New Dometic Fridge Opinions

Shane826 · 02-09-2021, 06:57 PM

So the new TMs come with a Dometic 3-way fridge. I've heard it's pretty simple to light on propane, and I understand it uses 12V for the control panel on any setting. I'm wondering how folks like it compared to the Notcold? Does it get cold enough in hot weather? Does the 12V mode actually work or does it still kill the battery while driving down the road? Does it maintain temperature or is it still based on relative cooling to the outside? This last one is the dealbreaker for me with the Notcold. I have to fiddle with the controls in the spring and fall when it's warm during the day but then gets pretty cool at night, otherwise everything starts to freeze overnight...

So to those with a new TM, what say you about the fridge?

**ShrimpBurrito** · 02-14-2021, 02:14 PM

I don't have a new TM, but I do have a 3-way Dometic fridge that came with my TM, and which I believe all the older TMs came with. Without having any experience beyond hearing from friends how their Norcold fridge works (in other brands of campers), I don't think I'd expect any significant difference in performance with any new absorption fridge.

They work on heat, and so in DC mode, there is a DC-powered heater, which is going to take alot of power, and thus all the problems inherent with that, like a high battery drain and not getting enough voltage from the TV. I suppose advances could be made to make it easier to light on propane, and more insulation of the cabinet, but I don't think I'd expect much more than that, particularly on cooling capacity/performance.

But, that's just by 2 cents, FWIW.

Dave

Shane826 · 02-14-2021, 03:45 PM

Yeah I think more and more the residential style AC/DC compressor fridge might be my cup of tea.

**Larryjb** · 02-14-2021, 04:03 PM

Depending on your camping preferences, the absorption fridge can have distinct advantages. We often stay at HarvestHosts sites which have no hookups. Having a fridge that works on propane is very handy. Ours had no trouble keeping up, even with California heat. When travelling, we just kept ice packs in the fridge part, then moved them to the freezer part when camping (and the fridge on propane).

Ours is a 2001, and has been reliable. We're happy with it.

Shane826 · 02-14-2021, 07:32 PM

We love our hookups, water & electric minimum. I think in 5 years of camping we’ve not had hookups for two separate overnights.

My biggest issue with the Notcold is the way it cools relative to ambient temperature, opposed to cooling to and holding a set temp. The warm days and cool nights where everything freezes overnight just irritates me.

**Bill** · 02-14-2021, 09:14 PM

Seems to me there is a thermostat bulb in there somewhere, and it must be located correctly to hold temp. I think it was on one of the fins in the refrig, but a check of the manual would tell you more. Perhaps it has been moved.

Bill

ThePair · 02-15-2021, 06:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shane826

We love our hookups, water & electric minimum. I think in 5 years of camping we’ve not had hookups for two separate overnights.

My biggest issue with the Notcold is the way it cools relative to ambient temperature, opposed to cooling to and holding a set temp. The warm days and cool nights where everything freezes overnight just irritates me.

There's a modification (not for the faint of heart) that you can make to the fridge AC that regulates the temp properly so it's no longer relative, but absolute as one would want. I've done it and my fridge will hold temp +/- 1 degree regardless of outside/ambient.

The gist of the mod is here: https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ad.php?t=13490

tentcamper · 02-15-2021, 08:17 AM

I think all the small absorption fridges have the difficultly cooling in hot weather. The vents are to close to create good ventilation. And, freezing the eggs at night from no air circulating at night. But I belive Dometic has a better temature control system for propane then norcold?

Brittany Dogs · 02-15-2021, 03:44 PM

I find it difficult to clean the burner with good results. Last year I purchased a new burner. It's a three bloody knuckle job but it made a difference in lighting and getting the fridge cold on warmer days.

tentcamper · 02-16-2021, 08:47 AM

What I found was take the entire burner assembly out. Then use a wire brush on it. Same type brush you would use on the burner on you home furance. Last blow it out. Do expect it to be rusty, but that's okay. Just clean it good so the holes have a good shape.

These fridges need a certain amount of heat for max effectivness on both the electric heater and propane burner. Go either way from the watt or btu number and it becomes less effective.