Just returned from a 15 day, 4400 mile trip. Last night as the temps dropped, the fridge, a Dometic 2193 working on AC, kept getting warmer without door being opened, or warm food being introduced (I have a wireless sender). This morning, the temp was 44 degrees, with the outside temp of 56. it usually gets down to 33 or 32 over night on AC, even in much warmer temps. This morning, the batteries (260Ah), showing 12.7 volts, dropped to 12.3 volts when the fridge was switched to 12v, and returned to 12.7 when it was switched back to AC. This unit is two years old, with minimal use. Does anyone have any ideas?
Wed, 07/31/2019 - 23:02
#1
Fridge on the Fritz
Unfortunately you are stuck with starting with the basics. ( Critical ) is the unit level both front to back and side to side. . Do you have 110-120 volts measured at the fridge plug. Is everything hot in the enclosure out side or has it cooled off as if no power. if cool the heating cartridge might have failed. or possibly the thermostat. From your 12v readings that is working normally when selected. . Is there a ammonia smell inside or close to the back. If a ammonia smell is present it has developed a leak. but two years would be very premature. . If the unit is hot most everywhere then the 110 cartridge is likely working. Sorry but these are only some questions and suggestions.
2019 Scamp 13 standard
There are maybe thousands of web pages and online videos on troubleshooting absorption fridges, as as well as manuals with troubleshooting flowcharts. That is your best resource.
Check the trouble shooting section of the manual: http://bryantrv.com/docs2/docs/rm2193.pdf
For videos, this is one I like but it focuses more on LP operation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cmE7iN3D9I
Speaking only of operation on 120 volts, feeling for heat in the flue is an easy thing to check first. As mentioned, it must be level of course. Then checking the resistance of the heating element is one common step along with making sure it is getting power and heating up. A dirty flue can affect operation on gas or electric.. see the above video.