Refrigerator roof vent?

[aztlanco]

Are refrigerator roof vents absolutely necessary? Or can they be avoided by installing large access doors with plenty of louvers for venting?
I think that if at all possible, this would eliminate roof leaks and problems up on the roof. Seems to me, I have seen some RV's without roof vents.
Thanks in advance,
Ernie
"58 Traveler 18ft.

[Pahaska]

Originally Posted by aztlanco

Are refrigerator roof vents absolutely necessary? Or can they be avoided by installing large access doors with plenty of louvers for venting?
I think that if at all possible, this would eliminate roof leaks and problems up on the roof. Seems to me, I have seen some RV's without roof vents.
Thanks in advance,
Ernie
"58 Traveler 18ft.

The taller the stack, the better the refrigerator cools. I have never heard of any roof leaks around the Airstream refrigerator vent; they occur much more frequently around the vent stacks for the plumbing where the penetrate the roof.

Many units with side louvers have a fan to aid in airflow. My experience with 2 trailers with side vents make me happy that mine has a roof vent.

[RivetED]

I agree with John, though many trailers use side vents only, including recent Bambis. The Bambi's come with a fan to move air, a friend of our's removed the fan in his '03 & put 2 computer-type fans in for more flow (CFM's) & quiter operation. He also added a 'restrictor plate/bar' to increase air-flow over the coils & not just through the compartment.

Our 25' Safari has the roof vent with no fan & it has done great this summer in Texas.

[aztlanco]

Thanks to Pahaska and RivetEd;
I guess I'l go with the roof vent. That will eliminate having to get a fan and wiring and something else drawing amps when your'e boon docking. Thanks again.
Ernie
'58 Traveler 18ft.