GFCI keeps tripping. Why??

Have you ran a extension chord from the fridge to the gfci to see if it pops if it doesn't then the outlet at the fridge is bad going to ground when you plug into it

The OP replaced the GFCI and it still trips.
The heating element in the fridge has developed a short to ground. It's a very common failure and even though the fridge may cool properly, you need to replace the heater.

newman fulltimer wrote:
Have you ran a extension chord from the fridge to the gfci to see if it pops if it doesn't then the outlet at the fridge is bad going to ground when you plug into it

I've used the extension cord and it works fine. I've replaced the receptacle behind the fridge too. I've checked the polarity on all the receptacles and that all checks out as well. It actually worked for about 5 minutes at one point and then tripped again. I've also tested the ground at the back of the fridge and it works as well. The system hasn't been wet at all either.. :h

ScottG wrote:
The OP replaced the GFCI and it still trips.
The heating element in the fridge has developed a short to ground. It's a very common failure and even though the fridge may cool properly, you need to replace the heater.

Thanks ScottG... that was going to be my next guess. The heater is hot to the touch and the fridge is cooling fine. I guess I will have to find an RV dealer during my travels :R

It's not too bad of a job so you may want to try doing it yourserlf. There might even be a video of it on youtube.

Good luck!

ScottG wrote:
It's not too bad of a job so you may want to try doing it yourserlf. There might even be a video of it on youtube.

Good luck!

Thanks ScottG. I've replaced one before.. about 30 years ago.. but my memory ain't what it used to be!! :S

Always fix what's broke..there's a reason why the GFCI trips. Fires can be costly...Dennis

It does not take much of a fault for a GFCI to trip. That is how they are designed.

Executive wrote:
Always fix what's broke..there's a reason why the GFCI trips. Fires can be costly...Dennis

Since GFCI devices are for protecting lives, not property, a loss of life can be very disruptive to a person's future.

My guess (and I am pretty good at this) the electric heating element in the refrigerator is grounded, or at least starting to short to ground.

If you keep running the refrigerator on 120 volt, you risk it shorting out further, and perhaps arking, and creating a hole in that expensive to replace refrigerator. Of course if it catches fire, then the expensive to replace RV too.

Just leave it on propane.

IF you are handy with tools, then consider taking out the electric heat element (ONLY IF it slides out easy, do not pry on the ammonia filled tubing) ! and replace the electric heat element. This will save you a couple of dollars on propane on each trip, but in reality, I would not recommend it.

I had a 1985 RV that had 'problems' running the refrigerators on electric, and a recall a couple of times (a recall, then a recall on the replacement 'safe' parts). SO I only ran it on gas. I only needed to fill the 10 gallon propane tank every 4 weeks while full timing in the RV! So no big deal, and that was both refrigerator, water heater, and whatever cooking we did that summer trip.

The tripping GFI is indicating a problem with the refrigerator. I would hate to have you explaining to the firemen who came to your campground that you bypassed the GFI to save $1 in propane!

GOod luck.

Fred.