5 RV Refrigerator Maintenance Tasks You Don't Want To Forget

By Dave Helgeson

RV refrigerator maintenance is not usually high on the list of regular maintenance tasks for most RVers.

Online you will find tips for making your refrigerator cool better, checking the door seals, etc. However, that is about the only information you will find on refrigerator maintenance; many important tasks are overlooked.  Here are five maintenance tasks you don't want to forget.

Keep the upper vent clear of debris

#1:

Leaves, pine needles, critter nests, and other debris can get under the vent cover on RVs with roof vents.  Periodically, you should remove the vent and clean any debris from the vent screen.

While you have the vent cover off, be sure to inspect the vent screen, as damaged screens can allow birds and rodents to gain entry to the back of the refrigerator.

Inspect the top of the condenser fins 

#2:

While you have the upper vent removed, check for leaves or critter nests on top of the condenser fins. As noted above, debris can get onto the upper vent.

Even if the screen on the vent is intact, pine needles, insects, and other items can get through and land on the top of the fins at the top of your refrigerator. Birds love to nest at this location if they can gain entry.

Inspect the drain tube

#3:

The drain tube drains water from the drip tray in the refrigerator. The drip tray catches water that drips from the evaporator fins across the top rear of the refrigerator box. 

Make sure the hose is draining properly and is not damaged. Damaged hoses can let water leak and cause damage at the back of the refrigerator.

Clean the flue

#4:

The flue is located directly above the burner. If you have access to compressed air, you can blow compressed air up the flue to dislodge rust particles.

Vacuum debris from behind the base of the refrigerator  

#5:

Once you have performed all the of the previous RV refrigerator maintenance items, finish the job by vacuuming up any debris that fell from above or was present to start with.

Track your RV maintenance

Make sure you keep track of all your RV maintenance and repairs with an online tool such as RV LIFE Maintenance.  Not only can you keep all of your documents in one place, but you’ll also receive timely reminders when maintenance is due to help you avoid costly repairs and accidents.

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