Thank you! How do we reset both like you mentioned? So if you give them the module number, theyll probably say you have the wrong module on your fridge. Make sure you check connections further down the gas pipe to make sure nothing was loosened when you removed the orifice. The door was open for more than 2 minutes. We wouldve saved a lot of money if we had just done this before buying a new cooling unit, but we didnt know about it. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "aee65bed9b3d4a81f747798cbbda7992" );document.getElementById("bf0ddd2115").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Welcometo The Camping Nerd. Its not a huge difference, but if anything else is equal, the gas engine produces more heat than the electric system. Poor cooling on AUTO AC or AC manual mode. Temperature number flashes when SET TEMP button is pushed. Its mostly about getting the tip of the orifice clean so it lets the proper amount of gas through. Should I leave my RV plugged in all the time? If not, fix these issues and then try resetting the fridge again. Thats why its so frustrating when your RV refrigerator starts acting up.The good news is that there are some Norcold 121X RV refrigerator troubleshooting tips that can help you get to the bottom of the problem and get your fridge working again.One of the first things to check is the power source. Although I have no experience with Norcolds, this sounds like a thermal switch which was added on the recalls. Instead, it is a variable burner (or pilot) if you will. I plugged it in to an extension cord that goes to my house. Then, inspect the refrigerators power cord for any harm. Works great on electric but stopped cooling on propane a year ago. Its pretty easy to change out yourself you just have to remove your fridge, then pull it out and replace it with a new one that is compatible with your model of RV fridge. No matter what issue youre having with your fridge, this manual will help you get to the bottom of it and get your appliance back up and running again in no time.So, if youre looking for some assistance with your Norcold RV refrigerator, be sure to check out the official manual. Steadily, over and over. Norcold manufactures dependable refrigerators for families and is the industry pioneer in the manufacturing of RV gas and electric absorption refrigerators in the market. This should successfully reset your fridge back to its default settings! One of the challenges of owning a recreational vehicle is keeping all amenities functional. Poor cooling on AUTO LP or manual LP mode. The high temperature limit switch is open. I went back to the books, and finally found the answer I had been looking for the entire time. You may not easily find a mechanic or service center when you need one. AC heaters connected incorrectly to power board. The input LP pressure should be an 11 water column. (Norcold will not sell you one.) This way, they can look at other possible reasons and give you more accurate advice. The refrigerator is operating on the "Back Up Operating System". Make sure the wall socket where the refrigerator is plugged in is functioning properly. When your RV is not level, it can cause the liquids in the fridge to slosh around and prevent proper cooling. This reset involves using a magnet small enough to be placed on the side of a typical module. First, make sure that the temperature control is set to the correct setting. This is a fault within the refrigerator controls. Temperature number flashes when TEMP SET button is pushed. Steve F. RVIA Certification. This is about how, when, and at what temperature a lead-acid battery loses power over time is determined by how, where, and at what temperature it is stored. Many of the appliances in our RV's are guaranteed two years. Red, flashes on four (4) times every five (5) seconds. In a few hours we should know if this was the problem, but at $100/hr to troubleshoot an $800 refrigerator I am willing to try. You may purchase replacement parts through your dealer or authorized Norcoldservice center. Once you have found the reset button, press and hold it for three seconds. Make sure everyone is closing the doors until they click by pressing at the corners where the handles are.2. Thermistor wiring terminals corroded / broken. It usually has a door like the one pictured below. The freezer seems to be cooling but not the refrigerator. Im glad it helped! If you cant get the orifice off of the adapter you could either soak both of them or just stand the orifice side down in a cup of alcohol. There is a problem with the controls of the refrigerator. Gas/electric refrigerators (98 pages) Summary of Contents for Norcold 1200 Series. Make sure the doors are fully closed and if you throw a whole bunch of warm stuff in there expect temps to rise until all that heat can be removed. There can be several reasons why the temperature limit switch was tripped (or is open, as the manual describes), from a malfunctioning condenser fan to a worn-out compressor to inadequate ventilation. I am a refrigeration equipment repair technician (work with refrigerators, freezers). These are normally secured by a single bolt you can remove with pliers or a drill with the proper size of head on it. Related RV Product: This Camco Refrigerator/Freezer Thermometer (click to view on Amazon) will help you monitor your RV fridge and freezer temperatures so youll know when theres a problem. However, if you follow these simple troubleshooting tips, you should be able to fix most issues yourself and keep your Norcold 121X running like new for years to come! In this article, we will teach you the most common solutions in Norcold Refrigerator Troubleshooting. A loud happy flame heating the ammonia in the RV fridge coils to keep everything nice and cold. If you cannot remove it safely you may not be able to complete the soaking steps. Is it true that u should have very Little space between the Back of the fridge and the vent lid that fits on the trailer (back). Make sure that the fridge is plugged in and receiving power. The problem could be a clog in the coils thats blocking the ammonia and not allowing the fridge part to cool. However, before giving out your module model number, remind them that you are giving them the model number, not the kit number. These codes can help you identify what the problem is and whether or not its something that can be fixed easily. 2022 errorsfreezer.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to gives a means for website owners to earn fees by advertising from Amazon.com and Amazon service LLC associates program. The 121X-XX series gas absorption refrigerator cools on 120 volt AC power or propane gas. To access the panel, remove the screws that hold it in place. With a little troubleshooting, you should be able to get to the bottom of the problem and get your fridge back up and running in no time. The Norcold refrigerator's cooling unit is a series of tubing that draws out and absorbs heat using the phase change of hydrogen, ammonia, sodium chromate, and water. You can do your own Norcold RV refrigerator troubleshooting quite easily. You would want to relocate your RV before calling a specialist or spending a lot of money on future repairs, but ultimately, here are the solutions to your Norcold RV refrigerator that is not cooling. The door seal is damaged or dirty. Flextail Tiny Pump 2X Review How Powerful Is It Really? In addition, many small fridges work on AC, so you need shore power available. If the Norcold refrigerator thermistor is attached on the wrong cooling fin, the fridge will appear to not cool correctly. Its not the recommended route but it actually worked pretty well and the orifice was clean after two hours of soaking. I did the orifice cleaning, the flame looks like you described it should. The refrigerator door has been open for more than 2 minutes, according to this error message. Yes, it should be blue with very little to no yellow around it but even if it is a nice blue color that doesnt necessarily mean its right. DC voltage is unavailable to the refrigerator control panel or the refrigerator is OFF. Unlike the amenities in a house, those in an RV are exposed to vibrations and lateral forces, which they are not built for. 7. The easy answer is no, but the reality is more complicated than that. When the refrigerator is disconnected from shoreline power and AC is no longer available the refrigerator switches to DC operation. the orifice was cleanedwalla new frig many thanks for the help!!!! Remove all food from the refrigerator. The fridge is not level. Many of our products include coverage for labor costs, as well as parts costs and freight costs. I have a norcold 121X rv refrigerator that appears to have stopped cooling. If the unit does not start to cool after two hours, contact your dealer or a Norcold authorized service center. LOVED the part about resorting to the Vodka cleanse. Remove the access panel located outside of the RV behind the fridge. If they dont mind telling you that secret in a phone call, it means they expect that you can pull it off on your own. This is important because one condition involving the lower vent may lead to L1-oP. Journeyman and Master RV technician, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineer. What is a temperature limit switch? It sounds like something I would try. This code indicates that the refrigerators control panel is not getting AC voltage, When you see this error code, it means that the DC voltage supply to the refrigerators control panel is very low, Any of these error codes indicate that there is a fault in the controls of the refrigerator. Free Boondocking By The Bonneville Salt Flats & Wendover, Best RV AC Units Reviewed 2023 (13,500 & 15,000 BTU), Best 12V RV Air Compressor/Tire Inflator With Gauge 2023, 5 Best 12 Volt Lithium RV Batteries Reviewed + How To Charge. - That the vehicle generator is operational (if applicable). Make sure that your RV is parked on level ground before checking any other potential issues.2. 12VDC and 120VAC, ALL Appliances, Any and ALL problems! It should be pretty obvious which wire was your original power source for the refer. - That the refrigerator is plugged into a servicable oulet. Additionally, ensure that the gas supply line is free of air. One of the issues you may encounter with your fridge is the infamous L1-oP. Its also a good idea to have a spare refrigerator so that you have somewhere to store perishables if the replacement parts you purchased arent arriving until a few days. You may be able to soak the orifice like in the step below by just putting the orifice end in alcohol. Second, check to see if there is anything blocking the vents on the back of the fridge. We travel full time in our RV and write about what we learn and share our experiences. The refrigerator is operating on the Back Up Operating System". Its pretty common for something to get in the way of that perfectly cut hole which restricts the gas flow and reduces the flames strength which in turn can cause your RV fridge to cool slightly but not enough to stay within the safe temperature zones. Hi, I am Peter Poole. Heat deflector cap blocking flue exhaust. The second time we were camping up in the mountains and unable to get any rubbing alcohol so I improvised and used vodka. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Make sure theres nothing blocking vents or air intakes. Feel free to question any problems of repairing guide. I spent hours researching what could possibly be wrong with it online. The reset button on most Norcold refrigerators, however, is located on the control panel. The Norcold fridges are designed to shut off at about 880 degrees F. They do this when there is a problem and the temperature levels get too high. I am a refrigeration equipment repair technician (work with refrigerators, freezers). Thankfully, it was only McCormicks. refrigerator; 12.0 cu.ft., 2-way, 4-door, r.v. Ill explain more about where to find it, what it looks like, and how to remove it in the how to clean the RV fridge gas orifice section below. I can help you find the right one if you tell me what the make and model of your fridge is though. Have an authorized Norcold Service Center check the refrigerator. This is fairly easy to do yourself just remove any dirt or debris with a brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Again, if it is said switch it cannot be reset but must be replaced by an authorized dealer. This is the back of my Norcold RV fridge with an Amish built cooling unit, the Dometic version will look slightly different but the location of the fridge orifice burner is basically the same. Since they have different error codes, this is a logical step to take when looking to reset your fridge and get it working again. It really shouldnt be making a lot of noise when on electricity. We took the dive and purchased an Amish built RV fridge cooling unit that was sure to not only keep our RV fridge cold but also be more efficient and effective in hot summer temperatures. Search and download RV support manuals for all the different appliances and components create on leisure-time vehicles! The dealership (questionable) suggests it's a fan issue. Cleaning the air vents should resolve this issue.3. Have you tried using it on propane? Sadly, it still wasnt quite right. Norcold refrigerator troubleshooting Refrigerators from the company Norcold Corporation are considered to be some of the best on the market of home appliances. Red, flashes on five (5) times every five (5) seconds. If lots of soot comes out the burner tube may have also been part of the problem. It was the burner orifice. It Doesnt Hurt to Try the Famous Reset Routine. And, in most cases, the control panel is found within the refrigerator. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The Norcold refrigerators cooling unit is a series of tubing that draws out and absorbs heat using the phase change of hydrogen, ammonia, sodium chromate, and water. Adding fans can also help quite a bit. Ultimately, with gas, hot water heats up quicker and recovers faster after use, but electricity is the easiest way to keep the water warm. Norcold Repair Guide - Bryant R.V This service manual provides maintenance, diagnostic, and repair information for NORCOLD model 121X-XX gas absorption refrigerators. sometimes removing the unit and laying it face down for an hour or so will allow the pooled up ammonia to flow out of the condenser , caused by lack of use .re-install an fire up. Just tested this out and worked like a charm. Gas/electric (35 pages) Refrigerator Norcold 1200ACXX Owner's Manual. For example, you might mistakenly cut or unplug a cable. Here Comes the Most Definite SolutionParts Replacement. Have your dealer or an authorized Norcold Service Center correct the seal of the door. It is typically located near the bottom of the unit. But even the best refrigerators can have problems from time to time. Have any questions about your RV fridge or need help troubleshooting? Because the origin of overheating that supposedly trips the temperature limit switch is hard to determine, most RV experts, even from Norcold, urge owners to leave the repair work to them. Look at the end of the tube and you will see the plug. Weve bought our travel trailer new in 2014. Quality, integrity and reliability are built into each unit proudly made in America. Why should I contact an authorized service center? A flame is present at the burner when there should none. This gives you plenty of options to choose from, depending on the size of your RV and how much food storage you need.Features: Norcolds 121X series refrigerators come with a number of great features that make them even more appealing. Put food back in the refrigerator. Gas/electric refrigerators (101 pages) Refrigerator Norcold 121X AC Series Owner's Manual. There is the possibility that different Norcold RV fridges have different reset systems. Sounds like you may have a thermostat problem. For. Once you have removed the panel, you will see two fuse holders. However, the fault code is generally associated with an overheated boiler and is often a false alarm. Well, I will tell you that this information makes far more sense then my fridge doesnt get cold add a fan outside. Make sure the area behind the refrigerator is clear. Because of this problem, Norcold installed this safety switch to keep your RV from catching on fire or being damaged by a small one. Therefore, it only makes sense to entrust such a complicated task to the experts. Were Jenni and Jesse. Thanks for the tip, Jenni. Norcold RV Ice Maker Diagnosis and Repair - YouTube 0:00 / 18:52 Norcold RV Ice Maker Diagnosis and Repair You Can Too RV 694 subscribers Subscribe 75 Share 4.1K views 1 year ago. Light is on for both. The information . Where should I install my AC/ DC refrigerator? Cleaning the coils may improve performance. AC voltage is unavailable to the refrigerator control panel. My suggestion to RVers who are experiencing problems with their RV fridge not cooling properly is to always do this first. First, check to make sure that the power cord is plugged in and that the circuit breaker is turned on. 3. First, if you have a Norcold refrigerator, good for you. Some of these include an automatic ice maker, LED interior lighting, and adjustable shelves. Make sure that the ambient temperature is not unusually high (more than 110 degrees F. / 43 degrees C.) (See Overheating shut-off device operation section). RV refrigerators have a light with the word "check" over it. We have a Norcold and electric and gas dont work. Make sure that the refrigerator is correctly installed and that the vents are not blocked. Thanks for the comments, I appreciate them. If the orifice was the problem it should now be allowing more propane through and you should have a nice strong flame burning which will make the RV fridge get colder. - That there is no air in the propane gas supply line. How Should The Flame In An RV Fridge Look And Sound? Why is it open? If youre having trouble with your Norcold 121X RV refrigerator, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Fresh food compartment door open or ajar for more than two (2) minutes. The door was open for more than 2 minutes. Assuming you would like tips on resetting a Norcold 121x refrigerator:1. What was the recommend reset. Hence, they decided to give the kit a separate number, which they usually use to check for compatibility. when i went to turn it on I also noticed my a/c was off in front unit of trailer. 4 sounds like a little overkill but if you have an extra large RV fridge it might be necessary. If the door seal on your RV fridge is damaged or dirty, it can allow warm air to enter the fridge and prevent proper cooling. I hope this how-to post has helped you fix your RV fridge. Spiders love to spin webs near propane parts like burner tubes and when you fire up the fridge the web can burn and cause lots of soot that can block the burner tube and make the flame small. This is a problem with the AC heater relay. Press and hold down both the Power button and the Mode button at the same time for about 5 seconds until you hear a beep. Its just over a year old so may be out of warranty. You dont want to stick anything into the small orifice hole because you may damage it. Any suggestions. If you have a Dometic RV fridge you may be able to remove the small orifice by gently tapping it out. Sooooo, in yet what I figured was my real last ditch effort this time, I took it all apart and soaked the orifice in vodka. This is a fault within the refrigerator controls. Thats why its important to know how to troubleshoot your 121X if something goes wrong.One of the most common issues with the 121X is that the fridge doesnt seem to be cooling properly. The switch that turns the cooling on or off is the thermistor and is stuck to the fins in the back of the refer section. First, check to make sure that the fridge is turned on and set to the correct setting. Temperature number flashes when SET TEMP button is pushed. If you turn your fridge to electric and you dont feel the fridge coils getting warm your heating element probably isnt working. Inspect the door seal for any damage or dirt build-up and clean or replace as necessary. Norcold (, Norcold refrigerator cooling issues are distinct from those experienced by other domestic refrigerators (more about Norcold refrigerator features on. It contains the most frequent problems relating to refrigerators Norcold and methods to solve them. Finally, check the door seals to make sure theyre tight and free of any debris. This way, youll avoid damaging your refrigerator. - That the AC/DC converter is operational (if applicable). However, the amount of absorption is determined by the speed at which the coolant will pass through the condenser coils, which is determined by gravity. CamperUpgrade.com is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program it is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fee by means of advertising and linking to Amazon.com products. How soon can I load my refrigerator with food once I start it up? Well Done! But even the best appliances need a little bit of care and maintenance from time to time. Their products are built to adapt to an RVs unique environment. Light is on for both. But first, you need to open the small door outside your RV. Finally, its possible that your Norcold fridge needs repairs. Refrigerator Compressor The refrigerator compressor is responsible for compressing and pushing out refrigerant vapor into the condenser coils located behind the refrigerator. 5 years RV repair and reconstruction, Fleetwood RV Training course completion. Norcold RV refrigerators are a popular choice for many RVers, but they can sometimes be tricky to troubleshoot. When in use or for short-term rentals, you can keep your RV plugged in all the time. You must be able to fix most electronic or mechanical blips in your RV to continue traveling stress-free. You should also double-check that the circuit breaker or fuse is in good working order. If you do not feel a slight drag on the paper, the door is not sealing properly. Pull out and lift the panel off and away from the RV or travel trailer. I was born in Portland and I still live and work in this city, The importance and necessity of reset the control panel in the Samsung refrigerator, How to get rid of the problem when leaking water inside the fridge. Try This One Simple Trick. If youre having trouble with your Norcold fridge, here are some tips to help you get to the bottom of the problem.First, check to make sure that all the power connections are secure and that the fridge is turned on. Unfortunately, if your RV fridge isnt cooling on gas or electricity you may have a bigger problem than just a dirty gas orifice. This is the back of my Norcold RV fridge with an Amish built cooling unit, the Dometic version will look slightly different but the location of the fridge orifice burner is basically the same. If it wont get cold on propane either you may have both a bad heating element and possibly a blockage in the pipes thats stopping the ammonia inside from moving around and transferring heat.