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Jim_Arndt's avatar
Jim_Arndt
Explorer
Sep 06, 2017

Norcold Refrigerator Fire

We have two N841R refrigerators on our houseboat at Lake Powell. Yesterday while running the generator with the refrigerators in AC mode, one of the refrigerator powerboards caught fire where the AC powercord attaches.

Fortunately several were on board and were able to quickly put out the fire.

We are having our dealer come out, but it is interesting to note that Thetford customer support provided no assistance, and refused to let us talk to a technician to determine root cause.

Surprising lack of support, we've bought 4 of these refrigerators in the past 5 years, you think they could at least take our phone call.

Link to pics:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/wqr5zK7TbjtHwf373

24 Replies

  • I'm confused. The N841R is a Norcold product...

    In any case, I would highly recommend a TF2600 from TruckFridge or a similar compressor system. It takes five amps (60 watts), but it will be reliable.
  • Well IF the model number is a N841 it is a NORCOLD so that is probably why Dometic was of no help :S


    Electrical fire at AC terminals on circuit board was probably due to loose/corroded connections.

    Water environment requires higher degree of maintenance \



    Glad fire was localized.
  • Jim_Arndt wrote:
    We have two N841R refrigerators on our houseboat at Lake Powell. Yesterday while running the generator with the refrigerators in AC mode, one of the refrigerator powerboards caught fire where the AC powercord attaches.

    Fortunately several were on board and were able to quickly put out the fire.

    We are having our dealer come out, but it is interesting to note that Dometic customer support provided no assistance, and refused to let us talk to a technician to determine root cause.

    Surprising lack of support, we've bought 4 of these refrigerators in the past 5 years, you think they could at least take our phone call.

    Pretty much why more and more people are going with a residential refrigerator.
    Bill