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jjgreen60's avatar
jjgreen60
Explorer
Jul 16, 2013

Dometic Refrigerator Problem

I have a 2012 Palamino Sabre 5th Wheel (purchased new last year) with a Dometic DM2852RBX refrigerator. I live in the high desert, ~5500 ft, and typically dry camp in the higher desert, ~7000-9000 ft; therefore propane operation for the refrigerator. The refrigerator rarely will operate flawlessly for more that a day or two on propane. The problem being when it attempts to ignite, it usually lights on the first spark, but then the unit continues to attempt lighting (though lit) and blows itself out during the continually lighting attempts, causing the refrigerator to go into fault state. Then you need to cycle the power switch to attempt relight. This will go on for anywhere from 5-30 minutes before it finally lights and stays lit. Any ideas how to solve the issue/problem?

7 Replies

  • I have a similar problem as jjgreen60 above.

    Can someone tell me where the T/C is located? Where does it connect to the control panel or does it? Can it be changed without removing the refrigerator from the trailer?

    Any info would be appreciated....
  • The FIRST thing to do is VERIFY your LP gas pressure. It should be 11.5 inches W/C. Doug
  • Looks like we live and camp in the same neck of woods, our same model Dometic fridge has always worked well on propane at the elevations stated. All the prior posts have good advice and following them will more than likely remedy your issue. Happy Camping!!!
  • Good answers. Start by doing the "burner area tune-up" as described in your Dometic owner manual.

    If the flame is not large enough due to debris in the burner tube, a spec of dirt in the propane jet or if the thermocouple is not centered over the flame, this can happen. No parts are needed and no special tools.

    Altitude will have a minor affect, but we are currently at 8,200' and no issues with the refrigerator on propane.
  • Some POSSIBILITIES:
    Air in the gas line. Leave gas turned on when in storage may solve the problem if it's an air issue.

    Could be a faulty thermocouple or the thermocouple may need adjusting so it contacts the flame correctly.

    Check draft system to be sure you have not picked up a dobber next or birds nest in the flu.

    Good luck / Skip

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