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TimnJo's avatar
TimnJo
Explorer
Sep 01, 2013

Fridge condensation drain caused delamination

I noticed a small bulge below the lower fridge vent yesterday so took the vent cover and surround off to find delamination across about three inches and extending down to the bottom metal valence.

The condensation drain tube was tucked away inside, pretty sure that's where the water came from, lesson learned.

After doing some research I decided to use Gorilla Glue as there was still moisture, I slid an awl down to create a channel for the glue to follow and squirted a generous amount down the gap.

I then used a cargo jack between the house and a piece of board to press it in place.
Today, after replacing and recaulking the vent you can barley notice it; just a slight bulge but firm with no give.
  • Creative solution..hope it works, good idea.
    Fridge drain tube Must be routed through and to the outside of the access cover OR into a small plastic catch pan inside.
  • Those drain hoses are made of paper-thin plastic. I turned the drain pan (in the fridge) around and catch the runoff in a glass.

    Kinda makes you scratch your head at why the refer mfr would use such cheap material on such an important item.
  • TimnJo wrote:
    After doing some research I decided to use Gorilla Glue as there was still moisture, I slid an awl down to create a channel for the glue to follow and squirted a generous amount down the gap.

    I then used a cargo jack between the house and a piece of board to press it in place.
    Today, after replacing and recaulking the vent you can barley notice it; just a slight bulge but firm with no give.


    I'd like to know more about this process! Do you have a link or some pics?
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Two major makes of fridge, Dometic and Norcold

    Norcold has a cup inside the outside compartment where the drain drains into, this is supposed to evaporate the water out and usually does.. (I have never heard of any complaints)

    Dometic the tube is **SUPPOSED** to be extended out via one of the vent holes in the cover so it drips, drips, drips, on the ground.

    Now,,, I have a dometic.. Thankfully I read the owner's manual and put mine out as described.

    I got the recall letter, went back to the dealer and while they were doing the recall I was mentioning to the dealer's rep that they did not put the tub outside like they were supposed to.. Technician, returning my keys to the rep, said "I always put it outside"

    First thing I did, even before I put the key in the door lock, was check to verify that... HE HAD NOT.. I put it through the vent and headed home.

    Moral: READ THE MANUAL.

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