Forum Discussion

mnuser's avatar
mnuser
Explorer
Aug 17, 2017

Refrigerator Question

I hope somebody can help. I have an Atwood HE0601 refrigerator in my camper. The refrigerator quit working and it won't get cold any longer. I have been to dealership looking to get it replaced but they want upwards of $2000 to fix. I have looked around on the Internet and I have found that fridge for as low as $900. I have also found a replacement but it is a different brand name.

All I'm really looking for some advice as to other people's experiences. It looks like I will replace it on my own because it doesn't look too difficult just not sure which fridge to buy and if I have other options.

Just for the record, the problem with the fridge is it won't cool down. I took it to a dealership and they said the problem was a plug in the cooling coil. According to the dealership the only way you can fix this problem is to replace the fridge. I have read on the Internet you can take the fridge out and turn it upside down and sometimes the plug will release.

We are new to the whole camper owning thing so we're just not sure which direction to go. Thanks in advance and this is one of the best things about the Internet is getting answers from people who've experienced the same problem.
  • Thanks for the quick responses. At this point it is what it is and it just needs to be fixed since we are planning on selling the camper.

    Using the above mentioned model number can anybody recommend a replacement under a thousand bucks? I'm pretty sure my son and I can install it. Does not too complicated.

    Thanks folks. The internet at its best.
  • Any brand will fir so long as the cutout / cabinet dimensions are close. Plugging comes from not operating it level within 1/2 bubble of plumb. The sloution overheats and crystalizes causing a 'blood clot' if you will, inside the coils.
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    I've had success vibrating the coils on the back or tapping on them instead of turning upside down but it is a stopgap measure as it's going to stop cooling again at some point.