The Norcold cooling unit is the heart of the absorption refrigerator system used in many RVs. The unit converts an ammonia based liquid refrigerant into gaseous form and circulates the gas through metal coils to cool the fridge. The recirculated refrigerant then changes back into liquid form and continues the cycle. The problem is that the cooling unit can corrode and leak leaking flammable ammonia into the RV which can burn or cause fires if the propane burner is turned on while cooking, heating etc. The problem has caused numerous refrigerator fires in RVs, and Norcold has been forced to settle class action lawsuits over this issue.
If the Norcold refrigerator is not cooling and has an ammonia odor, the cooling unit has probably failed. The cooling unit needs to be replaced and the refrigerator will then cool. The RV may also have a yellow residue behind the fridge and possibly rust in the pipes if there is a failure in the cooling unit.
When replacing the Norcold refrigerator cooling unit, a special thermal mastic must be used to ensure that the new cooler is sealed properly and not leaking. The mastic is applied to the top of the new refrigeration unit with a brush and is then wiped off with a rag before inserting it into the refrigerator. It is important to make sure that the evaporator foam pack is fully inserted into the evaporator pocket and that no air bubbles are trapped in the foam pack when it is placed in the refrigerator.
Often times when the refrigeration problem is a bad cooling unit, the freezer will work but the refer won’t. This is a sign that the recirculating evaporator tube has a blockage somewhere. Usually, the blockage is caused by the inside coating of the cooling unit tubing epoxy flaking off and migrating down the tubes to block smaller passages. The recirculating refrigerant can back flush this out, but often times it will simply come back and cause the same problem again.
If a Norcold refrigerator is not cooling and the refrigerator has an ammonia smell, it is time to replace the refrigerator’s cooling unit. The new cooling unit will need to be cleaned and the refrigerator will need to be resealed to ensure no leakage of ammonia. The evaporator will need to be cleaned as well, if there is any dirt or debris in the evaporator fins.
A remanufactured Norcold Refrigerator Cooling Unit is an excellent choice for replacement of the failing or leaking cooling unit. The remanufactured cooling units are thoroughly tested to insure a proper operation and are made from superior materials. The remanufactured units have new steel tubing, a high density evaporator foam pack and are painted. The units are recharged in a climate controlled environment.
If the Norcold cooling unit is not working, a remanufactured cooling unit from an independent manufacturer like JC Refrigeration may be the best solution. This alternative is cheaper and just as reliable. These units are available for most makes of refrigerators, including Norcold. norcold cooling units