Traveling while refrigerator is running on propane

[Rocinante]

Given we have 400AH of lithium batteries and 650 watts on the roof, we usually run the fridge on electric while we drive. It’s just so easy, so snide remarks aside, why not reduce an obvious potential risk when we can do that so easily? The one possible exception would be when we know we’ll be dry camping several days at our destination and want to start off with a maximum charge on the batteries in case we will be camped in the shade.

[gypsydad]

AC is a big draw for fridge, using batteries. The new 3 way with DC is a better choice when plugged in to your TV while traveling, IMHO. Propane has worked for us over 18 years now, with 4 AS's, without much fuel used. Reliable and efficient. I agree; save your batteries for camping.

[paiceman]

We have for over 40 years, even with the old 3-way ones. Only turn it off when running thru tunnels that don't permit propane on.

[Flathead1984]

I have a 2020 FC 25. After reading all the posts, I decided to keep the LP on and the refer running between stops. We are in Florida and the SE and it is so bloody hot. However, the refer does NOT stay running while we are towing, even with the LP on. Have they changed the system? When we get to our next camp, after 8 hours, the freezer is defrosted and the refer about 60 degrees.

Is there a trick to keeping it on?

e

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
Does it stay running or does the flame blow out?

Bob
🇺🇸

[jeffmc306]

Originally Posted by Flathead1984

I have a 2020 FC 25. After reading all the posts, I decided to keep the LP on and the refer running between stops. We are in Florida and the SE and it is so bloody hot. However, the refer does NOT stay running while we are towing, even with the LP on. Have they changed the system? When we get to our next camp, after 8 hours, the freezer is defrosted and the refer about 60 degrees.

Is there a trick to keeping it on?

e

Flathead, check to see if your fridge is on “auto”. There have been reports of issues with using the auto function. I press the flame icon to manually select propane. Check the outside access panel to ensure there’s a flame before taking off.

We have a 3-way fridge in our Globetrotter. I ran it on 12V for the first two stops (we have solar) a few weeks ago on the way to Colorado. I use my Thermopen Smoke grill thermometer with wireless remote to monitor the freezer and fridge temps when driving. If I notice the temp rising, I’ll switch it to propane. It’s reassuring to know what’s going on in the trailer and not loosing food when you arrive.

NOTE: The two photos were taken at different times; that’s why the fridge temp on the remote is different than the main unit. You can program upper and lower alarm limits. They’ll beep at you when they get out of the set range.
Hope that helps!
Jeff

[rvb]

Does is cool on propane when you are not driving? If not, you may need to clean the jet. Mine quits cooling and I have to clean the jet about once a year. Turn off the gas, remove the sheet metal cover and you can see the brass jet and unscrew it. It will probably take a metric open end wrench. Soak it in denatured alcohol for about 15 minutes and then blow it out with canned air. DO NOT USE A WIRE TO TRY TO CLEAN IT OUT. Modern jets have a very synthetic ruby tip with precise diameter opening. A wire can knock that off and you have too much gas and a potential fire hazard. The trick is getting it back in. It's a tight space. I use the next size box end wrench to hold it in place while I screw it back in with the right size open end wrench.

Airflow is another factor that may be your problem. Cooling relies on air rising up and passing over the cooling fins on the back at the top of the Refrigerator. If the airflow is disrupted it will not cool. You might benefit from installing one or two 12v computer fans blowing up over the coils to insure the air goes the right direction. I did this but found I only need those if it is over 95 degrees. They will, however, make sure air is flowing up not down.

When I am traveling I freeze water bottles or ice packs in the freezer at night while on shore power then put them in the refrigerator while I'm driving to help keep the lower box cold. In hot weather I also turn the refrigerator setting down so it is just above freezing in the morning so it starts out colder and takes longer to warm up. Ideally your refrigerator should be below 40 degrees all the time.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

We run our fridge on propane whenever we are in motion. The switch never goes off the "auto" setting. Never had a problem during at least 100 "in transit" days out and about.

Bob

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

Hi

We run our fridge on propane whenever we are in motion. The switch never goes off the "auto" setting. Never had a problem during at least 100 "in transit" days out and about.

Bob

Ditto!

[Mollysdad]

I have a routine.
It probably doesn't make sense, but it works for me.
When switching from "on" to "auto", I turn it off first.
I feel that I give it a better chance of lighting.
My old RV I could hear the "whoosh" of the flame lighting.
I don't hear that in the Airstream, so I'm always grateful when it's cold or colder at the end of the day.
I understand the orifices need cleaning periodically, but so far so good.

"If it ain't broke, don't break it."