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How They Work

Gas RV refrigerators are entirely different from their electric cousins. Where electric refrigerators use safe, non-flammable Freon for their refrigerant, gas (propane) RV refrigerators use compressed hydrogen gas and an ammonia-water solution. Electric refrigerators use compressors, electric motors, and cooling fans; gas refrigerators have no moving parts.

Finally, where electric refrigerators use copper tubing, gas RV refrigerator cooling units are made entirely of steel because of the ammonia. Ammonia attacks copper, brass, and bronze in the presence of water. As a result repairs of gas RV refrigerators should never be attempted without specialized and extensive training.

For the more technically inclined: 

*  Click here to go to our Dometic or Norcold manuals

*  For an in-depth study of how these systems work try this site MOBILE RV

* For information on all types of Ammonia Refrigeration try ARTA

There are only a few measures you need to do, to keep your gas RV refrigerator in good working condition.

Always level the RV when the refrigerator is running. If the RV is stopped and not level for anything longer than 15 minutes shut down the refrigerator and do not open the doors. The refrigerator should keep reasonably cold for hours.

Always clean and dry the inside of the refrigerator after use and leave the door wide open. This will stop mould from forming on the inside and will stop rust from forming on the door frame. Another outcome is that any water that might have leaked from the fins and freezer into the cooling unit will dry out and this will help to stop the cooling unit from rusting.

Keep a check on the gas burner. Remove the cover and blow out the burner every six months. Also remove any carbon that might be forming on the sensor probes. This makes the flame burn yellow and will carbon-up the flu tub.

That's all there is to ensure a long life for your gas refrigerator.

We rebuild and sell cabin and RV refrigerators saving you 45% - 60% - just $675 to $850 for guaranteed recycled units - see our cabin refrigerator price list, RV refrigerator price list,  click here for photos of 8 cu ft models or click here for photos of 6 cu ft models. We also sell new cabin models and freezers. and new, used and reconditioned parts.

These refrigerators are also known as absorption or propane refrigerators with various units suitable for house boats and other marine uses, cabins, non (120v) electric houses, camping, and motor homes.

home/contact details 

General information and sales inquiries please call Allan Crane.

25 California St Vallejo CA 94590

Tel 707-552-0337 or Toll Free (Local Bay Area only) 1800-309-0535,

Sales & product info e-mail cranesrv@aol.com Map &  Directions

Copyright © 2002 Cranes RV Refrigeration Inc. Last modified:   April 23, 2008

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