Frig on Propane

[Bob Peahl]

We need to leave our trailer for several days and wonder whether to leave the frig stocked and running.

Ours is a 2017 27FCFBT

What is the longest period the frig can run on propane, assuming no hookups and two full propane tanks?

[smithcreek]

Longer than most food will last.

[SeeMore]

Your limiting factor is the battery state-of-charge. There is a parasitic drain from a number of control boards to run things like the carbon monoxide detector, refrigerator status, etc. It can last quite some time if your batteries are at full charge when you leave. A few days can be done easily if you ensure no lights or other systems (like the water pump) are left on. FYI, be sure to NOT place the battery disconnect switch in "Store" mode.

[sandollars]

Define "several".

[Bill M.]

I agree that the battery is the limiting factor. The frig does but draw much but there are other loads. So how long depends upon your batteries and your trailers “draw”. I would expect a couple of weeks with my rig but have not tried it. I store it plugged in.

[DewTheDew]

If you have solar panels then my guess would be (assuming reasonable sunny days) that the fridge draws less than the panels will charge. But don't you have to manually switch propane tanks? I thought you had to switch between them with manually but I may be wrong (I haven't used them too much).

[thewarden]

No need to manually switch over. Once the first tank runs out, it will automatically start drawing from the second tank and the color on the regulator will turn from green to red indicating that the first tank is empty.

As has been stated, the limiting factor will be the batteries. If they are fully charged and full capacity, expect about 7-10 days. My 3 year old batteries, which are not in the greatest of shape and can only be charged to about 75%, will discharge, even when the switch is set to disconnect, after 5 or 6 days.