Noisy Dometic RV A/C 60 Second Fix

[2manytoyz]

After a recent trip, one of our Dometic roof top A/C units started making a loud/unusual buzzing noise.

I pulled the cover while it was running, and discovered one of the hard lines from the compressor was rattling.

I did a quick and dirty fix, one suitable for a DIY at a campground. Only required removal of 4 screws, and shoving in a piece of pipe foam. I put a video online here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5X5BMY1c7tk

I believe the padding on the nearby clamp is shot, so it's not holding the copper tube tightly anymore. The unit is a 2015 vintage.

I noticed how rusty the shroud screws were, and ordered some replacement stainless steel screws. When I go back on the roof to replace the hardware, I'll see about removing the clamp, and maybe wrapping the line with silicone tape, then re-installing the clamp. Shouldn't need the foam after that.

File this tip under "I'll keep that fix in mind if it occurs during a trip".

I'll post an update with a more permanent solution soon.

Happy trails...

[2manytoyz]

Dusty R wrote:
That piece of foam will soon wear through, You need to very carefully bend that slightly away from where it's hitting/rattling. Sooner or latter it will wear a hole in the tine/tubbing.

I think the clamp it goes through has a worn out plastic insert.

'tis why I said "When I go back on the roof to replace the hardware, I'll see about removing the clamp, and maybe wrapping the line with silicone tape, then re-installing the clamp. Shouldn't need the foam after that."

[dougrainer]

Dometic had a problem with both Penguins and Brisk Airs getting the copper lines with correct separation. There was also a problem with HOW the AC units were installed if they were top mount installed instead of the inside long bolts used. The OEM installers were grabbing the AC units, (remember they have to remove the top shroud for top mount installs) by the copper tubing or using the copper tubing to help center the AC over the mount hole. This was fixed a few years ago when Dometic realized the problems. Doug

[Dusty_R]

That piece of foam will soon wear through, You need to very carefully bend that slightly away from where it's hitting/rattling. Sooner or latter it will wear a hole in the tine/tubbing.

[bob213]

Good info...thanks for sharing.