Improving Fridge Cooling
I did a search and read some of the posts regarding modifications to RV refrigerators. Seems like there are several ways to improve cooling, and some that don't work so well. I would like to hear ...
Forum Discussion
bob_nestor wrote:
First, absorption units do better on propane and 110v than they do on 12v. The 12v is only there to try an maintain temps while traveling.
Second, minimize putting warm things in, so limit the number of times and the length of time you have the unit open and try not to put a lot of things in at the same time that aren't already cooled down.
Third, they all work by transferring the heat to the outside via the cooling coils in the back of the unit. For most installations that uses just normal airflow over the coils - since hot air rises it brings in cooler air at the bottom and exits at the top. Units installed with a top roof vent work better than units with the top vent on the side. Most manufacturers don't follow the recommendations for clearances in the back where the coils are and usually allow too much space. Limiting the space to the recommendations using baffles and such helps with the airflow. Adding fans can help, but be careful. Just moving a lot of air may not be as effective as moving the right amount of air over the coils. Faster air can create a turbulent airflow and a laminar airflow is what you want for maximum heat transfer.
Finally, since the unit's performance is based on the ability to transfer the heat outside thru the coils, the temp difference between the air at the coils and the outside air is important. Try not to park your RV in such a way that the sun is heating the area where the refrigerator is located. And remember that at most the unit can probably create about a 40 degree F temp difference, so it will work better when the outside temps are around 70 than it will when the temps a pushing triple digits.
Your description is inaccurate. The Refer REMOVES the heat Internally from the objects in the refer. The interior of the refer is SEALED from the outside. The OUTSIDE condenser fins do remove the heat. But they remove the heat from the OUTSIDE cooling unit assbly. The Interior refer relies on Convection air to flow from the bottom of the refer box UP the back wall and THRU the Evap fins and that removes the heat as the fins are 10 degrees colder than the interior temp. This is why it is important to NOT block the rear 1 inch of space on the back wall. Plastic bags are a no-no on the back wall. This is a very simple version of RV refer operation. Doug
