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Topic: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane (Read 630 times) previous topic - next topic
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Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
I've noticed my fridge runs cooler on A/C than it does on propane.

Is this typical?
2021 Mid Bath
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #1 –
Contrary to my experience; the refrigerator in my 2003 runs colder on propane than on AC.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #2 –
We are like Joan, a little better on propane. 

Others have said there is not supposed to be a difference.....
Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
Bigfoot 25RQ Twin on order with early summer 2024 ETA

Our smartphone autocorrects into very poor English.
 We disclaim the illusion of ignorance this creates as we have enough ignorance we rightly claim.
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #3 –
It's not the source of energy production its the time of applied energy that mades the difference.   A watt of power is a watt of power no matter.  I.E.  an equal amount of carioles from propane equals an equal amount of calories from electricity. 

My guess is there can be a difference in applied power at different times.  I.E. the propane source is putting out less/more calories then the A/C source or vis versa.  

glen
personal fine art photo stuff
TF Mack | Flickr
It's all good .......
2014 Twin King
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #4 –
Yes, Glen that is what I read into it.  If some people showed the propane system gave more output or the A/C did.
I wonder if something like outside temperature affects how efficiently the propane source output works vs the AC source output?  Or age of fridge or ......

Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
Bigfoot 25RQ Twin on order with early summer 2024 ETA

Our smartphone autocorrects into very poor English.
 We disclaim the illusion of ignorance this creates as we have enough ignorance we rightly claim.
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #5 –
With your older fridge, it is possible different temperature sensors are used for the different modes. Newer fridges use the same sensor, because a single processor controls all modes.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #6 –
Quote from: Jane and Scott  - 
We are like Joan, a little better on propane.  Others have said there is not supposed to be a difference.....

The heating available can vary with elevation with propane (higher elevation, less heat from the flame), and with voltage when using 120VAC (low voltage = less heating available; eg, when it's hot and everyone in the campground has their air conditioner running). Propane heating can also suffer from a clogged jet, partially blocked flue, and corroded flame nozzle. Both forms will suffer from cooling fins that are frosted over.

My experience is two little fans blowing on the fins inside the refrigerator improve operation much more than any differences between propane/120VAC; ditto for a fan(s) blowing air across the external fins. With the internal and external fans, my refrigerator works well under all conditions, whether it's 100+ degree heat, high altitude, or low campground voltage.
2005 Jayco 24SS
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #7 –
Eric,

“ a fan(s) blowing air across the external fins.”

Where might I find that external fin?  I want to replicated your idea in my rig.

Thanks,

Jules
'O6 IB Anniversary Model
Sue, My Copilot
Carlie, our canine princess
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #8 –
"Where might I find that external fin..."
---
I think that Eric may mean the coils (zig zag cooling tubing) on the back of the refrigerator?
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Refrigerator on and A/C and on propane
Reply #9 –
Quote from: Joan  - 
"Where might I find that external fin..."
---
I think that Eric may mean the coils (zig zag cooling tubing) on the back of the refrigerator?
My Norcold has fins along the tubing (condenser) at the top rear of the refrigerator. I thought that was standard for most refrigerators of the size we use.

I should clarify that the external fans are mounted at the bottom rear of the refrigerator, and blow air up the entire back side of the unit, and not just on the external fins. The installation is based on what bumper reported he did for his LD a few years ago.
2005 Jayco 24SS