How to Leave a Refrigerator on When Storing an RV

Many recreational vehicle, or RV, refrigerators function with three different power sources: propane gas, AC electricity and 12-volt DC vehicle battery electricity. This multi-functionality allows the RV's refrigerator to work in different operating environments. The 12V DC power is only used to operate controls, and propane can be used at camp or on the road. Standard electricity can be used at home and in more elaborate camp environments where it's supplied. Considerations when leaving a refrigerator on when storing an RV include power and also ventilation.

Things You'll Need

  • Soda solution
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Instructions

    • 1

      Defrost the refrigerator following the manufacturer's directions and clean the refrigerator using lukewarm, weak soda solution. Remove any food that may spoil over time, but leave water in the ice tray.

    • 2

      Level the refrigerator if you plan to leave it on. Bare in mind that one advantage to storing the RV with the fridge off is that you don't have to worry about the RV being level. RV fridges have to be level for the ammonia in the system to move properly, which is required for cooling.

    • 3

      Turn the propane gas valve to the "Off" position. Plug the fridge in to the AC main power supply on the RV and turn on the "Auto" mode where the refrigerator will automatically use the AC standard power when gas is unavailable. Press the standard power button to "On" if there is one.