More RV Refrigerator Tips

Several excellent tips were submitted by readers as a follow-up to our last absorption refrigerator article:

Bob's Long-Term RV Fridge Principles

Here is what I have done with RV fridges over the years and the results:

• Strict Leveling: We carefully level the RV whenever parked. While road motion keeps the absorption fluid sloshing and circulating while driving, if we stop at a rest area or store where we can't find a level spot, we turn the fridge off.
• Continuous AC Operation: At home, we leave the fridge on electric mode permanently. This keeps the refrigeration cooling loop flowing continuously and produces enough heat behind the cabinet to minimize rust and mildew buildup.
• Pre-Trip Checks: Always inspect the LP burner flame before a trip. Spider webs or dust in the burner tube will cause improper ignition or soot buildup. Turn off gas appliances while refueling at gas stations.
• Annual Cleaning: Once a year, use a vacuum to thoroughly clean dust, pet hair, and road debris out of the rear lower refrigerator compartment.

Don's Freezer Power Loss Checker

Place a single ice cube inside a small paper cup in the freezer. Check it periodically during long trips or campground stays. If a campground power outage occurs while you are away, the ice cube will melt. If power returns and it freezes again, the ice will be puddled in the bottom of the cup—giving you immediate visual warning that frozen food quality may have been compromised.

Prudy's Pre-Frozen Meal Coolers

Cook extra portions of chili, casseroles, or meats at home and freeze them in microwave-safe containers. When loading the RV, place some of these pre-frozen cooked meals inside the fresh food compartment (rather than the freezer). They act as cold blocks to help pull down cabinet temperature while thawing safely for quick travel-day dinners!