edog1973
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Post by edog1973 on Jun 10, 2015 7:43:35 GMT -8
I've got an older Dometic fridge that is working quite well. It easily makes ice in the freezer running on 110v or propane. However, I've noticed that when I shut it down and leave the door closed it has a lite ammonia smell inside. That is, when you open the door you get a light hint of ammonia, but it goes away in a couple of seconds. While it is operating and cold there is no ammonia smell at all.
All the descriptions of ammonia leaks describe a strong ammonia smell and fridge does not get cold. Has anybody seen this type of issue before? Is it still safe to use?
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Ten
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Post by Ten on Jun 10, 2015 12:12:58 GMT -8
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and take a W. A. G. ... Safety to use is not all that huge a factor, I do not believe, with the exception of being a little extra careful to seal up your food containers, so the odors do not eventually permeate the foods. I would think you are experiencing the early stages of what will be the failure of your unit, but there is nothing says it will happen soon, or quickly. You may start to notice some lacking in the cooling ability as time passes. Eventually, ammonia leakage is going to lead to the loss of the cooling capability altogether.
I wouldn't panic, but keeping a backup plan in mind may be smart.
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Post by vintagebruce on Jun 10, 2015 16:45:52 GMT -8
Eventually, ammonia leakage is going to lead to the loss of the cooling capability altogether. I wouldn't panic, but keeping a backup plan in mind may be smart. I believe Ten is right. Here is a thread to comments by the RV Doctor...in them he says that by far "the largest cause of unit failure today is due to leaks in the tubing, especially in those areas imbedded in the polyurethane foam block which surrounds the evaporator sections. It’s been estimated that as many as 85% of cooling unit failures are due to leaks in these areas"...because moisture is trapped there and rust forms on the pipes carrying the ammonia under pressure, which leads to cracks and or holes. Perhaps yours has developed a small crack in that area and faint smells are starting...anyhoot. The article is long but very informative, while you wait for vikx's valuable comments, if you like food for thought...Bon Appetit! www.rvdoctor.com/2001/02/rv-absorption-refrigeration-cooling.html |
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chametzoo
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Post by chametzoo on Jun 10, 2015 16:58:29 GMT -8
I've got an older Dometic fridge that is working quite well. It easily makes ice in the freezer running on 110v or propane. However, I've noticed that when I shut it down and leave the door closed it has a lite ammonia smell inside. That is, when you open the door you get a light hint of ammonia, but it goes away in a couple of seconds. While it is operating and cold there is no ammonia smell at all. All the descriptions of ammonia leaks describe a strong ammonia smell and fridge does not get cold. Has anybody seen this type of issue before? Is it still safe to use? I also agree with 10. But if you're smelling ammonia and have a leak… let's see how it's cooling in the heat of summer. That'll really be the test. If the unit does not have some rigid insulation packed in around the exterior of the box, I would see if you can pull it and get that in there. That'll improve insulation and efficiency quite a bit. Also, a fan to help move the heated air from behind the unit. These things may help you get another season or two out of your ol' Dometic. 2 cents  |
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Post by vikx on Jun 10, 2015 22:04:16 GMT -8
All of the above, unfortunately. Once ammonia odor is detected, it is only a matter of time...sooner than later in my book.
My worry is that you will be out camping and the thing will blow. The smell is unbelievable! and can make the camper useless for several days while it dissipates. We've had to air for days before replacing some units, even with all windows and the door open.
It is failing. I wouldn't use it.
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Post by vintagebruce on Jun 11, 2015 5:19:45 GMT -8
All of the above, unfortunately. Once ammonia odor is detected, it is only a matter of time...sooner than later in my book. My worry is that you will be out camping and the thing will blow. The smell is unbelievable! and can make the camper useless for several days while it dissipates. We've had to air for days before replacing some units, even with all windows and the door open. It is failing. I wouldn't use it. ...just as I anticipated...this is the comment you can take to the bank! |
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chametzoo
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Post by chametzoo on Jun 11, 2015 7:12:56 GMT -8
...just as I anticipated...this is the comment you can take to the bank! On second thought, listen to Vikx… I was being too optimistic! |
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