stopped making them though.

They were able to operate on propane, 120v or 12v. The heaters were 12v and there was step-down transformer to run them on 120v power.

Interesting. MY 3 year old truck camper has a Dometic 3 way in it. Propane, 12 volt or 110 volt and no transformer. The boiler has a 12 volt Mullion Heater and a 120 volt Mullion heater.

Of course it's coming out this year and getting replaced with a Marine Dometic compressor fridge.

Tired of the inefficient gas fridge.

most need a 12v battery ,even when on shore power.

The "true" 3 way refrigerators aren't around any more. I'm not sure when they stopped making them though.

They were able to operate on propane, 120v or 12v. The heaters were 12v and there was step-down transformer to run them on 120v power.

IMO just run your fridge on propane.