Is flue required for fridge with a/c only?

[Grant_374296468]

Hi, I'm in the process of replacing our old 12V/gas Electrolux fridge with a slightly less old 240/12V/gas RM212. As the flue is in a different place on the RM212 I'll need to relocate it. However I'm running out of time before we travel and was wondering if I need the flue if running on a/c only?

Also should there be a vent in the caravan wall near the top and another near the bottom of the fridge for correct flow of air?

I fully intend to move the flue when I have the time, but it would be in my best interest not to delay departure (again).

Thanks, Grant

 

[Damian]

Hello Grant,

Lets deal with the vent situation first.

To allow the fridge to work correctly you must have two vents, one at the top of the fridge, the other at the bottom in the caravan wall to allow the flow of air essential to the dissipation of the heat generated by the heater which works the fridge.

As for the gas side and flue, you will be ok to use on mains or 12v whilst towing , but until you have fitted the flue vent you MUST NOT try and use gas to operate the fridge, if you do, it WILL kill you.

 

[Grant_374296468]

Hi Damian thanks for the reply. I had read the Caravan Manual and thought I would have to install the two vents.

I definitely won't be using the new fridge on gas as it's not connected up either. I do have a CO detector/alarm for good measure

 

[waffler]

Do not use the fridge until the vents are fitted properly. Absorption fridges work the same way regardless of power source and it is essential to have a flow of air over the condenser. Without this flow the fridge will not cool and my overheat. In winter the flues are constricted otherwise the fridge won't cool if the air temperature is too low. The fridge is powered by three heaters, gas mains and 12 volt. The gas has a separate flue, usually at the right hand side of the top flue. It is essential that the fridge is sealed in position for maximum effectiveness and also to prevent drafts.