Absorption Fridge FAQ
| What is MES? | This is Manual Energy Selection. The user must select the energy source desired. Caution! The fridge should only be used in DC mode while the vehicles engine is running, otherwise the battery would be discharged very quickly. |
| What is AES? | This is Automatic Energy Selection. It automatically searches for DC then AC and then GAS. |
| When switching from DC to GAS operation, it doesn’t switch straight away. (AES model only) |
There is a 20 min delay when switching from DC to GAS (i.e Petrol Stations) |
| The cooling unit has failed on my refrigerator can it be refilled? |
Cooling unit leaks are often detectable by a yellow crystalline or staining or a strong ammonia smell. If there is a strong smell is within the vehicle open windows to vent. It is not possible to refill the cooling unit but it can be replaced – there is no need to replace the whole fridge. |
| If I have a MES or AES fridge do I need to be connected to a DC supply? |
Yes the fridge PCB needs to be powered. |
| Does the light go off when the fridge door is closed? |
Yes. |
| How should I clean my fridge? |
We recommend the use of a soft cloth with luke warm water with mild detergent. Then wipe out the appliance with clean water and dry thoroughly. Do not use abrasive cleaners. |
| When shouldn’t I use gas mode? |
• At petrol stations • On ferry boats • While the vehicle is being transported • While travelling in certain countries (check local regulations before travel) |
| What gas pressure does my fridge run at? |
Please check the dataplate within your fridge. |
| Can I service my own fridge? |
NO! All gas and electrical work MUST be carried out by a qualified and competent engineer. |
| Can I use my fridge to store medicines? |
No, the fridge is to be used solely for the storage of food. |
| How can I remove/replace the freezer compartment to make my fridge compartment larger? |
The freezer is held in place by 2 catches located under the freezer shelf. Slide the catches toward each other and pull the freezer compartment towards you. |
| General tips |
• Maintenance is the best insurance to long life of the fridge! • Before placing your vehicle into storage or if you are using the vehicle for long periods, we recommend emptying the condensation pot located at the rear of the fridge. You can always extend the condensation pipe to exit through the lower vent but be aware this will cause water to drip on the ground. • Always ensure the fridge door is closed and locked before starting your journey. • Don’t over pack the freezer or fridge as this will reduce air flow and lead to uneven temperatures within the fridge and freezer. • When placing your vehicle into storage we highly recommend making sure the fridge is clean and dry and that the door/s are placed into the vent position (refer to operation manual). • When defrosting, never forcibly remove ice or use any means to accelerate the defrosting e.g. heat source. |
| Trouble Shooting |
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| Before contacting an authorised Service Centre or a DAN engineer please check below for a possible remedy: • The instructions in the operating section of your manual have been observed • The refrigerator stands level the tilt angle for single door fridges is 6° and for double door fridges is 5°. • Try running the unit on a different power source if available i.e mains or gas • Is the ambient temp within the set range? i.e below 10 degrees use winter covers, above 32 degrees the fridge may need - ventilation fan kit installed (Dometic part number 241 298 500). |
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| FAILURE | Possible cause | Possible Action |
| The refrigerator does not cool sufficiently |
• Inadequate ventilation to the unit • Thermostat setting is too low • The condenser is heavily frosted • Too much warm food has been stored inside within a short period of time • The appliance has been running for a short period of time • Ambient temperature is to high |
• Check that the ventilation grilles are not covered • Set the thermostat to a higher level • Check that the refrigerator door is closed. • Allow warm food to cool down before storage • Check whether the cooling compartment works after approx. 4-5 running hours • Remove winter covers or complete grill or use fan kit. |
| Not cooling on AC | • Is the vehicle connected to site mains? • Has the RCD tripped in the vehicle? • Is the voltage too low on site to run the fridge (min voltage 195V) |
• Check your site plug and RCD • Reset the vehicle RCD • The minimum voltage for the fridge heating element is 195V (voltage at some sites can fluctuate) |
| Not cooling on DC | • Is the battery charged? • Is there a blown fuse within the vehicle control panel? • Are there any LED’s on the display (MES OR AES ONLY) • When the caravan is connected to the tow vehicle the DC heating element does not maintain the set temp |
• Turn on the vehicle battery charger • Check vehicle fuse box and replace fuses if required (see vehicle manual) • The voltage must be above 11.8v for the MES and AES models to power the PCB. • Has the customer checked the plug connection from caravan to car? (CARAVAN only) |
| Poor cooling on DC | Poor cooling on DC | The heating element must have a min voltage of 11.8v to be able to maintain the fridge temp. Any lower than this heating element is not able to heat the ammonia |
| Not cooling on gas but cooling on AC |
• Is the fridge gas isolation valve closed? • Is there gas at the hob? • Is the Gas cylinder empty? • Has the fridge been serviced? (A habitation check doesn’t always include a fridge gas service) |
• Open valve • Turn hob on to see if gas is present in the system • Change the gas cylinder • Dometic highly recommended that the gas parts of the fridge are serviced yearly depending upon usage. (Please refer to the operation manual for more information) |
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