Fridge Vent Kit.

[TerryIvybridge]

While the fridge is out, I'm looking to install a vent kit ready for the warmer weather when fridges have a harder time keeping food etc cold? nb especially Ice! The Thetford kit seems quite good? Any views at all on this subject please?

 

[ProfJohnL]

FRidge vent systems are only needed when the ambient air temperature is at th etop of the fridges environmental range. Check with your fridge supplier for the maximum ambient air temperature for your model.

If you over cool the condenser coil on the back of a fridge you can make it less effective in cooler environments

 

[Mr Plodd]

This has been covered a fair few times on this, and similar forums.

I have fitted fans on 6 different occasions now. One or two computer fans zip tied to the inside of the top vent, small (iluminated) switch inside fed off a nearby 12v supply that is dead when the master switch is off (if possible the lighting curcuit which ensures the battery doesn't get drained over a long period if left on in error)
Total cost about £15 and a couple of hours of my time.

I have never bothered with a thermostat as I cannot see the point (that's why I use an illuminated switch, it acts as a "reminder")

No problem over-cooling when its cold, the switch just stays in the off position!

 

[otherclive]

I fitted a simple twin fan kit with thermostat for use mainly in south of France. Despite being low power fans I had to turn it off at night being light sleeper.

 

[toad a caravan]

Image of one of the fans I fitted in mine (used on extraction,bottom two used for intake)...I fitted incase needed.... Gary.

 

[littlebasher]

I use the CBE kit in mine

Refrigerator double fan Tornado with display panel MCV-2 - UK Leisure Parts

With 2 powerful fans With LED operating display Saves energy [...]Read More... from Refrigerator double fan Tornado with display panel MCV-2

ukleisureparts.co.uk

Essential in the summer in hot countries.

 

[JTQ]

We have never found it "essential" in our trips which have been only limited to European countries, but also have never had a Thetford fridge, only Electrolux or as later branded Dometic.
However, I expect it depends on aspects like whether the fridge installation was done in accordance with the maker's requirements and probably varies with the model involved?
Always had ice for the G&Ts, even down in Spain in June. Not been in the deep south after mid July or throughout August.

 

[Woodentop]

Best method is to get two computer fans - 12V usually about 4" diameter - fit one in the bottom vent blowing in and one in the top vent blowing out - the direction of rotation and airflow are usually embossed on the outside of the thickness of the fan unit. If possible get two-wire fans as these are not designed to be controlled as the three-wie unts are. The fans should not be airtight in their mounting, indeed there should be plenty of open space around them - you will still need air to convect if the fans are not running.
Wire the fans in series - that is red of one fans goes to black of the other and the 'remnant' black and red are the supply connections. This will mean that each fan is getting about 6V which will take less current (power) and the fans will run at half speed which makes significantly less noise. You don't need to blast the fridge cooling fins with air, the fans just need to 'assist' the air movement a little.